Colorado Works/Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a federal program that provides cash assistance to needy families with dependent children. An application for Colorado Works will also be considered for food assistance, Medicaid, and child support services. Child care assistance and other supportive services are available for job seekers.
Colorado Works is available for families with dependent children or parents of an unborn child. The requirements include:
- Being a US Citizen or legal alien, meet the resource and income guidelines and have a dependent child.
- Participate in work activities and comply with Individual Responsibility Contracts.
- Establishment of a child support order against the absent parent if a parent is absent from the household.
- Documents of income: bank accounts, investments and vehicles.
The financial aid is based on:
- Family Size
- Income
- Resources
- Ages of the Children
Families with minor children can receive TANF 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:
- Approved education programs or job skills training
- Volunteer work or community service
- Job readiness and job search
- Full and part-time employment
- For minors, high school or GED program attendance and to live with parents or another approved adult.
There are several ways to apply for benefits. Select the one option that is best for you:
- Colorado PEAK is a State online service for Coloradoans to screen themselves and apply for medical, food, and cash assistance programs. Visit Colorado PEAK to see if you are eligible and to apply!
- Complete the Colorado Financial, Medical, and Food Assistance Application for Assistance (English), Solicitud (Espanol). Then Print the application and fax, email, or mail it to our office.
- Fax: 303-441-1523
Email: imaging@bouldercounty.org - Apply in person at one of our offices:Boulder Location Longmont Location3460 Broadway 515 Coffman Street
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
- Completed Application Forms
- Proof of Monthly Income
- Social Security Numbers for all Household Members
- Proof of Pregnancy (where applicable)
- A Valid Colorado ID or Drivers License
- Proof of Relationship to the Children (Birth Certificates)
- Proof of Lawful Presence in the U.S. and a signed affidavit for applicants 18 years or older
- Boulder County Residency
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
Contact Us
Human Services
Phone: 303-441-1000
TTY: 1-800-659-3656
Fax: 303-441-1523
Submit a question
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 471
Boulder, CO 80306
Boulder Location
3460 Broadway
Map and Directions Boulder Location
Fax: 720-564-2283
Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday/Wednesday/Friday
Issuance Closed 1-2 p.m. for lunch.
Longmont Location
515 Coffman St.
Map and Directions Longmont Location
Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Monday-Friday
Issuance Closed 1-2 p.m. for lunch.
Lafayette Location
1755 S. Public Road, Lafayette
Map and Directions Lafayette Location
Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday/Thursday
Closed 1-2 p.m. for lunch.
