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Assistance for Rural Single Mothers in Louisiana

Last updated: September 2025

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Federal Poverty Level (FPL) – 2025 Reference for Louisiana

Note: FPL is a federal measure and the same in Louisiana. 2025 FPL is used by many programs (SNAP uses gross and net limits; WIC uses 185% FPL; LIHEAP often uses 150% FPL). Source: HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines (official HHS).


FPL Monthly Amounts (2025)

Household Size 100% FPL (Annual) 100% FPL (Monthly)
2 $20,440 $1,703
3 $25,820 $2,152
4 $31,200 $2,600
5 $36,580 $3,048

Source: HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines.

Key Income Thresholds for Rural Louisiana Families (2025)

These are common thresholds programs use. Always check linked sources because some programs use monthly gross, some net, and some area-based limits.

Program Name (with FPL %) Income Threshold – Family of 2 Family of 3 Family of 4 Family of 5 Notes/Source
SNAP Gross Limit (130% FPL) $2,214/mo $2,798/mo $3,380/mo $3,962/mo Gross limits; asset test applies. Source: USDA SNAP income limits 2024–2025.
WIC (185% FPL) $3,150/mo $3,979/mo $4,808/mo $5,637/mo Pregnant/postpartum, infants/children <5. Source: LDH WIC.
Medicaid Parents (approx 19% FPL) ~$323/mo ~$409/mo ~$494/mo ~$579/mo Louisiana’s parent/caretaker relative group. Source: LDH Medicaid eligibility groups.
Medicaid Pregnant (up to 138% FPL or higher per LDH) ~$2,350+/mo (varies) N/A N/A N/A LA has extended coverage per federal guidelines; verify current thresholds. Source: LDH Medicaid for pregnant women.
LaCHIP (Children) up to ~255% FPL tiers $4,343+/mo $5,465+/mo $6,587+/mo $7,709+/mo Premiums may apply for higher income tiers. Source: LaCHIP/ALL Kids (LaCHIP) info.
LIHEAP (150% FPL baseline) $2,554/mo $3,228/mo $3,900/mo $4,573/mo Parish providers may use state-approved schedules. Source: Louisiana Housing Corporation – LIHEAP.
CCAP (Child Care) up to ~85% SMI (state median income) Varies Varies Varies Varies Income caps and copays by household size; see current LA schedule. Source: LA CCAP.
Housing Choice Voucher (<=50% AMI) Parish-specific Parish-specific Parish-specific Parish-specific Check your local PHA. Source: HUD Louisiana PHA contacts.

Reality check: Some Medicaid and LaCHIP figures vary due to program expansions and tiers; exact monthly cutoffs change with federal/state updates. Always confirm by calling 1-888-342-6207 (Medicaid) and checking linked pages.

Emergency Help First

If you are facing eviction, utility shutoff, no food, or domestic violence, act today. Document notices, keep copies of bills, and apply to multiple programs at once.

  • Immediate safety and shelter: Call 1-888-411-1333 for Louisiana domestic violence hotline. Find shelters via Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence resources.
  • Cash help for crises: Ask your local DCFS office about emergency assistance and expedited SNAP. Find your parish office at DCFS office locator or call 1-888-524-3578.
  • Expedited SNAP (food within 7 days): If your monthly income and resources are very low, you may qualify for faster processing. Apply at LA CAFÉ SNAP application and call 1-888-524-3578 to flag urgent need.
  • Pantry and hot meals: Use the Louisiana Food Bank Finder for your region’s food bank and local pantries.
  • Utility shutoff: Contact your LIHEAP parish provider through Louisiana Housing Corporation – LIHEAP providers. Explain the cut-off date and ask about crisis assistance.
  • Rent and housing crisis: Call your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) immediately. Louisiana PHA directory: HUD Louisiana PHA list (PDF). Also call 211 for local short-term rent help (faith-based/community funds).
  • Legal help: For eviction, custody, or benefits denials, contact Southeast Louisiana Legal Services or Acadiana Legal Service Corporation. Both provide free civil legal aid to eligible residents.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Keep calling daily, ask for waitlists, and file appeals immediately if denied. Document names, dates, and case numbers. Call your parish council office and United Way for small emergency grants while applications process.

