What is Ohio Works First?
Ohio Works First is the financial assistance portion of the state’s Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program, which provides cash benefits to needy families for up to 36 months. Over their lifetime, adults are limited to a total of 60 months of OWF cash assistance.
Who is eligible?
Families with children that meet a “gross monthly income test” may be eligible. Gross monthly income includes unearned income – for example, Social Security benefits – and earned income – such as payment for work–before taxes.
- Minor children living with guardians other than their parents may be eligible for “child-only” assistance, with no time limit.
- Women who are at least six months pregnant may be eligible for individual assistance.
- Unmarried minor parents and pregnant minors must be in approved, adult-supervised living arrangements or live with a parent, legal guardian, relative or legal custodian.
- Most adults and minor heads of household must participate in work activities. Allowable work activities
Include such things as on-the-job training, community service and education directly related to employment - In order to receive benefits, adults and minor heads of household must sign a self-sufficiency contract.
- Failure to sign the self-sufficiency contract without good cause can result in denial or termination of benefits, which would affect the entire family. The contract explains the participant’s rights and responsibilities and what the county department of job and family services will do to help the participant become self-sufficient.
Apply by clicking here
Or by calling 844-640-6446
