Introduction to Mesa County Colorado Works

Colorado Works / Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)  TANF is a basic cash assistance work program  TANF is a self sufficiency program, not an entitlement program  Requires a plan and work activity participation  Requires child support cooperation  The 60 month limit is nationwide

CARETAKER RELATIVE (S) OF CHILDREN NUMBER OF DEPENDENT CHILDREN No parents included and your households does not make more than this amount before taxes: $117 $245 $368 $490 $587 $678 $756 One parent and your household does not make more than this amount before taxes: $253 $331 $421 $510 $605 $697 $770 $844 Two parent and your household does not make more than this amount before taxes: $357 $439 $533 $628 $716 $787 $861 $937 TANF Basic Cash Assistance

Maximum Basic Cash Assistance Amounts 0 adults1 adult2 adults 0 children$214$302 (must be married) 1 child$128$364$517 2 children$269$462$586 3 children$404$561$628 4 children$539$665$787 5 children$646$767$865 6 children$746$847$947

Participation and Work Activities  20 hours weekly for parents with a child under 6 years  30 hours weekly for parents with a child age 6 and older  35 hours weekly for two parent families  55 week for two parent families needing childcare  16 – 18 year old not in school, see case manager  Employment  Vocational Training  Job Search  Community Service / Work Experience  High school / GED if under 20 years  English as a Second Language, Basic Education after 20 hours of activity above.

Individual Responsibility Contract (IRC)  This is a contract written with the “participant.” A participant is a parent or a child (16-19yrs) not in school.  The IRC includes the participant’s responsibilities, activities, and required hours of participation.  The IRC includes what Colorado Works will do to help the participant succeed.  If an IRC expires, the Basic Cash Assistance case may close.  If activities can’t be agreed upon, the participant may request a supervisory review or dispute resolution conference.

Food Benefits Medicaid * Child Care Assistance Child Support *Colorado Works / TANF Temporary Assistance For Needy Families There are other programs that may help your family. Each program has its own rules! * Child support cooperation is required

Colorado Works Eligibility Process Before your application can be approved, an applicant must: Have a completed application Have been interviewed by an Intake Eligibility Specialist Have an IRC Have provided all required verifications to your Intake Eligibility Worker, including acceptable State issued Driver’s License or DMV Identification Card for household members age 18 and older. Any changes need to be reported to the Intake Eligibility Specialist. Cooperate with Child Support Unit when contacted.