Colorado Works/Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Colorado Works is available for families with dependent children or parents of an unborn child. The requirements include:

The amount of financial help you get is based on:

Families with minor children can receive Colorado Works for 60 months (5 years) over a lifetime.

Additional information is available during your interview.

Requirement for Work-Related Activity

The program requires applicants to seek employment and be involved in a work activity from the day of the application.
The required number of work hours per week will be determined by the age of the children and if the household is a two-parent household.

Work activities may include, but are not limited to:

There are several ways to apply for benefits. Select the one option that is best for you:

Notes:

• Once your application has been reviewed you will be contacted to schedule an interview.
• If your application is denied, you still have additional options that we can discuss with you.
• You can access public assistance benefits forms

What to Bring When Applying

Releasing Your Information

Use this Release of Information form (Autorización para Divulgación de Informació) if you want Boulder County Human Services to share your information with another agency, professional, or individual who may need it. This release is good for 1 year.

Cancelling a Release of Information

Use this Release of Information Cancellation form (Cancelación de Autorización para Compartir Información) to cancel a previously requested release of information.

What are the three primary requirements of Colorado Works, aka TANF?

• Must have primary responsibility for minor children in your home
• Must be willing to cooperate with Child Support Enforcement
• Must be willing to cooperate with Work Force Center

Can I receive Colorado Works if I am a full-time college student?

In some cases. All Colorado Works clients must participate in job readiness activities with the Work Force Center. Some schooling will be allowed as a countable activity, but there is no guarantee. If you are a student, the staff at Work Force Center can discuss this with you in greater detail.

Can I receive Colorado Works for a relative or a child I am responsible for but not related to?

• In some cases you may be able to receive Colorado Works for children, other than your own biological children. You must provide verification of your relationship to the child and be able to prove you are responsible for that child