Cash assistance is a type of public benefit that provides regular, direct cash payments to eligible individuals or families to help them meet basic needs. DHS assists customers with gaining access to the following cash assistance programs and services:
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
- Interim Disability Assistance
- Refugee Cash Assistance
- Burial Assistance
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program provides cash assistance to families in need, along with a suite of services to facilitate their path to success. Families enrolled in the District’s TANF program may receive benefits so long as they are income-eligible and have a child in the home. TANF also offers access to a variety of supportive services that can be bundled together to meet individual needs. DHS employs a two-generation approach to reaching and serving families so that children and parents can grow together.
Interim Disability Assistance
The Interim Disability Assistance (IDA) Program provides temporary financial assistance to those who are unable to work due to a disability and have a high probability of receiving federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI). IDA payments are issued until SSI eligibility is approved or denied.
Refugee Cash Assistance
The District’s Office of Refugee Resettlement (DCORR) coordinates and administers the Refugee Resettlement Program which includes services to federally recognized refugee populations to help them build new lives in the United States. Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) is a time-limited cash assistance program for refugees who are not eligible for any other cash assistance. RCA is available to eligible refugee populations for up to 12 months from the date of admission to the U.S., date of final grant of asylum or date of certification as a victim of trafficking. Refugee Cash Assistance recipients must meet program eligibility requirements and must also register with the Refugee Social Services Provider for continued receipt of RCA benefits.
Burial Assistance
As of September 30, 2025, the Department of Human Services (DHS) will no longer provide Burial Assistance funds. While we recognize that funeral costs can present a financial challenge, funding is no longer available for this program. We apologize for any inconvenience. If you have questions or would like to explore other DHS services or support, please contact DHS' Economic Security Administration at 202-727-5355 or visit one of our Service Centers.