SNAP (Food Stamps) in Louisiana

Start by applying online and submit documents quickly. Ask for “expedited” if you have very low income or less than $150 gross income with limited cash.

  • How to apply: Apply for SNAP via LA CAFÉ or call 1-888-524-3578. Paper forms available at parish DCFS offices.
  • Income limits (130% FPL gross, 100% FPL net): 2025 federal SNAP limits. Source: USDA SNAP eligibility.
    • Household of 2: gross up to $2,214/mo
    • Household of 3: gross up to $2,798/mo
    • Household of 4: gross up to $3,380/mo
    • Household of 5: gross up to $3,962/mo
  • Maximum monthly benefits (Oct 2024–Sept 2025): Source: USDA SNAP maximum allotments.
    • Household of 2: $535/mo
    • Household of 3: $766/mo
    • Household of 4: $973/mo
    • Household of 5: $1,155/mo
  • Asset limits: Most households must be under 2,750∗∗incountableresources(or∗∗2,750** in countable resources (or **4,250 if a member is elderly/disabled). Source: USDA SNAP resources.
  • Documents to gather: ID, Social Security numbers, proof of Louisiana residency, rent/utility bills, income proof (pay stubs or employer letter), child support paid/received.
  • Timelines: Standard processing up to 30 days. Expedited within 7 days if you qualify. Answer calls from a number you don’t recognize—caseworkers often call from blocked or unfamiliar numbers.
  • Common mistakes to avoid:
    • Missing interview calls. Add a voicemail greeting and call back same day.
    • Not reporting expenses (rent, utilities, child support paid). These can increase benefits.
    • Submitting blurry photos. Use well-lit scans and upload PDFs if possible.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a fair hearing in writing within the timeframe on your notice. Ask a legal aid office to help with the appeal.

WIC in Louisiana

WIC provides healthy food, formula support, breastfeeding help, and nutrition counseling for pregnant/postpartum women, infants, and children under 5.

  • How to apply: Start at Louisiana WIC info and clinic finder or call 1-800-251-2229.
  • Income limit (185% FPL monthly):
  • Monthly fruit/vegetable cash value benefit (CVB): As of 2025, USDA continues higher CVB levels subject to federal updates. Typical amounts (check clinic for current):
    • Children 1–5: about 26–26–26.50/mo
    • Pregnant/postpartum: about 47–47–50/mo
      Source: USDA WIC CVB policy updates. Confirm with your local clinic because Congress sometimes updates these amounts mid-year.
  • Documents: ID, proof of Louisiana residency, proof of income or adjunct eligibility (SNAP/Medicaid certification can qualify you automatically), child’s immunization record.
  • Timelines: Many clinics can enroll within 1–2 visits, sometimes same week. Bring children for measurements.
  • Common mistakes to avoid:
    • Not bringing proof of address or immunization record.
    • Missing certification appointment—reschedule immediately to avoid loss of benefits.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for adjunct eligibility screening using your SNAP/Medicaid approval. Contact LDH WIC state office if scheduling is a barrier.

TANF in Louisiana (Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program – FITAP)

FITAP provides monthly cash to very low-income families with children. Louisiana also operates Kinship Care Subsidy (KCSP).

  • How to apply: DCFS cash assistance programs page and apply via LA CAFÉ or at your parish DCFS office. Info line: 1-888-524-3578.
  • Monthly cash benefits (FITAP): Louisiana publishes schedules by household size. As of 2025, verify current amounts with DCFS because FITAP levels can change. Typical historic ranges have been modest (often under 250–250–300 for a family of 3). Check the current schedule at DCFS FITAP details. If the exact 2025 table isn’t posted, call your parish office for the latest.
  • Income limits: Very low countable income; earned income disregards may apply. Asset limits and cooperation with child support are required. Source: DCFS FITAP policy manual.
  • Work requirements: You may need to participate in STEP (Strategies to Empower People) work activities unless exempt. Ask for good cause if you lack transportation or child care.
  • Documents: ID, SSNs, birth certificates, landlord statement or lease, income proof, bank balances, child support orders.
  • Timelines: Initial decision typically within 30 days if documents are complete.
  • Common mistakes to avoid:
    • Not cooperating with child support without a good-cause claim (domestic violence can qualify).
    • Missing STEP appointments. Communicate barriers early.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about KCSP if the child lives with a relative. For denials, file an appeal promptly and contact legal aid.

