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Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Minnesota

Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Minnesota

Last updated: September 2025


This is a Minnesota‑specific, disability‑focused guide. It highlights benefits, programs, and practical steps that single moms with disabilities (or caring for a child with a disability) can use now. You will see short action steps, direct contacts, and realistic timelines. Keep this page open while you call and apply. For one‑on‑one help any time, call the free statewide helpline at Disability Hub MN 1-866-333-2466 and use Minnesota’s county and tribal human services directory to reach your local office quickly. (disabilityhubmn.org)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Minnesota Today

Start here because heat and power are safety issues in Minnesota winters.

  • Ask for a payment plan and medical protection: Tell your utility you need a “Cold Weather Rule plan” and, if applicable, “medical emergency protection” due to a disability or life‑support equipment. Use the PUC’s Cold Weather Rule page and keep a copy of any doctor’s note you submit. Also call United Way 211 Minnesota for a local agency that can pay part of arrears. (content.govdelivery.com)
  • Know your rights and appeal fast: During an appeal, regulated utilities cannot disconnect your primary heat. If you can’t reach a fair plan, ask your utility for the appeal form and contact the PUC Consumer Affairs Office 1-800-657-3782. Keep records of call dates and amounts offered. (ag.state.mn.us)
  • Apply for bill help the same day: Submit the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) application online or by phone through MN Department of Commerce Energy Assistance. Ask your utility if they offer disability hardship programs (Xcel, CenterPoint, municipal/co‑ops vary). Call Minnesota 211 if you need help filling forms. (content.govdelivery.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Email consumer.puc@state.mn.us and call 1-800-657-3782 to escalate, then ask your clinic’s social worker to fax a medical certificate to your utility. Use 211 Minnesota to find emergency funds near you. (content.govdelivery.com)

Quick Table — Utility Shutoff Protection

Program or step Who it helps What it does How to act now
Cold Weather Rule Households Oct 1–Apr 30 Stops heat shutoff if you keep a plan Call your utility and PUC 1-800-657-3782
Medical protection Life‑threatening or medical‑device users Requires reconnection/continuation with doctor certification Ask utility for medical form
Energy Assistance Program Low‑income renters/homeowners Pays energy, water/sewer, furnace repair Apply online or ask 211 to help

(content.govdelivery.com)

Keep Your Home — Disability‑Focused Housing Options

Start by asking your worker to check all disability‑specific rent supports you might qualify for. Then apply to at least one rental assistance or supportive housing option below.

MSA Housing Assistance (add‑on for SSI/MSA recipients)

If you get Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA), ask for the extra MSA Housing Assistance payment when rent takes more than 40% of your income. The amount equals half of the federal SSI rate, which is 967/monthfor2025,sothehousingadd‑onisabout967/month for 2025, so the housing add‑on is about 483.50/month starting July 1, 2025 (confirm with your worker). Read the plain‑language guide from HB101 Minnesota and see the SSI figure on DB101 Minnesota. Apply through your county using MNbenefits. Expect 10–15 business days once you submit all verifications. (mn.hb101.org)

Housing Support (formerly Group Residential Housing)

Housing Support pays room‑and‑board directly to an approved provider if you are an adult with a disability at risk of homelessness or institutional care. The base room‑and‑board rate is 1,192/montheffectiveJuly1,2025.Countiesmayalsoapproveasupplementalservicesrate(oftenupto1,192/month effective July 1, 2025. Counties may also approve a supplemental services rate (often up to 494.91) depending on the setting. Ask your county about openings in adult foster care, board‑and‑lodge, or supportive housing settings. See rates on DHS Housing Support and the statute reference on MN Revisor. (mn.gov)

Section 811 PRA (project‑based units for people with disabilities)

Section 811 PRA creates apartments with long‑term rent subsidies inside mainstream buildings for people with significant and long‑term disabilities. You cannot apply to 811 PRA directly; you are referred through a service worker and the property. Learn how units come online at Minnesota Housing’s 811 PRA page and watch for new awards after 2025 NOFOs on HUD’s Section 811 PRA. (mnhousing.gov)

