Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in New Mexico
Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in New Mexico
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box — Fastest Actions You Can Take Today
- Emergency or danger: Call 911.
- Mental health crisis (24/7): Call 988 or the New Mexico Crisis & Access Line at 1-855-662-7474 (TTY 1-855-227-5485). See the official resource for details. (nmcrisisline.com)
- Find local help now (food, rent, utilities, shelters): Dial 211 (United Way) or call (505) 245-1735 for North Central New Mexico. Hours vary by region. (uwncnm.org, uwswnm.org)
- Apply for benefits online: Use YES.NM portal (apply for SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, LIHEAP) or call the Consolidated Customer Service Center at 1-800-283-4465. Field office finder and hours are posted by the state. (hsd.state.nm.us)
- If your child is under age 3 and has delays or a new diagnosis: Call the Family Infant Toddler (FIT) Early Intervention line at 1-877-696-1472 to request a free evaluation. (nmececd.org)
- SNAP (food help) quick check: New Mexico uses a gross income limit up to 200% FPL; a family of 4 may qualify up to $5,200/month before taxes. Apply at YES.NM or call 1-800-283-4465. (hca.nm.gov)
Why this guide and how it’s different
Who this is for: Single mothers in New Mexico raising children with disabilities or complex medical needs.
What you’ll get: Exact dollar amounts, phone numbers, timelines, required documents, and direct links to official state and federal sources. We also include work‑around plans when the first option stalls.
Our promise: We only cite official government or established nonprofit sources and keep amounts current. See the “About This Guide” section near the end.
Hotlines, crisis and urgent resources
- Mental health, suicide, substance use (24/7): 988 or 1-855-662-7474; text/TTY available; multilingual support. Download the NMConnect app for quick access. (nmcrisisline.com)
- United Way 211 (referrals for food, shelter, utilities, caregiving): Dial 211 or (505) 245-1735 (North Central NM). Hours vary by county; free and confidential. (uwncnm.org, uwswnm.org)
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222 (national).
- Report abuse/neglect of vulnerable adults: Call your local law enforcement or 1-855-662-7474 for immediate crisis support; the NMCAL can route next steps. (nmcrisisline.com)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | Who it helps first | Key number(s) | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (food) | Households up to 200% FPL; higher deductions for disability expenses | 1-800-283-4465 | YES.NM application; outreach info includes income and max benefits by household size. (hca.nm.gov) |
| Medicaid (Turquoise Care) & EPSDT | Children with disabilities (comprehensive medical, therapies, equipment) | 1-800-283-4465 | Turquoise Care overview and plan options. (hca.nm.gov) |
| Katie Beckett/Disabled Child at Home (Medicaid Category 042 via institutional/waiver rules) | Children with severe disabilities regardless of parent income | See Medicaid “IC/Waiver” standard $2,901/month (child’s countable income) | Apply through ISD/YES.NM; see Medicaid ABD financials (MAD‑029). (hca.nm.gov) |
| Medically Fragile Waiver (MFW) | Children with medically fragile conditions and DD | 1-800-238-5548 or 1-800-283-8415 | Registration via ISD and DDSD; program page lists services and contacts. (nmhealth.org, hsd.state.nm.us) |
| DD Waiver / Mi Via (self‑directed) | Children with IDD/related conditions; long waitlist | 505-350-0034, 505-470-5825 | DD Waiver Intake/Pre‑Service; Mi Via program info and contacts. (hca.nm.gov) |
| LIHEAP (utilities) | Households ≤150% FPL | 1-800-283-4465 | LIHEAP point & income guide and YES.NM. (hca.nm.gov) |
| TANF (New Mexico Works cash aid) | Very low-income families; caregiver exemptions for disability | 1-800-283-4465 | ISD field offices/YES.NM; payment standards in NMAC. (hsd.state.nm.us, casetext.com) |
| WIC | Pregnant/postpartum and kids <5 | 1-800-832-1321 (state), 505-841-4856 (ABQ), 505-827-9961 (Santa Fe) | USDA CVB amounts; apply via DOH/ECECD. (nmececd.org, fns.usda.gov) |
| ABLE (NM STABLE) | Save for disability costs without losing SSI/Medicaid | 1-800-439-1653 | NM STABLE/ABLE New Mexico info; IRS limit. (ablenewmexico.com, irs.gov) |
Getting and keeping food assistance (SNAP) when you care for a disabled child
Start here: Apply at YES.NM, by phone at 1-800-283-4465, or at your nearest ISD field office. (hsd.state.nm.us)
Eligibility basics: New Mexico raised SNAP gross income screening to 200% of FPL for all households. Example: A family of four can qualify with gross income up to $5,200/month (before taxes); maximum monthly allotments for FY 2025 are listed below. Verify deductions such as excess shelter and out-of-pocket medical costs. (hca.nm.gov, fns.usda.gov)
FY 2025 SNAP maximum allotments (48 states incl. NM)
| Household size | Max monthly benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each additional | + $220 |
Source: USDA FNS FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
Documents you’ll need:
- Photo ID and Social Security numbers (if available).
