Grandparents raising grandchildren may qualify for a wide range of government benefits, including TANF child-only grants, SNAP food assistance, Medicaid, the Child Tax Credit, LIHEAP energy assistance, and more. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 2.5 million children are currently being raised in grandfamilies or kinship care arrangements across the United States. Many grandparent caregivers are unaware of the programs designed to help them cover the costs of raising a child, and combining multiple benefits can provide significant monthly support.
Use our free benefits screener to check which programs you and your grandchildren may qualify for based on your household size, income, and state of residence.
What Government Benefits Can Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Get?
Grandparents who serve as primary caregivers for their grandchildren can access both federal and state programs. The table below provides a quick overview of the major programs, who they serve, and their approximate value.
| Program | What It Provides | Who Qualifies | Approximate Monthly Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| TANF Child-Only Grant | Monthly cash assistance | Children in grandparent care (grandparent income often excluded) | $100 to $400+ per child (varies by state) |
| SNAP (Food Stamps) | Grocery benefits on EBT card | Households at or below 130% FPL gross income | $200 to $500+ depending on household size |
| Medicaid / CHIP | Free or low-cost health coverage | Children up to 133% to 300%+ FPL (varies by state) | Saves $200 or more per month in healthcare costs |
| Child Tax Credit | Tax credit per qualifying child | Taxpayers claiming eligible dependents | Up to $2,200 per child per year |
| WIC | Food and nutrition for young children | Children under 5 at or below 185% FPL | Approximately $50 to $75 per month in food value |
| LIHEAP | Help paying heating and cooling bills | Low-income households, varies by state | One-time payments of $200 to $1,000+ |
| Free School Meals | Breakfast and lunch at school | Children in households at or below 185% FPL | Saves roughly $100+ per month per child |
| Lifeline | Discount on phone or internet | Households at or below 135% FPL or in qualifying programs | $9.25 per month discount |
What Is a TANF Child-Only Grant and How Does It Work?
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is often the most important financial resource for grandparents raising grandchildren. A TANF child-only grant provides monthly cash assistance specifically for the child, and in most states, the grandparent's own income is not counted when determining the child's eligibility.
This is a critical distinction. Because the grant is for the child only, even grandparents with moderate incomes can often qualify their grandchildren for this benefit.
Key facts about TANF child-only grants:
- Available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia
- The average child-only grant is approximately $8 per day per child nationally
- Monthly amounts range from roughly $100 per child in some states to over $400 per child in others
- Grandparents typically do not need legal custody or guardianship to apply (though requirements vary by state)
- Some states offer additional one-time payments for kinship caregivers (for example, Texas provides a one-time $1,000 grandparent grant for qualifying TANF recipients)
To apply, contact your state or county TANF office. You will generally need proof of identity, the child's birth certificate, Social Security numbers, and documentation of your living arrangement.
What Are the Income Limits for Grandparent Benefits?
Income limits vary by program and are typically tied to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The 2026 FPL guidelines for the 48 contiguous states are shown below.
2026 Federal Poverty Level (Annual Income, 48 Contiguous States)
| Household Size | 100% FPL | 130% FPL (SNAP Gross) | 138% FPL (Medicaid Expansion) | 185% FPL (WIC/School Meals) | 200% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,960 | $20,748 | $22,025 | $29,526 | $31,920 |
| 2 | $21,640 | $28,132 | $29,863 | $40,034 | $43,280 |
| 3 | $27,320 | $35,516 | $37,702 | $50,542 | $54,640 |
| 4 | $33,000 | $42,900 | $45,540 | $61,050 | $66,000 |
| 5 | $38,680 | $50,284 | $53,378 | $71,558 | $77,360 |
| 6 | $44,360 | $57,668 | $61,217 | $82,066 | $88,720 |
Important note for grandparent caregivers: For TANF child-only grants, your income as the grandparent is often excluded from the calculation. Only the child's income and resources are considered, which means most grandchildren in your care will qualify. For SNAP and Medicaid, the entire household's income may be counted, though specific rules vary by state. Check with your local office or use our screener for personalized results.
How Do Grandparents Apply for Benefits for Their Grandchildren?
Follow these steps to begin accessing available programs:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before applying, collect the following:
- Your government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- Birth certificates for each grandchild in your care
- Social Security cards for yourself and each grandchild
- Proof of income (pay stubs, Social Security statements, pension documentation)
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement)
- Any court orders related to custody or guardianship (if applicable, but not always required)
Step 2: Determine Your Household Size
For most benefit programs, your household includes everyone living together who shares meals. A grandparent raising two grandchildren would typically count as a household of three (or more, if a spouse is also in the home).
Step 3: Apply for Multiple Programs at Once
Many state offices allow you to apply for TANF, SNAP, and Medicaid through a single application. You can typically apply:
- Online through your state's benefits portal
- In person at your local Department of Social Services or equivalent agency
- By phone through your state's benefits hotline
Step 4: Complete Your Interview
Most programs require an eligibility interview, usually by phone or in person. This typically happens within 30 days of submitting your application. Have your documents ready to verify the information you provided.
Step 5: Apply for Tax Credits Separately
Tax benefits like the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit are claimed when you file your federal tax return. You do not need to apply for these through a benefits office.
What Tax Benefits Can Grandparents Claim?
