The exact amount of cash assistance you can receive in Massachusetts through programs like Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) depends on the size of your assistance unit and whether you qualify for a rent allowance. The figures provided below are effective as of October 2022.
Understanding Your Monthly Cash Benefits
Your household's size, also known as your "assistance unit," directly impacts your monthly benefit amount. Additionally, if your assistance unit is responsible for rent or a mortgage, you may qualify for a higher benefit amount due to a "rent allowance."
Monthly TAFDC Cash Assistance Amounts (Effective October 2022)
The following table details the maximum monthly cash assistance you could receive based on your assistance unit size and housing situation:
| Assistance Unit Size | No Rent Allowance | With Rent Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $513 | $553 |
| 2 | $648 | $688 |
| 3 | $783 | $823 |
| 4 | $912 | $952 |
- Assistance Unit Size: This refers to the number of eligible individuals in your household who are counted towards the TAFDC benefit.
- No Rent Allowance: This applies if your assistance unit does not have a housing expense (e.g., you live rent-free).
- With Rent Allowance: This applies if your assistance unit is responsible for paying rent or a mortgage.
These amounts are set by the state and are subject to change. It is always recommended to verify the most current benefit levels with the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) or through official legal aid resources.
