This toolkit has information about the Family Independence Program (FIP, or Cash Assistance) — how to apply and who is eligible.
For general information about FIP, read the Articles. Read the Common Questions if you have a specific question. If you want to request a hearing from MDHHS or learn more about the kind of denial or termination notice you received, use the Forms link to prepare the forms you need.
You'll find links to legal aid offices and lawyer referral services under Find A Lawyer. If there is a Self-Help Center in your area you can get more help there. If you need something other than legal help, look in Community Services. If you need a fee waiver, an interpreter, a court to accommodate your disability, or more information about going to court, visit Going to Court.
Common Questions
The Family Independence Program (FIP) provides cash assistance to families with dependent children. Sometimes it is called Cash Assistance, TANF, or FIA. To learn more, read An Overview of the Family Independence Program (FIP, or Cash Assistance).
Yes. There are some exceptions to the requirement that a dependent child has to live in the household. If you are pregnant, you may be eligible for FIP.
Some immigrants can get FIP. In order to be eligible for FIP, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant. Someone who is not a U.S. citizen should never indicate that they are a U.S. citizen.
Generally, all non-citizen children with permanent resident status (green cards) or VAWA are eligible for FIP. Non-citizen adults who have permanent resident status or VAWA for five years or more are also eligible. Asylees and refugees are also eligible for FIP. Some other categories of immigrants are also eligible, including certified victims of human trafficking and Cuban/Haitian entrants.
Immigrants who do not fall in one of the eligibility categories cannot get FIP. People who refuse to share their immigration status are also not eligible.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) cannot require social security numbers or immigration documents from individuals who are not applying for benefits. For example, if a parent is applying for benefits on behalf of their child but not themselves, MDHHS cannot require proof of citizenship from the parent.
If you have questions about FIP for immigrants, you may want to speak with someone at your local MDHHS office. Your local legal services office may also be able to help you. You can use the Guide to Legal Help to see if you qualify for free legal advice from your local legal services office. Even if they are not able to represent you, they could still offer you advice and other help.
If you speak limited English, MDHHS must provide you with an interpreter. Be sure to tell MDHHS that you need an interpreter or need help understanding documents in English. You have a right to bring your own interpreter if you prefer. The application is available in different languages. You can apply online and have someone help you.