Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Alabama
Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Alabama
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- Emergency—immediate danger: Call 911.
- Mental health crisis (24/7): Call or text 988.
- Find local help fast (food, rent, childcare, transportation, disability services): Dial 211, text your ZIP to 898‑211, or call 888‑421‑1266. See 211 Connects Alabama service finder. (211connectsalabama.org)
- Medicaid rides to medical care (Non‑Emergency Transportation): Call 800‑362‑1504. Details at Alabama Medicaid NET program. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- Special education questions or problems: Call Alabama Special Education Services 800‑392‑8020 or 334‑694‑4782. See Alabama State Department of Education – Special Education. (ed.gov)
- Disability legal help (Protection & Advocacy): Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) information at adap.ua.edu. (adap.ua.edu)
- Early Intervention (birth–3): ADRS Early Intervention main line 800‑543‑3098; ADRS state office 800‑441‑7607. See ADRS – Early Intervention and ADRS contact. (rehab.alabama.gov)
- WIC nutrition for moms/children under 5: Call 888‑942‑4673. How to apply: Alabama WIC. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
- Social Security (SSI/SSDI) questions or status: Call 800‑772‑1213. See SSA COLA and SSI 2025 details. (ssa.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | Who It Helps | Key 2025 Numbers | How To Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid for children and caretakers; ALL Kids (CHIP) | Low‑to‑moderate income children under 19; low‑income parents/caretakers | ALL Kids monthly income guidelines effective 2/1/2025 (sample: Family of 4 Medicaid up to 3,912∗∗,Low‑Fee∗∗3,912**, Low‑Fee **3,913–4,180∗∗,Fee∗∗4,180**, Fee **4,181–8,493∗∗);premiums:LowFee∗∗8,493**); premiums: Low Fee **52/year, Fee $104/year; copays per 2025 charts | Apply at Insure Alabama or call ALL Kids 888‑373‑5437. See ALL Kids eligibility and 2/1/2025 income chart (PDF) and premiums/copays. (alabamapublichealth.gov) |
| SNAP (Food Assistance) | Groceries for low‑income households | FY2025 max (48 states): 4‑person household up to 975∗∗/mo;1‑person∗∗975**/mo; 1‑person **291–292∗∗;minbenefit∗∗292**; min benefit **23; gross income limits 130% FPL (e.g., family of 3 $2,798/mo) | Apply via county DHR or online; see Alabama Food Assistance (SNAP) and USDA FY2025 COLA memo. Info lines: Montgomery 334‑242‑0143, outside 800‑382‑0499. (dhr.alabama.gov, fns.usda.gov) |
| WIC | Pregnant/postpartum women, infants, children under 5 | Income up to 185% FPL; state hotline 888‑942‑4673 | Call your county health department or see How to Apply for WIC. (alabamapublichealth.gov) |
| SSI cash benefits (child or adult disability) | Very low income people with disabilities | 2025 federal maximum: individual 967∗∗/mo;couple∗∗967**/mo; couple **1,450/mo | Start at SSA – SSI or call 800‑772‑1213. See SSA 2025 Red Book. (ssa.gov) |
| SSDI | Workers who became disabled | Average disabled‑worker benefit June 2025 $1,582/mo | Apply at SSA – Disability. See SSA OACT facts. (ssa.gov) |
| Medicaid waivers (HCBS) | Keep disabled adults/children at home | E&D Waiver, ID Waiver, LAH, Community Waiver Program (CWP), SAIL, TA Waiver for Adults | Start at Alabama Medicaid Waivers or call appropriate operating agency (ADSS, ADMH, ADRS). (medicaid.alabama.gov) |
| Child care subsidy | Help paying child care while you work/school | Income limits vary by household size; fees/copays sliding scale; numbers updated periodically | See Subsidy Overview and Income Eligibility & Fee Criteria. CMAs process cases. (dhr.alabama.gov) |
| Transportation | Medical rides; child/pregnancy rides | Medicaid NET 800‑362‑1504; Kid One Transport: 800‑543‑7143 (children and pregnant riders) | Medicaid NET rides: Medicaid Transportation. Kid One: kidone.org/contact. (medicaid.alabama.gov, kidone.org) |
What’s Different About This Guide
- Reality first: Clear steps, exact 2025 amounts, phone numbers, and timelines.