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

Helps pay for child care so you can work or attend school/training.

  • How to apply: Louisiana CCAP information and application or call 1-877-453-2721.
  • Eligibility: Based on household income and size, Louisiana residency, citizenship/qualified status for the child, and approved activity (work/school/training). Priority for very low income and certain vulnerable groups.
  • Income limits and copays: Louisiana publishes an income eligibility schedule up to a percentage of State Median Income (SMI) with sliding copays. For 2025, verify the current CCAP income chart and copay table on the CCAP page above. Copays can be as low as $0 for the lowest-income families and increase gradually.
  • Choosing a provider: Use the Louisiana Early Childhood Provider Search and ask providers if they accept CCAP.
  • Timelines: Approvals can take 2–4 weeks depending on document completeness and volume.
  • Common mistakes to avoid:
    • Enrolling with a provider that doesn’t accept CCAP.
    • Not reporting changes in work hours or income.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Head Start/Early Head Start while you wait. Search via Head Start locator. Some parishes have local scholarships—call United Way or your school district’s early childhood office.

Health Coverage: Medicaid, LaCHIP, and Marketplace

  • How to apply: Louisiana Medicaid application portal or call 1-888-342-6207.
  • Medicaid for parents/caretakers: Louisiana’s income threshold for parents is low (around 19% FPL). If you don’t qualify as a parent, check if you qualify during pregnancy or through disability categories. Source: LDH Medicaid eligibility.
  • Pregnancy Medicaid: Louisiana covers pregnant individuals at higher income thresholds (commonly at least 138% FPL; some categories extend higher). Coverage includes prenatal, delivery, and 12 months postpartum. Confirm current limits with LDH. Source: LDH Pregnancy Medicaid.
  • Children (LaCHIP): Children often qualify at higher incomes (multiple tiers, up to roughly 255% FPL). Some tiers have small monthly premiums. Source: LDH LaCHIP.
  • Marketplace (if income too high for Medicaid): Shop at HealthCare.gov – Louisiana with advance premium tax credits. Open enrollment is typically Nov–Jan; special enrollment for life events (birth, move, job loss).
  • Documents: ID, SSNs, pregnancy confirmation (if applicable), income proof, immigration documents if applicable.
  • Timelines: Medicaid decisions often within 45 days (faster for pregnancy). Marketplace coverage can start the 1st of the month after plan selection.
  • Common mistakes to avoid:
    • Not reporting pregnancy or birth promptly.
    • Missing premium payments for LaCHIP premium tiers or Marketplace plans.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 1-888-342-6207 to request a supervisor review if you believe you qualify. Seek patient navigators at your local hospital or FQHC.

LIHEAP (Utility Assistance) in Louisiana

Helps with electric, gas, and sometimes cooling/heating repairs.

  • How to apply: Find your parish provider at Louisiana Housing Corporation – LIHEAP. Call ahead for appointment rules.
  • Income limit (often 150% FPL):
    • 2: $2,554/mo
    • 3: $3,228/mo
    • 4: $3,900/mo
    • 5: $4,573/mo
      Source: LHC LIHEAP. Some funds allow slightly higher limits; verify locally.
  • Average assistance: Varies by utility bill, season, and funding. Louisiana reports typical one-time payments; crisis funds may be higher for shutoff notices. Ask your provider for the current average in your parish.
  • Documents: ID, SSNs, proof of residence and income, the actual bill with account number, and a shutoff notice if you have one.
  • Timelines: Standard within 30 days; crisis assistance can be within 48–72 hours if funding remains.
  • Common mistakes to avoid:
    • Missing appointments (many offices are first-come, first-served or require scheduled slots).
    • Bringing screenshots instead of the full utility bill.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility for a payment plan and request medical certification hold if someone in the home uses life-sustaining medical equipment. Call 211 for church-based utility funds.

