Understanding TCA in Maryland: A Guide to Temporary Cash Assistance (TANF) and How to Qualify

Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) is Maryland’s version of the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Designed to help low-income families with dependent children, TCA provides monthly cash support to meet essential needs such as housing, food, utilities, clothing, and childcare. The ultimate goal is to support families in becoming self-sufficient through employment and education.

This article outlines the key features of Maryland’s TCA program, how it differs from TANF in general, how income is counted (especially in households with stepparents), eligibility rules, and tips for a successful application.

TCA vs. TANF: What's the Difference?

TANF is a federal block grant program administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Each state implements TANF under its own rules and program name. In Maryland, TANF is administered as TCA through the Family Investment Administration.

So, when people talk about applying for TANF in Maryland, they are actually applying for TCA.

Maryland has customized its TCA program with rules that are slightly more flexible than federal minimums, including:

·         A 12-month certification period, meaning you are approved for benefits for a full year without a mid-point review, unless there is a major change in circumstances. This is better than SNAP, which requires a mid-certification Review (MBR) every six months, and in some cases, as frequently as three months.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for TCA, you must meet the following general requirements:

Children in the Household

·         You must have a dependent child under 18 (or under 19 if they are a full-time high school student).

·         Pregnant women can qualify starting in the third trimester, or earlier if medically unable to work.

Income and Resources

·         You must meet income guidelines that vary based on household size.

·         Certain income exclusions apply, including parts of child support and SSI.

·         Assets like a primary vehicle and essential household goods are usually excluded.

Residency and Citizenship

·         You must live in Maryland and be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant.

Work Participation

·         Most able-bodied adults must participate in work, training, or educational programs.

·         There are exemptions for individuals with disabilities or caring for very young children.

Stepparent Income: Special Rules That May Help You

One important consideration is how income is treated in blended families. If one of the adults in the household is a stepparent (i.e., not biologically related to the child receiving TCA), Maryland allows a portion of the stepparent’s income to be disregarded (excluded) when calculating eligibility. This includes:

·         Personal needs allowance for the stepparent

·         Allowance for the stepparent’s legal dependents

·         Certain mandatory expenses (e.g., taxes)

This means that in a household where only one parent is biologically related to the children, you may still qualify for TCA, even if the stepparent is working.

Income Limits (as of 2024)

These income numbers are not published anywhere. They are basic guidelines. As can be seen from this article, the calculation is very complicated. If your numbers are anywhere close to this, you are likely to be eligible. Source: COMAR 07.03.03.13 – Income and Benefit Amounts

TCA Benefit Amounts (2025)

(These are published)

Interview Process: What to Expect

After submitting your application (either online via myMDTHINK or at a local DSS office), you will be scheduled for an interview. This may be in person or over the phone. Here’s what to expect:

Drug use question:

·         Maryland law requires that you affirm you are not using illegal drugs. Be prepared to confirm you are clean and able to participate in employment activities.

·         False answers can affect your eligibility and future benefits.

Emphasize your need for housing, utilities, and childcare during the interview. Make sure to clearly explain your financial situation, especially if you are:

·         Struggling to pay mortgage or rent

·         Having past-due gas or electric bills

·         Needing help with daycare so you can work

These details help the caseworker justify your need and may prioritize your case for expedited processing or access to other supportive programs.

Work Activities Requirement

Most adult recipients are required to participate in work-related activities for a certain number of hours per week. Activities include:

·         Employment

·         Vocational training

·         GED preparation

·         Community service

·         Job search assistance

Note: Single parents with a child under six are only required to work 20 hours a week. Failure to comply without good cause may result in sanctions, such as a reduction or suspension of benefits.

Certification Period

One of the most appealing features of TCA is that you are certified for 12 months at a time. That means once you’re approved, you will continue to receive benefits for a full year without needing to submit additional paperwork every six months, as required for programs like SNAP.

This longer certification period can offer a bit more stability and predictability for budgeting and childcare planning.

How to Apply

You can apply for TCA:

·         Online: myMDTHINK

·         In Person: Local Department of Social Services

·         Mail or Fax: Contact your local DSS for a paper application

Be prepared to provide:

·         ID and proof of residency

·         Social Security cards

·         Proof of income (paystubs, SSI, child support)

·         Proof of housing costs, utility bills, and childcare expenses

Additional Tips for a Successful Application

·         Bring documentation for everything: income, expenses, lease, utility bills, daycare receipts.

·         Explain why you need help. Caseworkers respond better when they understand your struggles.

·         If a stepparent is in the home, ask the caseworker to apply the stepparent income exclusion rules under COMAR.

·         Ask about additional services, like help with job training, transportation, and childcare subsidies.

Conclusion

Maryland’s TCA program provides essential cash assistance to low-income families and can serve as a steppingstone toward greater financial independence. With its 12-month certification period and fairer rules around household income – including protections for blended families – TCA may be more accessible than you think.

If you’re struggling to afford rent, heat, or daycare, consider applying. And remember, your voice matters during the interview — share your challenges clearly and ask for every benefit you’re entitled to.