- One place for everything: Health coverage, cash benefits, food, waivers, school services, rides, child care, housing leads, and local nonprofits—with direct links to apply.
- Plan B included: Each section ends with next steps if you’re denied or wait‑listed.
- Source transparency: Every number ties back to an official Alabama or federal source.
If You Need Help Today
- Food today: Call 211 and ask for same‑day pantries and hot meal sites near your ZIP, or call DHR Food Assistance at 334‑242‑0143 (Montgomery) or 800‑382‑0499 (statewide). See DHR Food Assistance. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Rides to urgent medical care for a covered Medicaid appointment: Call Medicaid NET 800‑362‑1504 (ask for urgent trip). See Medicaid NET program page. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- Safety concerns at home: For child protection, contact your County DHR (directory via DHR Contact page) or call 911 in emergencies. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Health Coverage for You and Your Child
Medicaid for Children and ALL Kids (CHIP)
Fast action first: Apply online. Tip: If your income is too high for children’s Medicaid, the state will automatically check ALL Kids (CHIP).
- Where to apply: Insure Alabama online application. For help, call 800‑362‑1504 (Medicaid) or ALL Kids Customer Service 888‑373‑5437. See Medicaid Apply and ALL Kids program site. (medicaid.alabama.gov, alabamapublichealth.gov)
- ALL Kids 2025 income levels (monthly, effective 2/1/2025): For a family of 4, Medicaid up to 3,912∗∗;ALLKidsLowFee∗∗3,912**; ALL Kids Low Fee **3,913–4,180∗∗;Fee∗∗4,180**; Fee **4,181–8,493∗∗.Fullchart(1–8persons)inthestatePDF.Premiums:LowFee∗∗8,493**. Full chart (1–8 persons) in the state PDF. Premiums: Low Fee **52/year (max 156∗∗perfamily),Fee∗∗156** per family), Fee **104/year (max $312 per family). 2025 health and dental copays apply; no premiums/copays for the No Fee group. See ALL Kids income guidelines PDF (2/1/2025) and premiums/copays updated 6/4/2025. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
- Pregnancy coverage: Apply under “Medicaid for Pregnant Women” for quick coverage. You can apply online or through county health departments and some hospitals. See Medicaid for Pregnant Women page. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- Language access: ADPH provides free communication assistance. See ADPH Communication Assistance. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
What to gather before you start:
- Photo ID for you; birth certificates or other proof for children.
- Proof of Alabama residency (lease, utility bill).
- Proof of income for everyone who works in your household (last 30 days of pay).
- SSNs for applicants if available.
- If pregnant: proof of pregnancy if available (doctor’s note helps but is not required to apply).
- Typical timelines: Online applications for children are usually processed within 2–4 weeks; pregnant applicants often faster if all proofs are uploaded promptly. (Timelines vary by case.)
Reality check: Alabama has not expanded full Medicaid for most adults; income thresholds for parents/caretakers are very low. If you don’t qualify as a parent/caretaker, apply for your child, then look at Marketplace plans with subsidies. For kids who don’t qualify for Medicaid due to income, ALL Kids fills the gap. See Medicaid general info and ALL Kids program site. (medicaid.alabama.gov, alabamapublichealth.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask ALL Kids to check if you qualify for the “No Fee” group based on updated income, and request help on documents from ALL Kids Customer Service 888‑373‑5437. If denied, appeal promptly (deadline is on your notice) and call 211 to connect to free enrollment assisters. (alabamapublichealth.gov, 211connectsalabama.org)
Disability Cash Benefits (SSI and SSDI)
SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- 2025 maximum federal payment: Individual 967∗∗/mo;eligiblecouple∗∗967**/mo; eligible couple **1,450/mo. See SSA 2025 Red Book “What’s New.” Apply at 800‑772‑1213 or your local SSA office. (ssa.gov)
- Child disability SSI: Based on your child’s medical eligibility and your family’s income/resources. Start here: SSA – SSI for Children and ask SSA to evaluate “deeming” rules for your household. (Use the SSA phone above.)
