TANF

NETWORK is conducting a nationwide survey to track how well TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families/Welfare) programs work. Our findings will be published in a major report this summer, in time for TANF reauthorization. Read more

Background on TANF

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a block-grant program from The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. It is designed to be part of the national safety net, providing block grants to states, territories, and tribes for services, benefits, and administrative costs.

TANF replaced Aid to Families with Dependents (AFDC) in 1996, removing entitlement from the program with the stated purpose of overcoming “welfare dependency” and increasing independence.