Improving TANF Benefits to Support Georgia’s Young Children and Families

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is federal funding that states can use to provide cash assistance to families living in poverty, as well as support child welfare programs, child care, and after-school programs.

Few Georgia children currently receive TANF cash assistance due to restrictive eligibility requirements. Under current policy, a working parent would need to make less than minimum wage to meet both the work and income-eligibility requirements. Georgia’s policymakers have an opportunity to improve the effectiveness of the TANF program and promote the healthy development of young children experiencing poverty.

Improving TANF Benefits to Support Georgia’s Young Children and Families provides insight into the benefits of TANF and policy recommendations on how Georgia’s leaders can strengthen the program.