data/programs/mfip.json

{
  "id": "mfip",
  "name": "MFIP (Minnesota Family Investment Program)",
  "jurisdiction": "state:MN",
  "category": "cash",
  "source": "MN Statutes Chapter 256J; DHS Combined Manual 0003.06, 0013.06",
  "description": "MFIP is Minnesota's primary cash and food assistance program for families with children. It provides a combined monthly cash and food benefit to help low-income families with children meet basic needs while supporting employment and self-sufficiency. MFIP replaced Minnesota's old AFDC program and incorporates a strong work-first philosophy with mandatory employment services for most adult recipients.\n\nTo be eligible, a household must include a dependent child under age 18 (or under 19 if in school), and at least one adult caregiver. The family must be a Minnesota resident. Income at the time of application must generally be at or below approximately 115-130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to enter the program; the exit threshold is approximately 160% FPL. For 2026 FPL reference: 3 people at 130% FPL = $34,333/year ($2,861/month). The asset limit is $10,000 for most families; a vehicle used for transportation to work may be excluded.\n\nMFIP provides a combined monthly benefit that covers both cash (for rent, clothing, utilities) and food assistance. Benefit amounts vary by family size and county (higher in the seven-county metro area). Example monthly benefits: family of 1 adult + 1 child approximately $532 (cash $282 + food $250 approximate); a family of 3 receives higher amounts. The food portion is equivalent to SNAP benefits and is loaded to the same EBT card system.\n\nMost adult recipients are required to participate in employment services, job search, or approved training activities. Participants work with an employment counselor to develop an Employment Plan. Failure to comply with work requirements without good cause results in a benefit reduction (the adult's cash portion is removed).\n\nMFIP has a 60-month lifetime limit for cash assistance. This means adults can receive MFIP cash benefits for a maximum of 60 months total over their lifetime, counting months in any state. The food assistance portion does not count toward this limit. Hardship extensions may be available in limited circumstances. Children's benefits are not time-limited.\n\nApplications are accepted online, by mail, fax, or in person at county offices. Emergency assistance may be available for families in crisis.",
  "eligibility_summary": "Family with a dependent child under 18 (or 19 if in school). Minnesota resident. Gross income at or below approximately 130% FPL at entry (2026: ~$2,861/month for family of 3), exit at 160% FPL (~$3,521/month for family of 3). Asset limit $10,000. U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen. 60-month lifetime cash limit for adults.",
  "benefit_amounts": "Combined monthly cash + food benefit. Example: 1-adult, 1-child family receives approximately $532/month total. Amounts vary by family size and metro vs. greater MN. Cash portion for family of 3 approximately $532; food portion equivalent to SNAP.",
  "documents_required": "Proof of identity for all household members, Social Security numbers, proof of Minnesota residency, proof of income, proof of assets, birth certificates for children, child custody documents if applicable, immigration documents if applicable.",
  "application_url": "https://mnbenefits.mn.gov",
  "contact": "Call your county human services office or DHS at 1-800-657-3698"
}