Cash Assistance (Colorado Works/TANF)

We're here to support you. If you are low on financial resources, our team at Denver Human Services can help you find out if you qualify for Colorado Works or other types of cash assistance. We can also connect you to community resources that can help you reach your goals.

What is Colorado Works?

Colorado Works is Colorado's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. When you join Colorado Works, you can get help with a monthly cash payment, schooling, training, jobs and much more. Watch the informational video below to learn more!

Learn more about Colorado Works

Who can apply for Colorado Works?

Colorado Works is available to families with children in the home. In some cases, children not living with their parents can participate in Colorado Works. You can also apply for the program if:

  • You are pregnant or taking care of a child under 18 years old.
  • You live in Colorado.
  • You are a citizen of the United States, a legal alien, a refugee, or a permanent resident.
  • Your family income is less than $75,000 a year.

How to Apply

Online

Apply online through the Colorado PEAK website. Se ofrece servicio en español. 

Please note: this site is maintained by the State of Colorado.

Apply for Cash Assistance

In Person

You can apply for cash assistance in person at any of our DHS locations.

Get Your Application Delivered!

If you cannot access our website or have mobility issues, we can bring the paperwork to you! Call our document delivery hotline at (720) 944-1520. We will leave an application at your door. When you are finished with your application, we can come back and pick it up.

Mobile App

Do you have a smart phone? You can apply for Colorado Works using the MyCOBenefits app!

Download the MyCOBenefits App on iOS (Apple)

Download the MyCOBenefits App on Android

How do I use the mobile app?

Watch this short video, which explains how to apply to Colorado Works using your mobile phone.

English

 

Spanish

Mail/Fax

By Mail or Fax

We can mail you an application, or fax it to you. Call (720)944-4DHS (4347) for more information.

How do I return my application?

You can mail your completed application to:

Denver Human Services
1200 Federal Blvd.
Denver, CO 80204

You can also send it to use by fax. Fax it to: 720-944-3094

Resources for Clients

Your Colorado Works Journey

Do you already have Colorado Works? Your case manager will work closely with you as you create your own goals. Check out these resources from the Colorado Department of Human Services!

Learn more about Colorado Works

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of cash assistance are available?

The main cash assistance program is called Colorado Works, part of the federal Temporary Aid to Needy Families program. Through Colorado Works, income-qualified families receive monthly cash assistance payments, help with emergency household expenses, and get support in preparing for and finding work.

Other types of cash assistance include:

When you apply for cash assistance, we will determine your eligibility for the available programs at the same time.

How do I apply for cash assistance?

You can apply in person by visiting one of our offices or community outreach locations. For a list of where we are in the community, call 720-944-4DHS (4347). You can also apply online through Colorado PEAK, which is a statewide application service for medical, food, cash, and early childhood assistance programs.

What are the Colorado Works program requirements?

If you receive cash assistance from Colorado Works, you’ll be required to look for a job or be involved in a work activity. Work activities can include some approved education or job skills training programs, volunteer work or community service, job readiness and job search activities, and full and part-time employment. Your case manager can help you identify qualifying activities and will work with you to help you reach your goals, such as finding full-time work or advancing your education.

Can you help me find a job or get my GED?

Yes! When you apply for Colorado Works, your case worker will talk with you about your goals and how we can help you reach them.

Can I receive Colorado Works if I'm a full-time college student?

In some cases, yes. Your case manager can help you determine what work activity you may need to complete, as some of your schooling may count toward your work hours.