Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Arkansas
Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Arkansas
Last updated: September 2025. For the newest forms and rule changes, check the official pages at Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Social Security Administration (SSA), and HUD Arkansas.
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Stop a power shutoff now: Call your electric company and request a same‑day medical hold if you or your child has life‑support needs. For Entergy Arkansas, ask for the “Certified Medical Emergency” form at 1‑800‑368‑3749 and get a 30‑day hold once your doctor signs it; you can renew one time for another 30 days. Pair this with a crisis LIHEAP application right away at GetLIHEAP.com or find your local agency on ADEQ/E&E’s LIHEAP list. Call to confirm availability before applying. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
- Secure healthcare coverage fast: If your child has a disability, apply for TEFRA Medicaid and ask your county office about emergency processing. Start at TEFRA at Arkansas DHS and call the Access Arkansas helpline 1‑855‑372‑1084 for help submitting documents. TEFRA is approved by CMS through 12/31/2030, so it’s stable. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Get a ride to care: Book Medicaid Non‑Emergency Transportation (NET) at 1‑888‑987‑1200 (call at least 48 hours ahead). If you’re in a PASSE, contact your care coordinator first, then call NET. See details at DHS NET and AFMC Medicaid NET info. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy
- Access Arkansas (apply/renew/track cases): 1‑855‑372‑1084; Access Arkansas; DHS Hotlines. (afmc.org)
- PASSE Ombudsman (problems with managed care decisions): 1‑844‑843‑7351; PASSE Ombudsman; PASSE program overview. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Disability Rights Arkansas (free legal advocacy): 1‑800‑482‑1174; DRA; About DRA / intake. (disabilityrightsar.org)
- Medicaid rides (NET Helpline): 1‑888‑987‑1200; NET info; Broker contacts / Verida numbers. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Entergy Arkansas medical certification and bill tools: 1‑800‑368‑3749; Certified medical emergency; Help paying your bill. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
Who this guide is for
This guide is built for disabled single moms in Arkansas. It focuses on disability‑specific help: programs that change the rules, speed the process, or add extra benefits because you or your child has a disability. You’ll see practical steps, timelines, and backup plans. For general benefits, check DHS and HUD Arkansas, and call Legal Aid of Arkansas if you hit a wall on applications. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Arkansas Today
Start with the action that buys time, then bring in bill aid. Use the medical protections if you or your child has a serious condition.
- Request a 30‑day medical hold: For Entergy Arkansas accounts, ask for the Certified Medical Emergency program, which places a 30‑day hold (renewable once) when a physician certifies that disconnection would gravely harm health. Call 1‑800‑368‑3749 to get the doctor form. Keep a copy and note renewal date. Pair this with a payment plan. Entergy medical hold details and Entergy medical needs support. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
- Apply for LIHEAP (energy bill help) right now: Summer/winter cycles open seasonally and funds are first‑come. Entergy reported winter help “up to $475” in recent cycles; amounts vary by county and funding. Apply online at GetLIHEAP.com where available or find your local agency on ADEQ/E&E’s LIHEAP page. Always call the agency to confirm current availability. (entergynewsroom.com)
- Use local utility programs: For SWEPCO bills, the Arkansas Utility Assistance Program (Dollar Energy Fund) can grant up to $200 while funds last. For Central Arkansas Water, enroll in no‑fee Promise payment plans to avoid disconnection during the plan. For Rogers Water, ask about H2O: Help 2 Others. (dollarenergy.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Disability Rights Arkansas for advocacy on medical protections and accessible communications, and ask Legal Aid of Arkansas about emergency court protections if a shutoff creates a health risk. If your child uses medical equipment, tell your pediatrician and ask for a same‑day letter. (disabilityrightsar.org)
Reality Check: LIHEAP and local funds can run out without notice. Always ask for a written “pledge” confirmation from the agency and keep calling weekly until the credit posts on your account. Use your online utility portal (like myEntergy or SWEPCO alerts) to watch for changes and shutoff dates. (entergy.com)
