Ohio Works First: Meeting the Work Requirement

The Ohio Works First (OWF) program is time-limited cash assistance to eligible families through Ohio's Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program, which emphasizes:
  • Employment
  • Personal Responsibility
  • Self-Sufficiency
To receive OWF, work-eligible recipients are required to participate in work activities every month that assistance is received. Work activities are based on prior work experience, educational background, job skills, and barriers to employment, and may include:
  • Community service
  • On-the-job training
  • Education directly related to employment
Every work-eligible adult or minor head of household in the Ohio Works First program must sign and adhere to a self-sufficiency contract.

Your caseworker will work with you to develop a plan for employment, career education, or volunteer activities.

If you do not attend your program, or do not meet the responsibilities outlined in your self-sufficiency contract, your assistance may be stopped.

The Process for Applying

  1. Apply online
  2. Call 844-640-OHIO (6446), Mon – Fri 8am to 4pm
  3. Visit your local library for help applying online, by phone, or by fax
  4. In-person at a Neighborhood Family Service Center

Programs

Become a Worksite Partner

How Cuyahoga County organizations and businesses can become a Worksite Partner for recipients of food assistance.

Aspire Greater Cleveland

Aspire Greater Cleveland is an Adult Education Program operated by the Cuyahoga County Public Library System.

Ohio Works First

Ohio Works First is a financial assistance part of the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program. OWF provides temporary support to families while parents work their way toward becoming self-sufficient.

Related Information

Program Location



  
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