Bridges Rental Assistance (for serious mental illness)

If you or your child has a serious mental illness, ask about Bridges. It offers temporary rent help and deposits while you work toward a permanent voucher or stable income. Administered locally, it pairs rent support with mental health services. See program basics on Minnesota Housing’s Bridges page and request a referral through your county’s mental health team. Funding varies by county. (mnhousing.gov)

Bring It Home rental assistance (new state program ramping up)

Minnesota is standing up a new state rental assistance stream, with priority for families under 30% of area median income. Local housing agencies and tribes will administer grants. Track program setup at Bring It Home – Minnesota Housing and apply through your local housing authority as it opens. (mnhousing.gov)

Important change — Housing Stabilization Services (HSS) is ending

As of August 1, 2025, DHS announced it is moving to terminate HSS due to provider fraud. DHS intends to redesign and relaunch later; use other options above in the meantime. Read the notice and FAQ on DHS Housing Stabilization Services and related updates on DHS provider page. News coverage of the decision is on FOX 9 and Axios Twin Cities. (mn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Disability Hub MN to check MSA Housing Assistance rules and ask your county about Housing Support placements. Also request a Coordinated Entry assessment for FHPAP prevention funds. (mn.gov)

Table — Housing Options Focused on Disability

Option Who it’s for Typical help Where to start Expected timeline
MSA Housing Assistance SSI/MSA recipients with high rent About half of SSI rate (≈$483.50 in 2025) Apply with your MSA case; use MNbenefits 10–15 business days
Housing Support Adults with disabilities at risk of homelessness/institution 1,192/monthbasetoprovider;mayadd1,192/month base to provider; may add 494.91 services County human services 2–6 weeks depending on setting
Section 811 PRA Long‑term disabilities Deeply affordable rent in mainstream properties Referral via worker/property Waitlist; varies by property
Bridges Serious mental illness Temporary rent help + supports County mental health team 2–8 weeks; funding limited

(mn.gov)

Health Coverage That Works With Disability

MA‑EPD (Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities)

If you work, MA‑EPD lets you keep full Medicaid coverage with no asset limit. Premiums start at $35/month, and if your income is above 300% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines you pay 7.5% of gross income plus 0.5% of unearned income. There are no copays once enrolled. Read the premium rules at DB101: MA‑EPD – What You Pay and the DHS page on MA‑EPD premiums. Apply through your county or MNsure if advised. (mn.db101.org)

SNBC (Special Needs BasicCare) ages 18–64

SNBC is a voluntary managed care plan for adults with certified disabilities on Medical Assistance. It adds care coordination and extras like 24/7 nurse lines. In many counties you can choose Medica, UCare, or a county plan such as Hennepin Health. HealthPartners SNBC exited several counties on April 1, 2025, so many members moved to fee‑for‑service or other plans. Learn about SNBC at DHS: SNBC for people with disabilities and read the transition notices on DHS News – HealthPartners SNBC change and Hennepin Health SNBC updates. Call Disability Hub MN for plan comparisons. (mn.gov)

TEFRA option for children with disabilities

If your child meets disability criteria, TEFRA opens Medical Assistance regardless of your income. Minnesota eliminated parental fees for TEFRA and HCBS waivers starting July 1, 2023. See DHS Parental Fees and TEFRA policy details in the Health Care Programs Manual. Use the Parental Fee Estimator if your child is in 24‑hour out‑of‑home care. (mn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county to review disability‑based MA and check MinnesotaCare if MA‑EPD premiums feel high. Request SNBC enrollment support from Disability Hub MN. (mn.db101.org)

Quick Table — Disability‑Friendly Health Coverage

Coverage Best for Highlights Where to start
MA‑EPD Working adult with disability No asset cap; premium min $35; keeps PCA/CFSS County MA worker
SNBC Ages 18–64 on MA Care coordinator + extras Health plan or Hub
TEFRA Child with disability Parent income ignored; TEFRA fees ended 7/1/23 County MA worker

