Rule 5101:1-23-40.1 | Ohio works first (OWF) temporary relief payment.
The Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS) will use temporary assistance for needy families (TANF) funding to provide eligible Ohio works first (OWF) assistance groups with temporary relief in addition to their monthly OWF benefit amount. This rule describes the conditions and limitations of issuance of these temporary relief payments.
(A) Who is eligible to receive the temporary relief payment?
Only those assistance groups who have been determined eligible to receive ongoing OWF benefits may receive the temporary relief payment. Temporary relief payments are automatically issued by ODJFS and no action is required by the assistance group or county agency.
(B) How is the amount of the temporary relief payment determined?
(1) The temporary relief payment is made in addition to the assistance group's monthly OWF benefit. The amount of the temporary relief payment the assistance group may receive will not exceed the amount of OWF benefits issued to the assistance group for that month.
(2) The temporary relief payment will be made incrementally based on a schedule determined by ODJFS and will be issued using the same method as chosen by the assistance group for their OWF benefits (either electronic payment card, electronic funds transfer or direct deposit).
(C) For how long will temporary relief payments be issued?
Temporary relief payments will not extend beyond four months and may be suspended or reduced at any time by ODJFS.
(D) What are the conditions and limitations for the temporary relief payment?
(1) The amount, frequency or suspension of an temporary relief payment is not grounds for a state hearing.
(2) The temporary relief payment is excluded when determining the maximum monthly hours of work participation allowable under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
(3) The temporary relief payment is a TANF non-assistance payment to the assistance group made in addition to the assistance provided through the OWF benefit.
(4) The temporary relief payment shall not be used to repay a claim of erroneous payment or overpayment for any public assistance program.
Last updated November 4, 2025 at 10:07 AM
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