The Minnesota Family Investment Program, or MFIP, is the state's welfare reform program for low-income families with children. MFIP helps families move to work and focuses on helping families. It includes both cash and food assistance. When most families first apply for cash assistance, they will participate in the Diversionary Work Program, or DWP. This is a four month program that helps parents go immediately to work rather than receive welfare. Some families may be referred to MFIP when they first apply for assistance or after they finish four months of DWP. MFIP helps families transition to economic stability. Parents are expected to work and are supported in working. Most families can get cash assistance for only 60 months.
Program Requirements:
In order to be eligible for these benefit programs, you must be a resident of Minnesota, either pregnant or responsible for a child under age 19, either a U.S. citizen or have a qualified non-citizen immigration status, have low or very low income, and be either under-employed (working for very low wages), or unemployed, and meet program asset limits.
Benefits:
Families get a monthly benefit that includes cash and food assistance. Parents also get help to find and keep a job.
Employment Services - most people work with a job counselor to create an employment plan. If you are younger than 20 and have not completed high school or any equivalency program, you may need to finish your education. Your job counselor or social worker will help you make a plan to get your high school diploma or go to work. You may get child care help while you are looking for work, going to school or working.
Cash and food assistance - Cash and food benefits are issued automatically through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Benefits change depending on your income. You are better off working when you are on MFIP. When you get a job, the first $65 you earn does not count. After than, half of the rest of your earnings do not count in deciding the amount of your benefits.
Apply:
You can apply online at ApplyMN.dhs.mn.gov or use the Combined Application Form DHS-5223. Mail or bring the completed form to Hubbard County Social Services at 205 Court Avenue. Call 218-732-1451 for further information about the program.
2020-2021 County MFIP Biennial Service Agreement
2022-2023 County MFIP Biennial Service Agreement