- Proof of income (pay stubs or award letters like SSI).
- Proof of rent/mortgage and utilities.
- Medical expense receipts (co-pays, equipment, transportation to care) for higher deductions.
- Proof of disability (SSI award letter or doctor statements) if available.
Apply online, upload docs, or submit at an ISD field office; hours and contact details are posted by the state. Phone help: 1-800-283-4465. (hsd.state.nm.us)
Timelines: Regular applications are typically decided within 30 days; expedited cases (very low income/resources) may be decided in 7 days. Check your case status via YES.NM or call 1-800-283-4465. (Expedited processing timelines are federal standards; confirm any updates with ISD.) (fns.usda.gov)
Reality check: Verification calls or requests for more proof can slow approvals. Answer unknown numbers and upload/submit documents promptly.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to speak with a supervisor at 1-800-283-4465; visit a field office; or call 211 for local food banks during the gap. Outreach guidance and current income/benefit examples are posted by HCA. (hca.nm.gov)
Medicaid for children with disabilities (Turquoise Care, EPSDT, and “Katie Beckett” options)
Start here: Apply at YES.NM or call 1-800-283-4465 to enroll in Medicaid. Most members choose a Turquoise Care health plan (Blue Cross, Molina, Presbyterian, or UnitedHealthcare). Plan contacts are on the state’s health plan page and include transportation benefits. (hca.nm.gov)
Key benefit: For every Medicaid‑enrolled child, EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic & Treatment) covers medically necessary services to “correct or ameliorate” conditions—therapies, nursing, home health, equipment, supplies, behavioral health, dental, vision, and more. Ask your plan for EPSDT care coordination. (hca.nm.gov)
Children’s Medicaid & EPSDT essentials:
- EPSDT scope includes PT/OT/SLP, private duty nursing, home health aides, behavioral services, specialized medical equipment, nutrition, and more when medically necessary. Prior authorization is required for most therapy beyond evaluations. (hca.nm.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Your MCO arranges rides (Modivcare or partner). Examples: Blue Cross ride line 1-866-913-4342; Presbyterian ride assist 1-855-774-7737; UnitedHealthcare Member Services 1-877-236-0826; Molina transportation via Superior (833) 707-7100. Schedule at least 2–3 business days ahead. (bcbsnm.com, phs.org, uhc.com, molinahealthcare.com)
- Choosing a plan: Review each plan’s “value‑added services” (extra caregiver support, rewards, etc.). Turquoise Care launched July 1, 2024; four MCOs are active statewide. (hca.nm.gov)
“Katie Beckett” style coverage (Child living at home with a disability)
If your child’s needs are high but your income is over Medicaid limits, ask about Category 042 / institutional eligibility (often called “Katie Beckett” or “Disabled Child Living at Home”). Financial eligibility is based on the child’s income and resources—not yours—using institutional/waiver rules. For 2025, the institutional/waiver income standard is $2,901/month (equal to 300% of the SSI individual rate). Contact ISD or your field office to open this path. (hca.nm.gov)
Required documents:
- Medical records showing level‑of‑care needs (e.g., nursing, frequent therapies, complex equipment).
- Child’s income/resources (if any).
- Insurance info and provider list.
- Functional assessments if available.
Timeline: Expect several weeks for financial and medical eligibility review; respond quickly to requests from ISD and the utilization review agent.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask ISD about other Medicaid categories (e.g., standard children’s coverage via income, disability‑related options) and apply for waiver programs (below). If denied, request a Fair Hearing by the stated deadline on your notice.