(mn.db101.org)

Daily Living Supports at Home

CFSS (replacing PCA) and worker pay floors

Community First Services & Supports (CFSS) replaces PCA and Consumer Support Grant in phases. It offers more control over who you hire (including some family) and what you buy to help you live safely. DHS began CFSS implementation Oct 1, 2024; as of Jan 1, 2025, tiered wage floors apply (entry tier at $20/hour) to support worker pay. See DHS CFSS overview and the PCA/CFSS wage floor chart. Ask your county for a MnCHOICES assessment to set hours. (mn.gov)

HCBS waivers (BI, CAC, CADI, DD)

Minnesota’s disability waivers pay for in‑home and community supports, respite, home mods, and some specialized childcare. Waitlists for CAC, CADI, and BI were eliminated; DD waiver uses “timely funding” standards. Request a MnCHOICES assessment through your county and ask about Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS). Read the current waitlist status on DHS Waiver Waitlists. (mn.gov)

Family Support Grant (FSG)

If your child (under 25) has a certified disability and lives with you, ask about FSG. Many counties report a maximum of 3,113.99peryearanda2025adjustedgrossincomecaparound3,113.99 per year and a 2025 adjusted gross income cap around 130,807, with hardship exceptions. Use county pages like Dakota County FSG or Goodhue County FSG for local details, and see DHS FSG overview. Funding is limited; ask to be added to the waiting list. (co.dakota.mn.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal service denials and ask for the Ombudsman for Mental Health & Developmental Disabilities to coach you. Also check Disability Benefits 101 for strategies to combine work and benefits. (mn.gov)

Table — Waiver & In‑Home Supports Cheat Sheet

Support Pays for Good for How to request
CFSS (replaces PCA/CSG) Personal care, ADLs/IADLs, goods Adults/children needing hands‑on help MnCHOICES + your case manager
CADI / BI / CAC / DD waivers Respite, staffing, home mods, tech Higher care needs MnCHOICES through county
Family Support Grant Disability‑related costs at home Families supporting a child at home Apply at county (income cap)

Transportation That Works With Disability

  • Metro Mobility (Twin Cities ADA paratransit): If your disability makes fixed‑route bus/train hard to use, apply for Metro Mobility. Call 651-602-1111 (TTY 651-221-9886). Metro Mobility must decide within 21 days after a completed application; if late, you get temporary eligibility. Use Transit Link for general dial‑a‑ride in areas without regular transit. (metc2new.metctest.state.mn.us)
  • Medical rides (NEMT) on MA or health plans: Schedule non‑emergency medical rides through your plan’s ride line (for example, BlueRide 1-866-340-8648; UCare Health Ride 1-800-864-2157; Hennepin Health 1-800-647-0550). If you are fee‑for‑service MA in the metro, call MTM 1-866-467-1724. In Greater Minnesota, contact your county or use Minnesota Ride Link to locate providers. Book 2–3 business days ahead. (bluecrossmn.com)
  • Arrowhead/Northeast: Arrowhead Transit Dial‑a‑Ride runs curb‑to‑curb rides across the Iron Range and North Shore; call 1-800-862-0175. Use for jobs, school, and errands when paratransit isn’t available. (arrowheadtransit.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic to fax medical necessity for “assisted transport.” If you get repeated denials, contact the Ombudsperson for Managed Health Care 1-800-657-3729 to review your rights. (mn.gov)

School, Childcare, and Time‑Saving Supports for Your Child With a Disability

  • Early supports birth–5: If you suspect a delay, make a free referral to Help Me Grow Minnesota at 1-866-693-4769. Your school district will contact you to screen and, if eligible, give services at no cost regardless of income or immigration status. See program info at DCYF: Help Me Grow. (helpmegrowmn.org)
  • Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) — disability rate: If you work or go to school, CCAP can pay for childcare and approve a “special needs rate” up to 200% of the standard rate based on disability needs and documentation. Ask for a special needs rate decision using state rules in Minnesota Rules 3400.0130 and statute guidance in 119B.13. Apply at MNbenefits or through your county. (revisor.mn.gov)
  • Parent advocacy and IEP help: Call PACER Center 1-800-537-2237 for help with special education, 504 plans, and transition to adulthood. Ask for translated materials if needed. (pacer.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If school supports stall, ask the Minnesota Disability Law Center for help, or contact your district’s special education director and request mediation in writing. (mylegalaid.org)