Medicaid Paths That Prioritize Disability
TEFRA Medicaid for Children with Disabilities
- Why it matters: TEFRA lets a child under 19 with a qualifying disability get full Medicaid based on the child’s needs, not the parent’s income. Some families owe a sliding‑scale premium. Start with TEFRA at DHS and track your case at Access Arkansas. TEFRA operates under an 1115 demonstration, approved through 12/31/2030. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Eligibility basics: Child must meet disability level of care and be safe to serve at home. You apply at your county office or online upload via Access Arkansas; questions: 1‑855‑372‑1084. See TEFRA FAQs for premiums and forms. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Timeline: Allow 30–60 days for a routine determination (longer if medical records are delayed). Call weekly, and ask the worker to note any urgent medical issues.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Request help from Disability Rights Arkansas if you face delays or denials, and ask First Connections to document therapy needs for children under 3. (disabilityrightsar.org)
ARChoices in Homecare (Adults with Disabilities)
- What it covers: For adults 21–64 with a qualifying physical disability (nursing‑home level), ARChoices can fund attendant care, respite, adult day services, home‑delivered meals, personal emergency response, adult family homes, and home mods/adaptive equipment. See ARChoices at DHS and call the Choices in Living Resource Center at 1‑866‑801‑3435. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- How to apply: Start a Medicaid application at Access Arkansas and ask for a functional assessment for ARChoices. If you prefer self‑directed care (you hire and schedule your own aides), ask about IndependentChoices (1915(j) cash‑and‑counseling). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Timeline: Expect 45–90 days including the nurse assessment. Ask for emergency priority if there’s a health/safety risk.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: File a Medicaid appeal quickly if services are denied or cut; see Medicaid Appeals Rules and call DRA for representation. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Developmental Disabilities Services: CES Waiver and PASSE
- CES Waiver (Community & Employment Supports): For children and adults with IDD/Autism who meet ICF/IID level of care; services include supportive living, respite, employment supports, adaptive equipment, and mods. Start by calling DDS Intake at 501‑683‑5687 and learn more at DDS Supported Employment. The waiver operates statewide and is managed through PASSE plans. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- PASSE managed care: Complex behavioral health and DD/IDD services are coordinated through PASSEs; you can switch during October open enrollment. For disputes, call the PASSE Ombudsman at 1‑844‑843‑7351. Program info: DHS PASSE. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Autism waiver (children): Arkansas’ Autism 1915(c) Waiver (effective July 1, 2024–June 30, 2029) funds intensive home‑based treatment for eligible young children; admin materials are on Medicaid.gov and provider manuals on DHS. See Medicaid Autism Waiver facts and DHS Autism Waiver provider manual. Partners for Inclusive Communities also posts Arkansas Autism Partnership application info. (medicaid.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your PASSE care coordinator to file an expedited appeal if a needed service is denied. If you can’t resolve it, file a grievance and call the PASSE Ombudsman. For legal help, contact DRA. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Medical Rides and Paratransit You Can Actually Book
- Medicaid NET rides statewide: Call 1‑888‑987‑1200; book at least 48 hours in advance (don’t count weekends/holidays). Brokers vary by region (e.g., Verida, CADC, SEAT). Details: DHS NET and Verida Arkansas facility lines. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Central Arkansas (Little Rock/NLR): METRO Links ADA paratransit accepts reservations at 1‑501‑375‑6717; eligibility required; hours listed at Schedule METRO Links and Links eligibility (large print available). (rrmetro.org)
- Northwest Arkansas (Benton/Washington counties): Ozark Regional Transit ADA paratransit (fare $0 per destination) at 1‑800‑865‑5901, option 2; see ORT ADA guide. (ozark.org)
