Glossary: Energy Assistance

A state program that gives monthly cash assistance to low-income Minnesotans. The maximum GA benefit for individuals is $350/month ($350 for couples).

To qualify for the program, you must fit into one of 15 categories, most of which are based on disability or unemployability. If you're applying for GA, you're usually required to apply for Social Security benefits as well. The GA asset limit is $10,000 for couples and individuals, and your monthly net income must be less than $350 ($350 for couples). For more information or to apply, contact your county or tribal human services office.

The highest income you can have while still qualifying for a particular benefits program.

This is Minnesota's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program (sometimes called "welfare-to-work"). It provides cash and food assistance to low-income families with children, and also helps with job training and finding employment.

MFIP used to be called "Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC)."

A program that helps pay for child care while parents are working, looking for work, or going to school. Transitional Year Child Care is for people who recently got off the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) who can’t get Basic Sliding Fee Child Care Assistance because their county has a waiting list.