Medicaid Home and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) waivers for children
Medically Fragile Waiver (MFW)
Start here: Call 1-800-238-5548 (program manager contact at DOH/DDSD) or 1-800-283-8415 for enrollment information. You will register (MAD 325) through ISD; DDSD manages a central registry and allocations are first‑come, first‑served as funding allows. Services include RN case management, private duty nursing, home health aides, respite, therapies, equipment, nutritional counseling, and home/vehicle modifications. (nmhealth.org, hsd.state.nm.us, hca.nm.gov)
Financial rules: Follows Medicaid “Category 95/waiver” rules; see the 2025 ABD chart (IC/Waiver income standard 2,901/month∗∗;resourcelimitgenerally∗∗2,901/month**; resource limit generally **2,000 for the individual). (hca.nm.gov)
Timeline: Registration date matters. Allocations depend on legislative funding; keep contact info current and answer calls.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for Mi Via or DD Waiver if criteria fit; request EPSDT services through your child’s MCO while you wait. (hca.nm.gov)
Developmental Disabilities Waiver (DD Waiver) and Supports Waiver
Start here: Contact the Pre‑Service Intake Bureau at 505-350-0034 or 505-470-5825 to submit a DD Waiver application. You’ll be placed on the Central Registry; eligibility is based on IDD or a related condition with onset before age 22 and substantial functional limits. There is a long wait list (“several years” is common). (hca.nm.gov, nmhealth.org)
Supports Waiver: An interim option for people on the DD Waiver wait list; you keep your place on the list even if you accept Supports Waiver. (hca.nm.gov)
Mi Via (self‑directed waiver): Lets you direct your child’s services within an approved budget (you, as Employer of Record, hire workers, purchase goods/services). Program information and staff contacts are posted by the state; Comagine Health handles medical eligibility; Conduent serves as the Financial Management Agency. Contacts include 866-962-2180 (Comagine) and 505-924-2010 (Conduent). (nmhealth.org, hsd2024-cf.rtscustomer.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Medicaid plan for EPSDT case management and prior auth for therapies/equipment; check if your child can qualify under MFW; call 211 for local respite/relief programs while waiting. (hca.nm.gov)
Health plan transportation, lodging, and travel tips
- Schedule early: Call your plan’s transportation vendor at least 48–72 hours before the appointment. Bring your member ID, date/time, provider name/address, and any special needs (e.g., wheelchair). Blue Cross (Modivcare) 1-866-913-4342; Presbyterian Ride Assist 1-855-774-7737 / Albuquerque 505-923-6300; UnitedHealthcare 1-877-236-0826; Molina (Superior) (833) 707-7100. (bcbsnm.com, phs.org, uhc.com, molinahealthcare.com)
- Mileage or meals: Ask about reimbursement forms for meals/lodging when you must travel far for pediatric specialists. Forms and instructions are posted by Modivcare and the MCOs. (modivcare.com)
- If a ride is late: Call the ride assist line (e.g., BCBS Ride Assist 1-866-418-9829) or your plan’s member services. (bcbsnm.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your MCO’s care coordination line to escalate and request standing orders for recurring therapy. If denials persist, file an appeal and request continuation of benefits if applicable; plan websites show grievance/appeal steps. (hca.nm.gov)
Cash aid and utility help
TANF cash assistance (New Mexico Works)
Start here: Apply at YES.NM or call 1-800-283-4465. New Mexico increased benefit standards; current “standard of need” equals the maximum grant when there’s no countable income. For a family of four, the standard of need is $663/month (effective in current NMAC). Income limits are tied to 85% of FPL gross; resource limits also apply. (casetext.com)
Common exemptions: Caregivers of a family member with a disability can often receive work requirement exemptions—ask your ISD worker for documentation requirements.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider General Assistance (GA) if the custodial parent is disabled and not eligible for TANF/SSI; GA provides a small cash grant to certain disabled adults or unrelated children. (hca.nm.gov)
LIHEAP (heating/cooling)
Start here: Apply at YES.NM or call 1-800-283-4465. For FFY 2025, households up to 150% FPL qualify (e.g., 3,900/month∗∗forafamilyof4).Benefitpointsadd∗∗3,900/month** for a family of 4). Benefit points add **35 per point; extra points for a child under 5, a disabled member, or age 60+. (hca.nm.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to locate local cooling/heating assistance and weatherization programs. (uwncnm.org)
