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.
Colorado Works Program Update
Starting July 1, 2026, Colorado Works supportive payments will be paused until further advised.
Your monthly cash assistance benefit (Basic Cash Assistance/BCA) through Colorado Works will continue. There are no changes to these benefits at this time.
This change only affects Colorado Works supportive payments, which may include:
- Gas assistance
- Bus passes or transportation support
- Housing-related assistance
- Childcare support payments
- Vehicle repairs
- Personal care items or clothing
- School or training program costs
We will continue sharing updates and additional information as it becomes available.
Benefits or assistance you may receive through other programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or LEAP, are not affected by this change.
While Colorado Works supportive payments are being paused, there are other resources and community programs that may be able to help during this time.
Get help with food, housing, transportation, childcare, employment, financial assistance, or other needs:
CO Works Support Resources List
Housing, Shelter & Utility Assistance
Transportation
Food, Cash, Medical & Other Needs
Employment, Education & Career Development
Disability, Rehabilitation & Aging Services
Children, Families & Caregiver Support
Mental Health, Substance Use & Crisis Support
Immigration & Refugee Services
Legal Help, Mediation & Public Benefits
We know this change may be difficult for some families. If you have questions or need help, Denver Human Services (DHS) team members can help you navigate support. Call 720-944-4DHS (4347), or navigate to our locations and contact page to find a DHS location near you.
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
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.