Both welfare agencies and the federal disability system seek to support people with disabilities and help them become more independent. However, the two systems often have differing missions and organization, definitions of disability, operational and financial issues, and work rules and incentives, making it challenging for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs to work together. TANF clients who apply for SSI may also confront conflicting messages from TANF agencies regarding work requirements and benefit eligibility.
To better understand the relationship between the TANF and SSI populations and programs, the Office of Program Development and Research and the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) launched the TANF-SSI Disability Transition Project (TSDTP) in October 2008. Working with ACF, TANF agencies in California, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, and New York, select counties in these states, and the evaluation firm MDRC, we will analyze program data and pilot-test program interventions for TANF clients with disabilities. SSA, ACF, TANF agencies, and low-income individuals with disabilities and their families benefit from effective and efficient services — moving toward employment when possible, making informed decisions about applying for SSI, receiving SSI as quickly as possible, and reducing administrative costs. The project will conclude in September 2011 with our recommendations regarding a larger demonstration project on coordinating TANF and SSI.
For more information, see the ACF website at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/welfare_employ/tanf_ssi/tanf_ssi_overview.html.