Selected Florida families may be eligible to receive up to $298 per child per month through the Relative Caregiver version of the Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) program.
This state‑administered financial aid is designed to support relatives or non‑relative caregivers who have custody of a minor placed in their care by the Florida Department of Children & Families.
Who Qualifies — Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, caregivers must:
- Be residents of Florida
- Provide custody of a child under age 18 (under 19 if in full‑time high school) placed by Florida DCF
- Have the child’s countable income/assets under allowed limits (assets ≤ $2,000, vehicle rules apply)
- Meet other technical requirements such as school attendance, immunization, and child support cooperation
- Note: Adult applicants must also meet work‑related conditions, unless exempt under specific circumstances
(These requirements ensure that assistance goes to families who need it most.)
Benefit Amounts — How Much You Could Get
The monthly payments for eligible caregivers under the Relative Caregiver Program are based on the child’s age:
| Child’s Age Group | Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 0 to 5 years | $242 |
| 6 to 12 years | $249 |
| 13 to 17 years | $298 |
Therefore, if you’re caring for a teen aged 13–17, you could receive up to $298 per child per month—a significant monthly support that adds vital relief to your household budget.
How & When Payments Arrive
- Payments are typically deposited through an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card.
- Funds are loaded into the recipient’s EBT account within the first three business days of each month.
- If you’re an eligible caregiver, check your EBT account early in the month to confirm receipt of the benefit.
Why This Matters – Purpose of the Program
The Relative Caregiver version of TCA offers crucial support by:
- Providing immediate financial relief to caregivers raising children placed through the child welfare system
- Ensuring these children can remain in a family environment rather than enter foster care
- Offering a foundation for long‑term stability, especially when paired with required school attendance and immunization policies
Kitchen‑table support like this helps caregivers provide for basic needs like food, clothing, shelter, and education.
Tips to Maximize Your Benefit
- Ensure all required documentation is current, including immunization records, school enrollment, and cooperation with child support procedures.
- Apply promptly once you become a caregiver—processing time determines when benefits start.
- Monitor your EBT account early each month to avoid missing your monthly payment.
If you’re a relative or non‑relative caregiver in Florida caring for a minor placed in your home through DCF, you may qualify for up to $298 per child each month—particularly for teens aged 13–17.
The TCA Relative Caregiver benefit ensures that children stay in caring homes and that caregivers receive vital financial support.
Monitor your EBT account early in the month, maintain required documentation, and keep school and health requirements current to continue receiving this essential aid.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the $298‑per‑child payment?
Caregivers providing custody of a child aged 13–17 placed by Florida DCF, meeting asset, residency, school, immunization, and child support rules.
When will I receive the payment each month?
Funds are loaded to your EBT card within the first three business days of each month—check your account early.
What else must I keep updated to continue receiving payments?
Ensure school attendance (for ages 6–18), immunization records (for under‑5s), and child support cooperation remain current, and notify DCF of changes in your situation promptly.