- Fort Smith area: Call Fort Smith Transit 1‑479‑783‑6464 to schedule curb‑to‑curb demand response or ADA paratransit one day ahead; see Curbside Service. (fortsmithar.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: For missed rides, report to the broker and then the NET Helpline (1‑888‑987‑1200). If repeated, call DHS and DRA to report barriers. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Assistive Technology, Equipment, and Home Mods
- ICAN — Arkansas Assistive Technology Program: Borrow or try devices, find reused equipment, and apply for low‑interest loans if needed. Contact ICAN at 1‑800‑828‑2799 or 1‑501‑666‑8868; program details at AT3 Center profile and ICAN AT funding (AFP). (at3center.net)
- Arkansas Spinal Cord Commission (ASCC): Case management, equipment loans, and limited purchased services for Arkansans with spinal cord disabilities. Call 1‑800‑459‑1517 (or 1‑501‑296‑1788); see ASCC Programs & Services. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
- Home mods through ARChoices: Ask your care coordinator to assess for ramps, door widening, bathroom safety, and PERS devices under ARChoices. See ARChoices info. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a PASSE or ARChoices denies a needed device, file an appeal per Medicaid Appeals Rules and contact DRA for help. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Disability Income, Work Incentives, and Keeping Medicaid
- SSI/SSDI amounts and 2025 thresholds: SSI’s Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) is 967/monthforanindividualin2025;SGA(worktest)is967/month for an individual in 2025; SGA (work test) is 1,620/month (2,700ifblind).TrialWorkPeriodmonthscountat2,700 if blind). Trial Work Period months count at 1,160. See SSA Red Book 2025 “What’s New”. (ssa.gov)
- Fast tracks for severe conditions: SSA’s Quick Disability Determinations (QDD), Compassionate Allowances (CAL), and TERI (terminal illness) can speed a decision; CAL list was expanded in August 2025. Read SSA Fast‑Track and CAL press release. (ssa.gov)
- Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA): Call SSA’s Ticket to Work Help Line 1‑866‑968‑7842 (TTY 1‑866‑833‑2967) to connect with your WIPA counselor, and explore ENs via Ticket to Work. See WIPA info. (ssa.gov)
- Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (buy‑in): Arkansas covers ages 16–65 who are working with a disability determination; there’s no earned‑income cap if income is reported, but unearned income (like SSDI/SSI) must be ≤ your disability payment plus $20. Apply at Access Arkansas or your county office. See DHS Workers with Disabilities FAQ. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Keep other coverage if it’s cheaper: If you have employer coverage or COBRA and high medical costs, ask about AR HIPP; Medicaid may reimburse your premium while you keep Medicaid as secondary. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If SSA denies SSDI/SSI, appeal within the deadline and mark your file for QDD/CAL/TERI if applicable; see SSA QDD and TERI policy. For Medicaid coverage gaps while working, ask DHS about “Medicaid While Working” eligibility in the SSA Red Book. (ssa.gov)
Housing Help That Prioritizes Disability
- Mainstream Vouchers and HCV: Ask your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) about “Mainstream” vouchers for non‑elderly people with disabilities and disability preferences. Find PHAs via HUD Rental Help – Arkansas and HUD Arkansas field office. Apply to more than one PHA. (hud.gov)
- Section 811: Arkansas has 811 supportive housing from past capital advance awards and states can add 811 PRA units; ask ADFA and HUD which properties take referrals. See HUD 811 PRA 2025 NOFO and HUD Arkansas. (hud.gov)
- Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA): Track new affordable units and compliance under LIHTC; see ADFA housing programs and news on 2025 LIHTC awards. (adfa.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call HUD housing counselors and Legal Aid of Arkansas if you face disability discrimination or a denial without proper notice. (hud.gov)
Special Education, Early Intervention, and Respite
- First Connections (birth to 3): State Part C early intervention—no out‑of‑pocket cost. Refer at 1‑800‑643‑8258 or First Connections; providers coordinate with TEFRA, private insurance, or ARKids. (firstconnectionsar.org)
- School Special Education (ages 3–21): Learn rights and dispute options at DESE Special Education Parent Resources; contact your LEA SPED supervisor and consider advocacy from Disability Rights Arkansas. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