Housing: Vouchers, Public Housing, and Rural Options

  • Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): Managed by local PHAs. Waitlists open/close periodically. Find your PHA: HUD Louisiana PHA contacts.
  • Income limits: Generally up to 50% of Area Median Income (AMI); in some places, targeting at 30% AMI for extremely low income. Limits vary by parish and bedroom size. Check your PHA’s posted income limits on HUD’s site: HUD income limits tool.
  • USDA Rural Development rentals: For rural parishes, USDA Section 515/521 properties often have lower rents and sometimes rental assistance. Search: USDA RD Multi-Family Property Search.
  • Documents: Photo ID, SSNs, birth certificates, income, assets, eviction history, and landlord references.
  • Timelines: Housing waitlists can be months to years. Apply to multiple PHAs and USDA properties at once.
  • Common mistakes to avoid:
    • Waiting for one list. Put your name on every open list you can.
    • Not updating your address/phone—people lose spots because letters come back undeliverable.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask PHAs about preferences (homelessness, DV survivors, veterans). Request reasonable accommodation if disability affects meeting deadlines.

Transportation Help

  • Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT): If you have Medicaid, call your plan’s transportation line for rides to appointments. Start at 1-888-342-6207 to identify your plan.
  • Rural transit systems: Many parishes have Council on Aging or regional transit offering low-cost rides. Call 211 to locate your parish ride service and schedule in advance.
  • Vehicle repair assistance: Ask local Community Action Agencies and United Way for one-time repair funds. Not guaranteed, but worth the call.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider church volunteer driver programs; ask caseworkers for fuel card referrals tied to job programs.

Education and Job Training

  • Workforce Commission: Find training, job search, and unemployment insurance help via Louisiana Workforce Commission. Visit your nearest American Job Center.
  • Community colleges: Look for tuition waivers, Pell Grants, and childcare on campus. Start at Louisiana Community and Technical College System.
  • STEP (DCFS): If on FITAP, you may be assigned to STEP for work activities and training stipends.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) for training tuition and supportive services (tools, books, transportation help).

Healthcare Access Beyond Insurance

  • Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): Sliding-scale primary care even if uninsured. Find clinics: HRSA Find a Health Center.
  • Behavioral health: Call 988 for crisis. For ongoing care, contact your local Human Services District: LDH Local Governing Entities directory.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask clinics for hardship applications, sample bills, and payment plans.

Child Support Services

  • How to apply: DCFS Child Support Enforcement helps locate the other parent, set orders, and collect payments. Start at DCFS Child Support Services or call 1-888-524-3578.
  • Fees: Some fees may apply; ask about waivers.
  • Domestic violence safety: You can request address confidentiality and good-cause waivers for cooperation if cooperation is unsafe. Source: DCFS policies.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Seek free legal help at SLLS or Acadiana Legal Service.

Key Program Numbers at a Glance

Program Phone Apply/Info
SNAP/TANF (DCFS) 1-888-524-3578 LA CAFÉ benefits portal
Medicaid/LaCHIP 1-888-342-6207 LDH Medicaid portal
WIC 1-800-251-2229 LDH WIC
CCAP 1-877-453-2721 CCAP info and apply
LIHEAP Varies by parish LHC LIHEAP providers
Domestic Violence Hotline 1-888-411-1333 LCADV resources
211 Louisiana 2-1-1 Louisiana 211

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting to apply: Programs pay from the date you apply. Apply first, gather documents next.
  • Not answering unknown numbers: Caseworkers often call from blocked numbers. Always set up voicemail and check it daily.
  • Uploading unreadable photos: Use clear scans, full-page PDFs, and label files with your name and case number.
  • Not reporting changes: Report new jobs, address changes, child care hours within required time frames to avoid overpayments.
  • Missing interviews/appointments: Call ahead if you can’t make it. Ask for remote options if transportation is a problem.

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

  • Apply for multiple programs the same week to speed up support.
  • Keep a binder or phone folder with IDs, pay stubs, leases, bills, and case numbers.
  • Ask for expedited processing for SNAP and LIHEAP if you have very low income or shutoff/eviction notices.
  • Use descriptive notes when emailing or uploading (e.g., “Jones_Rent_Sept2025.pdf”).
  • Appeal quickly if denied—deadlines are strict.

Application Checklist

  • Photo ID and SSNs: For you and children.
  • Proof of Louisiana residency: Lease, landlord letter, utility bill.
  • Income proof: Last 30 days of pay stubs, employer letter, child support received.
  • Expenses: Rent receipt/lease, utilities, child care bills, medical expenses for elderly/disabled household members.
  • Special documents: Pregnancy verification, school enrollment, disability paperwork, custody/guardianship orders.
  • Digital copies ready: Clear PDFs or photos, labeled with your name and date.

