Linda D. Tanner v. Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Julia Murray, Wendy Proctor, and Juan Rodriguez
Opinion
ACCEPTED 15-25-00008-CV FIFTEENTH COURT OF APPEALS AUSTIN, TEXAS 4/15/2025 6:37 AM CASE NO. 15-25-00008-CV CHRISTOPHER A. PRINE CLERK FILED IN 15th COURT OF APPEALS In the Court of Appeals AUSTIN, TEXAS 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM for the Fifteenth Judicial District of Texas CHRISTOPHER A. PRINE Clerk
Linda D. Tanner Appellant, vs. Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Juan Rodriguez, Wendy Proctor, and Julia Murray Appellees,
On Appeal from the 459 th Judicial District Court Travis County, Texas Cause No. D-1-GN-24-002987 Honorable Judge Laurie Eiserloh
Appellant Brief Appellant Requests Oral Argument
Linda D. Tanner Pro Se Lulu143134143 @gmail.com 2121 Handley Drive Apt 51 Fort Worth, TX 76112 817-204-8004
1 CERTIFICATE OF INTERESTED PERSONS Appell ant, Linda D. Tanner, certifies that the following li sted persons and entities as described in the fourth sentence of Rule 28 .2. l have an interest in the outcome of this case.
Appellant: Counsel for Appellant: Linda D. Tanner Pro Se Litigant 2 121 Handley Drive Apt 51 fort Wo1ih, TX 76112 Tel: 817-204-8004 lu lu l 43134 l 43 @gmail. com
Appellees: Counsel for Appellees:
Texas Health and Human Services Commission Giselle Ortiz Astacio Juan Rodriguez Texas State Bar No. 24103222 Wendy Proctor Lauren McGee Julia Murray Texas State Bar No. 24128835 Assistant Attorney Genera l Office of the Attorney Genera l of Texas Administrative Law Division P.O. Box 12548, Capito l Station Austin, TX 78711-2548 Telephone: (512) 475-4200 Griselle.OrtizAstacio@oag.texas .gov Lauren.McGee@oag.texas .gov
Respondent:
Honorable Judge Laurie Eiserloh 459 th Judicial District Court 1700 Guadalupe, 11 th floor Austin, TX 7870 I Tele: 512-854-9384 Fax: 512-854-9338
2 STATEMENT REGARDING ORAL ARGUMENT
Appellant, Linda D. Tanner, requests oral argument.
3 TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Table of Statutes .............................................................. 5
2. Jurisdictional Statement ...................................................... 6
3. Issues Presented ............................................................... 7
4. Statement of Facts ............................................................. 8
5. Statement of the Case ......................................................... 11
6. Summary of the Argument ................................................... 12
7. Argument ........................................................................ 13
8. Conclusion ....................................................................... 19
9. Prayer ........................................................................................................................21
10. Certificate of Compliance .....................................................22
11. Certificate of Service ........................................................... 23
12. Appendix ........................................................................ 24
4 TABLE OF STATUTES AND AUTHORITIES
1. United States Code Title 42 § 1983
2. United States Code Title 42 § 1382a
3. Social Security Act Title IV
4. Texas Administrative Code, Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchapter A, Rule 372.2
5. Texas Administrative Code, Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchapter B, Division 7, Rule 372.404
6. Texas Administrative Code, Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchapter B, Division 7, Rule 372.408
7. Texas Administrative Code, Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchapter B, Division 7, Rule 372.5
8. The Texas Fair and Fraud Handbook 2300
9. Texas Works Handbook Section, A-1341.1
IO.Texas Works Handbook Section, A-1340
11. Texas Works Handbook Section, C-111
12. Texas Gov't Code Chapter 531, Sections: 531.027, 531.028, 531.031, 531.0055
13. The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 45, Subtitle B, Chapter II, Part 205, Sections 205.5, 205.30, 205.36, 205.130
14. Tex. Gov't Code, Title 10, Subchapter A, Chapter 2001, Subchapter A
5 JURISDICTIONAL STATEMENT
This court has jurisdiction over this appeal pursuant to Tex. Gov't Code, Title 10, Subchapter A, Chapter 2001 , Subchapter A .
6 ISSUES PRESENTED
1. The timing for the submission of the judicial review.
2. The Texas HHSC is not applying the annual Federal Poverty Levels to the Budgetary Needs and Recognizable Needs charts when determining income eligibility and max grant amounts.
3. The Texas HHSC is not applying U.S.C. Title 42 § 1382a (b)(9) when determining eligible income amounts.
4. The Texas HHSC is not applying the child support requirements correctly for the TANF Cash Help program.
5 STATEMENT OF FACTS
1. The Appellant submitted her petition for judicial review on time.
2. The Appellant was denied TANF Cash Help benefits due to having an income too high for the recognizable needs test limit for a family of 3.
3. With an unearned income of$575 in child support per month, the Appellant was, in fact, eligible for these benefits. (This amount does not include the $75 deduction and the 1/3 deduction from U.S. Code Title 42 § 1382a (b)(9).
4. In the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Rule 372.404- Countable and Excludable Income, it says that the Texas TANF Cash Help programs excludes any income federal law excludes.
5. United States Code Title 42 § 1382a - Public Health and Welfare - section (b) number (9) states that if the unearned income is from an absent parent for a child support payment, then 1/3 of each individual payment shall be deducted.
6. In the Texas Works Handbook C-111, it shows a chart that says the Budgetary Needs amounts are 100% of the annual Federal Poverty Level (FPL) provided by United States Department of Health and Human Services each year.
7. In the Texas Works Handbook C-111, it shows a chart that says the Recognizable Needs amounts are 25% of the Budgetary Needs amount.
8. In the Texas Works Handbook A-1341.1, it shows that the max grant amount for each family size should equal to 17% of the Federal Poverty
8 Level (FPL) provided by United States Department of Health and Human Services each year.
9. The current Budgetary Needs test amount is $751 for a family of 3.
IO.The current Recognizable Needs test amount is $188 for a family of 3.
11. The current Max Grant amount is $353 for a family of 3.
12. The Federal Poverty Level for the current year is supposed to be applied to the Budgetary Needs, Recognizable Needs, and Max Grant amounts for each family size.
13. The executive commissioner for the Texas HHSC is not updating these amounts annually and is supposed to.
14. The Federal Poverty Level for a family of 3 in 2025 is $26,650.
15. The correct amounts for a family of3 are: Budgetary Needs - $26,650, Recognizable Needs - $6,662.50, Max Grant - $4,530.50
16. According to the Federal Poverty Level for 2025 that is required by law to be in place when calculating income eligibility for the Texas TANF Cash Help program, my family of 3 is eligible for these benefits.
17. The TANF Cash Help program is applying the child support requirements for the applicant incorrectly.
18. They are keeping the applicants' child support payments and using them to "payback" what this applicant is receiving in monthly TANF Cash Help payments.
19. The Texas TANF Cash Help Program is not a loan program. The applicant is not taking out a loan when applying or receiving these benefits.
9 20.
Free access — add to your briefcase to read the full text and ask questions with AI
ACCEPTED 15-25-00008-CV FIFTEENTH COURT OF APPEALS AUSTIN, TEXAS 4/15/2025 6:37 AM CASE NO. 15-25-00008-CV CHRISTOPHER A. PRINE CLERK FILED IN 15th COURT OF APPEALS In the Court of Appeals AUSTIN, TEXAS 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM for the Fifteenth Judicial District of Texas CHRISTOPHER A. PRINE Clerk
Linda D. Tanner Appellant, vs. Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Juan Rodriguez, Wendy Proctor, and Julia Murray Appellees,
On Appeal from the 459 th Judicial District Court Travis County, Texas Cause No. D-1-GN-24-002987 Honorable Judge Laurie Eiserloh
Appellant Brief Appellant Requests Oral Argument
Linda D. Tanner Pro Se Lulu143134143 @gmail.com 2121 Handley Drive Apt 51 Fort Worth, TX 76112 817-204-8004
1 CERTIFICATE OF INTERESTED PERSONS Appell ant, Linda D. Tanner, certifies that the following li sted persons and entities as described in the fourth sentence of Rule 28 .2. l have an interest in the outcome of this case.
Appellant: Counsel for Appellant: Linda D. Tanner Pro Se Litigant 2 121 Handley Drive Apt 51 fort Wo1ih, TX 76112 Tel: 817-204-8004 lu lu l 43134 l 43 @gmail. com
Appellees: Counsel for Appellees:
Texas Health and Human Services Commission Giselle Ortiz Astacio Juan Rodriguez Texas State Bar No. 24103222 Wendy Proctor Lauren McGee Julia Murray Texas State Bar No. 24128835 Assistant Attorney Genera l Office of the Attorney Genera l of Texas Administrative Law Division P.O. Box 12548, Capito l Station Austin, TX 78711-2548 Telephone: (512) 475-4200 Griselle.OrtizAstacio@oag.texas .gov Lauren.McGee@oag.texas .gov
Respondent:
Honorable Judge Laurie Eiserloh 459 th Judicial District Court 1700 Guadalupe, 11 th floor Austin, TX 7870 I Tele: 512-854-9384 Fax: 512-854-9338
2 STATEMENT REGARDING ORAL ARGUMENT
Appellant, Linda D. Tanner, requests oral argument.
3 TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Table of Statutes .............................................................. 5
2. Jurisdictional Statement ...................................................... 6
3. Issues Presented ............................................................... 7
4. Statement of Facts ............................................................. 8
5. Statement of the Case ......................................................... 11
6. Summary of the Argument ................................................... 12
7. Argument ........................................................................ 13
8. Conclusion ....................................................................... 19
9. Prayer ........................................................................................................................21
10. Certificate of Compliance .....................................................22
11. Certificate of Service ........................................................... 23
12. Appendix ........................................................................ 24
4 TABLE OF STATUTES AND AUTHORITIES
1. United States Code Title 42 § 1983
2. United States Code Title 42 § 1382a
3. Social Security Act Title IV
4. Texas Administrative Code, Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchapter A, Rule 372.2
5. Texas Administrative Code, Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchapter B, Division 7, Rule 372.404
6. Texas Administrative Code, Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchapter B, Division 7, Rule 372.408
7. Texas Administrative Code, Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchapter B, Division 7, Rule 372.5
8. The Texas Fair and Fraud Handbook 2300
9. Texas Works Handbook Section, A-1341.1
IO.Texas Works Handbook Section, A-1340
11. Texas Works Handbook Section, C-111
12. Texas Gov't Code Chapter 531, Sections: 531.027, 531.028, 531.031, 531.0055
13. The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 45, Subtitle B, Chapter II, Part 205, Sections 205.5, 205.30, 205.36, 205.130
14. Tex. Gov't Code, Title 10, Subchapter A, Chapter 2001, Subchapter A
5 JURISDICTIONAL STATEMENT
This court has jurisdiction over this appeal pursuant to Tex. Gov't Code, Title 10, Subchapter A, Chapter 2001 , Subchapter A .
6 ISSUES PRESENTED
1. The timing for the submission of the judicial review.
2. The Texas HHSC is not applying the annual Federal Poverty Levels to the Budgetary Needs and Recognizable Needs charts when determining income eligibility and max grant amounts.
3. The Texas HHSC is not applying U.S.C. Title 42 § 1382a (b)(9) when determining eligible income amounts.
4. The Texas HHSC is not applying the child support requirements correctly for the TANF Cash Help program.
5 STATEMENT OF FACTS
1. The Appellant submitted her petition for judicial review on time.
2. The Appellant was denied TANF Cash Help benefits due to having an income too high for the recognizable needs test limit for a family of 3.
3. With an unearned income of$575 in child support per month, the Appellant was, in fact, eligible for these benefits. (This amount does not include the $75 deduction and the 1/3 deduction from U.S. Code Title 42 § 1382a (b)(9).
4. In the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Rule 372.404- Countable and Excludable Income, it says that the Texas TANF Cash Help programs excludes any income federal law excludes.
5. United States Code Title 42 § 1382a - Public Health and Welfare - section (b) number (9) states that if the unearned income is from an absent parent for a child support payment, then 1/3 of each individual payment shall be deducted.
6. In the Texas Works Handbook C-111, it shows a chart that says the Budgetary Needs amounts are 100% of the annual Federal Poverty Level (FPL) provided by United States Department of Health and Human Services each year.
7. In the Texas Works Handbook C-111, it shows a chart that says the Recognizable Needs amounts are 25% of the Budgetary Needs amount.
8. In the Texas Works Handbook A-1341.1, it shows that the max grant amount for each family size should equal to 17% of the Federal Poverty
8 Level (FPL) provided by United States Department of Health and Human Services each year.
9. The current Budgetary Needs test amount is $751 for a family of 3.
IO.The current Recognizable Needs test amount is $188 for a family of 3.