- Children’s Special Services (Title V): Care coordination and limited family support/respite for SSI/TEFRA kids under 18—up to $3,000 if approved (first‑come; verify funding). See Children’s Special Services. Call to confirm current availability before applying. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatrician to document medical necessity and call DESE SPED dispute resolution if the IEP isn’t followed. For home supports, ask DDS about CES respite. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
Utility and Water Help by Provider (quick scan)
| Provider | Medical/Hardship Tools | How to Request | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entergy Arkansas | Certified Medical Emergency hold up to 30 days (renewable once); payment extensions; LIHEAP agency pledges | 1‑800‑368‑3749; [Medical emergency details]; [Help paying your bill] | Ask your doctor to fax medical note; get dates for renewal. Amounts for LIHEAP vary by county; call first. (billtoolkit.entergy.com) |
| SWEPCO (AEP) | Assistance via Dollar Energy Fund grants (last resort) | [Arkansas Utility Assistance Program] | Up to $200 while funds last; window Oct 1–Sept 30 (services off only). (dollarenergy.org) |
| OG&E (Fort Smith area) | Payment arrangements; beware scam calls | [OG&E Help Center] | Verify any phone number on your bill before paying. (oge.com) |
| Central Arkansas Water (Little Rock/NLR) | No‑fee Promise payment plans to avoid shutoff during the plan | [CAW Promise Payment Plans] | Enrolling protects you from disconnection while current on plan. (carkw.com) |
| Rogers Water Utilities | H2O: Help 2 Others hardship assistance | [Rogers H2O Program] | Screened by OHC; call 1‑479‑621‑1142. (rwu.org) |
Quick Reference Table — Disability‑Specific Programs (Arkansas)
| Program | Who It Helps | Key Benefits | Apply/Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| TEFRA (child disability Medicaid) | Children <19 with qualifying disability | Full Medicaid regardless of parent income; TEFRA premiums by sliding scale | [TEFRA info]; Access Arkansas 1‑855‑372‑1084 |
| ARChoices | Adults 21–64 with physical disability (NF level) | Attendant care, respite, home mods, meals, PERS | [ARChoices page]; Choices in Living 1‑866‑801‑3435 |
| IndependentChoices (self‑directed) | Adults needing personal care | You hire/train/schedule aides; cash allowance with FMS support | [IndependentChoices page] |
| CES Waiver (IDD/Autism) | Children/adults meeting ICF/IID level | Supportive living, respite, employment supports, adaptive equipment | DDS Intake 501‑683‑5687; [DDS employment supports] |
| Autism Waiver (young children) | Early childhood autism | Intensive in‑home therapy model; limited slots | [Medicaid 1915(c) Autism Waiver]; [AAP info] |
| PASSE | Members with complex BH or DD/IDD | Care coordination, services via managed care | [PASSE overview]; Ombudsman 1‑844‑843‑7351 |
| NET (Medicaid rides) | Eligible Medicaid members | Free rides to covered care; book 48 hours ahead | Helpline 1‑888‑987‑1200; [NET page] |
| ICAN (AT program) | All ages with disabilities | Device loans, demos, reuse, AT loans | [ICAN site]; AT3 Center listing |
| Workers with Disabilities (Medicaid buy‑in) | Ages 16–65, working, disabled | Full Medicaid; earned income allowed; unearned income capped | [Program FAQ]; apply at [Access Arkansas] |
Expected Timelines (Typical)
| Action | Realistic Wait Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| TEFRA determination | 30–60 days (longer if records delayed) | Upload medical records in Access Arkansas and call your county office weekly. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| ARChoices assessment to start of care | 45–90 days | Ask for emergency priority if there’s a safety risk; escalate through Choices in Living. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| PASSE service change (non‑urgent) | 14–30 days | Ask for an expedited review; if denied, contact PASSE Ombudsman. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Medicaid NET ride booking | Book ≥48 hours ahead | For chemo/dialysis, brokers must accommodate; see NET rules. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| LIHEAP pledge posting | 3–10 business days | Keep your case number; verify pledge with your utility portal like myEntergy. (entergy.com) |
Local Organizations, Charities, and Support
- Easterseals Arkansas: Therapy, equipment, housing supports, and family services; connect to Medicaid options through care coordinators. Pair with DHS DDS and advocacy from DRA.
