Who can apply
FANF evaluates families with dependent children who lack parental support because of absence, death, disability or qualifying two-parent circumstances. DHHS assigns the appropriate category: NHEP, Family Assistance Program, Interim Disabled Parent or Families With Older Children. Financial rules and participation requirements apply.
What help is available
Approved cash benefits are issued twice monthly by electronic transfer or EBT. Work-eligible recipients participate in NHEP, which offers education, training and job preparation. Depending on the case, supports can include child care, transportation and employment-related supplies.
Documents to prepare
- Household income and requested resource records.
- Children’s ages and caregiver relationship information.
- Housing costs and relevant expenses.
- Evidence supporting a disability, hardship or participation exception when requested.
How to get started
Request family cash assistance
Use NH EASY or ask a district office for the current application.
Complete the review
Respond to the interview and document requests. Explain any barriers to employment or unusual caregiving circumstances.
Read the category and participation notice
Ask about the cash decision, employment-plan obligations and how to document a claimed exception.
After applying
Read your cash and participation notices together. The usual maximum is 60 months, with exceptions including some children-only relative-caregiver cases. Ask DHHS how prior assistance counts and about any hardship process before a limit affects your case. Keep copies of submitted records and follow the reporting instructions in your notice.
Website screenshots
These images show the pages captured in August 2026. Website screens and rules may have changed.
Common questions
Is FANF a separate tax refund?
No. It is family financial assistance administered by DHHS.
Does every case have identical employment obligations?
No. Ask which FANF category and participation rules apply.
Can a hardship extension be considered?
DHHS publishes an extension-request process, but eligibility and current requirements must be confirmed for the case.
What can NHEP help with?
Its services include education, career preparation and employment activities, with possible supports such as child care and transportation. Your worker explains the services approved for your case.
Sources and review
Reviewed October 1, 2026 using DHHS current family and emergency assistance guidance, Program instructions and forms, Additional agency guidance. USA Assistance background guide.
Historical screenshots: source reference.