Grandparents raising grandchildren may qualify for more than a dozen federal and state benefit programs, including TANF kinship care payments, Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), CHIP, WIC, LIHEAP, and the Child Tax Credit. Over 2.4 million grandparents in the United States are primary caregivers for grandchildren, and many are eligible for financial assistance worth $5,000 to $20,000 or more per year depending on household income and state of residence. Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility in minutes.
What Government Benefits Can Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Get?
Grandparents acting as primary caregivers can access the same major assistance programs available to any low or moderate income household caring for children, plus specialized kinship care programs in many states. The key programs fall into several categories: cash assistance, healthcare, food and nutrition, housing, utilities, and tax credits.
Federal and State Benefit Programs Comparison Table
| Program | Benefit Type | Estimated Monthly Value | Legal Custody Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| TANF (child-only grant) | Cash assistance | $100 to $500 per child | No (most states) |
| TANF (full family grant) | Cash assistance | $300 to $900+ per family | Varies by state |
| Medicaid | Health insurance for children | $300 to $800 value | No |
| CHIP | Health insurance for children | $200 to $600 value | No |
| SNAP (food stamps) | Food assistance | $200 to $700+ per household | No |
| WIC | Nutrition for children under 5 | $50 to $100 | No |
| LIHEAP | Utility bill assistance | $200 to $1,000 per year | No |
| School Meals (free/reduced) | Free breakfast and lunch | $150 to $250 value | No |
| Child Tax Credit | Tax credit | Up to $2,000 per child per year | Must claim child as dependent |
| EITC | Tax credit | Up to $7,830 per year (2025) | Must claim child as dependent |
| Lifeline | Phone/internet discount | $9.25 per month | No |
| SSI (for child) | Cash for disabled children | Up to $943 per month (2024) | No |
What Is a TANF Child-Only Grant for Grandparents?
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) child-only grants are one of the most important benefits for grandparents raising grandchildren. These grants provide monthly cash payments for the child without counting the grandparent's income in many states. This means grandparents who earn too much to qualify for a full TANF family grant can still receive a child-only payment.
The child-only grant considers only the child's income and resources, which are typically zero. Monthly amounts vary by state, generally ranging from $100 to $500 per child. Grandparents do not need legal custody in most states to apply for a child-only TANF grant, though some states require proof that the child is living with you.
TANF Child-Only Grant Income Limits by Household Size
| Household Size | Approximate Monthly Income Limit (Child-Only) | Approximate Monthly Income Limit (Full Family Grant) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 adult + 1 child | Child's income only (usually $0) | $400 to $900 (varies by state) |
| 1 adult + 2 children | Child's income only (usually $0) | $500 to $1,100 (varies by state) |
| 1 adult + 3 children | Child's income only (usually $0) | $600 to $1,300 (varies by state) |
| 2 adults + 1 child | Child's income only (usually $0) | $500 to $1,100 (varies by state) |
Note: TANF income limits and benefit amounts vary significantly by state. Check your state's specific limits using our benefits screener.
How Do Grandparents Apply for Medicaid and CHIP for Grandchildren?
Grandchildren living with grandparents are generally eligible for Medicaid or CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program) based on the household's income. Children's Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, dental care, vision, and mental health services at little or no cost.
Medicaid and CHIP Income Limits for Children (2026)
| Program | Income Limit (% of Federal Poverty Level) | Annual Income for Family of 2 | Annual Income for Family of 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid (children under 6) | Up to 138% to 200%+ FPL (varies by state) | Up to $26,000 to $40,000+ | Up to $33,000 to $50,000+ |
| Medicaid (children 6 to 18) | Up to 100% to 200%+ FPL (varies by state) | Up to $20,000 to $40,000+ | Up to $25,000 to $50,000+ |
| CHIP | Up to 200% to 400% FPL (varies by state) | Up to $40,000 to $80,000+ | Up to $50,000 to $100,000+ |
Many states extend Medicaid eligibility for children well above 200% of the federal poverty level, meaning even grandparents with moderate incomes can get free or low cost health coverage for grandchildren.
How Do Grandparents Apply for SNAP (Food Stamps)?
SNAP provides monthly food assistance loaded onto an EBT card. Grandparents raising grandchildren can apply as a household that includes the grandchildren. In most states, gross monthly income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, and net income must be at or below 100% FPL.
SNAP Income Limits (Federal, 2025 to 2026)
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income (130% FPL) | Net Monthly Income (100% FPL) | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | $2,020 | $1,554 | $459 |
| 3 | $2,544 | $1,957 | $658 |
| 4 | $3,068 | $2,360 | $835 |
| 5 | $3,592 | $2,763 | $992 |
Many states have adopted broad-based categorical eligibility, raising the gross income limit to 200% FPL or higher. Use our benefits screener to check your state's specific limits.
What Are Kinship Care Programs for Grandparents?
Kinship care programs are state-run programs specifically designed to support relatives who step in to care for children who cannot live with their parents. These programs may offer:
- Monthly kinship care payments (often higher than TANF child-only grants)
- Case management and support services
- Respite care
- Legal assistance for obtaining custody or guardianship
- Training and support groups
- Child care assistance
Some states offer kinship navigator programs that assign a dedicated caseworker to help grandparent caregivers access all available benefits. These navigators can help with applications for TANF, Medicaid, SNAP, and other programs in a single coordinated process.
To access kinship care benefits, contact your state or county department of social services or child welfare agency. In many cases, the child must be placed with you through the child welfare system, though some states offer kinship support regardless of how the child came to live with you.