Income, Cash, and Case Management Tied to Disability

  • SSI/SSDI help when disability stops you from working: If you cannot work full‑time for 12+ months, use DHS‑funded Social Security Advocacy Services. Advocates can file applications, appeals, and go to hearings, free, especially if you’re homeless or at risk. Many Legal Aid offices also provide advocates. (mn.gov)
  • Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA): MSA adds to SSI and can open MSA Housing Assistance (see housing section). Your grant depends on living situation and allowable needs (like special diets, guardian fees). See DB101 MSA and general standards in DHS statutes for MSA. Apply through MNbenefits. (mn.db101.org)
  • MFIP Family Stabilization Services (FSS): If you’re on MFIP and have a disability, are applying for SSI, or have major barriers, ask to switch to FSS. You get a flexible plan, disability‑aware case management, and time‑limit relief. Read the law summary in Minnesota statutes on FSS and the program overview at DCYF MFIP. (codes.findlaw.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your county won’t place you in FSS, ask for a written denial and contact Disability Hub MN or MDLC to appeal. (disabilityhubmn.org)

Assistive Technology, Home Equipment, and One‑Time Costs

  • STAR Program (Assistive Technology Act): Borrow devices, try equipment before buying, and find refurbished gear statewide through Minnesota STAR Program. Call 1-888-234-1267 or 651-201-2640; request large‑print or TTY through MN Relay 711. The state’s Guide to Assistive Technology explains funding paths. (mn.gov)
  • Microgrants for housing/employment goals: The Minnesota Microgrant Partnership (The Arc Minnesota) funds 100–100–1,500 (sometimes up to $2,000) for job gear, training, application fees, or basic furnishings when moving. Applications open monthly and close fast; decisions take about 45 days and staff purchase items directly. (arcminnesota.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your waiver case manager about one‑time transitional funds (e.g., CDCS transitional supports) and check Bridging or PCs for People for low‑cost furniture and computers. (Availability varies.)

Local Organizations, Legal Help, and Community Supports

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Disability Hub MN to map a Plan B set of resources for your county and to coach you on appeals and fair hearings. (disabilityhubmn.org)

Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Contacts

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Connect with Disability Hub MN for confidential benefits counseling and ask your MCO for a case manager who understands gender‑affirming needs. Use SNBC resources for plan options that include inclusive mental health networks. Request interpreter or relay as needed via MN Relay 711. (mn.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: Use Minnesota Ride Link for Veteran‑aware transport info and ask your county Veteran Service Office about rent deposits or car repair funds. If you also have a disability, enroll in MA‑EPD and request SNBC care coordination to align VA and MA benefits. (dot.mn.gov)
  • Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can refer young children to Help Me Grow with free interpreters and get disability services regardless of status. For MA and SNBC, ask your county for language services and contact the Ombudsperson for Managed Care if your plan is not providing an interpreter. (dcyf.mn.gov)
  • Tribal members and Native families: Apply for waivers and CFSS through your tribal nation or county; use the county and tribal office directory. Ask housing staff about Housing Support placements and check Coordinated Entry by region for tribally‑run programs. Request printed forms in large print; TTY via 711. (mn.gov)
  • Rural single moms: Transportation is often the biggest barrier. Use Transit Link/Greater MN dial‑a‑ride in the metro fringe and Minnesota Ride Link statewide. For Northeast, call Arrowhead Transit Dial‑a‑Ride at 1-800-862-0175. Ask your clinic to fax medical ride requests to your plan for assisted transport if needed. (metrocouncil.org)
  • Single fathers: All programs in this guide are gender‑neutral. Fathers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child can use MSA, CFSS, and waivers. Ask for FSS when on MFIP to tailor work rules to your disability. (mn.db101.org)
  • Language access and accessibility: You can ask for interpreters, TTY, large‑print or translated forms from your county, health plan, or the state (use MN Relay 711). Program contacts like Disability Hub MN and OMHDD will arrange reasonable accommodations. (disabilityhubmn.org)