11. The current Max Grant amount is $353 for a family of 3.
12. The Federal Poverty Level for the current year is supposed to be applied to the Budgetary Needs, Recognizable Needs, and Max Grant amounts for each family size.
13. The executive commissioner for the Texas HHSC is not updating these amounts annually and is supposed to.
14. The Federal Poverty Level for a family of 3 in 2025 is $26,650.
15. The correct amounts for a family of3 are: Budgetary Needs - $26,650, Recognizable Needs - $6,662.50, Max Grant - $4,530.50
16. According to the Federal Poverty Level for 2025 that is required by law to be in place when calculating income eligibility for the Texas TANF Cash Help program, my family of 3 is eligible for these benefits.
17. The TANF Cash Help program is applying the child support requirements for the applicant incorrectly.
18. They are keeping the applicants' child support payments and using them to "payback" what this applicant is receiving in monthly TANF Cash Help payments.
19. The Texas TANF Cash Help Program is not a loan program. The applicant is not taking out a loan when applying or receiving these benefits.
9 20. The Texas TANF Cash Help Program is a grant program provided by the federal and state government. The applicant is not required to pay these funds back to the state or the country.
21. The state of Texas receives Federal Block Grants that assist with state funds to fund the T ANF Cash Help program.
22. The Texas Gov't Code Chapter 531, in particular, Sections: 531.027, 531.028, 531.031, 531.0055, The Code ofFederal Regulations (CFR), Title 45, Subtitle B, Chapter II, Part 205, Sections 205.5, 205.30, 205.36, 205.130, and the Social Security Act- Title IV all state clearly the requirements for receiving and distributing funds for family aid programs including the Texas HHSC executive commissioner's responsibility of maintaining the functionality of the Texas TANF Cash Help Program and updating the Texas Administrative Code and Texas Works Handbook with the current applicable laws including the Federal Poverty Levels (FPL) each year.
10 STATEMENT OF THE CASE
Appellant, Linda D. Tanner, was denied TANF Cash Help Benefits in October 2023. She then requested an appeal of the decision which took place on December 6, 2023. The Fair and Fraud hearing department rescheduled the appeal hearing which took place on January 17, 2024. The appellant then received a letter in the mail from the hearings officer, Juan Rodriguez, showing that the original decision of the benefits was sustained. She then submitted the Fair and Fraud Hearings case for administrative review. The appellant received a letter on March 19, 2024 from the hearing's director, Wendy Proctor, and the administrative judge, Julia Murray, again stating that the original decision was sustained. The appellant then submitted a petition for judicial review on March 29, 2024, to the Travis County Judicial District Court. During the hearing for establishing jurisdiction, Honorable Judge Laurie Eiserloh determined that the timeliness for submission of the petition for review was not efficient and submitted an Order for Dismissal with Prejudice. The appellant then submitted her notice to appeal this decision on January 29, 2025.
11 SUMMARY OF THE ARGUMENT
Appellant, Linda D. Tanner, was wrongfully denied the Texas TANF Cash Help benefits due to the negligence of the officials employed by the Texas HHSC. They simply neglected maintaining the upkeep and functionality of the TANF Cash Help program and did not apply the clearly established statutes and guidelines that are in place directly for that particular program.
12 ARGUMENT
To generally clarify, the Appellant, Linda D. Tanner, would like to state that the above and styled judicial review case is against all of the Defendants' listed in this case in their personal and/or individual capacities. It is against them in their government official role as employees of the government entity Texas Health and Human Services Commission. They arc the direct contacts in the Plaintiffs appeal case originally scheduled in December 2023, and the Administrative Review of the appeal decision that took place in February 2024: Juan Rodriguez - Hearings Officer, Wendy Proctor - Hearings Director, and Julia Murray- Administrative Judge.
This appeal was brought forth to contest the final order dismissing this suit with prejudice for timeliness of filing the petition for judicial review. The appellant filed the petition for review in the Travis County judicial district court on March 29, 2024, at 11 :22 p.m. , ten days after receiving the final decision of the administrative review. This was technically thirty days exactly from the date of the decision letter. It was returned to be signed with a waiver of court costs. It shows a file stamp again on May 13, 2024, 11 :22 p.m. The Appellant believes there was some kind of issue about the timestamp it has when filed on the original petition for review. There is no way it took her forty-one days to refile the petition for review just for a signature and court costs waiver. She believes this may need further investigation. That being said, during the time she was preparing her petition for review , she was homeless with two children because she got evicted from her residence for non-payment. She was w1employed and applied for Texas TANF Cash Help in which she was denied for having an income exceeding the income limit for her family size which was $188 for a family of 3. She had limited
13 access to resources, transportation, and no money. She would also like to note that in the Fair and Fraud Handbook 2300 - Process and Timeframe for Procedural Reviews 1, it mentions "A request for procedural review will be considered timely if filed after 30 days when the appellant demonstrates good cause for the filing delay." The Appellant was hoping the judge would take into consideration the circumstances that she was in due to the denial of benefits that she was clearly eligible for. The petition for review was, in fact , filed on time, however, there is clearly an issue with the timestamps. It shows they were both filed at the exact same time but on different dates. Again, the appellant finds this very odd because there is no way it would have taken her over a month to refile the petition. Something clearly got mixed up with the filing timestamps.
This judicial review is brought forth by the Appellant on the grounds for jurisdiction of United States Code Title 42 § 1983 - Civil Action for Deprivation ofRights 2 which gives the State's consent to suit by reference to a statute and legislative permission. U.S. Code Title 42 § 1983 is a federal cause of action for individuals whose constitutional rights have been violated by persons acting under color of state law. This waives sovereign immunity and qualified immunity for the defendants as state officials in their individual and/or personal capacities for acts of neglect of clearly established laws and bad faith displayed under their authority while representing a government entity such as the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
The main topic of concern are the amounts being used to determine an applicant's eligibility for the Texas TANF Cash Help Program. In this program
1 Texas Fair and Fraud Hearings Handbook - 2300 - Process and Timefram e for Procedura l Reviews - 23 00,
Process and T ime f for deprivation of rights I U.S. Code I US Law I Lil/ Legal Information Institute 14 there are two tests that the applicant must pass in order to qualify for the program. The tests are called the Budgetary Needs test and the Recognizable Needs test and can be found in the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Title 1, Part 15 , Chapter 372 , Subchapter B, Division 7. Rule 372.408 3, and also in the Texas Works Handbook Section 13404 - Income Limits. Tn the Texas Administrative Code Title 1, Part 15 , Chapter 372, Subchapter A, Rule 372.2 - Definition s (2), ( 12), ( 18) 5 it specifically states that the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) 6 is used to determine eligibility in government aid programs such as the Texas TANF Cash Help program. It also states that the Recognizable needs amount is 25% of the Budgetary Needs amount. In the Texas Works Handbook section C-111 -TANF 7, it states that the Budgetary Needs amount is 100% of the Federal Pove rty Level (FPL) and the Recognizable Needs amount is 25% of the Budgetary Needs amount. In the Texas Works Handbook Section, A-1341.1 - Grant Amount 8, it states that the max grant amount is l 7% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for that family size. Then, from that number, you subtract the household 's adjusted gross monthly income. That is the applicant's final max grant payment amount that they will be receiving each month. In this case, the applicant only receives child support each month as income. This counts as unearned income. In the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchapter B, Division 7, Ruic 372.404 - Countable and 3 Texas Ad mini strative Code Titl e I , Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchapter B, Divi sion 7, Ruic 372 .408 - Determi ning Income Eligibility - I Jome - Rules & Meetings 4 Texas Works Handboo k Section 1340 Inco me Limit - A-1340, Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services 5 Texas A dmini strati ve Code Titl e I , Part 15, Chapter 372, Subchaptcr A , Ruic 3 72.2 - Definition s (2), ( 12), ( 18) - Home - Rules & Meetings 6 Fed era l Poverty level {FPL) - 2025 Federal Poverty Level Standards I Guidance Porta l 7 Texas Work Handbook secti on C- 111 - TANF- C-110, TAN F I Texas Health and Human Services 8 Texa • Work s Handbook Section, A- I 34I . I - Grant Amount - A-1340, Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services 13 Excluded Income 9 , states that there is a $75 deductible from household child support payments. This same rule also states that the TANF Cash Help program excludes any amounts that the Federal law excludes. The Federal law for this program falls under the United States Code Title 42 § 1382a and the Social Security Act Title rv 10 . In the U.S. Code Title 42 § 1382a (b)(9) 11 it states that 1/3 of each child support payment from an absent parent is also excluded. For a household size of 3, the Federal Poverty Level in 2025 is $26,650. Since, the Budgetary Needs Test amount is 100% of the Federal Poverty Level , $26,650 is the Budgetary Needs amount for a family size of 3. Then the Recognizable Needs Test amount is 25 % of the Budgetary Needs amount which is $6,662.50. Lastly, calculating the max grant amount is 17% of the Federal Poverty Level which is $4,530.50. These are the accurate amounts that should be in place for the income eligibility tests. However, they are not and have not been since the appellant first applied for the T ANF Cash Help Program in 2021. The amounts currently in place are the Budgetary Needs amount is $751, the Recognizable Needs amount is $188, and the max grant amount is $353. The appellant gets $575 a month in child support payments. She no longer receives arrear payments. Those ended in 2023. Taking 1/3 of each child support payment according to U.S. Code Title 42 § 1382a (b)(9), $247- 1/3 = $172.90 and $328 - 1/3 = $229.60. Adding those together would equal to $402.50. Then subtracting the $75 deductible would bring her total unearned income to $327.50. Using the accurate amounts that should be in place using the 2025 Federal Poverty Level, the appellant clearly passes each test with an unearned income of $327.50. 9 Tc xas Admini strative Code (TAC) Titl e I , Part 15, Chapter 3 72, Subch aptcr B , Di vision 7, Ruic 372.404 - Countabl e and Exc luded Income - Home - Rules & Meetings 10 Social Security Act Title IV - Social Security Act Title IV 11 .S. Code Ti tle 42 & 1382 a (b)(9) - 42 U.S. Code§ 1382a - Income; earned and unearned income defined; exclusions from income I U.S. Code I US Law I Li l/ Legal Information Institute 14 Then subtracting that from max grant amount which is 17% of the FPL which is $4,530.50 - $327.50 = $4,203. The max grant amount that the appellant should be receiving each month would be $4,203 . Being eligible for the program would also mean that the appellant would have to meet requirements with the Texas Workforce to maintain employment to stay eligible for the TANF Cash Help Program. 