The highest- and lowest-paying states

2008 monthly welfare benefit for a single-parent family of three

1. Alaska $923

2. California $723

3. Vermont $709*

4. New York $738*

5. Connecticut $674*

16. Minnesota $532

46. Louisiana $240

47. Alabama $215

48. Arkansas $204

49. Tennessee $185

50. Mississippi $170

* Highest of several benefit levels in the state Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities