Kentucky is about to see some changes to its Temporary Assistance for Needy Families funding. The Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program is funded through annual grants from the federal government. It is used for issues such as helping families in need with children secure funding for a specific period of time to get back on their feet, as well as for foster care.
During his weekly Team Kentucky update, Governor Andy Beshear said the federal grants could support increasing payments in 2023. But the number of families participating has grown, and some changes had to be made.
“The cost of some care needed for high acuity youth has significantly increased. Now, costs exceed the total number of the grant, requiring us to re-balance those payments,” the governor said. “So, we're going to be sending notices out to these families about what they're going to see.”
Doctor Steven Stack is the Secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. He said the average number of families participating increased from 10,026 in state fiscal year '23 to 15,117 in state fiscal year '25.
“This is not a penalty for families receiving KTAP, or those participating in the Kentucky Works program. This change is the result of circumstances that go beyond any one program or household,” he said. “We recognize that these reductions will result in added burdens, and we are committed to helping families connect with other resources where possible.”
To qualify for KTAP, an applicant must have low income, be a Kentucky resident, U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, a parent/caretaker relative responsible for children up to age 18 (or 19 if school attendance requirements are met).
Stack said anyone who needs help finding or applying for other benefits should reach out to any DCBS office, via telephone by calling DCBS Call Services (855-306-8959), or online at kynect.ky.gov. For additional information about KTAP, contact DCBS Call Services.
These changes will be reflected in November.