WIC for pregnant/postpartum moms and kids under 5
Start here: Call 1-800-832-1321 (statewide), 505-841-4856 (Albuquerque), or 505-827-9961 (Santa Fe) for locations and eligibility. Income limit is ≤185% FPL (per USDA WIC policy), plus nutritional risk screening. (nmececd.org, fns.usda.gov)
FY 2025 monthly cash value benefit (CVB) for fruits/vegetables:
- Children: $26
- Pregnant & postpartum: $47
- Mostly/fully breastfeeding: $52
Amounts effective Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about “adjunct” eligibility if you already get Medicaid or SNAP; call 211 for nearby pantries while waiting. (uwncnm.org)
Social Security benefits for disabled children (SSI)
Start here: Apply for SSI for your child through the Social Security Administration. For 2025, the federal benefit rate (FBR) is 967/month∗∗foraneligibleindividualand∗∗967/month** for an eligible individual and **1,450/month for an eligible couple. Deeming rules apply to parent income when the child lives at home. (ssa.gov)
Tip: If your child receives SSI, it usually opens income‑related Medicaid eligibility automatically. Keep SSA letters and report changes on time.
Timelines: Initial determinations often take 3–5 months; complex medical records can extend this. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local SSA office to check status. (ssa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal within the deadline on your denial letter (usually 60 days). Consider reapplying if your child’s condition or your income changes.
Save without losing benefits: ABLE (NM STABLE) and special needs planning
ABLE accounts (NM STABLE): Let you save for disability expenses without affecting SSI/Medicaid (up to SSI’s 100,000∗∗resourcedisregard;SSIsuspends—notterminates—abovethatuntilthebalancedrops).TheannualcontributionlimittiestotheIRSgift‑taxexclusion:∗∗100,000** resource disregard; SSI suspends—not terminates—above that until the balance drops). The annual contribution limit ties to the IRS gift‑tax exclusion: **19,000 in 2025. Working beneficiaries may add ABLE‑to‑Work contributions up to wages earned or the yearly cap. Info/help: 1-800-439-1653. (irs.gov, ablenewmexico.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t open ABLE right away, ask your MCO care coordinator for a referral to a nonprofit benefits planner; keep emergency savings in a parent’s account while you set up ABLE and update authorized representatives.
School rights and early intervention
Birth to 3: Family Infant Toddler (FIT)
Start here: Call 1-877-696-1472 for a free evaluation. Services are free regardless of income or citizenship, and include coaching, therapies, and individualized family service plans (IFSPs). (nmececd.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your child’s Medicaid plan for EPSDT therapy evaluations; request a pediatric developmental evaluation from your primary care provider. (hca.nm.gov)
Ages 3–21: Special education (IEP) and 504
Start here: Submit a written request for an evaluation to your school. If you disagree with the school or face delays, use New Mexico PED’s dispute resolution options: facilitated IEP, mediation, state complaint, or due process. Email: dispute.resolution@ped.nm.gov. Forms and online submissions are available. (webnew.ped.state.nm.us)
Tip: Keep a binder with IEPs, evaluation reports, and communication logs. Contact the Parent Training and Information Center, Parents Reaching Out (PRO), for free help with IEP meetings (look up regional contacts).
What to do if this doesn’t work: File a state complaint using PED’s online system; timelines are posted and investigations are free to parents. (webnew.ped.state.nm.us)
Transportation, access, and parking
- Disability parking placards: First‑time applicants complete MVD‑10383 with a medical provider. Permanent placards last 4 years; temporary up to 1 year. Renewals for permanent placards generally don’t require a new doctor signature. Apply/renew at any MVD or online renewal options where available. (mvd.newmexico.gov)
- If you need medical travel outside your area: Ask your Medicaid plan about lodging and meal reimbursement when you travel to covered appointments far from home. (modivcare.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a written denial and file an appeal with your MCO; ask your provider to submit medical necessity documentation.
