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How to Apply for TANF Child-Only Grants & SNAP: A Guide for Kinship Caregivers
When you unexpectedly become responsible for caring for a relative’s child, your focus is naturally on making sure they are safe, supported, and cared for. But providing that care can also bring new financial responsibilities.
Food, clothing, school supplies, transportation, medical needs, and everyday expenses can add up quickly. If you are caring for a child in your family, you may be eligible for public benefits that can help ease some of that financial pressure.
Two programs worth exploring are Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
In Pennsylvania, both programs can be applied for through COMPASS, the state’s online benefits application system. Pennsylvania encourages individuals and families who need assistance to apply, even if they are unsure whether they qualify.
What Is TANF?
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) provides cash assistance to eligible low-income families. Pennsylvania explains that TANF provides money for dependent children who need financial support because assistance is unavailable from one or both parents. Payments may be made to parents or relatives caring for children in their homes.
For kinship caregivers, this can be an important resource when you have taken on the financial responsibility of caring for a child.
What Is a TANF Child-Only Grant?
A child-only TANF grant is designed to provide assistance for an eligible child rather than providing cash assistance based on the caregiver’s own eligibility.
Because TANF eligibility can depend on individual family circumstances, caregivers should apply and allow the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) to determine eligibility.
Important: Eligibility and benefit amounts can vary. Applying does not guarantee that you will receive benefits.
What Is SNAP?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps eligible households purchase food. In Pennsylvania, SNAP benefits are provided through an EBT card and can be used for eligible food purchases.
For kinship caregivers, SNAP may help reduce some of the grocery expenses associated with adding a child to your household.
You do not have to know whether you qualify before applying. Pennsylvania DHS will review your application and determine eligibility.
How to Apply for TANF and SNAP in Pennsylvania
One of the easiest ways to apply is online through COMPASS, Pennsylvania’s benefits management website.
Apply through Pennsylvania COMPASS
You can use COMPASS to apply for both TANF and SNAP, as well as other health and human services.
Step 1: Visit COMPASS
Go to the official Pennsylvania COMPASS website and select the option to get started with benefits.
Start your Pennsylvania benefits application
If you already have a My COMPASS account, you can log in. If you do not have one, you can create an account and begin your application.
Step 2: Select the Benefits You Want to Apply For
When completing your application, identify the programs you would like to be considered for.
Depending on your circumstances, this may include:
- TANF/cash assistance
- SNAP
- Medical Assistance
- Other benefits available through Pennsylvania DHS
You don’t necessarily have to apply for each program separately. COMPASS serves as a central access point for several Pennsylvania benefits.
Step 3: Gather Your Information
Having important information available before you begin can make the application process easier.
You may need information about:
- Household members
- Income
- Employment
- Housing expenses
- Child care expenses
- Social Security numbers
- Other sources of financial support
- The child or children in your care
Pennsylvania’s application materials encourage applicants to provide as much complete information as possible because this can help DHS process the application more efficiently.
Step 4: Complete and Submit Your Application
Answer each question as accurately and completely as possible.
If you are unsure about whether you qualify for a particular benefit, don’t automatically leave the program off your application simply because you’re uncertain. Pennsylvania DHS will review your circumstances and determine which programs you may qualify for.
Once you’ve completed the application, submit it through COMPASS.
Step 5: Watch for Follow-Up Requests
After submitting your application, DHS may request additional information or documentation.
Respond to requests as soon as possible and keep copies of anything you submit.
If you need help completing an application, Pennsylvania County Assistance Offices have trained workers who can provide assistance.
Step 6: Track Your Application
After applying, you can track your benefits application through Pennsylvania’s benefits tracking system.
Track your Pennsylvania benefits application
You can use the system to check updates regarding applications for programs including TANF and SNAP.
What If You Don’t Want to Apply Online?
You have options.
Pennsylvania allows individuals to apply for TANF and SNAP online, by mail, or in person through their local County Assistance Office.
Find your local County Assistance Office
If you need assistance with the application process, don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Don’t Assume You Won’t Qualify
One of the most important things to remember is that you don’t have to determine your own eligibility before applying.
Your household’s circumstances can be complicated, particularly when you are caring for a child who recently joined your household.
Income, household size, custody arrangements, and other circumstances can affect eligibility. The best way to know whether you may qualify is to submit an application and allow DHS to review your situation. Pennsylvania specifically encourages people who need help to apply.
You Don’t Have to Navigate It Alone
Becoming a kinship caregiver can happen quickly. One day you’re a grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling, or another relative—and suddenly you’re responsible for helping a child navigate an entirely new chapter.
Asking for assistance isn’t a sign that you’re doing something wrong.
It’s part of making sure your family has the resources it needs to thrive.
TANF and SNAP are just two of the resources that may be available to eligible Pennsylvania families. A kinship navigator, caseworker, County Assistance Office, or other trusted community resource can also help you identify additional support.
At A Second Chance, Inc., we believe caregivers should not have to navigate kinship care alone. Support, information, and connection can make a meaningful difference as families adjust, grow, and move forward together.
Ready to Apply?
Start with the official Pennsylvania resources:
Apply for TANF through Pennsylvania DHS
Apply for SNAP through Pennsylvania DHS
Apply for benefits through COMPASS
Remember: Program requirements and eligibility rules can change. Always use the official Pennsylvania DHS resources for the most current information.