- Work incentives snapshot (for teens/young adults): 2025 Student Earned‑Income Exclusion up to $9,460/year without reducing SSI when criteria are met. See SSA Red Book. (ssa.gov)
What to bring: medical records, school IEP/504 plans, therapy notes, medication lists, contact info for doctors/clinics, income proofs, bank balance snapshot.
Typical timelines: Initial decisions often take 3–5 months (varies with evidence); you can check status online or by phone. See SSA COLA/Red Book pages. (ssa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal immediately by the deadline on your denial letter. Call ADAP (Alabama’s P&A) for free legal advocacy options, and ask about SSI “emergency advance payment” if you face a health/safety threat while a decision is pending. See ADAP. (adap.ua.edu)
SSDI (Disability based on your work record)
- Average SSDI for disabled workers (June 2025): $1,582/month. See SSA OACT Fact Sheet. (ssa.gov)
- 2025 Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits: Non‑blind 1,620/month∗∗;Blind∗∗1,620/month**; Blind **2,700/month; Trial Work Period month $1,160. See SSA Red Book. (ssa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied, appeal within 60 days (deadline in your notice). Ask a Vocational Rehabilitation (ADRS) counselor for a “Work Incentives Planning” referral if you’re trying to work while on benefits; ADRS main line 800‑441‑7607. (rehab.alabama.gov)
Food and Nutrition
SNAP (Food Assistance)
- 2025 maximum monthly benefits (48 states):
| Household size | Max SNAP |
|---|---|
| 1 | 291–291–292 |
| 2 | 535–535–536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
Minimum benefit for small qualifying households remains $23. See USDA FY2025 COLA memo. (fns.usda.gov)
- Income rules (most households): Gross income at or below 130% FPL (e.g., family of 3 2,798/month∗∗;familyof4∗∗2,798/month**; family of 4 **3,380/month). See USDA FY2025 income table. (fns.usda.gov)
- How to apply: Apply at your County DHR or through DHR’s portal; request expedited SNAP if you have little/no income—some households can get benefits within 7 days. Program page and contact numbers: Food Assistance – Alabama DHR; info lines 334‑242‑0143 and 800‑382‑0499. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Skimming and card theft: DHR offers EBT card security tools. See DHR updates. (dhr.alabama.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 for food pantries and hot meals near you while the application is pending. (211connectsalabama.org)
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
- Who qualifies: Pregnant/postpartum/breastfeeding women, infants, and children under 5 who meet income and nutrition screening. Income up to 185% FPL; if you already get Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you meet WIC income rules. See Alabama WIC Program. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
- How to apply: Call 888‑942‑4673 or your county health department; bring ID, proof of address, and last 30 days of household income (or proof of Medicaid/SNAP/Family Assistance). See How to Apply (updated August 7, 2025). (alabamapublichealth.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about a soonest‑available appointment or cancellation list; call back if you miss a call—clinics cannot leave detailed voicemails.
Medicaid Home & Community‑Based Services (HCBS) Waivers
These programs help you or your child get services at home instead of in a facility. Different agencies run them; waitlists are common.
- Elderly & Disabled (E&D) Waiver: For people who meet nursing‑facility level of care due to age/disability. Operated by Alabama Department of Senior Services (ADSS). See E&D Waiver page. To start, contact your Area Agency on Aging via 1‑800‑AGE‑LINE. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- Intellectual Disabilities (ID) Waiver and Living At Home (LAH) Waiver: For individuals with intellectual disabilities who would otherwise qualify for an ICF/IID. Operated by Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH). See ID Waiver and LAH Waiver. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- Community Waiver Program (CWP): Newer program offering tiered supports by age/living situation for people with ID, focusing on community living and employment. Operated by ADMH. See CWP page. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- State of Alabama Independent Living (SAIL) Waiver: For adults 18+ with severe physical disabilities meeting nursing‑facility level of care (onset before age 63). Operated by Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. Start via SAIL 844‑602‑7245. See SAIL waiver page and ADRS SAIL. (medicaid.alabama.gov, rehab.alabama.gov)
- Technology Assisted (TA) Waiver for Adults: For adults 21+ with trach/ventilator needs who require private duty nursing at home. See TA Waiver page. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
How to apply quickly:
- Step 1: Call the operating agency for the waiver that fits your situation (ADSS for E&D; ADMH for ID/LAH/CWP; ADRS for SAIL; Medicaid for TA Adults). Use the pages above to find the intake phone for your county/region. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- Step 2: Ask to be screened and placed on the waitlist if the program is full. Request written confirmation of your screening date and priority status.