1. The TANF Cash Help program is applying the child support requirements for the applicants incorrectly. They are keeping the applicants' child support payments and using them to "payback" what the applicant is receiving in monthly TANF Cash Help payments. The Texas TANF Cash Help Program is not a loan program. The applicant is not taking out a loan when applying or receiving these benefits. The Texas TANF Cash Help Program is a grant program provided by the federal and state government. The applicant is not required to pay these funds back to the state or the country. That is why the household ' s monthly gross income is subtracted from the monthly max grant amount. The state of Texas receives Federal Block Grants that assist with state funds to fund the TANF Cash Help program. The Texas Gov't Code Chapter 53 i 12, in paiiicular, Sections: 531.027, 531.028 , 531.031 , 531.0055 , The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 45 , Subtitle B, Chapter II, Part 205 13, Sections 205.5 , 205.30, 205.36, 205.130, Texas Administrative Code, Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 372 , Subchapter B, Division 7, Rule 372.5 , and the Social Security Act- Title IV all state clearly the requirements for receiving and distributing funds for family aid programs including the Texas HHSC executive commissioner's responsibility of maintaining the functionality of 12 Texa Gov' t Code Chapter 53 1 - GOVERNMENT CODE CHAPTER 531 . HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION 13 Th e Co le of Federal Regulati on. (CF R), Tit le 45, Subt itl e B, Chapter 11 , Part 205 13 the Texas TANF Cash Help Program and updating the Texas Administrative Code and Texas Works Handbook with the current applicable laws including the Federa l Poverty Levels (FPL) each year. 14 CONCLUSION The TANF Cash Help Program is a program that is a stepping stone for individuals and families that are in need of assistance. It gives something for the people of the community to "fall back on" when needed. That way, they can maintain a healthy lifestyle and provide for themselves and their children while going through hard times. This is a program that provides seriously efficient help for the citizens that are in need by cash help and assisting in employment opportunities. It promotes self-sufficiency. This is not a loan program and does not need to be paid back by the applicants. It is, in fact, a grant program in which the federal government assists the state government in funding. That being said, if the Texas HHSC is having applicants pay back the payments they arc given from T ANF using their child's child support payments, then why would we be receiving Federal Block Grants? Where arc the current income eligibility amounts coming from? They are unrealistic and way off from the accurate amounts. Why are those amounts being used instead of the accurate amounts which include the Federal Poverty Levels for the current year? The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is not updating the Texas Administrative Code and the Texas Works Handbook with the clearly established applicable laws that arc in place and used as guidelines to run the program. By law, they are supposed to be using the current Federal Poverty Levels to assist in determining income eligibility and they clearly are not using them. Also, they do not use U.S. Code Title 42 § 1382a (b )(9) at all and they are supposed to be using it. It seems that they are not following any rules or guidelines that are in place for the program and they need to get better educated on laws in place for the program. Many citizens rely on programs like Texas TANF Cash Help when they need it, but sadly they are not getting the full benefits 13 they are eligible for. It is for the above listed reasons that Appellant, Linda D. Tanner, was denied Texas TANF Cash Help Benefits, when she was clearly eligible for them had the Texas HHSC used the correct calculations when determining eligibility which includes using the current Federal Poverty Level (FPL). 14 PRAYER Appellant, Linda D. Tanner, prays that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission update the Texas TANF Cash Help program with the current Federal Poverty Levels and use them to determine eligibility along with the other clearly established laws that are in place for the program. Having applied for these same benefits over five times and getting a denial every time, the appellant also prays to have permanent injunctive relief from being mistreated and misevaluated for the program as well as declaratory relief. 21 CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE Pursuant to TEX. R. APP. P. 9.4, I hereby certify that this Petition for Review contains 3,738 words . This is a computer-generated document created in Microsoft Word, using 14-point typeface for all text, except for footnotes, which are in 12-point typeface. In making this certificate of compliance, I am relying on the word count provided by the software used to prepare the document. Isl Linda D. Tanner Pro Se 22 CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE This is to ce1tify that the forgoing Appellant Brief has been submitted via the Texas E-filing website in compliance with the Tex. R. App . P Rule 9.5 on April 4, 2025, to the Clerk of Court and served on all registered counsel of record. /sl_ &-~ ~ ~fA--J- Linda D. Tanner Pro Se 3. TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE (TAC) TITLE 1, PART 15, CHAPTER 372, SUBCHAPTER A, RULE 372.2 (2), (18), (12) 4. TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE (TAC) TITLE 1, PART 15, CHAPTER 372, SUBCHAPTER B, DIVISION 7, RULE 372.4 5. TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE (TAC) TITLE 1, PART 15, CHAPTER 372, SUBCHAPTER B, DIVISION 7, RULE 372.404 6. TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE (TAC) TITLE 1, PART 15, CHAPTER 372, SUBCHAPTER B, DIVISION 7, RULE 372.408 7. TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE (TAC) TITLE 1, PART 15, CHAPTER 372, SUBCHAPTER B, DIVISION 7, RULE 372.5 10. TEXAS WORKS HANDBOOK: A-1120, CHILD SUPPORT PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES 12.TEXAS WORKS HANDBOOK: A-1422, TYPES OF DEDUCTIONS 13. UNITED STATES CODE, TITLE 42, CHAPTER 7, SUBCHAPTER 16, PART A, SECTION 1382a (b)(9) 14. THE FEDERAL POVERTY LEVELS OF 2025 FOR ALL STATES IN THE UNITED STATES 15. YOUR TEXAS BENEFITS INCOME LIMITS ON THEIR WEBSITE TEXAS HEAL TH AND HUMAN SERVICES PO BOX 149029 TEXAS AUSTIN , TEXAS 78714-9029 Health and Human Services Date: 05/06/2021 Need help? Case Number: 1000212693 Call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905 If you have a hearing or speech disability, call 7-1-1 or any relay service. All numbers are free to call. ,□AD TANNER ·; Notice about your case: Who gets SNAP Food Benefits Name Date Monthly Amount Linda D Tanner; 06/01/2021 -10/31/2021 $ 616 .00 Linda D Tanner oey oey 20~ _ 0513112021 $ 507 .00 Notes: Your SNAP benefits Will be available by the 12th of each month (If this is your first time getting benefits, you may get them early for the first few months.) TANF cash help for families EDG number: Who can't get TANF cash help for families Name Date Linda D 05/06/2021 Reason : Form TF0001/03/2021 Page 1 of 3 ou are note 191 e or ene its. - The value of the things you are paying for or own are more than allowed by program rules. - (TW A-1220 , 1 TAC 372 .354) The money you get is more than allowed by program rules. - (TW A-1341, 1 TAC 372.408) Notes: Linda D Tanner has used O months out of the 12 months allowed under State rules. Linda D Tanner has used O months out of the 60 months allowed under TANF Basic rules. Linda D Tanner has used O months out of the 60 months allowed under State Program rules. Monthly Income Limit - EOG Numbe May 2021 - $ 751.00 Health Care Benefits Who gets health care benefits Name EOG number Program Date 06/01/2021 - 08/31/2021 06/01/2021 - 08/31/2021 06/01/2021 - 12/31/2021 Who can't get health care benefits Name EOG Number Program Date Linda D Tanner 06/01/2021 Reason : You are not eligible for benefits. - (TW A-2350, 1 TAC 366.215 ; 366.311 ; 366.409; 366.511; 366.615; 366.711 ; 366.811; 366.903 , 42 CFR 435.919) (Linda D Tanner, Sophia Eleanor Moreno-jaquez, Layla Grace Tanner) isn't: (1) age 20 or younger, (2) age 65 or older, (3) pregnant, (4) someone with a disability, (5) a dependent child on this case , OR (6) a child who didn't get SSI (Supplemental Security Income) due to the August 1996 change in disability rules. - (TW A-825 ; A-221 B 475.1.2, 1 TAC 366.307; 366 .507 ; 366.611 ; 366.707; 366.807 , 42 CFR 435.301) Form TF0001/03/202 1 Page 2 of 3 TEXAS HEAL TH AND HUMAN SERVICES PO BOX 149029 TEXAS AUSTIN , TEXAS 78714-9029 Health and Human Services Date: 06/03/2021 Need help? Case Number: 1000212693 Call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905 If you have a hearing or speech disability, call 7-1-1 or any relay service. All numbers are free to call. LINDA D TANNER Notice about your case: TANF cash EOG number: Who can't get TAN cash help for tam ies Name Date nda D 06/03/2021 Reason You are not eligible for benefits. _ (TW A-2350 , 1 TAC 372 .1001) The value of the things you are paying for or own are more than allowed by program rules. _ (TW ,L\-1220, 1 TAC 372.354) The money you get is more than allowed by program rules . - (TW A-1341 , 1 TAC 372.408) Notes: Linda D Tanner has used 0 months out of the 12 months allowed under State rules Linda D Tanner has used 0 months out of the 60 months a under TAN F Basic rules Linda D Tanner has used 0 months out of the 60 months allowed under State Program rule~ Monthly income Limit_ EOG Num June 2021 _ $ 75~ .00 Form TF0001/03/2021 Page 1 of 3 Health Care Benefits Who gets health care benefits Name Date einda D Tanner 07/01/2021 - 06/30/2022 07/01/2021 - 06/30/2022 07/01/2021 - 06/30/2022 Notes: The federal public health emergency declared January 27 , 2020 and current federal guidance has allowed certain Medicaid coverage to continue . If there are any additional changes to Medicaid coverage HHSC will let clients know at the appropriate time. Who can't get health care benefits Name EOG Number Program Date Reason: You are not eligible for benefits. - (TW A-2350 , 1 TAC 366 .215 ; 366.311; 366.409; 366.511; 366.615; 366.711 ; 366.811; 366 .903 , 42 CFR 435.919) Individuals isn't: (1) age 20 or younger, (2) age 65 or older, (3) pregnant, (4) someone with a disability, (5) a dependent child on this case, OR (6) a child who didn't get SSI (Supplemental Security Income) due to the August 1996 change in disability rules. - (TW A-825 ; A-221B 475.1 .2, 1 TAC 366 .307; 366.507; 366 .611 ; 366.707; 366 .807 , 42 CFR 435.301) Form TF0001 /03/2021 Page 2 of 3 TEXAS HEAL TH AND HUMAN SERVICES PO BOX 149029 AUSTIN , TEXAS 78714-9029 TEXAS Health and Human Services Date: 09/21/2021 Need help? Case Number: 1000212693 Call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905 If you have a hearing or speech disability, call 7-1-1 or any relay service. All numbers are free to call. LINDA D TANNER Notice about your case: TANF ca ilies Who can't get TAN cash hel for tam iii es Date 09/15/2021 Reason You are not e .-( 1 101) 1an allowed by program rules. - (TW A-1220 , 1 (TW A-1341 , 1 TAC 372.408) Notes: Linda D Tanner has used 0 months out of the 12 months allowed under State rules. Linda D Tanner has used 0 months out of the 60 months allowed under TANF Basic rule~ Linda D Tanner has used 0 months out of the 60 months allowed under State Program rule~ Monthly income LimiL EOG Number: September 2021- $1 88 .00 Form TF0001/03/2021 Page 1 of 4 Health Care Benefits Who gets health care benefits Name EOG number Date 11/01/2021 - 06/30/2022 11/01/2021 - 06/30/2022 Linda D Tanner 11/01/2021 - 06/30/2022 Notes: A federal public health emergency was declared on Jan. 27 , 2020, which allows your Medicaid coverage to continue for the duration of the federally declared emergency. Since the federal public health emergency has been extended , HHSC will continue your coverage until the public health emergency ends. You are getting this notice because a review of your most recent information indicates you will not be eligible for Medicaid coverage when the public health emergency ends. Your Medicaid coverage will end the last day of the month in which the public health emergency ends. While you have coverage , you should continue to report any changes and HHSC will review your eligibility based on the changes you report. The federal public health emergency declared January 27 , 2020 and current federal guidance has a11owed certain Medicaid coverage to continue . If there are any additional changes to Medicaid coverage HHSC Will let clients know at the appropriate time . Who can't get health care benefits Name EOG Number Program Date 06/01/2021 06/01/2021 Linda D Tanner 06/01/2021 Reason: You are not eligible for benefits - (TW A-2350 , 1 TAC 366 .215; 366.311 ; 366.409; 366.511; 366.615; 366 .711 ; 366 .811 ; 366.903 , 42 CFR 435.919) Layla Grace Tanner isn't: (1) age 20 or younger, (2) age 65 or older, (3) pregnant, (4) someone with a disability, (5) a dependent child on this case , OR (6) a child who didn't get SSI (Supplemental Security Income) due to the August 1996 change in disability rules . - (TW A-825 ; A-221 B 475.1.2, 1 TAC 366.307 ; 366.507; 366 .611 ; 366.707 ; 366.807, 42 CFR 435.301) Sophia Eleanor Moreno-jaquez isn't: (1) age 20 or younger, (2) age 65 or older, (3) pregnant, (4) someone with a disability, (5) a dependent child on this case , OR (6) a child who didn't get SSI (Supplemental Security Income) due to the August 1996 change in disability rules. - (TW A-825 ; A-221B 475.1.2 , 1 TAC 366 .307; 366 .507; 366.611 ; 366.707; 366 .807, 42 CFR 435.301) Linda D Tanner isn't: (1) age 20 or younger, (2) age 65 or older, (3) pregnant, (4) someone with a disability, (5) a dependent child on this case , OR (6) a child who didn't get SSI (Supplemental Security Income) due to the August 1996 change in disability rules . - (TW A-825 ; A-221 B 475.1.2 , 1 TAC 366.307 ; 366.507; 366.611 ; 366.707; 366.807 , 42 CFR 435.301) Notes: Form TF0001/03/2021 Page 2 of 4 race anner a rea 366.613; 366.709 ; 366.809; 366.903, 42 CFR 435.906) Sophia Eleanor Moreno-jaquez already gets this benefit. - (TW A-210 , 1 TAC 366 .213 ; 366 .309 ; 366.409; 366.509; 366 .613 ; 366 .709; 366.809; 366.903, 42 CFR 435.906) Linda D Tanner already gets this benefit. - (TW A-210 , 1 TAC 366 .213; 366.309 ; 366.409; 366.509; 366.613; 366 .709 ; 366 .809; 366.903, 42 CFR 435.906) Form TF0001/03/2021 Page 3 of 4 TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES P O BOX 149029 TEXAS AUSTIN , TEXAS 78714-9029 Health and Human Services Date: 10/02/2023 Need help? Case Number: 1000212693 Call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905 If you have a hearing or speech disability, call 7-1-1 or any relay service. All numbers are free to call. LINDA D TANNER Notice about your case: TANF cash help for families EDG numbe Who can't et TANF cash helpfor families Date 09/17/2023 Reason: You are not eligible for benefits. -(TW A-2350 , 1 TAC 372.1001) The money you get is more than allowed by program rules. - (TW A-1341 ,1 TAC 372.408) Notes: Linda DTanner has used 0 months out of the 12 months allowed under State rules. Linda D Tanner has used 0 months out of the 60 months allowed under TANF Basic rules Linda D Tanner has used 0 months out of the 60 months allowed under State Program rule~ Monthly income Limit for Your Household Size_ EOG N u m b e ~ September 2023 - $ 188.00 Health Care Benefits Form TF0001 Page 1 of 3 04/2023 Who gets health care benefits Name EOG number Date 11/01/2023 - 06/30/2024 11/01/2023 - 06/30/2024 Who can't get health care benefits Name EOG Number Date Linda D Tanner 11/01 /2023 Reason: You are not elig ible for benefits. - (TW A-2350 , 1 TAC 366 .215 ; 366.311 ; 366.409; 366.511 ; 366.615; 366.711 ; 366.811 ; 366 .903, 42 CFR 435.919) Linda D Tanner already gets this benefit. - (TW A-210 , 1 TAC 366 .203 ; 366.303; 366.403 ; 366.503; 366.603; 366 .703; 366 .803, 42 CFR 435.906) Form TF0001 Page 2 of 3 04/2023 M C: NM 0040S FS/I : Ce11 Irnl Fi le Mai11Ienancc KEN PAXTON ATTORNEY GENERAL of TEXA S l'.0. l.lOX 11048 A t;STI N. TX 787 11 -2048 CHILD SUPPORT DIVISION IJaie: February 25, 2025 Fair and Fraud Hea ring Kcc ipi cnt Name: LI "IJJ\ IJIJ\ NI::: TJ\t\"Nl:::I{ C HI LD SU PPO RT 1:--ICOME VE RI FICAT IOi\ REPORT D '\o ~asc """' fo und on 1h~ Child Su ppon Compu1cr Sys1~111 0 1hcr: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Thi s docum ent cont ains th e most rece nt child su1>port in co me in fo rm ation in th e possessio n of th e Title I V- D age ncy. Feck·, ,\\ Tax. Olls...