Temporary Assistance for Needy Families: Spending and Policy Options

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a federal program administered by states that provides cash assistance, work support, and other services to some low-income families. This report examines spending on TANF, how TANF compares to other federal programs for low-income families, and the effects of TANF on employment. CBO also analyzes policy options that would change the program’s federal funding and requirements for states regarding employment and nonfederal funding.