Utah TANF Eligibility: Family Employment Program Rules & Qualifications

Understand who qualifies for Utah's TANF program (Family Employment Program), including income limits, household rules, work requirements, and special eligibility cases. This page is designed to help you determine if you can get cash assistance and employment support for your family.

What is Utah TANF / Family Employment Program?

Utah's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is known as the Family Employment Program (FEP). It provides monthly cash assistance and employment services to eligible low-income families with dependent children. The program aims to help families become self-sufficient through job searches, training, and support services.

Who Qualifies for TANF in Utah?

Utah residency: The family must live in Utah and intend to remain.
Citizenship or eligible immigration status: At least one child must be a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant. Parents/caretakers must also meet status requirements.
Household with dependent child: A child under 18 (or 18 and in school full-time) must live with the parent/caretaker applying.
Income limits: Family income must be under the FEP standard (see below for details).
Resource limits: Countable household resources (like cash, bank accounts, vehicles) must be below Utah's asset limit (currently $2000 for most families).
Cooperation with DWS: Applicants must participate in an employment plan, cooperate with child support, and provide requested documentation.

Special cases: Some families with caretaker relatives, minor parents, or situations involving domestic violence may have unique eligibility considerations. Contact your local DWS office for help.

TANF Income Limits in Utah

Utah's TANF/FEP program uses a monthly income standard based on household size. Both earned (wages) and unearned income (like child support) are counted, but certain deductions apply.

Gross Income Test: Most families must have gross income below the standard for their household size.
Earned Income Deductions: Some income is disregarded (not counted), including a portion of earnings and work-related expenses.

For the latest numbers, see our Utah TANF Guide or use the Benefits Calculator.

Work Requirements & Time Limits

Most parents and caretakers on TANF must take part in work activities, job searches, or training. Utah develops an individualized Employment Plan (EP) with each participant, which may include:

Job search and job readiness activities
Work experience or community service
Vocational training or education
Other approved employment activities

Time limits: Utah TANF/FEP can only be received for up to 36 months in a lifetime (exceptions for hardship cases). Some months may not count toward the limit, such as if the parent is disabled or caring for a disabled family member.

Special Eligibility Considerations

Teen parents: Minor parents may qualify if living with a responsible adult or in an approved setting.
Domestic violence: Survivors can get waivers for some requirements.
Non-parent caretakers: Relatives caring for children (kinship care) may apply in the child's name.
Families with disabilities: May receive modified work plans or exemptions from time limits.

If you are unsure, contact Utah DWS for a personalized eligibility review.

Utah TANF Eligibility FAQ

No. TANF counts the income of the parent/caretaker and the child(ren) for whom you are applying. The income of unrelated adults or roommates is generally not counted, but the rules can be complex. Deductions for child care, work expenses, and a portion of earned income apply. See our Utah TANF Guide for details.

You can work and still receive TANF if your income remains below the limit after deductions. In fact, the program encourages employment and may provide support like child care or transportation. Report all income changes to Utah DWS.

Yes, in hardship cases. Months may not count toward your limit if you are disabled, caring for a disabled family member, or a victim of domestic violence. Always discuss your situation with DWS to see if an exemption applies.

Yes. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other relatives caring for children can apply as the child's caretaker. Only the child's income and resources are counted, not the caretaker's, in these cases.

Apply online at MyCase, or visit a local office. You'll need proof of identity, income, resources, Utah residency, and details about all household members. See Documents Required for a full list.

Visit our Utah TANF Guide, FAQ, or contact DWS for one-on-one help.