-1 ,unoun\s ,u c no\ mduckcl ,n \l,\.- li\s l hv1.·. , vc p ,w 1nc1Hs p, ovukcl 1\dcl1\1 0 Ht\\ 1Mvm cnl , cc.o, ds. , 1 apphc.,,blc , ,,, c p, ovukd on 1l,c te~v c, sc.· S\Ck ol 1hc , q HH t OAG Case #: 0013 191555 Ca use#: 20 I5 IJCM 3860 OAG Case#: 00 13744696 Ca use #: ::w I 9DCM0599 The amount of co urt ordered Registry Only Case: The amoun t of co urt ordered child support is S247.00 Depe nd ent Na me(s) : child support is S328.00 Monthly. Mouthly. Last 12 1rn~rncnts Last 12 pa~•rn ents Date Amount Date Amount 02/ 19/2025 $57.00 02/ 14'2025 •114.23 02/ 12/2025 $57.00 0 I /31/2025 S24 1.85 02/05/2025 $57.00 0 I / 17/2025 $ 154.53 02/04/2025 $247.00 0 1/03/2025 S133.17 01 /29/2025 $57.00 12/2012024 S 194.83 0 1/22/2025 $57.00 12/06/2024 $83.'.!7 0 I / 15/2025 $57.00 11 /22/2024 $209. 73 0 1/08/2025 $57.00 11 /08/2024 $52.57 0 1/06/2025 $247.00 I 0/2512024 S24 1.85 0 1/02/2025 $57.00 10/ 11 /2024 S45.85 12/2712024 S57.00 09/27/2024 S24 1.85 12/ 1812024 57.00 09/1 312024 S73.88 November 20 14 Page I of I 9LOOI 2/15/25, 9:58 PM Home - Rules & Meetings •&•Mil HISTORICAL TEXAS REGISTER Title 1 ADMINISTRATION Part 15 TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMM ISSION Chapter 372 TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAM ILI ES AND SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASS ISTANCE PROGRAMS Subchapter A OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE Rule §372.2 Defin itions Previous Rule View Ru le Next Rule View Ru le Chapter Review Date 04/30/2024 https ://texas-sos.appia nportalsgov. com/rules-and-meetings ?$Iocale=en_ US&interface=VI EW_TAC_ SUMMARY &query AsDate=02%2F 15%2 F2025&re . . 1/4 2/15/25, 9:58 PM Home - Rules & Meetings The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise: (1) Authorized representative--ln the TANF Program, a person whom the certified group authorizes to apply for or manage theTANF benefits on behalf of the certified group but who is not included in the certified group. In SNAP, a person whom the household authorizes to apply for or manage the SNAP benefits on behalf of the household. References in this chapter to a certified group, client, or householdinclude an authorized representative, unless the context indicates otherwise. (2) Budgetary needs amount--ln the TANF Program, a set dollar amount that represents the monthly amount needed by the certified group to pay for food, clothing, housing, utilities, and incidental expenses (which include day-to-day transportation, telephone, laundry, unreimbursed medical expenses, recreation, and household supplies). (3) Caretaker--ln the TANF Program, a person who cares for a dependent child, who meets relationship requirements in §372.108 of this chapter (relating to Relationship Requirement), whom the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) includes in the certified group, and who ordinarily receives and manages the TANF benefits for the certified group. (4) Certified group--The person or group of relatives whose needs HHSC includes together in a TANF case. (5) CFR--The Code of Federal Regulations. (6) Child--A person under 18 years of age. In the TANF Program, a child also includes a person under 19 years of age as long as the person is a full-time student in a secondary school (or participant in an equivalent vocational or technical training program) and the person is reasonably expected to complete the school (or the training) before the person 's 19th birthday. (7) Choices--The TANF employment and training program administered by the Texas Workforce Commission. (8) Client--ln the TANF Program, the member of the certified group who receives benefits for the certified group. In SNAP, the member of the household who receives benefits for the household. (9) Dependent child--ln the TANF Program, a child as described in the Texas Human Resources Code, §31.002(b). The term also means a child who has been deprived of https ://texas-sos.appia nportalsgov. com/rules-and-meetings ?$Iocale=en_ US&interface=VIEW_TAC_ SUMMARY &queryAsDate=02%2F15%2 F2025&re . . . 2/4 2/15/25, 9:58 PM Home - Ru les & Meetings parental support oecause or me aeam, aosence, or 1ncapac1ty or a pa rem wno aoes nm: have enough income or resources for a reasonable subsistence compatible with health and safety, and who is living with a caretaker. (10) Fair market value--The amount of money an item would bring if sold in the current local market. (11) Family--A group of relatives living together who meet the relationship requirements in §372.108 of this chapter. (1 2) Federal Poverty Guidelines--The household income guidelines issued annually and published in the Federal Register by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Percentages of these guidelines are used to determine income eligibility for TANF, SNAP, and certain other public assistance programs. (13) Household--The person or persons whose needs HHSC includes in a SNAP case for benefits. In the TANF Program, the family members who live together. (14) Parent--A mother or father, as established through biological relationship or legal process. (15) Payee--ln the TANF Program, a person who receives and manages the TANF benefits for a certified group and who otherwise qualifies as a caretaker, except HHSC does not include the person in the certified group. HHSC designates a payee when no one in the household qualifies or wants to be caretaker. (16) Personal Responsibility Agreement (PRA)--ln the TANF Program, a written agreement that defines the responsibilities of participants. (17) Protective payee--ln the TANF Program, a person whom HHSC selects to receive and manage benefits for the certified group instead of the caretaker. HHSC may designate a Source Note: The provisions of this §372.2 adopted to be effective Septembe r 1, 2009, 34 Tex Reg 5361 . https ://texas-sos.appia nportalsgov. com/rules-and-meetings ?$Iocale=en_ US&interface=VI EW_TAC_ SUMMARY &query AsDate=02%2F15%2 F2025&re . . . 3/4 2/15/25, 10:05 PM Home - Rules & Meetings •ffl•ijlj!i H1srorucAL TEXAS REGISTER Title 1 ADMINISTRATION Part 15 TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMA SERVICES COMM ISSION Chapter 372 TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAM ILIES AND SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Subchapter A OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE Rule §372.4 Purpose ofTAN F and SNAP Previous Rule View Rule Next Rule View Rule Chapter Review Date 04/30/2024 (a) The TANF Program encourages self-suffici ency by providing temporary cash assistance and work opportunities to needy families with dependent children. Source Note: The provisions of this §372.4 adopted to be effective September 1, 2009, 34 TexReg 5361. https ://texas-sos.appia nportalsgov.com/rules-and-meetings ?$Iocale=en_ US&interface=VI EW_TAC_ SUMMARY &query AsDate=02%2F 15%2F2025&re .. . 1/1 2/15/25, 10:18 PM Home - Ru les & Meetings IMIM!i HISTORICAL TEXAS REGISTER Title 1 ADMINISTRATION Part 15 TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMM ISSION Chapter 372 TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAM ILIES AND SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Subchapter B ELIGIBILITY Division 7 INCOME Rule §372.404 CoLJntab le and ExclLJded Income in TAN F Previous Rule Vi ew Ru le Next Rule View Ru le Chapter Review Date 04/30/2024 https ://texas-sos.appia nportalsgov. com/rules-and-meetings ?$1ocale=en_ US&interface=VI EW_TAC_ SUMMARY &queryAsDate=02%2F 15%2 F2025&re . . 1/4 2/15/25, 10:18 PM Home - Rules & Meetings In the TANF program, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) counts all income of a person described in §372.403 of this division (relating to Determining Whose Income Counts in TANF), except HHSC excludes the following: (1) any income federal law excludes; (2) the earned income of a child who is: (A) a full-time student, as defined by the school (regardless of how many hours the child works); or (B) a part-time student employed less than 30 hours a week; (3) up to $300 per federal fiscal quarter in cash gifts and contributions from private, nonprofit organizations and based on need; (4) up t o $75 per month in regular child support payments per household, except HHSC counts all child support payments a household receives if HHSC determines the household violated an agreement to assign child support to the State; (5) income legally diverted before actual receipt, such as payments a parent makes for alimony, child support, and to dependents outside the home; (6) proceeds from claims on insurance policies to compensate a loss or used to pay medical expenses; (7) payments from federal volunteer programs for volunteer service, such as payments: (A) for volunteer service in a senior citizen volunteer program, under the Domestic Voluntee r Service Act (42 U.S.C. §5000 et seq.); (B) for volunteer service to Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA), under 42 U.S.C. §§4951 _4960; and (C) for volunteer service under the National and Community Service Act (42 U.S.C. §§12511 _ 12656); (8) payments under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998; (9) the value of any benefits received under a government nutrition assistance program based on need, including benefits under SNAP, the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, the National School Lunch Act, and the Older Americans Act of 1965; https ://texas-sos.appia nportalsgov. com/rules-and-meetings ?$1ocale=en_ US&interface=VIEW_TAC_ SUMMARY &query AsDate=02%2F15%2 F2025&re . . . 2/4 2/15/25, 10:18 PM Home - Rules & Meetings l I VJ rns1:er care paymerns; (11) payments made under a government housing assistance program based on need; (12) energy assistance payments; (13) job training payments that (A) are earmarked as reimbursement for training-related expenses; and (B) do not duplicate payment for an item covered by budgetary needs; (14) a lump sum provided and used to pay burial, legal, or medical bills, or to replace damaged or lost possessions, except HHSC does not exclude amounts from lump sums used for another purpose; (15) reimbursements for monies spent on items not covered by budgetary needs; (16) amounts deducted from royalties for production expenses and severance taxes; (17) all income of Supplemental Security Income recipients; (18) third-party funds received and used for a third-party beneficiary who is not a household member; (19) vendor payments from funds not legally obligated to the household; (20) vete rans benefits for special needs items not covered by budgetary needs; (21) workers' compensation payments legally obligated to the recipient that are earmarked and used for medical expenses; (22) the amount of any nonfarm self-employment income offsetting a tax deduction taken that year for a farm loss, for households with farms generating income of at least $1,000 annually; (23) any income described in §372.355(d) of this subchapter (relating to Treatment of Resources in SNAP); (24) any income described in §372.354(c)(4), (13), (17), and (18) of this subchapter (relating to Treatment of Resources in TANF); (25) crime victim's compensation payments; Source Note: The provisions of this §372.404 adopted to be effective September 1, 2009, 34 Tex Reg 5361; amended to be effective June 9, 2010, 35 Tex Reg 4668; amended to be effective November 20, 2016, 41 https ://texas-sos.appia nportalsgov. com/rules-and-meetings ?$Iocale=en_ US&interface=VIEW_TAC_ SUMMARY &query AsDate=02%2F15%2 F2025&re . . . 1/4 2/15/25, 10:44 PM Home - Rules & Meetings IMIM!i HISTORICAL TEXAS REGISTER Title 1 ADMINISTRATION Part 15 TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMA SERVICES COMM ISSION Chapter 372 TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAM ILI ES AND SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Subchapter B ELIGIBILITY Division 7 INCOME Rule §372.408 Determining Income Eligibil ity Previous Rule View Ru le Next Rule View Ru le Chapter Review Date 04/30/2024 (a) In the TANF Program, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) determines income eligibility by applying the following tests: (1) Budgetary needs test. The first income eligibility test for TANF applicants, the budgetary needs test applies to households that have not received TANF benefits during the four months before the application month. HHSC determines the applicable budgetary needs amount from the table in paragraph (2) of this subsection, based on the persons in the certified group and whether the household includes a second parent. A household passes this test if the total income under §372.403 of this division (relating to Determining Whose Income Counts in TANF) does not exceed the budgetary needs amount. (2) Recognizable needs test. The second income eligibility test for TANF applicants, the recognizable needs test applies to the continuing income eligibility of TANF recipients. HHSC determines the applicable recognizable needs amount from the following table, based on thP nprc::;nnc::; in thP rPrtifiPrl PTnt 1n ;:inrl whPthPr thP hni 1c::;Phnlrl inrl11rlpc::; ;:i c::;prnnrl n;:irpnt A Source Note: The provisions of this §372.408 adopted to be effective September 1, 2009, 34 Te x Reg 5361. https ://texas-sos.appia nportalsgov. com/rules-and-meetings ?$Iocale=en_ US&interface=VI EW_TAC_ SUMMARY &query AsDate=02%2F15%2 F2025&re . . 