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Frequently Asked Questions for Cash Assistance

What if I need help with the application process?

If you need assistance, please contact DES.

You may also contact Community Assistors for assistance in completing the Cash Assistance application. They will explain eligibility rules and what may be required of you to participate in the program. Once your application is submitted, the Community Assistor can assist you with submitting required documents for verification (for example: pay stubs, proof of citizenship or legal resident status, etc.). Some Assistors will be available to guide you through the process, and others will provide you with access to computers, scanners, telephones, copy machines and/or fax machines that you can use for free. Find a Community Assistor near you.

Be sure to call the Assistor before visiting to make sure they offer the service you need, and if necessary, make an appointment.

Look for MyDES Connect emails and text messages with reminders and updates about your application and benefits. Find information on how to sign up for MyDES Connect.

How do I receive Cash Assistance benefits?

After the eligibility interview, you will be mailed a QUEST Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card issued by Fidelity National Information Services (FIS). The card generally arrives before the eligibility notice. The EBT card works just like an ATM/debit card.

Please note that you may receive the EBT card even if you are not eligible. Keep the card in a safe place because the card is active, does not expire, and can be used if you are eligible at a later date. The first replacement card in a calendar year is free.  You are charged $5 for each additional replacement card.  When you and your EBT alternate card holder requests more than 4 cards within a 12-month period, you may have to answer questions about the reason for your request as part of the EBT card replacement process.  Also, a fraud investigation may be initiated.

When are my benefits put on my card every month?

Cash Assistance benefits will be available on your EBT card 5 a.m. (Arizona time) on the first day of each month that you are eligible.

You can check your balance by using the free and secure mobile app, ebtEDGE, available in the Apple App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android).

Can I get my Cash Assistance benefits all at one time?

You may be eligible for one large lump-sum payment through the Grant Diversion Program. Ask your eligibility interviewer about this program during your interview.

Where can I use my Cash Assistance Benefits?

The Cash Assistance EBT card can be used at any ATM or point-of-sale terminal that accepts EBT.  Arizona state law prohibits the use of the Cash Assistance EBT card at all ATMs and point-of-sale terminals located in liquor stores, gambling casinos, race tracks, adult entertainment establishments, and medical marijuana dispensaries. Arizona state law also prohibits purchasing lottery tickets with a Cash Assistance EBT card.

You are allowed to use your EBT card outside of Arizona.  A notice will be sent requiring you to answer questions about your EBT usage when 10% or more of your benefit amount is used outside of Arizona during a six month period.

You can find ATM locations by using the free and secure mobile app, ebtEDGE, available in the Apple App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android).

How long can I receive Cash Assistance Benefits?

The Federal Lifetime Benefit Limit restricts the primary applicant and his or her spouse to receive Cash Assistance for 60 months, in Arizona or any other state, unless exempt. The lifetime limit does not apply to members of the household who are under 18.

The State Benefit Limit restricts the primary applicant and his or her spouse to receive Cash Assistance, for themselves or only for a dependent child, for 12 months in the State of Arizona, unless exempt.  The State Benefit Limit does not apply to Tribal TANF.

Some households are able to get additional Cash Assistance when they have a hardship.  Also, some households are able to receive an additional 12 months of Cash Assistance when no one in their household is in a Jobs Program sanction status for the final month of Cash Assistance and the final month is 10/2017 or later; and their children (ages 6-15 years old) go to school. To apply for a hardship or 12-month time extension, complete and submit the Cash Assistance Benefit Limit Extension Request with verification.

How do I change my address?

You may report changes on-line at MyFamilyBenefits. You may also report changes by:

How can I prove my eligibility to third-party organizations and resources?

A Proof of Eligibility card is available for download for Nutrition and Cash Assistance recipients in MyFamilyBenefits.azdes.gov. You can use this card to prove your eligibility for services to third-party organizations and resources.

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