- Step 3: If your child needs immediate therapies or home nursing and is on Medicaid, ask the doctor to write EPSDT “medically necessary” orders; Alabama Medicaid must cover necessary services for under‑21 beneficiaries even if a waiver slot isn’t open.
Common documents: ID, Social Security numbers, Medicaid number (if any), proof of address, medical records, care plans/IEPs, income proofs if requested.
Reality check: Expect waitlists, especially for ID/LAH/CWP. Keep your contact info updated every 6–12 months with the operating agency so you don’t lose your place.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about other HCBS programs or state‑funded services; call 211 to locate community in‑home supports; and connect with local chapters of The Arc for advocacy. See The Arc of Alabama – chapters. (thearcofal.org)
Early Intervention and School Supports
Birth–3: Alabama’s Early Intervention System (AEIS)
- What it provides: Developmental evaluation, service coordination, and supports/therapies in your daily routines.
- How to refer: Call 800‑543‑3098 or contact your local AEIS office through ADRS. See AEIS and ADRS office locator. (rehab.alabama.gov)
- Timeline tip: If your child turns 3, the school district must have an IEP in place by the third birthday. See Alabama Admin. Code. (law.cornell.edu)
Ages 3–21: Special Education and 504
- Key deadlines: After your child is found eligible, the IEP meeting must occur within 30 calendar days, and services should start as soon as possible after the meeting. See Ala. Admin. Code r. 290‑8‑9‑.05. (law.cornell.edu)
- Who to call for help: Alabama Special Education Services 800‑392‑8020; The Arc family advocates; ADRS Children’s Rehabilitation Service (CRS) can collaborate with schools for health‑related needs. See ALSDE Special Education; CRS overview. (ed.gov, rehab.alabama.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If the school delays an evaluation or services, send a dated written request, then call ALSDE Special Education 800‑392‑8020 for guidance. For legal advocacy, contact ADAP. (ed.gov, adap.ua.edu)
Transportation for Medical Care
- Medicaid Non‑Emergency Transportation (NET): For covered appointments, call 800‑362‑1504. Ask about dialysis/radiation standing orders and wheelchair transport if needed. See NET program page. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- Kid One Transport: For children (under 19) and pregnant riders to medical/mental health appointments across much of Alabama. Toll‑free 800‑543‑7143; Birmingham 205‑978‑1000. See Kid One contact. (kidone.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider’s social worker for a medical transportation charity in your county; call 211 for local options. (211connectsalabama.org)
Child Care, Respite, and Taking a Break
- Child care subsidy: Alabama’s CCDF program pays part of child care while you work, train, or attend school. Eligibility and copays depend on household size and income. Check the current chart and apply through your regional Child Care Management Agency. See Subsidy Overview + Income Eligibility & Fee Criteria. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Lifespan Respite (short‑term caregiver relief): Caregiver reimbursement and respite resources for families of children or adults with special needs. Start here: Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network. (alabamarespite.org)
- Children’s Rehabilitation Service (CRS): Clinics, care coordination, therapies for children/youth with special health care needs. ADRS state office 800‑441‑7607. See CRS. (rehab.alabama.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a center has a waitlist, ask for a letter verifying you’re on the waitlist to help with schedule accommodations at work or school; contact 211 to locate church‑based respite nights and parent support groups. (211connectsalabama.org)
Housing Leads (Disability‑Friendly Options)
- Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8): Contact your local Housing Authority for mainstream vouchers or disability preferences. A statewide directory is available from Alabama Association of Housing & Redevelopment Authorities, with contacts like Birmingham Housing Authority (205‑324‑0641). See AAHRA Housing Authority Directory. HUD Alabama resources: HUD Alabama homepage. (aahra.org, hud.gov)
- Fair housing/disability rights in housing: HUD’s Birmingham Field Office can help direct you. See HUD Alabama Customer Service. (hud.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Keep applying to multiple PHAs; ask about “Mainstream” vouchers for non‑elderly people with disabilities; call 211 for shelter or rental assistance leads while you wait. (211connectsalabama.org)
Cash Assistance While You’re Applying for Disability
- Family Assistance (TANF): Alabama’s cash aid is small and time‑limited but can help with basics while you stabilize or apply for SSI/SSDI. Eligibility is based on “payment standards” (for example, family of 3 standard $215). See Alabama Administrative Code Attachment 660‑2‑2‑.03 for the payment standard chart and DHR Family Assistance program page. Apply through your County DHR or online OneAlabama/ACES when available. See Admin. Code payment standards and DHR Family Assistance program pages. (regulations.justia.com, dhr.alabama.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a Family Responsibility Plan review and whether you qualify for disability accommodations within the JOBS program (for example, modified participation). See JOBS Program. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Local Nonprofits and Peer Support You Can Call
- The Arc of Alabama: Advocacy and support for families with intellectual/developmental disabilities statewide; state office 334‑262‑7688 and local chapters in many counties. See The Arc of Alabama – chapters/contacts. (thearcofal.org)
- United Ability (Birmingham): Pediatric/adult clinics, early intervention, day and employment services. Main line 205‑944‑3900. See United Ability contact. (unitedability.org)
- Autism Support of Alabama: Education, support groups, and resource navigation. See About ASA. (autism-alabama.org)
- Centers for Independent Living: Disability Rights & Resources (Birmingham) 205‑251‑2223, plus other CILs across the state listed via ADRS. See ADRS SAIL page resources. (rehab.alabama.gov)
- ADA Hotline (Governor’s Office on Disability): 800‑205‑9986 (voice) or 888‑574‑2257 (TTY) for ADA rights questions. See GOOD ADA Hotline. (good.alabama.gov)
Snapshot Tables You Can Screenshot
Medicaid/ALL Kids Monthly Income Guide (effective 2/1/2025)
| Family Size | Medicaid | ALL Kids Low Fee | ALL Kids Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0–0–1,905 | 1,906–1,906–2,035 | 2,036–2,036–4,135 |
| 2 | 0–0–2,574 | 2,575–2,575–2,750 | 2,751–2,751–5,588 |
| 3 | 0–0–3,243 | 3,244–3,244–3,465 | 3,466–3,466–7,041 |
| 4 | 0–0–3,912 | 3,913–3,913–4,180 | 4,181–4,181–8,493 |
| 5 | 0–0–4,581 | 4,582–4,582–4,895 | 4,896–4,896–9,946 |
| 6 | 0–0–5,250 | 5,251–5,251–5,610 | 5,611–5,611–11,399 |
| 7 | 0–0–5,920 | 5,921–5,921–6,325 | 6,326–6,326–12,852 |
| 8 | 0–0–6,589 | 6,590–6,590–7,040 | 7,041–7,041–14,305 |
Source: ALL Kids income guidelines PDF. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
SNAP FY2025 Maximum Allotments (48 states and DC)
| Household Size | Max SNAP |
|---|---|
| 1 | 291–291–292 |
| 2 | 535–535–536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each add’l | +$220 |
Source: USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
SSI and SSDI Key 2025 Figures
| Program | 2025 Amount |
|---|---|
| SSI individual max (federal) | $967/mo |
| SSI couple max (federal) | $1,450/mo |
| SSDI average disabled worker (June 2025) | $1,582/mo |
| SGA (non‑blind) | $1,620/mo |
| SGA (blind) | $2,700/mo |
| Trial Work Period month | $1,160 |
Sources: SSA Red Book “What’s New in 2025” and SSA OACT Facts. (ssa.gov)
Major Alabama Waivers at a Glance
| Waiver | Who Operates It | Who It Serves | Start Here |
|---|---|---|---|
| E&D | ADSS | Elderly/disabled, NF level of care | E&D Waiver info (medicaid.alabama.gov) |
| ID | ADMH | Children/adults with ID (ICF/IID level) | ID Waiver info (medicaid.alabama.gov) |
| LAH | ADMH | Age 3+ with ID, at home | LAH info (medicaid.alabama.gov) |
