The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, known in New Mexico as NMWorks, provides cash assistance to families who qualify.

The Human Services Department (HSD) helps families determine whether or not they qualify for cash assistance. This monthly cash assistance benefit should be used to meet family needs such as housing, utilities, and clothing costs.

How do I know if I can qualify?

In order to qualify

You must live in New Mexico

You must have dependent children

Children must be citizens or have eligible alien status

Children must be age 18 or younger, or if age 19, they must be a full-time student expected to graduate before the end of the month in which they become 20

You will have to provide information about how much money your household receives each month. Click the following to check the Income Guidelines

What are some questions your caseworker will ask me?

How much money does your family get every month?

What things of value are owned by your family?

Do you have to pay for things like rent, utilities, a car, or child care?

How do I ask for cash assistance?

You need to fill out an application. You can use this same application to ask for other kinds of assistance, such as free medical care and SNAP Benefits. Fill in as much information as you can, then turn it in to your local HSD office.

Applications for cash assistance are at your local HSD office. You can call your local HSD field office to ask for more information or to schedule an appointment with a caseworker. HSD field office locations are listed in your telephone book under State Government, Human Services Department. You can also call (800) 432-6217.

What happens after I ask for cash assistance?

You will be asked to come in for an interview with an eligibility worker in about ten days. Your assigned worker will give you a list of things you need to provide. This information will tell your worker about you and your household so he or she can determine if you qualify for cash assistance. Bring as much of the requested information as you can to the interview. This will help us to help you faster.

If, after your interview, you need to provide more information, your worker will make a list of things you need to do. Your worker will explain the time allowed and ask you to gather the information as soon as you can. If later, you still need more time, or you can't get the information required, let your worker know as soon as possible.

When will I know if I can get cash assistance?

You will be notified by letter within 45 days as to whether or not your cash assistance was approved. If you do not agree with the letter, you can ask for a Fair Hearing on the decision. Remember, our job is to serve you. It is our policy to ensure that everyone who applies for and qualifies for cash assistance receives these benefits in a timely manner and in accordance with the law.

If you are eligible for cash assistance you will normally be given an EBT card and a Medicaid ID card.

What is the EBT card?

The Electronic Benefits Card (EBT) is used like a bank debit card. Each month your cash assistance allotment will be deposited into your personal account. You can then use the card to withdraw cash or purchase items your family needs.For information about the EBT card click Here

How does Medicaid work?

Once you receive Medicaid, you will get a Medicaid card at the beginning of each month. Your card lists the names of all the people in your family who may receive medical care for that month. Your card shows you when Medicaid coverage begins and ends and whether the people in your family have other health insurance. Your card also shows you important information and changes in the Medicaid program.

What services can help me to become work ready?

• Job referral services
• Child care services
• Transportation services
• Employment counseling
• Drug/alcohol counseling
• Domestic violence counseling

What responsibilities will I have?

• Complete an Individual Responsibility Plan
• Participate in a work activity
• Ensure that your school-age children attend school on a regular basis
• Cooperate with Child Support Enforcement Division

What are some work activities available to me?

• Paid employment
• Completion of high school
• Job search
• Community service
• Vocational education