You may qualify for state and federal programs available to help you with temporary cash payments while you wait for SSDI to be approved.
TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) is a federal grant program distributed by individual states to help families afford their basic needs. Unlike the Social Security Disability Insurance program, TANF is handled by individual state governments and application is through state run government websites or your local Social Security office.
Another option for income assistance is SSI (Supplemental Security Income). SSI is a welfare program that is not dependent upon work history or taxes paid. Eligibility however requires that you be disabled, blind, or over the age of 65 and have limited income or resources.
Disability Assistance and Aid (SSI)
SSI provides disability benefits for low-income disabled persons who don’t qualify or are waiting for Social Security Disability Income at this time. Start the application process on the Social Security Administration website to see if you qualify.
Federal Assistance and Support (TANF)
Below is a list that will lead you to individual state websites to start the process of applying to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Complete the screening before submitting the application to confirm your eligibility to receive benefits.
Alabama: Create a username through OneAlabama PayIt portal to start application process
Alaska: Alaska Temporary Assistance Program
Arkansas: Transitional Employment Assistance
Georgia: Scroll down to blue box on bottom right to apply for benefits
Kentucky: Online services currently unavailable, call: 1-844-407-8398
Michigan: Click on link and scroll to the bottom of the page to find application
Minnesota: Create account through ApplyMN
North Carolina: North Carolina does not currently have online services for the TANF application process. Applications must be submitted in person at your county’s Department of Social Services. You will find a map of offices by county, by clicking here.
South Dakota: South Dakota does not currently have online services for the TANF application process. To find your local Department of Social Services office click here.
Tennessee: Click on link ‘Create DHS Account’
Vermont: Vermont does not currently have online services for the TANF application process. To find your local Department of Social Services office click here.
Virginia: Create new account with CommonHelp to start the application process
Wisconsin: Wisconsin does not currently have online services for the TANF application process. To find your local Wisconsin Works office click here.
Wyoming: Wyoming does not currently have online services for the TANF application process. To find your local Department of Family Services office click here.