| CWP | ADMH | Tiered supports by age/living situation for ID | CWP info (medicaid.alabama.gov) |
| SAIL | ADRS | Adults 18+, severe physical disability | SAIL info (medicaid.alabama.gov) |
| TA Adults | Medicaid | Adults 21+ with trach/vent needs | TA Adults info (medicaid.alabama.gov) |
A Few Housing Authority Contacts (example)
| City | Housing Authority | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Birmingham | Housing Authority of the Birmingham District | 205‑324‑0641 |
Statewide directory: AAHRA HA Directory and HUD’s Alabama pages: HUD Alabama. (aahra.org, hud.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask clinics and schools for privacy and non‑discrimination policies. Tip: If you encounter discrimination in housing, call HUD’s Alabama office or the ADA Hotline. See HUD Alabama Customer Service and GOOD ADA Hotline for tailored guidance. (hud.gov, good.alabama.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Action first: Call ADRS 800‑441‑7607 to connect with Early Intervention (0–3), CRS clinics (0–21), SAIL (adults), and assistive technology reuse/loan options. Ask for help coordinating with schools and waiver programs. See ADRS contact, CRS, and SAIL. (rehab.alabama.gov, rehab.alabama.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Call 211 for veteran‑specific local services and ask about HUD‑VASH leads through your nearest VA Medical Center. See HUD Alabama – Veterans section. (hud.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Children can qualify for Medicaid/ALL Kids based on their own status. Ask for free interpreter services at WIC and Medicaid offices. See WIC – Do You Qualify? and ALL Kids site. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: If you are a citizen of a federally recognized tribe (for example, Poarch Band of Creek Indians), contact your tribe’s health/social services and ask about coordination with Medicaid/CHIP and disability services; also dial 211 for local programs. (211connectsalabama.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Use Medicaid NET 800‑362‑1504 for medical rides and Kid One 800‑543‑7143 if you’re pregnant or traveling with a child to care. Ask providers about telehealth appointments. See Medicaid transportation and Kid One. (medicaid.alabama.gov, kidone.org)
- Single fathers raising disabled children: Every program above applies; list yourself as the caretaker relative. If you hit pushback, call ADRS or The Arc for advocacy. See The Arc of Alabama. (thearcofal.org)
- Language access: You have a right to free interpretation at Medicaid and WIC; ask for it at the front desk or by phone when you book. See WIC page. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying to the wrong program window: Use Insure Alabama so your child is automatically screened for BOTH Medicaid and ALL Kids. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- Missing a call or letter and losing your place: Put all agency numbers in your phone, turn on voicemail, and create calendar reminders for renewal dates and document deadlines in bold.
- Not asking for “expedited” SNAP: If your household has little/no income, request expedited screening; some cases get benefits in 7 days. See USDA SNAP. (fns.usda.gov)
- Waiting for a waiver slot without using EPSDT: For kids on Medicaid, ask the doctor to write EPSDT orders for medically necessary in‑home services while you wait for a waiver.
- School delays after eligibility: Once your child is found eligible, the IEP meeting must be within 30 calendar days. Put requests in writing. See Ala. Admin. Code r. 290‑8‑9‑.05. (law.cornell.edu)
Application Checklist
- IDs and SSNs: Photo ID for you; birth records/SSNs for children if available.
- Proof of Alabama address: Lease, utility bill, or letter with your name and address.
- Income proofs (last 30 days): Pay stubs, child support statement, unemployment letters; self‑employment ledger if applicable.
- Medical documents for disability claims: Doctor letters, diagnoses, hospital discharges, medication list, therapist notes, IEP/504, and contact info for all providers.
