What is EBT cash?
The term EBT cash usually refers to the TANF program, sometimes called welfare—it’s a separate benefits program from SNAP, but some families qualify for both.
While SNAP (also called food stamps) can only be used on groceries, EBT cash can be used for more than just food—it can help you pay bills, withdraw cash directly from an ATM, and buy non-food items like diapers and toiletries.
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What Is EBT cash (TANF)?#what-is-ebt-cash-tanf
EBT cash is a monthly cash benefit offered to qualifying families—it’s technically called TANF, which stands for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
While SNAP is just for buying food, TANF, often called EBT cash or cash EBT, gives families money they can use for everyday expenses, like rent, transportation, or childcare.
Like SNAP, EBT cash is loaded onto an EBT card. The card can be used like a debit card at participating stores, ATMs, and sometimes even online to pay bills or buy items.
How do you get EBT cash?#how-do-you-get-ebt-cash
If you also receive SNAP, your EBT cash from TANF will probably be loaded onto your existing SNAP EBT card.
Cash EBT is separate from your SNAP balance and can be used for items that SNAP can’t, like diapers, cleaning supplies, and toiletries.
In addition to monthly cash benefits, TANF may also offer:
- Job training or education programs
- Childcare assistance
- Help with transportation
- Support from a caseworker
Who is eligible for EBT cash (TANF)?#who-is-eligible-for-ebt-cash-tanf
TANF is meant to support low-income families with children 18 and under. Depending on your state, a family can mean parents and their children, relatives caring for related children, or non-relatives with children in their care.
While the rules vary by state, you may qualify if you:
- Have at least one child who is 18 or under
- Are pregnant or a teen parent
- Meet your state’s income and asset limits for TANF
- Are a U.S. citizen or have an eligible immigration status
- Live in the state where you're applying
In most states, your household income must be very low to qualify. Some states also count the value of things you own (like a car or savings) as part of your application, though they usually don’t count your home.
One important thing to know is you can’t receive both EBT cash and SSI (Supplemental Security Income) at the same time.
Find your state’s TANF website here.
What about time limits and work requirements for TANF?#what-about-time-limits-and-work-requirements-for-tanf
TANF is a temporary program. Most states limit you to 60 months (5 years) of benefits total over your lifetime, though some have shorter limits.
There may also be a work requirement to get TANF in your state, meaning you’ll need to:
- Work or look for work
- Enroll in job training
- Attend school
- Participate in community service or other approved activities
Some groups, like caregivers or people with disabilities, may be exempt from work requirement rules.
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How to apply for EBT cash (TANF)#how-to-apply-for-ebt-cash-tanf
TANF is run by each state, so the application process may vary depending on where you live. But in general, you can apply:
- Online through your state’s benefits website
- In person at your local human services or family assistance office
- By phone, or with the help of a community organization or social worker
Documents you may need when you apply for TANF include:
- A photo ID or birth certificate
- Proof of income (like pay stubs or benefit letters)
- Proof of where you live (utility bill, lease)
- Information about your children or pregnancy
- Social Security Numbers (if available)
You may also have to complete an interview and then renew your TANF case regularly to keep receiving EBT cash benefits.
