TANF Cash Assistance & ASPIRE Program
Maine DHHS Office for Family Independence
Maine's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program provides monthly cash benefits to families with children. The ASPIRE program helps TANF participants build skills for employment through job training and education supports.
Who can use this?
Maine residents with dependent children who meet income and asset limits. Must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens. Work requirements apply to most adults unless exempt.
About this resource
TANF provides monthly cash assistance to eligible families with dependent children while they work toward self-sufficiency. The ASPIRE component helps participants move toward financial independence through job search assistance, vocational training, and educational supports.
Services offered
- Monthly cash assistance for families with children
- ASPIRE job training and employment supports
- Resume writing and interview skills workshops
- Educational and vocational training referrals
- Work support services including transportation and child care assistance
- Emergency assistance for crisis situations
What to expect
Apply online at mymaineconnection.gov, by phone, or in person at a DHHS district office. A caseworker will schedule an interview. Processing typically takes up to 30 days.
What to bring
Photo ID, Social Security numbers for all household members, proof of income, proof of residency, bank statements, proof of child care costs.