- Insurance cards or denial letters: If anyone has employer insurance or recent loss of coverage.
- Bank information (for SSI or TANF questions): Recent balance statements.
Ten Alabama‑Specific FAQs
- How fast can my child get ALL Kids once approved: Most cards arrive within 2–3 weeks after premiums are paid, but urgent care can be coordinated sooner once enrollment shows in the system. See ALL Kids. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
- What are the 2025 SSI amounts in Alabama: Individual 967∗∗/mo;eligiblecouple∗∗967**/mo; eligible couple **1,450/mo (Alabama doesn’t add a statewide supplement). See SSA 2025. (ssa.gov)
- What are the 2025 SNAP max benefits for a family of 4 in Alabama: $975/mo through September 30, 2025. See USDA FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
- Who do I call for Medicaid rides to pediatric therapies: Call 800‑362‑1504 (NET). See Medicaid Transportation. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- My toddler seems delayed—who evaluates in Alabama: AEIS via ADRS. Call 800‑543‑3098 to refer. See ADRS Early Intervention. (rehab.alabama.gov)
- Is there help with child care while I work or train: Yes. See Child Care Subsidy – income eligibility & fees; your local CMA will screen you. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- I need a wheelchair‑accessible ride for my child’s appointment and we’re not on Medicaid: Call Kid One 800‑543‑7143 to see if your route is covered. (kidone.org)
- Where can I get a quick list of disability resources by phone: Call 211 or the ADA Hotline 800‑205‑9986 for referrals. (211connectsalabama.org, good.alabama.gov)
- Who runs the ID/LAH/CWP waivers and how do I get on the list: ADMH runs those waivers; contact your ADMH regional DD office via the waiver pages to request screening/waitlist placement. See CWP and ID/LAH. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- Who helps if my school won’t hold an IEP meeting by the deadline: Call ALSDE Special Education 800‑392‑8020, and contact ADAP for legal advocacy if needed. See ALSDE Special Education. (ed.gov)
What To Do If You Hit Roadblocks
- Ask for accommodations: If a disability or caregiving schedule makes it hard to attend appointments or submit proofs, tell the agency and ask for reasonable accommodations (extra time, phone appointments, interpreter).
- Keep a paper trail: Date‑stamped copies, upload receipts, and save screenshots of submissions (ACES, Insure Alabama, email receipts).
- Escalate politely: If a link is broken or a portal is down, use the agency’s call center and ask for a supervisor callback.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Alabama Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
Program details change often: Benefit amounts, income thresholds, and procedures can change. Always confirm with the relevant agency using the official links and phone numbers provided.
Health information is sensitive: For medical questions, consult your clinician. We secure this site and do not request personal health information.
Sources (selected)
- ALL Kids (CHIP): Eligibility and full income chart effective 2/1/2025; premiums/copays updated 6/4/2025. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
- Medicaid application and program pages: General info; pregnant women; NET transportation. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- USDA SNAP FY2025: Maximum allotments and income limits (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
- WIC Alabama: Program overview and how to apply (updated Aug 7, 2025). (alabamapublichealth.gov)
- SSI/SSDI 2025: SSA COLA/Red Book; OACT Fact Sheet (averages). (ssa.gov)
- Medicaid waivers: E&D (ADSS), ID/LAH/CWP (ADMH), SAIL (ADRS), TA Adults. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
- Education timelines: Ala. Admin. Code r. 290‑8‑9‑.05. (law.cornell.edu)
- Local and statewide supports: 211 Connects Alabama; United Ability; The Arc of Alabama; Autism Support of Alabama; ADA Hotline. (211connectsalabama.org, unitedability.org, thearcofal.org, autism-alabama.org, good.alabama.gov)
What This Guide Adds (Content Gap Notes)
Our focus: exact 2025 amounts; direct application links; phone numbers; waitlist strategies; EPSDT usage while waiting; Alabama‑specific school deadlines; rides you can actually book by phone; nonprofit contacts with working numbers; and Plan B steps in every section.
If you need one‑on‑one guidance, dial 211 or email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll point you to the right Alabama office for your county.
🏛️More Alabama Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Alabama
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
