Financial Help for Single Mothers - Where It Can Be Found

Being a single parent can be rewarding and hard at the same time. Today, with a struggling economy, being a single mom is even harder than it was a decade ago. That is why it is important to know what types of financial help for single mothers are available.

Food Stamps

Unlike the food stamps that people who were struggling financially used years ago, today single moms can apply for and receive a food stamp card. This works just like a debit card which makes asking for and receiving help a little less embarrassing. No one but you and the cashier will know that you are using assistance to purchase your food.

WIC

WIC, or the Women Infant and Children program, provide monetary assistance for breastfeeding women, infants, and children in the form of pre-written checks. These checks are for specific food use such as infant formula, dairy products, and other pre-approved nutritional items. To be eligible for the program women must apply through their local department of social services.

Medicaid

Medicaid is medical insurance that is made available to low-income families. This source of financial help for single moms is of great benefit as it can help single mothers save thousands of dollars on medical bills. To qualify for Medicaid the single mother must meet specific financial criteria. If these guidelines are met then Medicaid will be awarded so that the mother may seek out medical care for her children at a reduced cost. Filing for Medicaid can be done at the local department of social services.

Utility Assistance

Electric and water are two very important utilities that seem to cost the most to keep on each month. Electricity alone can run the average household as much as $150 a month. Water may not cost as much but it can still cost. If a single mother is lucky enough to not have to worry about paying for water because of a personal well, the electric bill is still a worry. This is why many electric companies now provide financial assistance to low-income families who qualify based on a set of strict monetary standards. To find out if there is a program that will benefit your family simply contact your electric company.

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