Grandparents raising grandchildren can access several valuable tax credits:
Child Tax Credit (CTC)
- Worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child for tax year 2025 and beyond
- The refundable portion is up to $1,700 per child, meaning you can receive money back even if you owe no taxes
- Income phase-out begins at $200,000 for single filers and $400,000 for married filing jointly
- The child must live with you for more than half the year and be under age 17
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
- Available to working grandparents with earned income
- Credit amounts vary based on income and number of qualifying children
- Can provide thousands of dollars in refundable credits
- Check IRS guidelines or use our screener for estimated amounts
Child and Dependent Care Credit
- Available if you pay for childcare so you can work or look for work
- Covers a percentage of qualifying childcare expenses
- Applies to children under age 13
Adoption Tax Credit
- If you formally adopt your grandchild, you may qualify for a federal tax credit of approximately $16,810 (check the IRS for the current year amount)
- This is a one-time credit that can offset adoption-related expenses
How Do Grandparents Get Medicaid for Their Grandchildren?
Children in grandparent care frequently qualify for Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), even when the grandparent's income is moderate. Here is what you need to know:
- In most states, children qualify for Medicaid at household incomes up to at least 133% of the Federal Poverty Level, and many states extend coverage to 200% FPL or higher
- CHIP covers children in families with incomes too high for Medicaid but too low to afford private insurance, often up to 200% to 300% FPL
- Children receiving TANF are typically automatically eligible for Medicaid
- You can apply for Medicaid through your state's health department, online at Healthcare.gov, or through your state's benefits portal
- Legal custody or guardianship is generally not required to enroll a grandchild in Medicaid
What Is the Supporting Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Act?
The Supporting Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Act, signed into federal law, established an Advisory Council within the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to improve coordination of federal resources for grandfamilies. The council provides recommendations on how to better support grandparent caregivers and publishes resources to help families navigate available programs.
You can access resources and find local support through the Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network or by calling the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
What Additional Programs Help Grandparents Raising Grandchildren?
Beyond the major federal programs, several other resources may be available:
- LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps pay heating and cooling bills. Income limits are typically 150% of FPL or 60% of state median income, whichever is higher. Apply through your local community action agency.
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): Provides food assistance for children under age 5. Income limit is 185% of FPL. Grandparents serving as legal guardians or primary caregivers can apply.
- Free and Reduced School Meals: Children in households at or below 130% FPL receive free meals; those at or below 185% FPL receive reduced-price meals.
- Lifeline Program: Provides a $9.25 monthly discount on phone or internet service. Households at or below 135% FPL or enrolled in qualifying programs (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI) are eligible.
- State Kinship Navigator Programs: Many states operate kinship navigator programs that connect grandparent caregivers with local resources, support groups, legal assistance, and financial aid.
How Much Can Grandparents Receive by Combining Programs?
Stacking multiple benefits can make a significant difference. Here is an example of what a grandparent raising two grandchildren (household of 3) might receive:
| Program | Estimated Monthly Value |
|---|---|
| TANF Child-Only Grant (2 children) | $200 to $600 |
| SNAP Benefits | $300 to $500 |
| Medicaid (healthcare savings) | $200+ |
| Child Tax Credit (annualized) | Approximately $367 per month ($4,400 per year) |
| Free School Meals (2 children) | $200+ |
| LIHEAP (annualized) | $30 to $80 |
| Estimated Total | $1,300 to $1,750+ per month |
These figures are estimates and will vary by state and individual circumstances. Check your personalized eligibility to get a more accurate picture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do grandparents need legal custody to get benefits for grandchildren?
In many cases, no. TANF child-only grants, SNAP, and Medicaid often do not require formal legal custody or guardianship. You typically need to show that the child lives with you and that you are the primary caregiver. However, having legal custody or guardianship may expand the benefits available to you and simplify the application process. Requirements vary by state, so check with your local benefits office.
Can grandparents get SNAP benefits for grandchildren?
Yes. If your grandchildren live with you and you prepare meals together, they are part of your SNAP household. The entire household's income is counted for SNAP eligibility, with a gross income limit of 130% of the Federal Poverty Level for most households. For a household of 3 in 2026, this means gross monthly income must generally be at or below approximately $2,960.
What happens if the grandparent's income is too high for TANF?
TANF child-only grants exclude the grandparent's income in most states. Only the child's own income and resources are considered. Since most children have little or no income, grandchildren in your care will typically qualify for child-only TANF regardless of your income level.
Can grandparents claim grandchildren on their taxes?
Yes, if the grandchild meets the qualifying child requirements: the child must be your descendant, live with you for more than half the tax year, be under age 19 (or under 24 if a full-time student), and not provide more than half of their own support. Claiming a grandchild as a dependent allows you to access the Child Tax Credit, EITC (if you have earned income), and other tax benefits.
Where can grandparents find local support groups and resources?
The Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network (gksnetwork.org) maintains a searchable directory of local resources. Your local Area Agency on Aging can also connect you with support groups, respite care, and counseling services. Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 for help finding services in your area.
Are there special programs for grandparents over age 60?
Yes. The Older Americans Act funds the National Family Caregiver Support Program, which provides services specifically to grandparents and other relatives age 55 and older who are raising children. Services may include respite care, counseling, support groups, caregiver training, and supplemental assistance. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn what is available in your community.
Taking on the responsibility of raising grandchildren is both rewarding and financially challenging. The good news is that multiple government programs exist to help cover the costs. Start by checking your eligibility for all available benefits in your state, and do not hesitate to apply for several programs at once to maximize the support your family receives.