2/4 Figure: • TAC §372.408(a)(2) NUMBER NOCAR AK F N CAR AK F N CAR AK RAND N CF C GROUP CERTIFIED GROUP SECOND PAR N CERTIFIED Budgetary Recognizable Budgetary Recognizable Budgetary Recognizable GROUP Needs Needs Needs Needs Needs Needs 256 64 3 3 78* 2 369 92 650 163 498 25* - 3 5 8 30 '7~ 1 1 ~~ 824 206 4 6 7 54 903 226 925 23 - 5 793 98 003 25 073 268 - 6 856 2 4 53 288 76 294 = 7 068 267 252 3 3 3 9 330 = 8 73 293 425 356 422 356 = 9 346 337 528 382 595 399 = 0 450 363 70 425 698 425 - 623 406 804 45 87 468 = 2 726 432 977 494 975 494 = 3 899 475 2080 520 2 47 537 = 4 2003 50 2253 563 225 563 = 5 2 74 544 2356 589 2423 606 = Per each 73 43 73 43 73 43 additiona member val c:aa"c:1 u111y 111 1.,c:1 L111c;u \::jl UUfJ - a 1.,1111..1 a;:, uc:;:,1.,11u1:;u 111 ~.:) t L. 1ULlU Jl I ADJ UI l v J UI u 11::; subchapter (relating to Caretaker) 2/15/25, 10:01 PM Home - Rules & Meeti ngs IMIM!i HISTORICAL TEXAS REGISTER Title 1 ADMINISTRATION Part 15 TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMA SERVICES COMM ISSION Chapter 372 TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAM ILI ES AND SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Subchapter A OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE Rule §372.5 Funding for TANF and SNAP Previous Rule View Rule Next Rule View Rule Chapter Review Date 04/30/2024 (a) The federal government and the State of Texas provide the funding for the TANF Program. The State of Texas fully funds the TANF State Program. (b) The federal government provides most of the funding for SNAP and the State of Texas funds Source Note: The provisions of this §372.5 adopted to be effective September 1, 2009, 34 TexReg 5361. https ://texas-sos.appia nportalsgov. com/rules-and-meetings ?$Iocale=en_ US&interface=VIEW_TAC_ SUMMARY &query AsDate=02%2F 15%2F2025&re . . 1/1 2/24/25, 10:44 PM C-110, TANF Texas Works Handbook C-110, TANF C-111 Income Limits Revision 24-4; Effective Oct. 1, 2024 TANF Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Budgetary Allowances (Oct. 1, 2024) Caretaker Cases Caretaker Cases With Non-Caretaker Cases Without Second Second Parent Parent Bud Rec Bud Rec Bud Rec Max Max Max Family Size Needs Needs Needs Needs Needs Needs Grant Grant Grant (100%) (25%) (100%) (25%) (100%) (25%) 1 256 $64 $126 $313 $78* $154 2 369 $92 $182 $650 $163 $320 $498 $125** $245 3 $5 18 $130 $255 $751 $188 $3 70 $824 $206 $405 4 617 $154 $304 ' 903 $226 $445 $925 231 455 5 , 793 $198 $39 1 $1003 :25 1 $494 $1073 $268 , 528 6 856 $2 14 $422 $1153 $288 $568 $1176 $294 578 7 1068 $267 $526 $1252 $3 13 $6 16 $13 19 : 330 $649 8 $11 73 $293 $5 77 $1425 $356 $701 $1422 $356 699 9 $1346 $33 7 $663 $1528 382 $752 $1595 $399 $785 10 1450 $363 $714 $1701 $425 $83 7 $1698 $425 $835 11 $1623 $406 $799 $1804 $45 1 $888 $187 1 $468 920 12 1726 $432 $850 $1977 $494 $973 $1975 $494 $972 13 1899 $475 $935 $2080 520 $1024 $2 147 537 $1 056 14 $2003 $501 $986 $2253 563 $1109 $225 1 $563 $1107 15 $2 174 $544 $1070 $2356 589 $1159 $2423 $606 $1192 Each additional $1 73 $43 $85 $1 73 $43 $85 $1 73 43 85 person * Caretaker of child recei ving Supplemental Security lncome (SST) ** Caretaker and second parent of child receiving SSI "Bud Needs" is budgetary needs. "Rec Needs" is recognizable needs. C-112 How to Prorate TANF Grants Revision 22-3; Effective July 1, 2022 TANF https: //www.hhs.texas.gov/book/export/html/306311 1/3 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services A-1340, Income Limits -~rinter-friendly version Revision 08-1; Effective January 1, 2008 On this page A-1341 [] A-1341 Income Limits and Eligibility Income Limits and Tests Eligibility Tests Revision 21-3; Effective July 1, 2021 A-1341.1 Grant Amount TANF There are two eligibility tests for TANF. Budgetary Needs Test The budgetary needs test is the first eligibility test for the household. It applies to all households who have not received TANF in the last four months (in Texas or another state). If an unmet need of less than 50 cents remains, the household is ineligible. Recognizable Needs Test The recognizable needs test is the final eligibility test for the household. This test applies to all applicants and certified households. The recognizable needs test has two parts. Applicant households (those subject to the budgetary needs test) must pass both Part A and Part B. All other households must pass only Part B. If an unmet need of one cent or more remains, the household is eligible. https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1340-income-limits 1/ 12 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services Needs Tests Instructions Include all countable earned and unearned income. Follow the steps below: 1. Total the gross earned and unearned income for each person. 2. Add applied income amount. Applied income is the countable amount of income after allowing deductions for tax dependents, child support, alimony, and people a legal parent is legally obligated to support. 3. Subtract the child support disregard, if applicable. 4. Subtract the standard work-related expense (not to exceed the household member's monthly earned income) for each qualifying member with countable earnings. 5. Subtract each member's allowable costs for dependent care (up to the maximum). 6. Subtract any child support expense. 7. Compare the net income to the budgetary needs amount. If the net income or unmet need is 50 cents or more, the household passes the budgetary needs test. Note: If there is a diversion amount and someone other than the person with diversions has count income (or two household members with joint diversions both have countable income), each member's income or earned income deductions are computed separately until the actual amount allowed to be diverted from each person's income is subtracted. Then the total net incomes are combined. When two members have joint diversions, any amount of the diversion that exceeds one member's income can be diverted from the other member's income using the steps below: 1. Subtract 1/3 of the net income for applicants with earned income who have not been active TAN Fin the last four months. 2. Subtract 90 percent of the remaining earnings (up to a cap of $1,400). Allow this deduction for each employed household https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1340-income-limits 2/12 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services member who is eligible for it. The person can receive this deduction for four months in a 12-month period. The four months do not have to be consecutive. Note: Do not count a month in which a full-family sanction is imposed as one of the 90 percent earned income deduction (EID) months. Note: If there is a diversion amount and someone other than the person with diversions has countable income (or two members with joint diversions both have countable income), each member's income and earned income deductions are computed separately until after subtracting the actual amount allowed to be diverted from each person's income. Then the adjusted gross incomes are combined. When two members have joint diversions, any amount of the diversion that exceeds one member's income can then be diverted from the other member's income. For each household member with earnings, the deductions cannot exceed the person's total income. This also applies when there is more than one household member with earnings, diverted income or both. The adjusted income should be compared to the recognizable needs amount. If the adjusted income is one cent or more, the household passes the recognizable needs test. The adjusted income is subtracted from the maximum grant amount to determine the benefit amount. Related Policy Child Support Deductions, A-1421 [/handbooks/texas-works- •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• _ha_n_d_b_o_o_k/ a_-_1420-types_-ded_u_ction_s#Al42_1J_ $75 Disregard Deduction, A-_1422J/ _no_d_e/_2852_1 6#Al422]_ Dependent Care Deduction, A-_1423J/node/285216#Al42_3]_ Diversions, Alimony, and Payments to Dependents Outside the Home, A-1424l/ node/285216#Al424] https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1340-income-limits 3/ 12 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services Work-Related Expense ($120 and 20%), A-_ 1425._l [/node/285216#Al425.l ] 1/3 Disregard for Applicants, A-1425._2J/ node/285216#A_l425._2J 90% Earned Income Deduction, A-1425 .3 [/node/ 285216#Al425.3] Income Limits, C-111 [/ handbooks/texas-works-handbook/c-110- •••••••• •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• •••••••••••• •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• •••••••••••••• •••• •••••••••••••••• •••••••• •••• •••• •••••••••••••••••••• tanf#Clll ] SNAP There are two eligibility tests for SNAP. Gross Income Test Gross income is the total countable income. This test applies to all households except those: • with a member who is elderly or has a disability; or • that are categorically eligible. To be considered categorically eligible, all household members must be approved for TAN For SSI, or a combination of TANF and SSI, or the household must meet resource criteria and have gross income below or equal to 165 percent Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for its size. A household subject to the gross income test is ineligible if unrounded gross income exceeds the limit by one cent or more. Note: For households with a deductible farm loss, the loss is subtracted before applying the gross income test. Related Policy Households with Elderly Members or Members with a Disability, _B-430 ll_ha_nd_boo_ks/texas_-work_s-_ha_n_d_b oo_k /b -430-household_s-eld_e_rly- mem bers-or-mem bers-a-d isa bility] -············································································ ························································ Net Income Test https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1340-income-limits 4/1 2 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services Net income is the gross income minus allowable deductions. This test applies to all households, except categorically eligible households. Note: The net income test applies to a household with a member who is elderly or has a disability if the household's gross income exceeds 165 percent FPL and the household does not meet categorically eligible requirements. If a household's rounded income exceeds the net income limits, the household is ineligible. Fifty cents or more is rounded up and 49 cents or less is rounded down. The EDG is denied if net income results in zero allotment for the initial and ongoing months. TIERS will assign the appropriate income test at Eligibility Summary after running Eligibility Determination Benefit Calculation (EDBC). Related Policy Benefits, A-2322 [/handbooks/texas-works-handbook/a-2320- eligi_ b ility-dates-_benefit-a_mou_nts#A2322]_ Maximum Income Limits, C-121 [/handbooks/texas-works- nd_boo_ h_a_ k/c-_120-s_upp_ l_ementa_l_-_n_u t_ri_tion_-assistance-_p_rogra_m_#_C_l2_1J_ Medical Programs For Medical Programs, _Mod_ifie_d _Adj_u_ste_d__Gross_ _l_nc_o_m_e_ (MAG_I)_ m_agi ]_financial eligibility is determined by comparing [/n_od_e/39416#_ the applicable program income limit and the MAGI household income calculated using Step 1 through Step 5 below. Follow the five steps below in the specified order for each person applying for benefits to determine MAGI financial eligibility for each person. Step 1 - Determine MAGI Household Composition The MAGI household composition for the person will be used to complete Steps 2, 3, 4, and 5. https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1 340-income-limits 3/12 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services Step 2 - Determine MAGI Individual Income Identify and list all income, expenses, and overpayments for each person in the MAGI household. -~grm Hl042 [/node/168076] , Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) Worksheet: Medicaid and CHIP, is used for each person included in the person's MAGI household composition to list and calculate: • earned income, excluding any pretax contributions; • unearned income; • self-employment income; • American Indian/Alaska Natives (Al/AN) disbursement; • overpayments; and • expenses. Step 3 - Determine Whether Any Exemptions Apply to MAGI Household Income If a person meets one of the following exceptions for the taxable year in which Medicaid or Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) eligibility is requested, their MAGI individual income [/n_o_de/39416#m_agi]_..is not included when calculating MAGI household income (as explained in Step 4). Exception 1: A person is a child (natural, adopted or step), regardless of age, who is: • included in the MAGI household composition of a parent or whose MAGI household composition includes a parent; and • not expected to be required to file a federal income tax return since the child's monthly income is below the monthly Internal Revenue Service (IRS) income threshold. Exception 2: https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1340-income-limits 4/12 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services A person is a tax dependent who is: • included in the MAGI household composition of the taxpayer claiming them as a tax dependent; and • not expected to be required to file a federal income tax return since the tax dependent's monthly income is below the monthly IRS income threshold. If a person meets the criteria for Exception 1 or 2 and does not have any income, it is not necessary to determine whether the person is expected to be required to file an income tax return because there is no income to compare with the IRS income threshold. Move to Step 4 at this point. Note: Even if a person's tax status is "non-taxpayer/non-tax dependent," the person may be "expected to be required to file" a federal income tax return based on the IRS threshold amounts. For a person who is expected to be required to file a federal income tax return, all MAGI Individual Income from Step 2 counts in every household composition in which that person is included. If a child meets Exception 1: • their income is excluded