How to Apply for Benefits as a Grandparent Raising Grandchildren: Step by Step
Step 1: Determine your household composition and income. Count yourself, your spouse (if applicable), and all grandchildren living with you. Calculate your gross monthly income from all sources.
Step 2: Check your eligibility. Use our free benefits screener to see which programs you may qualify for based on your specific situation.
Step 3: Gather required documents. You will typically need:
- Proof of identity (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Social Security numbers for yourself and grandchildren
- Proof of income (pay stubs, Social Security award letters, pension statements)
- Proof of residence (utility bills, lease agreement)
- Birth certificates for grandchildren
- Proof of relationship to the children
- Documentation of why the children are in your care (court orders, letters from parents, child welfare documentation)
Step 4: Apply for programs. You can apply for most programs through:
- Your state's online benefits portal
- Your local Department of Social Services or Human Services office
- By phone through your state's benefits hotline
- In person at your county office
Step 5: Apply for tax credits. When filing your federal tax return, claim grandchildren as dependents if eligible, and apply for the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit. You may need to file Form 8332 or demonstrate that you provided more than half the child's support.
Step 6: Contact kinship care resources. Call your state's kinship navigator program or the Kinship Care hotline at your local Area Agency on Aging.
What Tax Credits Can Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Claim?
Grandparents who claim grandchildren as dependents on their tax return may be eligible for significant tax credits:
| Tax Credit | Maximum Amount (2025 to 2026) | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Child Tax Credit (CTC) | Up to $2,000 per child | Child under 17, must be claimed as dependent |
| Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) | Up to $7,830 (3+ children) | Must have earned income, income limits apply |
| Child and Dependent Care Credit | Up to $3,000 (1 child) or $6,000 (2+ children) | Must pay for child care to work or look for work |
| Adoption Tax Credit | Up to $16,810 per child | For legal adoption of grandchild from foster care |
To claim a grandchild as a dependent, the child must live with you for more than half the year, you must provide more than half of the child's financial support, and the child's parent must not claim the child.
Do Grandparents Need Legal Custody to Get Benefits?
In many cases, no. Several important programs do not require legal custody:
- TANF child-only grants: Most states allow any caretaker relative to apply without legal custody
- Medicaid and CHIP: The child can be covered based on household income regardless of legal custody status
- SNAP: The child can be included in the household food assistance case
- School meals: Schools generally accept any adult acting as the child's caregiver
- WIC: Available to eligible children regardless of the legal relationship to the caregiver
However, legal custody or guardianship can provide important advantages:
- Easier access to the child's medical records and school enrollment
- Ability to make medical decisions for the child
- Stronger eligibility for some kinship care programs with higher payment rates
- Ability to claim the child as a dependent for tax credits
- Eligibility for foster care maintenance payments in some states
Many states offer subsidized guardianship programs that provide monthly payments comparable to foster care rates when grandparents obtain legal guardianship through the child welfare system.
What Is the Difference Between Kinship Foster Care and Informal Kinship Care?
| Feature | Kinship Foster Care (Formal) | Informal Kinship Care |
|---|---|---|
| Child welfare involvement | Yes, child is placed by the agency | No, family arrangement |
| Monthly payments | Foster care rate ($500 to $1,000+) | TANF child-only ($100 to $500) |
| Medicaid for child | Automatic | Must apply separately |
| Training requirements | Yes, foster parent training required | None |
| Home study | Yes | No |
| Court oversight | Yes | No |
| Support services | Extensive | Limited |
| Grandparent's income considered | Usually no | Varies by program |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can grandparents get Social Security benefits for grandchildren?
Grandchildren may qualify for Social Security benefits based on a grandparent's work record if the grandparent is retired, disabled, or deceased AND the grandchild's parents are deceased or disabled, or the grandparent has legally adopted the grandchild. Contact your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213 to check eligibility.
How much money can grandparents get for raising grandchildren?
The total value of benefits varies widely based on income, state of residence, and number of grandchildren. A low income grandparent raising two grandchildren could potentially receive $10,000 to $20,000 or more per year when combining TANF, SNAP, Medicaid value, tax credits, and utility assistance. Use our benefits screener for a personalized estimate.
Can grandparents get child care assistance?
Yes. Most states offer child care assistance programs (often called CCDF or child care subsidies) for low income families, including grandparent caregivers. These programs can cover a significant portion of child care costs. Income limits typically range from 150% to 250% of the federal poverty level.
Do grandparents raising grandchildren qualify for WIC?
Grandchildren under age 5 living with grandparents may qualify for WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) if the household income is at or below 185% of the federal poverty level. WIC provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, and referrals to health care and social services.
Can grandparents raising grandchildren get housing assistance?
Yes. Grandparent-headed households may qualify for Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, public housing, or other HUD programs. Some housing authorities give preference to kinship care families. Additionally, some states offer specific housing programs for grandfamilies. Contact your local housing authority for availability and waitlist information.
Where can grandparents find support groups and resources?
Several national organizations provide support for grandparents raising grandchildren:
- Generations United (gu.org) offers resources, policy updates, and a grandfamilies network
- AARP GrandFamilies Guide provides state-specific resource guides
- The National Kinship Alliance connects caregivers with local support groups
- 211 Helpline (dial 2-1-1) connects you with local social services and support programs
How do I start the application process today?
The fastest way to find out which benefits you qualify for is to use our free benefits screener. Enter your ZIP code, household size, and income to get personalized results showing every program you may be eligible for, along with estimated benefit amounts and direct links to apply.
