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CASH ASSISTANCE

Ohio Works First (OWF) Benefits

Ohio Works First (cash assistance) is a temporary assistance program available to families to help pay for immediate needs while the adults of the family prepare and search for jobs. The cash assistance program stresses personal responsibility and financial independence. Together with agency staff, OWF participants will develop a plan with a goal of family self-sufficiency.

Cash assistance is provided to eligible families for up to 36 months in most cases. Cash assistance benefits are distributed electronically through the EPPI Card, which is similar to a debit card.

You may apply for cash assistance online(fastest) here or by filling out the Request for Cash, Food and Medical Assistance form and submitting it to Marion County Job & Family Services, 363 W. Fairground St., Marion, OH 43302, fax to (740) 387-2175, or email to MarionCounty@JFS.Ohio.gov.

To process applications quickly, the following information is needed:

  • Social Security Card or proof that you’ve applied for one
  • Proof of Income before taxes for the past 30 days
  • Proof of identity, for example: a driver’s license or state ID
  • Proof of residency, for example: rental receipt or lease agreement
  • Housing and utility costs: current rent/mortgage and utility bills
  • Any child care or dependent care costs
  • Any child support you pay for children not living with you

Marion County Job & Family Services may ask you to provide other documents. If you need help getting any documents please notify the agency. Please write your name and case number on your verification documents.