from the MAGI household income of every applicant or recipient whose MAGI household composition includes that child; and • the child's income is exempt from their own MAGI household income. If a tax dependent meets Exception 2: • the tax dependent's income is excluded from the MAGI household income of the taxpayer who plans to claim that person on a federal income tax return for the taxable year in which the taxpayer is requesting Medicaid or CHIP eligibility; and • this tax dependent's MAGI Individual Income counts in their own MAGI household income and counts in the MAGI household https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1 340-income-limits 3/ 12 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services income of everyone else in whose MAGI household they are included. If a person meets the criteria for both exceptions (a child (regardless of age) included in the MAGI household composition of a parent and a tax dependent included in the MAGI household composition of the taxpayer), Exception 1 applies. Exception 1 is more beneficial for the child because the child's income would then be exempt from the child's MAGI Individual Income. Example: A child (regardless of age) lives with her mother, has no income, and her mother expects to claim the child on her federal income tax return. The child would meet Exception 1 and Exception 2. For the purposes of exempting the child's income, the child (regardless of age) is considered a child who is included in the MAGI household composition of a parent whose MAGI group includes a parent (Exception 1). Because the child has no income to exempt, there is no need to compare her income to the tax thresholds. If the child did have income under the threshold, it would be more beneficial to allow her Exception 1 so that her income would not be counted on her own MAGI household income. Example: Grandma Mary and Grandpa John expect to file taxes jointly and claim their three grandchildren, Sally, 8, Lucy, 12 and Mike, 14, as tax dependents. Grandma Mary and Grandpa John have not adopted their grandchildren. Grandma Mary applies for medical assistance for her grandchildren but does not apply for medical assistance for herself or Grandpa John. Sally, Lucy, and Mike each receive $1500 a month in Social Security survivor benefits (SSB). The children meet a tax dependent exception because they are claimed as a tax dependent by a taxpayer who is not their spouse or parent. Their MAGI household compositions are determined using the non-taxpayer and non-tax dependent rules. The MAGI household for each child includes the three siblings (Sally, Lucy and Mike) and the survivor benefits count in each child's own https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1 340-income-limits 4/1 2 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services MAGI household income and in the MAGI household income of their siblings. If Grandma Mary and Grandpa John had applied for medical assistance, the children's survivor benefits would NOT count in their MAGI household income. Step 4 - Calculate MAGI Household Income First, the MAGI Individual Income for each person included in the applicant's or recipient's MAGI household composition is calculated by: • adding earned income, unearned income, self-employment income, and Al/AN disbursements (if Al/AN status is not verified per policy or the income source is not verified); • subtracting overpayments; and • subtracting expenses. Income and Person Person Person Person Expenses 1 2 3 4 Total earned/unearned income Add + + + + Total self- employment Income Add + + + + Total Al/AN disbursement Subtract - - - - Total recoupment of https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1340-income-limits 3/1 2 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services Income and Person Person Person Person Expenses 1 2 3 4 overpayments Subtract - - - - Total expenses Equals = = = = MAGI Individual Income Second, the MAGI Individual Income for all people included in the applicant's or recipient's MAGI household composition must be totaled. Anyone's income (as applicable) based on Exceptions 1 and 2 from Step 3 is exempt. I Add MAGI Individual Income Third, the standard MAGI income disregard, by MAGI household size, must be subtracted from the sum of the MAGI Individual Incomes to get the MAGI household income. The standard MAGI disregard is an income disregard equal to five percentage points of the FPL. It is a standard amount based on the applicable household size across all Medical Programs that use MAGI rules to determine income. Ex. Sum of MAGI Individual Incomes subtract Standard MAGI Disregard equals MAGI Household Income Note: The standard MAGI income disregard is updated annually based on the annual updates to the FPL. Step 5 - Determine MAGI Financial Eligibility The person's eligibility is determined by comparing whether the applicant's or recipient's MAGI household income is less than or equal https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1 340-income-limits 4/1 2 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services to the income limit of the applicable program based on FPL and MAGI household size. Steps 1 to 5 must be repeated for each person applying for Medical Programs. Related Policy Medical Programs, A-_240 _ [/ hand_ books/texas-wo_rks -_h_andbook/a_-_240- med_ic_a_l-prog_ra_ms]_ Who Is Included, A-241.1 [/node/284856#A241.l] Verification Requirements, A-1_37_0 _[/h_a_nd_books/texas-works- _ha_n_d_bo_o_k/ a_-_1_370-verificati o_n_-_req_u_ire_m ents J_ Income Limits, C-131 [/ handbooks/texas-works-handbook/c-130- med_ica_l-progra_ms#_C l3_1]_ Standard MAGI Income Disregard, C-13_1.4__[/ n_o_d_e/306_3 2l#Cl3_1.4]_ IRS Monthly Income Thresholds, C-13_1._5_l/ n_o_d_e/3_0 632l#Cl_3L_5J_ Guidelines for Providing Retroactive Coverage for Children and Medical Programs, C-1114 _ [/ha_ nd_ books/texas-wo_rks -h_andbook/c- 1110-medical-information#Clll4J [] A-1341.1 Grant Amount Revision 24-4; Effective Oct. 1, 2024 TANF The TANF grant amount is the amount of the monthly benefit. The TANF grant is approximately 17 percent of the _Federa_l_ Pov_erty_ Leve_l _(~F_~_ )J/ ~-~-~-~/?..~-~-~-§-~-~-1. .- The federal government periodically adjusts the FPL. After the household passes the recognizable needs test, the recommended grant amount is calculated. Subtract the household's adjusted gross income, rounded down to the nearest dollar, from the https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1340-income-limits 3/1 2 4/6/25, 5:28 PM A-1340 , Income Limits I Texas Health and Human Services maximum grant amount allowed for the household's size and composition. The minimum grant amount is $10. The household is eligible to receive the minimum grant if the recommended grant amount is less than $10. Benefits of less than $10 are issued only for: • supplemental payments; and • payments made after processing a recoupment. Related Policy Income Limits, C-111 [/node/3063ll#Clll] https://www.h hs .texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-hand book/a-1340-income-limits 4/12 4/6/25, 5:31 PM A-1120 , Child Support Program Requirements and Procedures I Texas Health and Human Services A-1120, Child Support Program Requirements and Procedures printer-friendly version Revision 15-4; Effective October 1, 2015 On this page TANF and Medical Programs A-1121 Authorization and Assignment of Child and Medical Support Form Hl 712 [/node/18027] , Explanation of Child/Medical Support, Family Violence and A-1122 Parent Profiles for Child and Medical Support Referrals Good Cause, is used to explain the: A- 1122.1 Parent Profile Questionnaire • child support process; A- 1122.2 Chi ld Support and Medical Support Referrals • benefits of the child support program; A- 1123 Updates to Child Support • penalties for noncooperation; Referra ls • details about the family violence option; A- 1124 TAN F • details of the good cause claim for not A-1125 OAG Distribution cooperating; and • individual's responsibility to: o provide information to the OAG and HHSC on all possible biological and/or legal parent(s); o help the OAG find the absent parent; o help the OAG establish paternity, if necessary; o go to the OAG office or to court to sign papers or provide necessary information; and o remit all child/medical support payments received after TAN Fis approved. [] A-1121 Authorization and Assignment of Child https://www.hhs.texas.gov/hand books/texas-works-handbook/a-11 20-chi ld-support-prog ram-requirements-procedures 1/ 10 4/6/25, 5:31 PM A-1120 , Child Support Program Requirements and Procedures I Texas Health and Human Services and Medical Support Revision 15-4; Effective October 1, 2015 TANF and TP 08 The assignment of rights to child and medical support is accomplished when an applicant signs an application that includes a request for TANF or TP 08. Signing the application gives the OAG permission to receive and process any child or medical support payments made payable to the child. [] A-1122 Parent Profiles for Child and Medical Support Referrals Revision 02-6; Effective July 1, 2002 [] A-1122.1 Parent Profile Questionnaire Revision 22-2; Effective April 1, 2022 TANF and TP 08 Form_..H0050J / regulation_s/forms/0-999/form- .~..9050-parent-profile-questionnaire] , Parent Profile Questionnaire, information is required for each absent parent. The absent parent information may be obtained verbally and entered into the Absent Parent page. If a child has both a legal and a biological absent parent, https://www.hhs.texas.gov/hand books/texas-works-handbook/a-11 20-chi ld-support-prog ram-requirements-procedures 2/10 4/6/25, 5:31 PM A-1120 , Child Support Program Requirements and Procedures I Texas Health and Human Services information on both the legal and biological parent is required unless the person can reasonably explain why it is impossible to provide information or has established good cause. The person must provide the following information about the absent parent: • the absent parent's first and last name; • information about the relationship (divorced, separated or never married) between the child's parents; and • at least one of the following: o the absent parent's Social Security number; o the absent parent's current or last known address; or o the absent parent's current or previous employer information. Staff must address each item on Form H00S0 and help the person obtain information about the absent parent(s). The OAG establishes cases based on information collected from the applicant and entered by HHSC staff. Failure to provide complete and accurate information may affect the successful enforcement of child support. TP 43, TP 44 and TP 48 If the person volunteers to receive services provided by the OAG, staff must collect absent parent information as noted above and refer the child's Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) to the OAG. https://www.hhs.texas.gov/hand books/texas-works-handbook/a-1 120-chi ld-support-prog ram-requirements-procedures 3/1 0 4/6/25, 5:31 PM A-1120 , Child Support Program Requirements and Procedures I Texas Health and Human Services Related Policy Explanation of Good Cause, A-1_ 130 [/hand books/texas-works -ha nd book/ a-1130- ex_pla_ nation-good_-_ca u_seJ [] A-1122.2 Child Support and Medical Support Referrals Revision 15-4; Effective October 1, 2015 TANF and Medical Programs except TP 40 and TP 36 Advisors must send referrals to the OAG on legal and biological parent(s): • when deprivation is based on absence; • when deprivation is based on death; • if paternity cannot be established using policy in A-1021 _ [/ h_a_nd_bo_oks/texas-w_o_rks - ha_n_d_boo_k/a_-_1020-esta_b_lish_ing-_d_eprivation_- ch_il_d_ren -u_nwe_d-pa_re_nts#A_l021J_, Unwed Parents Living Together, for a biological father who is in the home; • if the family volunteers to receive services provided by the OAG for Children's Medicaid programs; or • the adult caretaker receives TP 08. See A- 1122.l l#All22 .1J, Parent Profile Questionnaire, for Children's Medicaid programs. Advisors do not send a referral if: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/hand books/texas-works-handbook/a-11 20-chi ld-support-prog ram-requirements-procedures 4/10 4/6/25, 5:31 PM A-1120 , Child Support Program Requirements and Procedures I Texas Health and Human Services • a child in the home is not deprived because both parents are in the home or deprivation is based on unemployment or underemployment (TANF-State Program [SP]); • a claim of good cause has been established; • deprivation is based on physical or mental incapacity; or • the legal or biological father of a pregnant woman's unborn child has no other children receiving Medicaid. Advisors must review Form HOOSO [/node/17781] , Parent Profile Questionnaire, with the individual to ensure no items are blank, that the individual provided complete and current information, and entered the information in the Absent Parent logical unit of work (LUW). The Texas Integrated Eligibility Redesign System (TIERS) automatically sends the referral to the OAG. [] A-1123 Updates to Child Support Referrals Revision 15-4; Effective October 1, 2015 TANF and TP 08 Advisors must advise the client to report new information about the absent parent(s), review the information previously submitted for accuracy, and update items as needed. The OAG will receive the update automatically. https://www.hhs.texas.gov/hand books/texas-works-handbook/a-11 20-chi ld-support-prog ram-requirements-procedures 3/ 10 4/6/25, 5:31 PM A-1120 , Child Support Program Requirements and Procedures I Texas Health and Human Services [] A-1124 TANF Revision 15-4; Effective October 1, 2015 After certification, TANF individuals must remit to the OAG all child support payments received for a certified child. Individuals should be given sufficient copies of Form Hl 710 [/node/18026] , Payment Identification, and OAG self- addressed envelopes, if payments are being made or might be made. When the individual receives a child support payment from an absent parent following certification, the individual must: • write on the check or money order "Deposit Only - State Treasury" and not endorse the check or money order; • include Form Hl 710 with the check or money order; and • send it to the Texas Child Support Disbursement Unit, P.O. Box 659791, San Antonio, Texas 78265-9941. If child support is intended for a child on TANF and one on Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the individual must remit the payment to the OAG for proration and distribution to occur. If the individual turns in child support payments to the local office, advisors must: • forward the payment(s) to the Child Support Disbursement Unit; and • give the individual a copy of Form H4100 [/node/18139] , Money Receipt. https://www.hhs.texas.gov/hand books/texas-works-handbook/a-11 20-chi ld-support-prog ram-requirements-procedures 4/10 4/6/25, 5:31 PM A-1120 , Child Support Program Requirements and Procedures I Texas Health and Human Services Advisors must send Form Hl 701 [/node/18022) , Child Support, TANF Foster Care and TANF/Medicaid Case Information Exchange, including the amounts and months involved, to the OAG if the advisor becomes aware that the individual did not remit a child support payment. Advisors should follow policy in ~~- 1140 [/handbooks/texas-works-handbook/a- ····································································· ............................................................................................... . 