Resources by Region (Pick yours and call today)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing a housing add‑on you qualify for: If you get MSA, ask about MSA Housing Assistance. Many people miss it because it’s not automatic. Document your rent share. (mn.hb101.org)
  • Waiting to apply for CFSS until you “find a worker”: Start the CFSS transition now; you can recruit later and benefit from wage floors. Keep copies of your assessments. (mn.gov)
  • Not appealing denials: Use your right to a state fair hearing and call OMHDD or the Managed Care Ombudsperson to coach you through. Appeals have deadlines—mark your calendar. (mn.gov)

Reality Check: Funding Gaps and Delays

  • HSS changes: HSS is being terminated and redesigned due to fraud; expect fewer provider options and tighter screening until a new model launches. Plan alternatives now (MSA Housing Assistance, Housing Support, Bridges, Coordinated Entry). See DHS notices and news at DHS HSS and coverage at CBS Minnesota. (mn.gov)
  • Waiver provider shortages: Even with no formal waitlist, agencies may lack staff. Ask about consumer‑directed options (CDCS or budget model in CFSS) so you can hire directly and use technology or family supports. Rate increases for 2025 are modest; expect competition for workers. (mn.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need First call Key program Typical timeline
Stop shutoff PUC Consumer Affairs 1-800-657-3782 Cold Weather Rule plan + medical protection Same day to 3 days
Keep apartment County worker + MSA Housing Assistance Half‑SSI add‑on; Housing Support if needed 10–30 days
Personal care County MnCHOICES + CFSS Transition from PCA; hire your workers 2–6 weeks
Health coverage County MA + MA‑EPD Keep Medicaid while working 30 days
Child services Help Me Grow 1-866-693-4769 Free early intervention 1–3 weeks
Legal help MDLC 1-800-292-4150 Rights, denials, education Varies

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

  • Photo ID: State ID or driver’s license; if none, bring other identity proof. Use Minnesota Help for ID clinics.
  • Social Security numbers: For all in your household; if pending, provide receipts. Check SSA tips if applying.
  • Proof of disability: SSI award, SMRT decision, IEP, or doctor letters. Ask OMHDD how to request records.
  • Income proof: Pay stubs, benefits letters, child support; self‑employment logs. For MA‑EPD details, see DB101 MA‑EPD.
  • Rent and utilities: Lease, ledger, disconnection notice, utility account numbers. Use PUC guide for protections.
  • Bank/asset info: Statements for all accounts. (MA‑EPD has no asset cap.)
  • Medical/education: Medication list, special diet forms, IEP/504, service plans. For special diets at school, see MDE Special Diets.
  • Contacts: Case worker name, clinic social worker, and an advocate from Disability Hub MN.

(mn.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied

  • Read the notice: Note the reason and deadline to appeal. Keep the envelope.
  • Call for an explanation: Ask the worker to walk through the rule they used. If facts are wrong, offer proof.
  • File an appeal in writing: Ask for an agency conference and a state fair hearing. Get help from MDLC or OMHDD.
  • Keep benefits during appeal: For many programs you can keep benefits if you appeal before the cut‑off date. Ask your worker to confirm.
  • Escalate health plan issues: Contact the Ombudsperson for Managed Care 1-800-657-3729 for SNBC/MA‑related denials.

