This study examined young mothers' experiences with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), noting whether changes in the TANF application process for teens were needed and whether the Illinois Department of Human Services was effectively engaging teens in the TANF system. Working with community-based organizations around Chicago, researchers trained young mothers to locate and survey other low-income young mothers. A total of 601 predominantly African American and Hispanic American young mothers age 13-21 years completed interviews. Results show that about one-fourth of the young mothers were told they were ineligible for TANF and left TANF offices without having filled out applications. Those who had applied and were not receiving TANF were in need of education and employment. Almost one quarter of the young mothers receiving TANF at the time of the interview had previously had their assistance cut off or reduced for such reasons as not being in school or missing appointments. Older respondents, who no longer qualified for in-depth case management, were experiencing more hardship than younger respondents. Many of the low-income mothers not receiving TANF were paying for their medical care and child care with cash. Many respondents were not being referred to the Teen Parent Services Program. (SM)