Tables you can screenshot
Table A — Where to apply and who to call
| Need | Do first | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP (food) | Apply at YES.NM; call 1-800-283-4465 | Field office: see state directory and hours. (hsd.state.nm.us) |
| Medicaid/Turquoise Care | Apply at YES.NM; pick an MCO; EPSDT for kids | MCO care coordination if services delayed. (hca.nm.gov) |
| Katie Beckett (042) | Ask ISD for institutional/waiver pathway; income standard $2,901 | Request EPSDT services pending decision. (hca.nm.gov) |
| Medically Fragile Waiver | Call 1-800-238-5548 or 1-800-283-8415 | Mi Via; EPSDT supports while waiting. (nmhealth.org, hsd.state.nm.us) |
| DD Waiver/Supports Waiver | Call 505-350-0034 or 505-470-5825 | EPSDT; Mi Via while waiting. (hca.nm.gov) |
| LIHEAP | Apply at YES.NM; income ≤150% FPL | 211 for local utility help. (hca.nm.gov, uwncnm.org) |
| WIC | Call 1-800-832-1321; CVB 26/26/47/$52 | Food pantries via 211. (fns.usda.gov) |
Table B — SNAP 200% FPL screening (examples from state outreach)
| Household size | Approx. monthly gross income at 200% FPL |
|---|---|
| 3 | $4,304 |
| 4 | $5,200 |
| 5 | $6,098 |
| 6 | $6,994 |
Source: New Mexico HCA SNAP outreach. (hca.nm.gov)
Table C — SSI 2025 basic amounts
| Category | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | $943 | $967 |
| Couple | $1,415 | $1,450 |
Source: SSA. (ssa.gov)
Table D — LIHEAP 2025 income limits (150% FPL)
| Household size | Monthly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,882 |
| 2 | $2,555 |
| 3 | $3,228 |
| 4 | $3,900 |
| 5 | $4,572 |
| 6 | $5,243 |
Source: State LIHEAP FFY 2025 guide. (hca.nm.gov)
Table E — Turquoise Care health plans and quick numbers
| Plan | Member Services | Transportation |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Cross Blue Shield of NM | 1-866-689-1523 | Modivcare 1-866-913-4342; Ride Assist 1-866-418-9829. (hca.nm.gov, bcbsnm.com) |
| Presbyterian | (505) 923-5200 / 1-888-977-2333 | Modivcare 1-855-774-7737 / 505-923-6300. (phs.org) |
| UnitedHealthcare Community Plan | 1-877-236-0826 | Member Services connects to transport. (uhc.com) |
| Molina | 1-844-862-4543 | Superior Medical Transport (833) 707-7100. (hca.nm.gov, molinahealthcare.com) |
Application Checklist
- State ID or driver license (if available) and child’s SSN or proof of application.
- Birth certificate or hospital record.
- Proof of New Mexico address (lease, utility bill).
- Income proof (pay stubs, child support, unemployment, SSI).
- Medical records (diagnoses, therapy notes, equipment prescriptions).
- School records (IEP/504, evaluations).
- Insurance cards (Medicaid, other).
- Bank statements (for waivers/SSI resource checks).
- Transportation needs (wheelchair use, oxygen).
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing deadlines: Benefit notices have strict appeal and document deadlines. Mark the date and respond within 10–14 days or the date listed. Keep copies.
