Federal Poverty Level (FPL) — Utah uses the 48‑State Guidelines (Effective January 15, 2025)

Most important thing to know: Many programs use FPL multipliers (for example, 130% for SNAP, 139% for pregnancy Medicaid, 185% for school meals, 200% for CHIP/WIC) and count everyone living and eating together. Use the tables below to see where you fit. [1]

Reality check: Program rules define countable income and household differently. If your income is slightly above a threshold, still apply—deductions and specific rules may bring you under. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [1]

SNAP (Food Stamps) in Utah

Most important thing to know: If approved, your household’s maximum monthly SNAP for FY2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025) is up to $292 (1 person), $536 (2), $768 (3), $975 (4) and more; minimum benefit in Utah is $23. Apply through myCase or by phone. [2][3]

Eligibility basics: Most households must be at or below 130% FPL gross. Assets limits for FY2025 are $3,000 (standard) and $4,500 if someone is 60+ or disabled. Deductions (standard, shelter, dependent care) can lower countable income. [2]

Verified as of: 09/11/2025. Sources: USDA FNS FY2025 COLA; Utah DWS contacts. [2][3]

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Appeal quickly: You can request a fair hearing through DWS if denied or your amount seems wrong. [3]
• Bridge food options: Use 2‑1‑1 Utah to locate pantries, mobile pantries, and school meal sites. [14]
• Update changes: If income drops or childcare/shelter costs rise, report through myCase to increase benefits. [3]

WIC — Women, Infants & Children (Utah)

Most important thing to know: From July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026, Utah WIC income limits equal 185% FPL (for example, $3,261/month for 2 people; $4,109/month for 3; $4,957/month for 4). If you already have Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you’re income‑eligible. Apply online and book your appointment. [5]

• Apply/appointment: Start at Utah WIC. Pregnant women can count the unborn baby in household size. [5]
• What you get: Monthly eWIC benefits for healthy foods, nutrition counseling, lactation support. [5]

Verified as of: 09/11/2025. Source: Utah WIC official eligibility charts (and ASPE 2025 FPL linkage). [5][1]

What to do if this doesn’t work

• No clinic nearby: Ask about remote certifications or different clinic sites via the WIC scheduler. [5]
• Denied but pregnant: Ask about “adjunctive eligibility” if you get SNAP/Medicaid/TANF. [5]

Medicaid & CHIP for Moms and Kids (Utah)

Most important thing to know: Utah covers pregnant women to 139% FPL with 12 months postpartum. Children often qualify at 200% FPL (Medicaid/CHIP), and Utah offers a State CHIP option (also at 200% FPL) for certain non‑citizen children. Apply with DWS/myCase. [8][7][6][10]

Verified as of: 09/11/2025. Sources: Utah Medicaid pregnancy page; DWS Baby Your Baby; CHIP policy Table I. Always confirm final eligibility with DWS; some programs consider net vs. gross income and specific deductions. [7][8][6]

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Over the pregnancy income limit: Ask DWS about the Pregnant Woman Medically Needy (spenddown) option. [8]
• Denied rides: Call DWS or ModivCare to review eligibility, and keep appointment proof to appeal. [16]

Cash Help — Family Employment Program (FEP, Utah’s TANF cash)

Most important thing to know: If you have a minor child at home and very low income, you may qualify for monthly FEP cash. Example maximum payments by household (monthly): $383 (1), $531 (2), $662 (3), $775 (4), $882 (5). FEP is time‑limited and requires an employment plan. Apply via DWS. [9]

• Apply: myCase (DWS) or call 1‑866‑435‑7414. [3]
• Two‑parent households: FEP‑TP has stricter time limits and “pay‑after‑performance” rules; ask your employment counselor. Learn more. [10]

Reality check: FEP amounts are modest and linked to participation. Set reminders for appointments and activity logs to avoid payment delays. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [9]

What to do if this doesn’t work

• No FEP eligibility: Ask about General Assistance (for adults short‑term disabled) or one‑time Emergency Assistance through DWS. [9]
• Cash timing: Most financial benefits load on the 1st; some on the 5th/20th depending on your plan. Confirm with your counselor. Details. [10]

Child Care Help (Utah Child Care Subsidy)

Most important thing to know: Utah can help pay a large part of licensed child care while you work or train. Initial and ongoing eligibility can go up to 85% of State Median Income. Example thresholds shown by DWS: household of 3 up to $6,637/mo; household of 6 up to $10,430/mo at review. You must work at least 15 hours/week (different for two‑parent homes). [10][4]

• Apply: Use myCase. Choose a licensed/approved provider. [4]
• Rules (high level): Child must be under 13 (or under 18 with special needs); you must meet work/training minimums; copay depends on income. Program page. [4]
• Find providers: Search at DWS Doorway — Child Care Assistance and careaboutchildcare.utah.gov (linked inside). [10]

