Single Parent Benefits
Let’s face it… being a single parent can sometimes leave you feeling as if there is nothing you can do to ‘catch up’ financially. When a significant other or spouse shares the responsibility of raising a child with you, all of the major necessities are usually split equally. These expenses can include rent, medical fees, car loans, daycare, etc. When you are a single parent, however, you are solely responsible for them which can cause financial hardship. With some of the benefits outlined below, single parents can begin raising their head above water and possibly even surpass their ‘catch-up’ financial goals.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal-state program that provides health insurance coverage to certain categories of low-income individuals, including children, pregnant women, parents of eligible children, etc. Medicaid was created to help low-income individuals who fall into one of these eligibility categories pay for some or all of their medical bills. If you are a parent with low income, the United States Medicaid program may be able to assist you in shared medical costs.
Food Stamps
Anyone can apply for food stamps. To get food stamps, however, you and the other people in your household must meet certain conditions. Everyone who is applying in your household must have or apply for a Social Security number and be either a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or have status as a qualified alien. The amount of food stamps you are eligible for monthly varies on each individual’s criteria.
Grants & Cash Assistance
Your state’s Department of Children and Families can offer both grants as well as cash assistance to those individuals who qualify for this benefit. The amount depends on each individual’s circumstance.
These programs are designed to help single parents get on their feet and take steps toward self sufficiency. In other words, they are not to be abused. When applying for these benefits, be truthful of all of your income, assets, liabilities, etc so that your social worker can properly evaluate your needs.