- Legal help: Legal Aid of Arkansas (1‑800‑952‑9243) and Center for Arkansas Legal Services (1‑800‑950‑5817) for appeals and housing issues; disability rights via DRA.
- Assistive Technology: ICAN for device loans and reuse; Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS) for job‑related accommodations; Telecommunications Access Program for specialized phones. (dws.arkansas.gov)
- Transit and paratransit: METRO Links in Central Arkansas, Ozark Regional Transit ADA in NWA, and Fort Smith Transit in the River Valley. (rrmetro.org)
Resources by Region
Little Rock Water Bill Help
Enroll in Central Arkansas Water Promise payment plans to freeze fees and avoid disconnections while current on your plan, and call CAW Customer Service at 1‑501‑372‑5161 for options. Ask about LIHEAP and coordinate with Access Arkansas if your Medicaid card or income documentation is needed. (carkw.com)
Northwest Arkansas Energy and Water
For SWEPCO electric bills, apply for the Dollar Energy Fund grant while it’s open and contact Ozark Regional Transit ADA for rides to care. For local water, check your city utility’s hardship funds and payment plans—e.g., Fayetteville Utilities. (dollarenergy.org)
Fort Smith Electric and Water
Call Fort Smith Transit for paratransit rides to court dates or DHS appointments, and ask OG&E about payment arrangements or agency pledges. Track local assistance through HUD Arkansas and Legal Aid of Arkansas if you need help with landlord utility shutoff issues. (fortsmithar.gov)
Jonesboro Utilities
City Water & Light offers Budget Billing to smooth spikes and an online portal for alerts. Pair that with GetLIHEAP.com and Access Arkansas for documents. (jonesborocwl.org)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your provider office for name/pronoun updates and privacy flags; request ADA accommodations in writing. Use DRA if you face discrimination. For benefits questions while working, call SSA Ticket to Work and ask for a WIPA referral to review impact on SSI/SSDI. (disabilityrightsar.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Connect to the VA for healthcare, caregiver support, and housing help; coordinate VA care with Medicaid. Contact the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System and ask about VA Caregiver Support. Use HUD Arkansas for HUD‑VASH leads. (Verify local phone via VA site.)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can request interpreters at DHS and SSA. For resettled or immigrant families, contact Catholic Charities of Arkansas and ask Legal Aid of Arkansas about public benefit eligibility and due process if denied. (Use interpreters; ask for large‑print forms if needed.)
- Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re a citizen of a federally recognized Tribe, ask about IHS clinic referrals and housing assistance; call HUD Arkansas and your Tribe’s housing authority. Keep Medicaid active through Access Arkansas; many Tribal services coordinate with state coverage. (hud.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Use NET rides for long‑distance appointments; ask brokers for mileage reimbursement when a friend drives. Request phone appointments and mail‑in signatures through Access Arkansas to avoid travel. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Single fathers: Many programs are parent‑based, not mother‑only. You can apply for TEFRA for your child and Workers with Disabilities for your own coverage if eligible. Ask DRA if you encounter gatekeeping. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Language access and accessibility: Ask for interpreters, large‑print forms, and TTY/relay services at every agency; Arkansas Relay info is at Arkansas Relay and DHS lists TDD lines on DHS Hotlines. (arkansasrelay.com)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing renewal texts or letters: Set SMS/email alerts in Access Arkansas and your utility portals like myEntergy. Keep copies of every document you upload. (entergy.com)
- Not flagging medical need: Always tell your utility and your PASSE/Medicaid worker if a shutoff or service cut will harm health. Use the Entergy medical form and ask your provider for a supporting letter. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
- Skipping appeals: You often have only 30 days to appeal Medicaid or PASSE decisions; read Medicaid appeals guidance and call DRA if the clock is running. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Shortages
- Truth: Staff shortages and funding limits cause slowdowns in waivers and crisis funds. Expect to call, email, and upload documents more than once. Keep names/dates in a simple log. Tie your request to safety, not just convenience, when you ask for priority. See DHS HCBS rate review updates for system‑level changes. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First Call | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Stop electric shutoff | Utility (ask for medical hold) and GetLIHEAP | Legal Aid of Arkansas and DRA. (entergy.com) |
| Medicaid rides | NET 1‑888‑987‑1200; broker numbers via DHS NET | Paratransit: METRO Links / ORT ADA. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Disability Medicaid for kids | TEFRA at DHS | First Connections (birth–3) to document needs. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Home care services | ARChoices | IndependentChoices. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Equipment/AT | ICAN; 1‑800‑828‑2799 | ASCC services. (healthy.arkansas.gov) |
Application Checklist (printable)
- Photo ID: DHS acceptable docs and SSA ID tips.