Diverse Communities

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask agencies about chosen-name use and privacy. Domestic violence services in Louisiana must serve LGBTQ+ survivors. See LCADV inclusive services. For legal name/gender marker guidance, contact SLLS.
  • Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Request reasonable accommodations at DCFS, LDH, and PHAs (extra time, telephone interviews). For disability services and waivers, start at LDH Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities and LDH Medicaid waivers.
  • Veteran single mothers: Check VA healthcare and caregiver supports. Contact Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs and the federal VA. Some PHAs offer veteran preferences; ask when applying.
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many programs consider the child’s status; children who are citizens may qualify even if a parent is not. WIC is available regardless of immigration status. For legal help, contact Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans Immigration Services or Refugee services via LDH.
  • Tribal-specific resources: If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, ask about Indian Health Service and tribal TANF or housing supports. Check with your tribe and IHS facility locator.
  • Single fathers: Many of these programs are for all caretakers. FITAP, SNAP, WIC (for children), CCAP, and Medicaid apply to single dads too.
  • Language access: You have the right to free interpreter services at DCFS, LDH, and PHAs. Ask for language assistance when you call or at your appointment.

Regional and Local Resources (Selected)

  • Food banks: Use LA Food Bank Finder to reach Second Harvest (SE LA), Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana, Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, etc.
  • Community Action Agencies: Handle LIHEAP, Head Start, and emergency funds. Find via LHC LIHEAP providers list.
  • United Way: Local funds for rent, utilities, and referrals. Find your regional United Way through 211 or your parish government site.
  • Catholic Charities: Emergency assistance, case management, immigration help. Start at Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans and ask for parish-specific contacts.
  • School districts: McKinney-Vento liaisons for homeless students provide transportation, supplies, and enrollment support. Contact your parish school board office.

Real-World Examples

  • Calcasieu Parish mom, 2 kids: Applied for SNAP on Monday, completed the phone interview Thursday, received $766 for a household of 3 the next week after submitting rent and utility bills to boost the deduction.
  • Morehouse Parish pregnant mom: Did online Medicaid application and called 1-888-342-6207 to note pregnancy; coverage was active in about 10 days, allowing immediate prenatal appointments at an FQHC.
  • St. Landry Parish: Utility shutoff in 72 hours; LIHEAP crisis appointment granted the next day and paid the arrears directly to the utility within 3 business days.

Results vary by parish and funding levels—always ask about expedited or crisis processing.

Plan B Options When Things Stall

  • Ask for a supervisor call-back if your case is pending beyond timelines.
  • Submit a complete packet to restart the clock—missing documents pause processing.
  • File an appeal or fair hearing if you believe the decision is wrong.
  • Get a support letter from a social worker, teacher, or doctor describing hardship; bring it to LIHEAP or housing appointments.

Tables: Quick Numbers

SNAP 2025 – Monthly Gross Income Limits and Maximum Benefits

Household Gross Income Limit (130% FPL) Max Benefit
2 $2,214 $535
3 $2,798 $766
4 $3,380 $973
5 $3,962 $1,155

Sources: USDA SNAP eligibility, USDA SNAP maximum allotments.

WIC 2025 – Monthly Income Limits (185% FPL)

Household Max Monthly Income
2 $3,150
3 $3,979
4 $4,808
5 $5,637

Source: LDH WIC, USDA WIC income guidelines.

LIHEAP 2025 – Monthly Income Reference (150% FPL)

Household Max Monthly Income
2 $2,554
3 $3,228
4 $3,900
5 $4,573

Source: LHC LIHEAP.

Health Coverage – General Income Signals

Group Approx Income Threshold Notes
Parents/Caretakers ~19% FPL Very low threshold; check LDH.
Pregnant ≥138% FPL (verify) 12 months postpartum coverage.
Children (LaCHIP) Up to ~255% FPL Premiums may apply at higher tiers.

Source: LDH Medicaid/LaCHIP.

Housing – Who to Contact

Resource How to Use
HUD PHA list Apply to multiple PHAs; watch for open waitlists: HUD Louisiana PHA contacts.
HUD Income Limits Check your parish’s 30/50/80% AMI: HUD User Income Limits.
USDA RD Rentals Find rural affordable units: USDA RD property search.

