Timeliness Standards for Processing TANF Benefits 400-19-20-30

(Revised 4/1/2026 Release 26.1)

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Except in extenuating circumstances, a decision to either approve or deny an application must be made no later than 30 days following the date of the application.  Formal action (either approval or denial) must be taken on each application for assistance for the month in which it is received.  

  

Extenuating circumstances include, but are not limited to:

1. Failure or delay of an applicant to provide needed information due to circumstances beyond the applicant’s control,
2. An inability to complete a Proof of Performance (POP) due to factors outside of the applicant’s control,
3. An inability to complete Up-front eligibility requirements due to factors outside of the applicant’s control.

 

If an application is not acted upon within the 30-day time frame due to extenuating circumstances, the case record must contain an explanation of the cause of the delay.

 

If the family does not complete the application and provide all required verifications within the 30-day time frame (and the delay in completing the application is not due to extenuating circumstances) the application must be denied.

 

An applicant may withdraw an application for assistance any time before the initial benefit has been paid.