Verified as of: 09/11/2025. Sources: DWS Child Care pages (Employment Support and Doorway). For exact copays, DWS will calculate based on your case. [4][10]

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Waitlists or provider not approved: Ask about becoming an approved relative/FFN provider or find another licensed site in network. [4]
• Hours vary seasonally: If you’re seasonal (farm, tourism), tell DWS about breaks to keep coverage during short gaps. [4]

Energy & Utility Help — HEAT (LIHEAP) and Weatherization

Most important thing to know: Utah’s HEAT program uses up to 150% FPL for eligibility, with crisis help for shut‑off notices. Typical FY2025 benefits range from about $190–$850; crisis aid can go up to $2,000. Apply online; elderly/disabled/under‑6 may apply a month earlier. [12][11]

Verified as of: 09/11/2025. Sources: HEAT (DWS) and LIHEAP Clearinghouse (HHS); Weatherization (DWS). [12][11][13]

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Utility shutoff pending: Call your local HEAT office the same day and ask for crisis processing. [12]
• Behind on rent: ERAP ended; contact HUD Utah for housing counselors and your county’s Community Action agency. [20]

School & Summer Meals for Kids

Most important thing to know: Starting July 1, 2025, Utah’s HB 100 (Food Security Amendments) makes K‑12 students who previously qualified for reduced‑price lunch eligible for no‑cost lunch statewide. Free meal eligibility at ≤130% FPL remains; reduced‑price band (≤185% FPL) now receives lunch at no cost. Check with your school for breakfast policies. [18][19]

• School-year meals: Ask your district’s Child Nutrition office how HB 100 is implemented for your grade level and whether breakfast is included. USBE NSLP program page. [21]
• Summer meals: Find open sites via your district or USBE’s SFSP page. [21]

Verified as of: 09/11/2025. Sources: Utah Legislature bill page and enrolled status (HB0100), USBE program pages. [18][19][21]

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Application issues: Ask the district for direct certification if you receive SNAP/TANF/Medicaid (automatic in many cases). [21]
• No site nearby in summer: Call 2‑1‑1 Utah to locate mobile meal sites or partner locations. [14]

2025 Federal Tax Credits Most Utah Single Moms Rely On

Most important thing to know: Claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC) when you file your 2025 return in 2026. File early and use direct deposit to get refunds faster. Verify income and amounts using official IRS figures below. [17][18]

Application Checklist (Taxes)

• W‑2/1099 from every job and unemployment/PFL forms if any
• Social Security numbers for you and children (required for EITC/CTC)
• Childcare provider statement (if claiming Dependent Care credit)
• Direct deposit info (routing/account) to speed refunds

Verified as of: 09/11/2025. Sources: IRS Rev. Proc. 2024‑40 and IRS EITC Tables page. If any figure conflicts with current IRS postings: Check current IRS guidance. [17][18]

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Need free filing help: Look up VITA sites via 2‑1‑1 Utah or irs.gov/VITA. [14]
• Refund delay: Use “Where’s My Refund?” at irs.gov; respond promptly to IRS letters. [18]

Housing: Vouchers, Local Housing Authorities, and State Options

Most important thing to know: Housing Choice Voucher waitlists open and close by county. Start by contacting your local Public Housing Authority and ask to be notified when lists open. [24]

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Waitlist is closed: Ask the PHA whether “preferences” (domestic violence, homelessness, veteran status) could prioritize you when lists open. [24]
• No rental help available: Talk with HUD counselors and use 2‑1‑1 to find churches/charities offering one‑time aid. [20][14]

Food Today — No‑Cost, Walk‑Up Options

Most important thing to know: If you need groceries today, use the Utah Food Bank map or call 2‑1‑1 to find a nearby pantry or mobile pantry. Bring a photo ID if you have one; many sites accept a simple self‑declaration. [15][14]

• Pantry finder: Utah Food Bank — Find a Pantry. [15]
• Mobile pantry route: Mobile Pantry Map. [27]
• Talk to a specialist: 2‑1‑1 Utah (call 2‑1‑1 or 888‑826‑9790; text ZIP to 801‑845‑2211). [14]

Verified as of: 09/11/2025. Sources: Utah Food Bank; 2‑1‑1 Utah. [15][14]

Safety: Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Trafficking

Most important thing to know: If you feel unsafe, call 911. For confidential help and shelter referrals anywhere in Utah, call the Utah Domestic Violence LINKLine 1‑800‑897‑LINK (5465). Interpreters are available. [22]

• Domestic violence statewide: Utah DV hotline 1‑800‑897‑5465; National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233. [22]
• Sexual assault help: Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault (24/7) English 801‑736‑4356; Español 801‑924‑0860. [30]

Verified as of: 09/11/2025. Sources: Utah DPS resource page; UCASA. [22][30]

Diverse Communities — Tailored Help

Most important thing to know: Utah agencies and partners can connect you with specialized services. Tell the caseworker which community you identify with to unlock the right supports and legal protections.

