Florida’s Temporary Cash Assistance Program Sees Fewer Recipients but Higher Grant Amounts

NewsWK — According to a report first published by Florida Phoenix, Florida’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is projected to see a significant decrease in the number of participants while the average grant amount increases. The Office of Economic and Demographic Research (EDR) released data indicating that approximately 24,234 residents will benefit from TANF in the 2026-27 fiscal year, marking a 30% decrease from the previously estimated 34,718 beneficiaries.

This reduction in caseloads, estimated to be about 14,574, is attributed to ongoing declines in child poverty rates. The TANF program, known in Florida as Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), provides financial support to lower-income families with children. The program is expected to incur costs of $47.6 million this fiscal year, a notable decrease from the $63.1 million budgeted for the previous year.

To qualify for TCA, applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified noncitizens with a Social Security number, an annual income below 185% of the federal poverty level (approximately $61,050), and children living in the household. Additionally, families must comply with child support enforcement and ensure that young children are vaccinated and school-aged children regularly attend school.

While the number of families served has declined, the average grant per person is on the rise, with economists predicting an increase to $143.24 for fiscal year 2026-27, up from a previous estimate of $134.34. This shift indicates a potential focus on providing higher support per family as the overall participation in the program decreases.