The Ohio Works First Program (OWF) provides cash assistance for up to 36 months to low-income families with children under the age of 19, and low-income pregnant women in their third trimester. It also provides training activities for all adults and minor heads of households which prepare them for employment and self-sufficiency.

The major goal of OWF is to help participants transition from welfare dependency toward personal responsibility, employment and self-sufficiency.

OWF participants are required to participate in work activities a minimum of 30-35 hours per week. An individual self sufficiency contract is written and signed as a commitment to actively participate in reaching their goals. Participating in work activities is a requirement to receive cash assistance. Failure to participate will cause the family to become ineligible for cash assistance for specific periods of time.

Benefits and supportive services available:

  • Assistance with daycare
  • Assistance with transportation
  • Job Placement Assistance
  • Training in interviewing and resume writing
  • Medical coverage
  • Monthly cash assistance

How do I Apply?

1) Obtain & Complete an Application

You can apply online anytime at OHIO BENEFITS.

Or, you may print an application in English or Español.

Or, You may call our office at 419-447-5011 or 800-825-5011 to have an application mailed to you.

Or, you may come to our office and pick up an application.  Click here for our hours and location.

A case worker at our office can help you if you are having problems getting needed information.

2) Return the completed, signed Application

If you apply online, you can submit your application immediately, electronically as part of that process.

Or, you can mail your application to:
Seneca County DJFS
900 E CR 20
Tiffin, OH 448830

Or, submit your application by fax to:  419-447-5345

Or, come to our office. Clients are seen on a first come first serve basis from 8:00 am to 11:30 am, Monday thru Friday. Click here for our hours and location.  You may also place your application in our drop-box next to the main entrance (at the back of the building), after hours.

It is important that you apply online, mail, fax, or deliver your application to our office as soon as possible as it could affect the effective date that you may be eligible to receive benefits.

3) Complete an Interview

To apply for assistance, you or your representative must complete an interview by phone or face to face. We will contact you after you complete and submit your application. The phone or face to face interview will then be scheduled and conducted.

At the time of application items such as citizenship, income, resources and expenses must be verified. Normal processing requires that benefits be issued or the application be denied within 30 days after the date the application is filed.

Note: This is only basic information. An accurate determination of eligibility for assistance requires an application be filed and an interview be conducted regarding each household’s specific situation.

To find out more, contact Seneca County DJFS.

More information may also be obtained from the ODJFS Program Enrollment & Benefit Information Guide.