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: You can access SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, HEAT, and childcare like any applicant. If you face discrimination at a provider, call 2‑1‑1 Utah for an alternate site and report issues to the agency’s civil rights office. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [14]
• Single mothers with disabilities or a disabled child: Ask DWS about accommodations for appointments and documents; HEAT prioritizes seniors/disabled and households with children under 6. For Medicaid transport, ask about paratransit or ModivCare eligibility. HEAT; Medicaid NEMT. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [12][16]
• Veteran single mothers: Your family remains eligible for mainstream benefits. For housing or counseling, ask 2‑1‑1 for VA HUD‑VASH contacts and county veteran services; PHAs may have preferences for veterans. Utah PHA list. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [24][14]
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many programs are “person‑based”—eligible children (U.S. citizens/LPRs) can receive food/medical aid even if you are not eligible. Ask about State CHIP for certain non‑citizen children (200% FPL). DWS State CHIP overview. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [10]
• Tribal‑specific resources: If you are a member of the Navajo Nation living in Utah portions of the Nation, ask about Tribal TANF (Navajo Nation DSR), Navajo WIC, or FDPIR. Contacts: Navajo Nation Department for Self Reliance (TANF) 928‑810‑8553; Navajo WIC 928‑871‑6732; FDPIR 928‑871‑6537. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [28][29]
• Single fathers: Utah’s programs are gender‑neutral. If you’re the custodial parent, you can apply for SNAP, FEP, WIC for your child, childcare subsidy, and HEAT. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [3][5]
• Language access: DWS and Medicaid offer interpreter services. For Relay Utah: dial 711 (Spanish 888‑346‑3162). DWS contact page. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [3]

Resources by Region — One‑Call Navigation

• 2‑1‑1 Utah statewide: Call 2‑1‑1 or 888‑826‑9790; text ZIP to 801‑845‑2211; or use the app/website to search services by county. Find help. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [14]
• Utah Food Bank network: Use the interactive map to see pantry hours in your county (including mobile routes for frontier areas). Find a Pantry. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [15]
• Local PHAs & waitlists: Use the state directory to call your regional housing authority for voucher/public housing openings. PHA directory. Verified as of 09/11/2025. [24]

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing documents: Always upload or fax the verification checklist items by the deadline. Late items can delay or deny benefits. [3]
• Not reporting changes: Report new childcare costs, rent increases, or job loss quickly—your SNAP/Medicaid could rise. [3][2]
• Using wrong household size: For pregnancy, count the unborn baby for WIC/Medicaid; for SNAP, list those who buy/cook together. [5][7][2]
• Skipping appeals: If you disagree with a decision, request a fair hearing. Keep notices and call logs. [3]

Application Checklist (General)

• Photo ID (if available) and Social Security numbers for eligible members
• Proof of address (lease, utility bill, letter)
• Last 30 days of income (pay stubs, self‑employment logs, benefits letters)
• Childcare bills, rent/mortgage, and utility bills (for deductions)
• Prenatal/medical appointment cards (if applying for pregnancy Medicaid or NEMT)

Emergency Playbook

• Food tonight: Find a pantry or call 2‑1‑1. [15][14]
• Heat/power shut‑off: Call HEAT crisis line 866‑205‑4357 and your utility; ask for medical or crisis holds if applicable. [12][11]
• Unsafe at home: 1‑800‑897‑LINK for Utah DV hotline; 911 if immediate danger. [22]
• No ride to the doctor (Traditional Medicaid): Call ModivCare 1‑855‑563‑4403 (schedule 3 business days ahead). [16]

Utah‑Specific FAQs (2025)

SNAP

• How much can I get? It depends on income and deductions. The maximum for a family of 4 is $975/month in FY2025. Many families receive less. [2]
• How do I apply? Use myCase or call 1‑866‑435‑7414 for an interview. [3]

WIC

• Am I income‑eligible? For 3 people (mom + 2 kids), the 2025–26 WIC limit is $4,109/month. If you get SNAP/Medicaid/TANF, you’re already income‑eligible. Apply online. [5]

Medicaid & CHIP

• Does pregnancy coverage last after birth? Yes, Utah provides 12 months postpartum coverage if you qualified. Baby is covered through the month of the first birthday if mom had Medicaid at birth. [7][8]
• Is transport included? Traditional Medicaid covers non‑emergency medical transportation via UTA transit cards or ModivCare. [16]

Cash (FEP)

• How much can I get? Example max: $662 for 3; $775 for 4. Participation is required and there’s a lifetime limit. [9]