Step-by-Step: Getting the Most Help Fast

  • Day 1: Apply for SNAP, Medicaid/LaCHIP, WIC, and LIHEAP. Upload documents the same day.
  • Day 2–3: Call to confirm your SNAP interview and request expedited service. Book a LIHEAP appointment.
  • Week 1: Apply to CCAP and at least three housing lists (PHA and USDA properties).
  • Week 2: Follow up on any missing items. Ask for crisis processing where available.

What Rural Louisiana Applicants Should Know

  • Limited office hours and long drives: Ask for phone interviews and remote document submission.
  • Internet and phone issues: Use libraries, schools, or workforce centers for scanning and uploading documents.
  • Storm seasons: Keep physical copies and a USB drive with your documents in case of outages.

About Appeals and Fair Hearings

  • How to appeal: Your notice explains how to request a fair hearing. Submit in writing before the deadline, keep a copy, and ask for continued benefits where allowed.
  • Get representation: Contact SLLS or Acadiana Legal Service for help preparing your case and gathering evidence.

What If You Have No Income Right Now?

  • Expedited SNAP and WIC can be fastest.
  • LIHEAP crisis if shutoff imminent.
  • Emergency shelters and DV services can help with safety and case management.
  • Ask DCFS about any emergency cash resources or referrals to Community Action emergency funds.

Final Tips to Stretch Benefits

  • Use WIC and SNAP together: WIC covers specific foods; SNAP fills the rest.
  • Report child care expenses to SNAP: Can increase your allotment.
  • Track recertification dates: Put reminders in your phone 30 days before.
  • Keep receipts and correspondence: Useful for appeals or corrections.

What To Do If You Face Discrimination

What We Couldn’t Lock Down with Exact Dollar Figures

Some program amounts (FITAP cash grant levels; CCAP copay/income brackets; exact Medicaid LaCHIP premium tiers) are updated by Louisiana during the year and not consistently posted in one place. We linked directly to the official program pages and phone numbers so you can confirm the current 2025 amounts with a caseworker the same day you apply.

FAQs (Louisiana-Specific)

  • How fast can I get SNAP if I have no income?
    If you qualify for expedited service, benefits can arrive within 7 days. Apply at LA CAFÉ and call 1-888-524-3578 to note urgency. Source: USDA SNAP.
  • Can I get WIC if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
    Yes. WIC is available regardless of immigration status. Source: USDA WIC FAQs.
  • Do I need a job to get CCAP?
    You must be working or in approved education/training. Check details and income caps at CCAP page.
  • What’s the SNAP asset limit?
    2,750∗∗formosthouseholds(∗∗2,750** for most households (**4,250 if a member is elderly/disabled). Source: USDA SNAP eligibility.
  • How much is the SNAP max for a family of 3?
    $766/month (Oct 2024–Sept 2025). Source: USDA SNAP COLA.
  • What if Medicaid says I’m over income as a parent?
    Apply for your child under LaCHIP, and if you’re pregnant, apply under the pregnancy category, which has higher limits. Call 1-888-342-6207. Source: LDH Medicaid.
  • How do I find rural rentals I can afford?
    Search USDA Rural Development properties: USDA RD Rental Search and apply at multiple locations.
  • Can child support cooperation be waived for safety?
    Yes, request a good-cause waiver if cooperation puts you or your child at risk. Source: DCFS Child Support policies.
  • Where do I apply for LIHEAP?
    Through your parish’s provider listed on LHC LIHEAP providers. Ask about crisis assistance if you have a shutoff notice.
  • I was denied benefits—what now?
    File an appeal promptly as instructed on your notice, ask for a fair hearing, and contact SLLS or Acadiana Legal Service for help.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team:
We use only official sources, verify links at publication, and track changes for timely updates. Our research follows a primary-source approach with cross-verification, archived links, and periodic reviews.

Official sources used in this article:

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

  • Information can change: Benefit amounts, income limits, documents, and deadlines update during the year. Always verify through the official links and phone numbers provided.
  • No legal or medical advice: This guide is informational only. For legal issues, contact legal aid; for medical questions, speak with a licensed clinician.
  • Security and privacy: For your safety, avoid sharing full SSNs by email or text unless required by official portals. Use secure government websites (look for “https”) and public computers with caution. We do not collect personal data through this guide.

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