Government assistance programs play a crucial role in helping low-income families manage essential expenses. With the rising cost of living, many families in Florida rely on state and federal programs for financial relief.
One of these programs, Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), provides much-needed support to eligible families with children. This month, qualifying households can expect their TCA payments to be deposited into their accounts.
TCA
The Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) program is a Florida state-run initiative designed to provide temporary financial aid to families with children under the age of 18. The goal of this program is to help parents meet their basic needs while they work toward long-term financial stability.
According to the Florida Department of Children and Families, the TCA program helps prevent family separations by providing financial support when parents face economic hardships.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for TCA benefits, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Time Limits – Benefits are limited to 48 months over a lifetime (except for child-only cases).
- Work Rules – Some recipients must participate in work-related activities unless exempt.
- Income Limits – Gross income must be below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level, and countable income must not exceed the payment standard for the family size. A $90 deduction is applied to gross earned income.
- Citizenship – Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens.
- Residency – Must be a resident of Florida.
- Social Security Number – Must provide an SSN or proof of application.
- Assets – Total countable assets must not exceed $2,000. Vehicles required for work must have a combined value of $8,500 or less.
- Relationship – The child must live with a parent or blood relative.
- Child Support Cooperation – Parents or caretakers must cooperate with child support enforcement to establish legal parentage and enforce payments.
- Immunization – Children under age 5 must be up to date with immunizations.
- Learnfare – Children aged 6 to 18 must attend school, and parents/caretakers must participate in school conferences.
Payments
Unlike Social Security benefits, TCA payments are distributed daily throughout the month based on case numbers. Payments are loaded onto EBT cards, which recipients can use for food, household essentials, and other approved expenses.
Payment Schedule
| Case Number | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 28-31 | March 9 |
| 32-34 | March 10 |
| 35-38 | March 11 |
| 39-41 | March 12 |
| 42-45 | March 13 |
| 46-48 | March 14 |
| 49-53 | March 15 |
| 54-57 | March 16 |
If your case number does not fall within these categories, or if you have not received your payment, visit the TCA webpage for more information on payment processing.
Other
In addition to TCA payments, some Florida residents may also be eligible for retroactive Social Security payments following the recent passage of the Social Security Fairness Act.
- Eligible individuals will start receiving these back payments this month.
- Social Security benefits will increase starting in April 2025.
These financial assistance programs aim to provide much-needed relief for Florida families facing economic hardships.
FAQs
When will I receive my TCA payment?
Payments are distributed based on case numbers from March 9 to March 16.
How is TCA payment received?
Payments are loaded onto EBT cards for eligible recipients.
What is the time limit for receiving TCA benefits?
TCA benefits are limited to 48 months over a lifetime, except for child-only cases.
Do I need to be a Florida resident to qualify?
Yes, applicants must live in Florida and meet residency requirements.
Are there other financial assistance programs available?
Yes, eligible residents may also receive Social Security back payments and increased benefits.
