Employment Overview

In addition to meeting their basic needs, DTA’s mission is to increase the economic mobility and improve the quality of life for individuals and families we work with. For most TAFDC families, employment and a transition off economic assistance benefits is the end goal.  Clients on TAFDC have access to Pathways to Work education, training and employment programs to support that goal. These programs can connect clients to career pathways while supporting job retention and growth and providing supports.

For TAFDC clients who are subject to work rules, employment and Pathways to Work activities are a way to meet that requirement. Case managers must ensure that all clients are aware of the benefits of engaging in Pathways to Work activities and how DTA can support them while they work. Clients who need to meet the work rules and are employed must be referred to a Full Engagement Worker (FEW) to ensure supports are provided and a Pathways to Work Plan is completed.  

A client may meet the work rules through employment if they are working the number of hours they are required per week or more. If the clients is working less than their required hours, FEWs must ensure they discuss additional activity options. FEWs will create a Pathways to Work Plan with the client. For more information about work rules, go to Meeting the Work Program Rules.

For clients to get the full benefits of employment and gain economic mobility, they receive additional financial support in the form of certain deductions when they are employed and receiving TAFDC.  The additional financial support includes a 100% Earned Income Disregard or a $200 Work-Related Expense deduction, an earned income disregard of 50%, and a dependent care deduction.

You must track information regarding employment, income, dependent care and health insurance and enter it correctly in BEACON.

Important: Any Pathways to Work eligible TAFDC client who begins or ends employment must have their Pathways to Work Plan updated.