(mn.gov)

County‑Specific Variations You Should Expect

  • SNBC plan choices vary by county and can change (for example, HealthPartners SNBC ended in several areas on April 1, 2025). Check your county’s SNBC map and call your clinic to confirm network status. Use DHS SNBC info and contacts and Ramsey County update. (mn.gov)
  • FSG and waivers: FSG income caps and maximums are set statewide but waitlists and openings are local. Waiver services have no statewide waitlist for CADI/BI/CAC, but staffing shortages vary by county. See DHS Waiver Waitlists. (mn.gov)
  • Metro paratransit vs Greater Minnesota: Paratransit is Metro Mobility in the Twin Cities; outside the metro you will rely on county transit/dial‑a‑ride. Use Ride Link to find providers. (dot.mn.gov)

FAQs — Minnesota Disability‑Focused Help

  1. How much is MSA Housing Assistance right now?
    MSA Housing Assistance equals half of the federal SSI rate. With SSI at 967/monthin2025,theadd‑onisabout967/month in 2025, the add‑on is about 483.50/month starting July 1, 2025. Ask your worker to confirm your exact amount and start date. See HB101 MSA Housing Assistance and the SSI figure in DB101 MSA tables. (mn.hb101.org)
  2. What changed with Housing Stabilization Services (HSS)?
    DHS is moving to terminate HSS as of August 2025 due to fraud concerns and intends to redesign. Use MSA Housing Assistance, Housing Support, Bridges, and Coordinated Entry while DHS works with CMS. Read DHS HSS updates and news coverage. (mn.gov)
  3. Can I keep Medicaid if I work more hours?
    Yes. MA‑EPD lets you work and keep MA with a monthly premium (minimum $35). It also lets you save money (no asset cap). (mn.db101.org)
  4. What’s the Housing Support rate?
    The base room‑and‑board rate is 1,192/montheffectiveJuly1,2025;countiescanalsopayasupplementalservicesrate(oftenupto1,192/month effective July 1, 2025; counties can also pay a supplemental services rate (often up to 494.91) in certain licensed settings. See DHS Housing Support rates and the statute 256I.05. (mn.gov)
  5. My health plan just changed — who helps me pick a new SNBC plan?
    Call Disability Hub MN 1-866-333-2466. They can compare networks and rides. Check current plan options and notices on DHS SNBC pages. (mn.gov)
  6. Is there help for a child’s special diet or medical foods?
    Schools must accommodate disabilities with a special diet statement; see MDE Special Diets. For broader child health needs, call Children & Youth with Special Health Needs 1-800-728-5420. (education.mn.gov)
  7. How do I get a personal care worker I trust?
    Ask for CFSS budget model so you can recruit and hire. See DHS CFSS and confirm wage floors with your FMS. If denied hours, appeal and call OMHDD for help. (mn.gov)
  8. What if I need equipment like a communication device or shower chair?
    Try before you buy through STAR Program device loans and ask your waiver/CFSS team to fund durable medical equipment or AT. (minnesotahelp.info)
  9. We’re homeless tonight — who can place us?
    Call your county’s Coordinated Entry access point, ask for family shelter, and tell them about disability‑related needs. You can also call 211 Minnesota to get routed. (mn.gov)
  10. Are there microgrants for deposits or job tools?
    Yes — apply early each month to the Minnesota Microgrant Partnership. Awards are not emergency funds; plan for a 45‑day review. (arcminnesota.org)

Minneapolis Utility Shutoff Help

Call your utility and ask for a Cold Weather Rule plan. If that fails, contact the PUC 1-800-657-3782 and 211 Minnesota to locate agencies that can cover part of past‑due bills. If you use medical equipment, submit a medical certification to the utility. (content.govdelivery.com)

St. Paul Utility Shutoff Help

Use the same steps: seek a plan and medical protection, then call the PUC Consumer Affairs Office. Ask United Way 211 Minnesota about grants for Ramsey County residents and request a case manager to help with paperwork if you have a disability. (content.govdelivery.com)

Español — Resumen Rápido (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
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. 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

This guide is for general information. Benefits change and local funding varies. Always confirm current amounts, openings, and deadlines with your county, tribe, or state agency. Use the links in each section and call the listed agencies to verify before spending money or making decisions.

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