1_1 4_0-n_o_nco_o_pe_ratio_n -c_h_il_d_-su_pport-progra_m- _req_u_ire_m e_n ts]___ , Noncooperation with Child Support Program Requirements, to sanction the individual for noncooperation. If the individual indicates they will continue to keep child support received from the absent parent, the advisor should follow policy in B_-700 [/_n ode/75391)__, Claims, and process a claim for the month(s) of unreported income. If the OAG becomes aware that the individual received child support and did not remit the payments, the child support officer notifies the advisor on Form Hl 701. The advisor must process a claim for the unreported income. TANF-SP The household must not be required to remit any child support collected on behalf of a non- mutual child. Related Policy Remitting Cash Medical Support Payments to the Third-Party Resources (TPR) Unit, A-86L5 [/hand books/texas-works -ha nd book/a-860- thi_rd_-_pa_rty-_re_sou rce_s #A86L_5]_ https://www.hhs.texas.gov/hand books/texas-works-handbook/a-11 20-chi ld-support-prog ram-requirements-procedures 3/ 10 4/6/25, 5:31 PM A-1120 , Child Support Program Requirements and Procedures I Texas Health and Human Services Child Support, A-1326.2 [/ handbooks/texas- .~-~rks-hand book/a -1320-types- i nco me#Al326.2] [] A-1125 OAG Distribution Revision 15-4; Effective October 1, 2015 TANF After individuals are certified for TAN F, they must send all child support payments received to the OAG Child Support Division. The OAG: • sends the $75 disregard to the individual; • reimburses the state for TANF paid to the individual; and • sends HHSC the monthly interface file of child support collections for TAN F recipients. HHSC uses the information to determine whether the collection exceeds the grant plus the disregard, and to determine grant in jeopardy if it exceeds the grant. If the individual receives child support for an SSI child in the household, the OAG will distribute (directly to the individual) the prorated share of support intended for the SSI child. The month after the OAG receives a child support payment, the OAG will send the individual up to $75 (disregard payment). The amount sent is the lesser of: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/hand books/texas-works-handbook/a-11 20-chi ld-support-prog ram-requirements-procedures 4/10 4/6/25, 5:31 PM A-1120, Child Support Program Requirements and Procedures I Texas Health and Human Services • the court-ordered payment amount, • the amount the OAG received during a given month, or • $75. When the OAG receives a child support collection that exceeds the grant plus unreimbursed assistance, the excess is sent to the individual. Form Hl 714, Notice of Grant Jeopardy; Form Hl 715, Notice of Excess Payment; or Form Hl 717, Notice of Grant Jeopardy/Excess Payment - Denial, will notify the advisor of the date and amount of the payment. A grant-in-jeopardy EOG may be generated for EDGs involving SSI children. In processing the grant-in-jeopardy, TIERS determines whether the prorated share of child support exceeds the TANF grant, minus the disregard . If the prorated share exceeds the TANF grant, minus the disregard, TIERS will deny the EOG. If the amount does not exceed the TANF grant, TIERS will allow the TANF EOG to continue. The household consists of a caretaker and one child Example: who receives TANF and one child who receives SSI. child support for - $300 both children will go directly to - -150 SSI child https://www.hhs.texas.gov/hand books/texas-works-h andbook/a-11 20-chi ld-support-prog ram-requirements-procedures 3/ 10 4/6/25, 5:31 PM A-1120 , Child Support Prowam Requirements and Procedures I Texas Health and Human Services The household consists of a caretaker and one child Example: who receives TANF and one child who receives SSI. child support for - 150 TANF child - - 75 disregard does not exceed TANFfora caretaker and one - $75 child; the state retains the child support Note: If the individual appeals the action described in A-852 l/handbooks/texas-works- handbook/ a-850-tp-20-alimonyspousal- ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• suppo_rt-t_ra_n_s_itio_n_a_ l_-_ medicaid-cove_rage#A852]_ , Automated Process, and receives continued benefits, the advisor must count the excess payment as income during the appeal period if the advisor anticipates that the child support payments will continue. Related Policy Automated Process, _A-_ 852 J/.~.?..?.~/?.?..?. 9..!.?.~.~-?.~.?.J..Chi Id Su pp o rt, -~-~.!.?..??.:.?. [/hand books/texas-works-ha nd book/a-1320- types_-in_co_me#Al326.2] _$75 Disregard A-1422 [/ handbooks/texas-works- Deduction, ············································································ ................................................... . .~. ~- ~-~. ~.?..?..~!?..~.!.~.?.9..~!Y..P.~.~-~-9.~.?..~.~-~-i.?.~.?..~~-!.~?..?.J Child Support Systems, C-830 -···················· [/hand books/texas-works-ha nd book/c-830- ch_ild-su pport-systemsJ_ https://www. hhs.texas.gov/hand books/texas-works-handbook/a-1120-chi ld-support-prog ram-requirements-procedures 10/1 0 2/25/25, 2:37 AM A-1420, Types of Dedu ctions I Texas Health and Human Servi ces [] A-1422 $75 Disrega rd Deduction Revision 15-4; Effective October 1, 2015 TANF Up to $75 of child support received before the certification date may be deducted . Related Policy Child Support, A-1326.2 [/handboo ks/texas-wo rks- handbook/a-1320-types-income#Al326.2] [] A-1423 Dependent Care Deduction Revision 23-1; Effective Jan. 1, 2023 TANF The maximum dependent care deduction is: • $200 a month for each child under 2; • $175 a month for each child 2 or older; and • $175 a month for each adult with disabilities. An earned income deduction is allowed for the actual cost of unreimbursed payments up to and including the maximum amount when the person incurs an expense for: • the care of a child or adult with disabilities, even when the child or adult with disabilities is not included in the certified group; https://www.hhs.texas.gov/handbooks/texas-works-handbook/a-1 420-types-ded uctions 5/44 2/15/25, 10:20 PM 42 U.S. Code§ 1382a - Income; earned and unearned income defined; exclusions fro m incom e I U.S. Code I US Law I LIi / Legal ... LIi > U.S. Code > Title 42 > CHAPTER 7 > SUBCHAPTER XVI > Part A > §1382a Quick search by citation: Title enter title Section section ] 42 U.S. Code§ 1382a - Income; earned and unearned income defined; exclusions from income U.S. Code Notes (a) For purposes of this subchapter, income means both earned income and unearned income; and- (1) earned income means only- (A) wages as determined under section 403(f)(S)(C) of this title but without the application of section 41 0(j)(3) of this title (and, in the case of cash remunerati on paid for service as a member of a uniformed service (other than payments described in paragraph (2)(H) of this subsection or ~~§ttffbffl~~~?tQ~~· without regard to the limit ations contained in - -- section https ://www.law. cornell .ed u/uscode/text/42/ 1382a 1/1 1 2/15/25, 10:20 PM 42 U.S. Code§ 1382a - Income; earned and unearned income defined ; exclusions from income I U.S. Code I US Law I LIi / Legal ... (B) net earnings from self-employment, as defined in section 411 of this title (without the application of the second and third sentences following subsection (a)(11 ),.LU. the last paragraph of subsection (a), and section 41 OU) (3) of this title), including earnings for services described in paragraphs (4), (5), and (6) of subsection (c); (C) remuneration received for services performed in a sheltered workshop or work activities center; and (D) any royalty earned by an individual in connection with any publication of the work of the individual, and that portion of any honorarium which is received for services rendered; and (2) unearned income means all other income, including- (A) support and maintenance furnished in cash or kind; except that (i) in the case of any individual (and his eligible spouse, if any) living in another person's household and receiving support and maintenance in kind from such person, the dollar amounts otherwise applicable to such individual (and spouse) as specified in subsections (a) and (b) of section 1382 of this title shall be reduced by 33½ percent in lieu of including such support and maintenance in the unearned income of such individual (and spouse) as otherwise required by this subparagraph, (ii) in the case of any individual or his eligible spouse who resides in a nonprofit retirement home or similar nonprofit institution, support and maintenance shall not be included to the extent that it is furnished to such individual or such spouse without such institution receiving payment therefor (unless such institution has expressly undertaken an obligation to furnish full support and maintenance to such individual or spouse without any current or future payment therefor) or payment therefor is made by another nonprofit organization, and (iii) support and maintenance shall not be included and the provisions of clause (i) shall not be applicable in the case of any individual (and his eligible spouse, if any) for the period which begins with the month in which such individual (or such individual and his eligible spouse) began to receive support and maintenance while living in a residential facility (including a private household) maintained by another person and ends with the close of the month in which such individual (or such individual and his eligible spouse) ceases to receive support and maintenance while living in such a residential facility (or, if earlier, with the close of the seventeenth month following the month in which such period began), if, not more than 30 days prior to the date on which such individual (or such individual and his eligible spouse) began to receive support and https ://www.law. cornell .ed u/uscode/text/42/ 1382a 2/11 2/15/25, 10:20 PM 42 U.S. Code§ 1382a - Income; earned and unearned income defined ; exclusions from income I U.S. Code I US Law I LIi / Legal ... chapter 169 of title 10, or any related provision of law, and any such payments shall be treated as support and maintenance in kind subject to subparagraph (A) of this paragraph. (b} In determining the income of an individual (and his eligible spouse) there shall be excluded- (1} subject to limitations (as to amount or otherwise) prescribed by the Commissioner of Social Security, if such individual is under the age of 22 and is, as determined by the Commissioner of Social Security, a student regularly attending a school, college, or university, or a course of vocational or technical training designed to prepare him for gainful employment, the earned income of such individual; (2) (A) the first $240 per year (or proportionately smaller amounts for shorter periods) of income (whether earned or unearned) other than income which is paid on the basis of the need of the eligible individual, and (B} monthly (or other periodic) payments received by any individual, under a program established prior to July 1, 1973 (or any program established prior to such date but subsequently amended so as to conform to State or Federal constitutional standards), if (i) such payments are made by the State of which the individual receiving such payments is a resident, (ii) eligibility of any individual for such payments is not based on need and is based solely on attainment of age 65 or any other age set by the State and residency in such State by such individual, and (iii) on or before September 30, 1985, such individual (I) first becomes an eligible individual or an eligible spouse under this title, and (II) satisfies the twenty-five-year residency requirement of such program as such program was in effect prior to January 1, 1983; (3) in any calendar quarter, the first- (A) $60 of unearned income, and (B} $30 of earned income, of such individual (and such spouse, if any) which, as determined in accordance with criteria prescribed by the Commissioner of Social Security, is received too infrequently or irregularly to be included; https://www.law. cornell .edu/uscode/texU42/1382a 4/1 1 2/15/25, 10:20 PM 42 U.S. Code§ 1382a - Income; earned and unearned income defined ; exclusions from income I U.S. Code I US Law I LIi / Legal ... maintenance while living in such a residential facility, (I) such individual (or such individual and his eligible spouse) were residing in a household maintained by such individual (or by such individual and others) as his or their own home, (II) there occurred within the area in which such household is located (and while such individual, or such individual and his spouse, were residing in the household referred to in subclause (I)) a catastrophe on account of which the President declared a major disaster to exist therein for purposes