CASH ASSISTANCE FAQS
Who is not eligible for Cash Assistance – Ohio Works First (OWL)?
Assistance groups are not eligible if they include an individual who:
- Does not sign the self-sufficiency contract
- Does not comply with the terms of the contract
- Has income that exceeds the amount for the assistance group size
- Has received benefits fraudulently
- Other individuals who are not eligible include:
- Fugitive felons
- Probation / parole violators
- Individuals convicted for fraudulently misstating where they live in order to receive benefits
What is the Time Limit for Cash Assistance Benefits?
Cash assistance may be provided to qualified families for up to 36 months. To receive benefits after the 36 months you must apply for a “hardship” or “good cause” case.
Child only cases are not subject to a time limit.
Must I participate in Work Activities?
Adults and minors with children receiving cash assistance must participate in allowable work activities. Allowable work activities may include: on-the-job training, community service, education directly related to employment, etc.
What are my Work Activities expectations?
During the interview you will be given an appointment date with Work Activities to develop a self-sufficiency contract. In order to receive benefits, adults and minors with children must develop and sign a self-sufficiency contract. The contract explains the participant’s rights and responsibilities and what Marion County Job & Family Services will do to help the participant become self-sufficient. Failure to sign the self-sufficiency contract without good cause can result in denial or termination of benefits, which would affect the entire family.
How much do I receive the cash payments?
Benefits are issued through either the Ohio EPPICard card, which is a pre-paid debit MasterCard, or deposited directly into a checking or savings account. EPPICard cardholders can obtain cash at any ATM displaying the MasterCard® or Cirrus® logos. Program information and what to do it your card is lost or stolen is available here.
You will need to provide the following verifications:
Social Security number or proof that you’ve applied for one
Income before taxes for the last 30 days
Identity, for example: a driver’s license or state ID
Citizenship / Legal Alien Status, for example: a birth certificate or passport
Age, for example: a birth certificate, insurance policy, draft card, school record
Residency, for example: rental receipt or lease agreement
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.
