To be eligible for the FIP program people need to meet financial and non-financial eligibility criteria. This includes being income and asset eligible, having a minor child, having a social security number, cooperating with the Child Support Services office, being a United States citizen or have a qualified alien status and being a resident of Iowa.
FIP applicants and participants must cooperate with the Department's work and training program, PROMISE JOBS. As a condition of FIP eligibility prior to receiving benefits, applicants must meet with a PROMISE JOBS case manager to develop a self-sufficiency plan known as the Family Investment Agreement (FIA). The FIA outlines the steps the family will take to become independent of FIP assistance. Once FIP is approved, FIP recipients must follow the requirements of the FIA to continue receiving FIP. FIP assistance has a federal lifetime limit of 60 months of assistance received in all states.
To apply online, please visit the online application.
For additional ways to apply, visit the How to Apply page.
You may use the Office Locator Map to find an office near you.
To report changes for your FIP case, please call 1-877-347-5678.
You can also visit the federal Office of Family Assistance Help for Families TANF Program Contacts page to find the appropriate state contact(s).