of the Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act [42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.], and (Ill) such individual declares that he (or he and his eligible spouse) ceased to continue living in the household referred to in subclause (II) because of such catastrophe; (B) any payments received as an annuity, pension, retirement, or disability benefit, including veterans' compensation and pensions, workmen's compensation payments, old-age, survivors, and disability insurance benefits, railroad retirement annuities and pensions, and unemployment insurance benefits; (C) prizes and awards; (D) payments to the individual occasioned by the death of another person, to the extent that the total of such payments exceeds the amount expended by such individual for purposes of the deceased person's last illness and burial; (E) support and alimony payments, and (subject to the provisions of subparagraph (D) excluding certain amounts expended for purposes of a last illness and burial) gifts (cash or otherwise) and inheritances; (F) rents, dividends, interest, and royalties not described in paragraph (1) (E); (G) any earnings of, and additions to, the corpus of a trust established by an individual (within the meaning of section 1382b(e) of this title), of which the individual is a beneficiary, to which section 1382b(e) of this title applies, and, in the case of an irrevocable trust, with respect to which circumstances exist under which a payment from the earnings or additions could be made to or for the benefit of the individual; and (H) payments to or on behalf of a member of a uniformed service for housing of the member (and his or her dependents, if any) on a facility of a uniformed service, including payments provided under section 403 of title 37 for housing that is acquired or constructed under subchapter IV of https://www.law.cornell .edu/uscode/texU42/1382a 3/11 2/15/25, 10:20 PM 42 U.S. Code§ 1382a - Income; earned and unearned income defined ; exclusions from income I U.S. Code I US Law I LIi / Legal ... (4} (A) if such individual (or such spouse) is blind (and has not attained age 65, or received benefits under this subchapter (or aid under a State plan approved under section 1202 or 1382 of this title) for the month before the month in which he attained age 65), (i) the first $780 per year (or proportionately smaller amounts for shorter periods) of earned income not excluded by the preceding paragraphs of this subsection, plus one-half of the remainder thereof, (ii) an amount equal to any expenses reasonably attributable to the earning of any income, and (iii) such additional amounts of other income, where such individual has a plan for achieving self- support approved by the Commissioner of Social Security, as may be necessary for the fulfillment of such plan, (B) if such individual (or such spouse) is disabled but not blind (and has not attained age 65, or received benefits under this subchapter (or aid under a State plan approved under section 1352 or 1382 of this title) for the month before the month in which he attained age 65), (i) the first $780 per year (or proportionately smaller amounts for shorter periods) of earned income not excluded by the preceding paragraphs of this subsection, (ii) such additional amounts of earned income of such individual, if such individual's disability is sufficiently severe to result in a functional limitation requiring assistance in order for him to work, as may be necessary to pay the costs (to such individual) of attendant care services, medical devices, equipment, prostheses, and similar items and services (not including routine drugs or routine medical services unless such drugs or services are necessary for the control of the disabling condition) which are necessary (as determined by the Commissioner of Social Security in regulations) for that purpose, whether or not such assistance is also needed to enable him to carry out his normal daily functions, except that the amounts to be excluded shall be subject to such reasonable limits as the Commissioner of Social Security may prescribe, (iii) one-half of the amount of earned income not excluded after the application of the preceding provisions of this subparagraph, and (iv) such additional amounts of other income, where such individual has a plan for achieving self-support approved by the Commissioner of Social Security, as may be necessary for the fulfillment of such plan, or (C) if such individual (or such spouse) has attained age 65 and is not included under subparagraph (A) or (B), the first $780 per year (or proportionately smaller amounts for shorter periods) of earned income not https://www.law.cornell .edu/uscode/text/42/1382a 5/11 2/15/25, 10:20 PM 42 U.S. Code§ 1382a - Income; earned and unearned income defined ; exclusions from income I U.S. Code I US Law I LIi / Legal ... excluded by the preceding paragraphs of this subsection, plus one-half of the remainder thereof; (5) any amount received from any public agency as a return or refund of taxes paid on real property or on food purchased by such individual (or such spouse); (6) assistance, furnished to or on behalf of such individual (and spouse), which is based on need and furnished by any State or political subdivision of a State; (7) any portion of any grant, scholarship, fellowship, or gift (or portion of a gift) used to pay the cost of tuition and fees at any educational (including technical or vocational education) institution; (8) home produce of such individual (or spouse) utilized by the household for its own consumption; (9) if such individual is a child, one-th ird of any payment for his support received from an absent parent; (10) any amounts received for the foster care of a child who is not an eligible individual but who is living in the same home as such individual and was placed in such home by a public or nonprofit private child-placement or child- care agency; (11) assistance received under the Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act [42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.] or other assistance provided pursuant to a Federal statute on account of a catastrophe which is declared to be a major disaster by the President; (12) interest income received on assistance funds referred to in paragraph (11) within the 9-month period beginning on the date such funds are received (or such longer periods as the Commissioner of Social Security shall by regulations prescribe in cases where good cause is shown by the individual concerned for extending such period); (13) any support or maintenance assistance furnished to or on behalf of such individual (and spouse if any) which (as determined under regulations of the Commissioner of Social Security by such State agency as the chief executive officer of the State may designate) is based on need for such support or maintenance, including assistance received to assist in meeting the costs of home energy (including both heating and cooling}, and which is (A) assistance furnished in kind by a private nonprofit agency, or (B) assistance furnished by https ://www.law. cornell .ed u/uscode/text/42/ 1382a 6/11 2/24/25, 11 :06 PM Poverty Guidelines I ASPE ~ An offic ial website of the United States government Here's how you know U.S. Department of Health and Human Services MENU Poverty Guidelines ASP E ToP-ics Poverty & Economic Mobility Poverty Guidelines The 2025 poverty guidelines will be on public display at the Federal Register tomorrow and will be published in the next few days. The Poverty Guidelines API is now available with the 2025 data. U.S. Federal Poverty Guidelines Used to Determine Financial Eligibility for Certain Programs HHS Poverty Guidelines for 2025 Join our listserv to stay up-to-date on the latest news regarding the poverty guidelines. 2025 POVERTY GUIDELINES FORTHE48 CONTIGUOUS ST A,.TES ANDTHEDISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Persons in family/household Poverty guideline 1 $15,650 2 $21,150 3 $26,650 4 $32,150 https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/pove rty-guidelines 1/8 2/24/25, 11 :06 PM Poverty Guidelines I ASPE Persons in family/household Poverty guideline For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $6,880 for each additional person. Persons in family/household Poverty guideline 1 $17,990 2 $24,320 3 $30,650 4 $36,980 5 $43,310 6 $49,640 7 $55,970 8 $62,300 For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $6,330 for each additional person. Resources • Prior Poverty Guidelines and Federal Register References • A chart with percentag~(e.g,, 125 percent) of the guidelines (PDF) • Freguently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Poverty Guidelines and Poverty o Poverty_guidelines - gross or net income o The poverty line for a state or city_ https: //aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/pove rty-guidelines 3/8 2/24/25, 11 :06 PM Poverty Guidelines I ASPE 2025 POVERTY GU -D -- -NES FOR -- --48 CONTIGUOUS S TJ. --s AND -- --DISTRICT O - COLUMBIA Persons in family/household Poverty guideline 5 $37,650 6 $43,150 7 $48,650 8 $54,150 For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $5,500 for each additional person. Persons in family/household Poverty guideline 1 $19,550 2 $26,430 3 $33,310 4 $40,190 7 $60,830 8 $67,710 https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobi lity/poverty-guidelines 2/8 2/24/25, 7:52 PM TANF Cash Help I Texas Health and Human Services TANF Cash Help TANF provides cash payments to help families pay for food, clothing, housing and other essentials. TANF for Families What it offers Monthly cash payments to help pay for: • Food • Clothing • Housing • Utilities • Furniture • Transportation • Phone service • Laundry • Supplies for the home • Medical supplies not paid for by Medicaid • Other basic needs Who is it for? Families with children ages 18 and younger. Families who can get TANF cash help have little to no money or don't have a way to get money. A family can be (1) parents and their children, or (2) relatives caring for related children. The following is used to see if a family can get TANF: • The amount of money the family has. • The value of things the family is paying for or owns. • The amount the family pays for child care and child support. Maximum Monthly Income Limits The following chart gives a general idea of the amount of money (income) a person or family gets and still be eligible for TANF. Some people might be able to get benefits even if their income is higher than what is listed in this chart. Fanily Child-only Home with 1 parent or 1 Home with 2 parents or 2 size cases caretaker caretakers 1 $64 $78 --------- 2 $92 $163 $125 3 $130 I $188 $206 https ://www. hhs. texas. gov/services/financial/cash/tanf-ca sh-help 1/4 Automated Certificate of eService This automated certificate of service was created by the efiling system. The filer served this document via email generated by the efiling system on the date and to the persons listed below. The rules governing certificates of service have not changed. Filers must still provide a certificate of service that complies with all applicable rules. Envelope ID: 99665036 Filing Code Description: Brief Requesting Oral Argument Filing Description: Appellant Brief Status as of 4/15/2025 7:38 AM CST Associated Case Party: LindaDTanner Name BarNumber Email TimestampSubmitted Status LINDA DTANNER lulu143134143@gmail.com 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM I I SENT Associated Case Party: JUAN RODRIGUEZ Name BarNumber Email TimestampSubmitted Status LAUREN MCGEE Lauren.Mcgee@oag.texas.gov 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM SENT GRISELLE ORTIZASTACIO Griselle.OrtizAstacio@oag.texas.gov 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM SENT Associated Case Party: WENDY PROCTOR Name BarNumber Email TimestampSubmitted Status LAUREN MCGEE Lauren.Mcgee@oag.texas.gov 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM SENT GRISELLE ORTIZASTACIO Griselle.OrtizAstacio@oag.texas.gov 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM I SENT I Associated Case Party: JULIA MURRAY Name BarNumber Email TimestampSubmitted Status LAUREN MCGEE Lauren.Mcgee@oag.texas.gov 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM SENT GRISELLE ORTIZASTACIO Griselle.OrtizAstacio@oag.texas.gov 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM I SENT I Associated Case Party: TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION Name BarNumber Email TimestampSubmitted Status GRISELLE ORTIZASTACIO Griselle.OrtizAstacio@oag.texas.gov 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM I SENT I Automated Certificate of eService This automated certificate of service was created by the efiling system. The filer served this document via email generated by the efiling system on the date and to the persons listed below. The rules governing certificates of service have not changed. Filers must still provide a certificate of service that complies with all applicable rules. Envelope ID: 99665036 Filing Code Description: Brief Requesting Oral Argument Filing Description: Appellant Brief Status as of 4/15/2025 7:38 AM CST Associated Case Party: TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION GRISELLE ORTIZASTACIO Griselle.OrtizAstacio@oag.texas.gov 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM SENT ATTN: LEGAL DEPARTMENT legaldepartment@hhsc.gov 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM SENT Case Contacts Name BarNumber Email TimestampSubmitted Status SUSAN MILSAPPS susan.millsapps@oag.texas.gov 4/15/2025 6:37:43 AM SENT1. TANF DENIAL LETTERS
2. CHILD SUPPORT INCOME STATEMENT
8. TEXAS WORKS HANDBOOK: C-111, INCOME LIMITS
9. TEXAS WORKS HANDBOOK: A-1110, GENERAL POLICY-CHILD SUPPORT
11. TEXAS WORKS HANDBOOK: A-1341.1, GRANT AMOUNT
Linda D. Tanner v. Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Julia Murray, Wendy Proctor, and Juan Rodriguez (Linda D. Tanner v. Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Julia Murray, Wendy Proctor, and Juan Rodriguez) — published by Counsel Stack Legal Research, free access to 12M+ legal documents.