If you’re a Florida parent relying on Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) to help make ends meet, knowing exactly when your payment will hit your card each month can make a big difference. With May 2025 just around the corner, here’s what you need to know about this month’s schedule—and a quick refresher on how the program works.
What Is TCA, and Who Can Get It?
Temporary Cash Assistance, or TCA, is a program run by the Florida Department of Children and Families. It’s there to help low-income families with children by providing a monthly cash benefit. The idea is to offer short-term support while you work toward financial stability—whether that’s through a job, education, or job training.
You might qualify if:
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You live in Florida
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You have kids under 18 (or under 19 if they’re still in high school)
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You’re pregnant and in your third trimester and can’t work
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You meet income and asset limits
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You’re willing to participate in work activities (unless you qualify for an exemption)
There are also requirements around kids’ school attendance and immunizations, plus you’ll need to cooperate with child support enforcement if a parent isn’t in the home.
How Will You Get Your TCA in May?
Payments are deposited each month onto your EBT card, and the exact date depends on your case number. The state spreads out deposits across the first 28 days of the month. Here’s the breakdown for May 2025:
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Case numbers ending in 00–03: May 1
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04–06: May 2
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07–10: May 3
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11–13: May 4
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14–17: May 5
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18–20: May 6
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21–24: May 7
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25–27: May 8
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28–31: May 9
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32–34: May 10
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35–38: May 11
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39–41: May 12
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42–45: May 13
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46–48: May 14
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49–53: May 15
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54–57: May 16
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58–60: May 17
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61–64: May 18
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65–67: May 19
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68–71: May 20
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72–74: May 21
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75–78: May 22
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79–81: May 23
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82–85: May 24
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86–88: May 25
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89–92: May 26
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93–95: May 27
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96–99: May 28
If your payment doesn’t show up on your EBT card when expected, it’s recommended to wait up to three business days before contacting the DCF. Sometimes delays happen because of weekends or holidays.
What Should You Do to Stay on Track?
To keep getting your benefits smoothly each month, make sure the Department of Children and Families always has your most current address and contact info. You can manage your account and check your payment status online through ACCESS Florida.
Also, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your EBT card. Treat it like a debit card: don’t share your PIN, report any suspicious activity, and let the state know right away if your card is lost or stolen.
Why Timing Matters
For many families, TCA helps cover essential expenses like groceries, diapers, or gas to get to work or school. Knowing when the money comes in helps with budgeting and making sure the essentials are taken care of without added stress.
If you’re new to the program, or something in your household changes (like your income or family size), be sure to report those updates. Not only does this keep you in compliance, but it also helps ensure your benefits match your current situation.
Bottom Line
If you’re receiving TCA in Florida, your May 2025 payment date will depend on your case number and should arrive sometime between May 1 and May 28. Make sure your information is current, watch your card for the deposit, and use the funds to take care of your family’s needs as you move toward greater stability.