- Not listing medical expenses for SNAP: Out‑of‑pocket costs can raise your SNAP amount—submit receipts and pharmacy printouts. (fns.usda.gov)
- Waiting for a waiver before asking for services: Use EPSDT to request therapies/equipment now; waivers can take years. (hca.nm.gov)
- Not requesting transportation early: Book rides 48–72 hours in advance. (bcbsnm.com)
- Assuming you “make too much” for Medicaid: Ask ISD about Category 042 when your child has high needs—parent income is not counted. (hca.nm.gov)
Diverse Communities and tailored support
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: What to know: Ask your MCO for affirming providers and behavioral health support; EPSDT covers medically necessary behavioral care. PED’s dispute resolution processes support all students regardless of identity. Crisis lines are confidential: 988 and 1-855-662-7474. (webnew.ped.state.nm.us, nmcrisisline.com)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: What to know: Use EPSDT for pediatric needs; ask for care coordination and NEMT. For your own disability‑related needs, check GA, Medicaid categories, and ABLE accounts (annual contribution $19,000 in 2025). (hca.nm.gov, irs.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: What to know: VA health and caregiver programs can combine with child EPSDT/waivers; use the Veterans Crisis Line TTY 1-800-799-4889 if needed. (nmhealth.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: What to know: Children often qualify for Medicaid/WIC regardless of parent status; ask ISD about Emergency Medicaid for life‑threatening hospital care; interpreters are available at 1-800-283-4465. (hsd.state.nm.us)
- Tribal‑specific resources: What to know: Native families may opt into Turquoise Care or use fee‑for‑service/tribal providers; check your tribe’s health programs and IHS. For DD/MFW, tribal members use the same DDSD intake lines (505-350-0034). (hca.nm.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: What to know: Ask for telehealth; request mileage/meals lodging; schedule “bundled” medical trips through NEMT; Modivcare has mileage reimbursement forms. (modivcare.com)
- Single fathers raising disabled children: What to know: All programs apply equally; use this guide and the same contacts for services and appeals.
- Language access: What to know: State customer service and NMCAL provide interpreters; Medicaid plans offer translation and TTY services (711). (hsd.state.nm.us, nmcrisisline.com)
Regional and local support ideas
- Use 211 to pull up county‑specific lists for food, respite, and disability family supports; they can also connect you to school district liaisons and legal aid for education rights. 211 or (505) 245-1735. (uwncnm.org)
- Mi Via and DD Waiver: Ask consultants or case managers for local caregiver recruitment tips and respite coverage while you build your team. Program directories are available via DDSD regional offices and UNM CDD. (unmhealth.org)
Realistic timelines and what to expect
- SNAP: 7–30 days depending on urgency. (fns.usda.gov)
- Medicaid (standard): Often up to 45 days; disability categories may take longer for medical review.
- MFW / DD Waiver: Registration within days; allocation depends on funding cycles—can be months to years. (nmhealth.org)
- SSI: Commonly 3–5 months; complex or appeal cases take longer. (ssa.gov)
If housing is your urgent gap
- Plan A: Dial 211 for local rent/utility assistance and legal aid triage.
- Plan B: Ask your MCO care coordinator to write a “medical necessity” letter describing risks if you lose housing—this can help with priority slots for some local programs.
- Plan C: Contact your city/county Continuum of Care provider (homeless services) for family‑priority shelter and rapid rehousing—211 can route you.
What to do if any section above doesn’t work
- Escalate: Ask for a supervisor and/or care coordinator.
- Request notices in writing: You’ll need the date for appeal rights.
- Appeal fast: File before the deadline to preserve benefits.
- Document everything: Keep a simple call log with date, time, name, and action promised.
10 New Mexico‑specific FAQs
- How much can a family of four get in SNAP in 2025?
Answer: The maximum is 975/month∗∗,andNewMexicoscreensat∗∗200975/month**, and New Mexico screens at **200% FPL** (gross) for eligibility (example limit **5,200/month). Actual benefits vary by shelter and medical deductions. (fns.usda.gov, hca.nm.gov) - Do I have to switch my child’s doctors when I enroll in Turquoise Care?
Answer: Not necessarily. Ask which MCO your providers take before choosing. You can switch plans during allowed periods. (hca.nm.gov) - My income is too high for Medicaid—can my child still qualify?
Answer: Yes, under the “Katie Beckett” path (Category 042/IC Waiver rules) that counts only your child’s income. The 2025 institutional/waiver standard is $2,901/month. (hca.nm.gov) - Will Medicaid cover my child’s therapy equipment?
Answer: EPSDT covers medically necessary equipment and therapies with prior authorization. (hca.nm.gov) - How long is the DD Waiver wait?
Answer: It can be several years; you’ll be placed on the Central Registry by your application date. Consider Supports Waiver and Mi Via while waiting. (nmhealth.org, hca.nm.gov) - What are the SSI amounts for 2025?
Answer: 967/month∗∗(individual)and∗∗967/month** (individual) and **1,450/month (couple). (ssa.gov) - Can I get rides to my child’s appointments?
Answer: Yes, through your MCO’s NEMT vendor. Call at least 48–72 hours in advance; numbers are listed above. (bcbsnm.com, phs.org) - Are there utility assistance programs in NM?
