How Do I Obtain Other Benefits After My Release?

To restart TANF

To restart a TANF benefit, you must resume your role as caretaker for an eligible child and meet other requirements, such as the income limits and work requirements.

You should find out what is required to file your application for TANF benefits while you are still in jail, even though your request cannot be approved until after you are released and again caring for a child. Beginning the application process for TANF while you are still in jail or prison may speed up restarting your benefit.

Often you can use the same application form to reapply for TANF, Medicaid and Food Stamps. Contact your local social services office to find out how to do this.

If you are convicted of a drug felony, you may find that you are no longer eligible for TANF. States can end your TANF benefits permanently in these circumstances and 24 states do so.3 Another 174 have requirements you must meet before TANF benefits can be restored, such as successful completion of a drug or alcohol treatment program.

To restart Food Stamps

You can re-apply for Food Stamps while you are in jail, but you will not be eligible for them until you have been released. If you are applying for SSI, you can submit an application for Food Stamps at the same time. Social Security will let you know if you are eligible.

If you do not expect to have SSI after your release, you can re-apply for Food Stamps through your local social services office (see how to apply for Food Stamps, below).

If you have been convicted of a drug felony, you may no longer be eligible for Food Stamps. States can end your Food Stamp benefit permanently in these circumstances and the same 24 states do so.³ The other 17 states⁴ have requirements that must be met before you can get Food Stamps, such as successful completion of a drug or alcohol treatment program.

Next: How Can I Apply for Benefits I Did Not Have Before My Arrest?