The federal government provides an array of single mom program options that can help in a time of need, depending on the type of assistance required.
Whether money for single moms is necessary for an emergency car repair, putting food on the table, or health insurance, federal aid programs can be a life-saver.
Below are several federal programs for single moms that may offer financial assistance in the form of a grant that does not require repayment.
Financial assistance for single moms
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): When single mothers cannot meet a family’s basic needs, the federal government may provide help through the TANF program. Federal grants for single mothers through TANF are paid by each state so that parents can provide for their children in their own home, when possible.
- Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC): The WIC program is operated through the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a way to help single moms who are considered low-income. Pregnant, breastfeeding, or other postpartum women may qualify for this federal grant if their children are at risk of not getting enough nutrients due to low income.
- Tax Credits: Several tax credits exist that provide money for single moms. The Earned Income Tax Credit is available to eligible working individuals who meet income requirements. The Child Tax Credit is a refundable credit for parents who have children under the age of 17 and meet specific qualifications. These tax credits offer help for single mothers because they may create a tax refund, even when no tax is due for the year.
- Unemployment Aid: The federal government requires employers to participate in the Unemployment Insurance Program, which offers unemployment benefits to eligible workers. Should a single mother lose a job due to no fault of her own, unemployment aid can provide financial assistance until another job is secured.
- Job Corps: The Job Corps is a federal program run by the Department of Labor, specifically for low-income individuals between 16 and 24 who need technical training, education, counseling, or assistance in finding or keeping a job. Single mothers who meet the criteria may receive job training assistance through this program at no cost to them.