Child Care

• What income qualifies? Utah uses up to 85% SMI. Example: household of 3 may qualify up to about $6,637/mo (DWS example). Apply through myCase. [10]

Energy

• When can I apply for HEAT? Seniors/disabled/under‑6: from Oct 1; general public from Nov 1; both until Sep 30 or funds end. [12]

School Meals

• What changed for 2025–26? Under HB 100, K‑12 students who were “reduced‑price” now receive no‑cost lunch. Check your district for breakfast rules. [18][19]

Taxes

• What’s the EITC this year? Up to $8,046 with 3+ kids; refunds with EITC typically arrive by early March if you e‑file with direct deposit and there are no issues. [18]

Housing

• Where do I start? Call your local PHA to learn when waitlists open; ask about preferences. Use the state PHA directory. [24]

Verified as of: 09/11/2025. See sources cited after each answer.

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: We use only primary government and established statewide nonprofit sources, and we verify amounts against current federal/state publications. See source index below. Verified as of 09/11/2025.

• Official sources used (examples): U.S. HHS (ASPE) for 2025 FPL; USDA FNS for SNAP COLA; IRS Rev. Proc. 2024‑40 and EITC tables; Utah DWS for applications, FEP, HEAT, child care; Utah Medicaid pregnancy/NEMT; Utah CHIP; USBE program pages; Utah Legislature (HB 100). [1][2][3][5][6][7][8][10][12][16][18][19][21]
• Editorial standards: We quote income limits from official pages, link to calculators, and correct verified errors fast per our Editorial Policy. [0]

Accuracy notes: Benefit amounts and eligibility change during the year. If a figure here doesn’t match your agency notice, the notice controls. Please email corrections to info@asinglemother.org; we respond within 48 hours. Verified as of 09/11/2025.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information for Utah single parents seeking public benefits. It is not legal, tax, or case‑specific advice. Only the administering agency can make an eligibility decision on your case. Income calculations, deductions, resources, immigration status, student rules, and local procedures can change your outcome. For taxes, the IRS issues yearly inflation updates and may change amounts after legislation—always check current IRS publications when you file. For housing, most programs operate waitlists and preference systems; funding levels vary by county. If in doubt, apply anyway and ask for a written notice explaining any denial. Verified as of 09/11/2025.

Source Index

1. U.S. HHS — 2025 Poverty Guidelines (ASPE). Effective 01/15/2025. [1]
2. USDA FNS — SNAP FY2025 COLA (maximum allotments, standards). Effective 10/01/2024. [2]
3. Utah DWS — Contact Eligibility Services (phones, mail/fax, hearings). [3]
4. Utah DWS — Child Care Assistance (program overview). [4]
5. Utah WIC — Apply & Income Eligibility (07/01/2025–06/30/2026). [5]
6. Utah CHIP Policy — Table I Income Limits (Effective 03/01/2025). [6]
7. Utah Medicaid — Pregnant Woman Program (12 months postpartum). [7]
8. Utah DWS — “Baby Your Baby” (pregnancy/child coverage basics). [8]
9. Utah DWS — FEP “How Much Money Will I Receive” (cash table). [9]
10. Utah DWS — Employment Support Child Care (examples, rules). [10]
11. HHS LIHEAP Clearinghouse — Utah Profile (FY2025 benefits). [11]
12. Utah DWS — HEAT (LIHEAP) program page (dates, 150% FPL). [12]
13. Utah DWS — Weatherization Assistance Program. [13]
14. 2‑1‑1 Utah — Statewide resource navigation. [14]
15. Utah Food Bank — Get Help & Pantry Finder. [15]
16. Utah Medicaid — Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). [16]
17. IRS — Internal Revenue Bulletin 2024‑45 (Rev. Proc. 2024‑40, TY2025 inflation). [17]
18. IRS — EITC Tables (Tax Year 2025). [18]
19. Utah Legislature — HB 100 bill page (Food Security Amendments). [19]
20. HUD — Utah state page (counselors, eviction resources). [20]
21. Utah State Board of Education — Summer Food Service Program. [21]
22. Utah DPS — Domestic Violence resources (hotlines). [22]
23. IRS IRM — EITC investment income limits (TY2025). [23]
24. Utah — Public Housing Authorities directory. [24]
25. Utah Office of State Treasurer — Utah Homes Investment Program. [25]
26. HUD — 2025 FHA loan limits press release. [26]
27. Utah Food Bank — Mobile Pantry Map. [27]
28. Navajo Nation — Department for Self Reliance (Tribal TANF). [28]
29. USDA FNS — Navajo Nation WIC contact; FDPIR. [29]
30. Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault — Community resources & hotlines. [30]
31. ASingleMother.org — Editorial Policy. [0]