Answer: LIHEAP serves households ≤150% FPL; for a family of four the monthly limit is $3,900. Apply via YES.NM. (hca.nm.gov) - How do I get a disability parking placard?
Answer: Submit MVD‑10383 with provider certification to an MVD office; permanent placards last 4 years. (mvd.newmexico.gov) - How much can I save in an ABLE account in 2025?
Answer: Up to $19,000/year (more if using ABLE‑to‑Work and earning wages); call NM STABLE at 1-800-439-1653. (irs.gov, ablenewmexico.com)
Step‑by‑step: Your first 30 days
- Day 1–3
Apply at YES.NM for SNAP, Medicaid, LIHEAP; upload documents. Call FIT at 1-877-696-1472 if under 3. (nmececd.org) - Day 4–10
Pick an MCO and request EPSDT care coordination. Book transportation for upcoming therapies. (hca.nm.gov) - Day 11–20
If eligible for SSI, start the SSI application; submit school/medical records. Ask ISD about Category 042 if applicable. (ssa.gov, hca.nm.gov) - Day 21–30
Register for MFW or DD Waiver; keep proof of the date. Set up ABLE if your child is eligible. (nmhealth.org, hca.nm.gov)
What to bring to any appointment
- IDs, proof of address, income, medical records, IEPs/IFSPs, insurance card, and bank statements if asked. A one‑page list of current meds and providers saves time.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Mexico Health Care Authority/Human Services Department, Department of Health, ECECD, NMPED, USDA FNS, SSA, IRS, HUD‑aligned resources, and established nonprofits.
Our editorial standards: We rely on primary, official sources and update quickly when policies change. See our full standards at ASingleMother Editorial Policy.
Verification window: Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Disclaimer
Important: Program rules, amounts, and contacts change. Always confirm with the relevant agency before you act. Nothing here is legal advice or a substitute for a caseworker’s guidance. For security: Use only official websites (look for .gov) and never share personal info with callers who refuse to identify their agency.
Sources (selected)
- SNAP amounts and standards (FY 2025): USDA FNS policy memo and COLA tables (max allotments, deductions, asset limits). (fns.usda.gov)
- New Mexico SNAP policy updates & income examples (200% FPL): HCA press/info; SNAP outreach page (income and max allotments). (hca.nm.gov)
- ISD field offices and customer service: State directory and main line 1-800-283-4465. (hsd.state.nm.us)
- Turquoise Care MCO program: State overview and plan contact page. (hca.nm.gov)
- EPSDT coverage: State EPSDT page and therapy prior authorization rule references (NMAC). (hca.nm.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- Medically Fragile Waiver: DOH/HCA program pages and contact numbers. (nmhealth.org, hsd.state.nm.us)
- DD Waiver/Supports Waiver: DDSD intake and allocation process; HCA pages (contacts). (nmhealth.org, hca.nm.gov)
- Mi Via (self‑directed): DOH/HCA program descriptions; TPA/FMA contacts. (nmhealth.org, hsd2024-cf.rtscustomer.com)
- LIHEAP FFY 2025: State point & income guide. (hca.nm.gov)
- TANF (NMW) standards: NMAC current through Jan 14, 2025. (casetext.com)
- WIC CVB FY 2025: USDA FNS policy memo. (fns.usda.gov)
- SSI 2025 amounts: SSA pages (SSI benefits and Red Book update). (ssa.gov)
- ABLE annual limits: IRS annual exclusion and IRS table; NM STABLE/ABLE New Mexico info line. (irs.gov, ablenewmexico.com)
- NMCAL and 988: Official crisis line pages. (nmcrisisline.com)
- MVD disability placards: State MVD page and manual. (mvd.newmexico.gov)
“What if I’m overwhelmed and don’t know where to start?”
- Call one number: 1-800-283-4465 to open Medicaid/SNAP/LIHEAP cases and ask which category fits your child.
- For a child under 3: Call 1-877-696-1472 (FIT) today and book the evaluation—they’ll coach you through next steps. (nmececd.org)
- If you need someone to talk to tonight: Call 988 or 1-855-662-7474. You matter, and your child’s needs are real. (nmcrisisline.com)
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🏛️More New Mexico Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Mexico
- 📋 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
