Cash Assistance (MFIP, DWP, GA, MSA, RCA)

Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP)

Minnesota Family Investment Program is the primary program to assist low-income families with children move out of poverty through work. Families participating in MFIP qualify for healthcare, childcare, employment services, and food support. The MFIP program helps participants entering the job market to achieve success in the work force. Assistance for most families is limited to 60 months.

For Review

2022-2023 MFIP Biennial Services Agreement

2024-2025 MFIP Biennial Services Agreement

Diversionary Work Program (DWP)

Diversionary Work Program is a four-month program designed to help low-income persons find employment. The goal of DWP is to guide individuals directly into the workforce, rather than financial assistance. After an employment plan is established, participants are eligible for assistance with their most basic needs. DWP focuses intensely on services to assess family strengths and break down barriers to employment.

General Assistance

General Assistance is a state-funded program that provides financial assistance to assist with food, housing, and other basic needs for adults without minor children who are not eligible for other state or federal programs.

Minnesota Supplemental Aid

Minnesota Supplemental Aid is a state-funded program that provides cash assistance to Social Security Income (SSI) recipients, the blind, people age 65 and older, and disabled people who are age 18 and older whose income does not meet their monthly needs.

Refugee Cash Assistance

Refugee Cash Assistance provides cash assistance to refugees who have been in the United States for eight months or less and meet eligibility requirements.

How to Apply for Cash, Emergency, Food programs

A Combined Application Form must be completed or you can complete an application online at https://www.mnbenefits.org.

Along with the completed application you may need an interview. Your application will be screened when you turn it in and you will be scheduled for the next available interview. Unless you meet certain criteria your interview will most likely not be the same day.

Interview Checklist

Please bring the following to your interview:

  • Proof of Identity (driver's license, passport, etc.)
  • Proof of Residency (driver's license, bill, etc.)
  • Proof of Income (pay stubs, bank statements, etc.)
  • Other documentation which provides information regarding your income and financial status, including assets.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.