Maximum TANFa Benefits Leave Families Well Below the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)

Maximum TANF benefit as a percent of FPL (for a family of three)b

  0 to 10% FPL

  10 to 20% FPL

  20 to 30% FPL

  30 to 40% FPL

  40 to 50% FPL

a TANF = Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
b The federal poverty level (FPL) for a family of three in 2014 is about $1,649 per month in the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C.; Alaska and Hawaii have higher poverty levels.
c Fair Market Rent = estimated rent and utility costs of moderately priced housing
Source: Calculated from 2014 Health and Human Services Poverty Guidelines and CBPP-compiled data on July 2014 benefit levels.