- Proof of Arkansas address: Utility bill/lease; save PDFs in Access Arkansas.
- Income proof: Pay stubs or SSA award letter; download from my Social Security.
- Medical records: Provider notes, evals, IEP; upload to TEFRA/ARChoices via Access Arkansas.
- Insurance cards: Medicaid/ARKids or private; if you have employer coverage, ask about AR HIPP.
- For utilities: Disconnect notice, account number, doctor’s letter (for medical hold); LIHEAP application via GetLIHEAP.
If Your Application Gets Denied
- Bold first step: Ask for the denial letter and appeal deadline in writing. Read it, then file the appeal on time even if you’re still gathering proof. See Medicaid Appeals. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Get support: Call Disability Rights Arkansas for Medicaid or education issues. For housing/utility disputes, call Legal Aid of Arkansas or Center for Arkansas Legal Services. (disabilityrightsar.org)
- Escalate with facts: Upload new medical notes, school evals, or safety risks to Access Arkansas and notify your caseworker by phone and email.
County‑Specific Notes and Variations
- PHAs and Mainstream Vouchers: Waiting lists and preferences change by county. Check NorthBridge Housing (North Little Rock) and Fort Smith Housing Authority sites, and search HUD Rental Help – Arkansas for your county. Some lists open briefly—sign up for alerts. (northbridgehs.org)
- Transit coverage: METRO Links serves Little Rock/NLR; ORT covers Benton/Washington; Fort Smith Transit serves Sebastian/Crawford. Confirm ADA eligibility and service areas on METRO Links, ORT ADA, and Fort Smith Transit. (rrmetro.org)
FAQs (Arkansas‑specific)
- How do I speed up an SSI/SSDI decision if my condition is severe?
Ask SSA to screen for Fast‑Track: QDD (data‑flagged) and CAL (condition‑based) can approve in weeks. If terminal, ask them to flag TERI. Bring complete records and hospital discharge papers. See SSA Fast‑Track and TERI policy. (ssa.gov) - What does TEFRA cost?
Premiums depend on family income; many pay $0. Use the TEFRA page to check premium charts and call 1‑855‑372‑1084 if the bill seems off. TEFRA is authorized through 2030 per Medicaid.gov. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) - My PASSE denied extra respite. What can I do?
Ask for the denial in writing and file an appeal with your PASSE. Call the PASSE Ombudsman at 1‑844‑843‑7351 for help. If needed, file a Medicaid appeal. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Can Medicaid pay for my work phone or internet if I’m disabled?
Not directly, but ICAN can advise on assistive devices and TAP can provide specialized phones/tablets to eligible applicants. (ar-ican.org) - How do I get to frequent treatments like dialysis or chemo?
Use NET rides and tell the broker it’s dialysis/chemo—brokers must accommodate. Keep appointment letters handy. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Is there help for water bills?
Yes: CAW Promise payment plans, Rogers H2O, and city programs (check your city utility). Pair with LIHEAP if electric is also past due. (carkw.com) - I work part‑time. Can I keep Medicaid?
Possibly via Workers with Disabilities (buy‑in). Talk with a WIPA counselor via SSA Ticket to Work before you change hours. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) - My toddler isn’t meeting milestones—where do I start?
Call First Connections at 1‑800‑643‑8258 for an evaluation, and explore TEFRA if long‑term therapies are needed. If on the Autism Waiver, ABA services come through that waiver; see Acentra ABA info. (firstconnectionsar.org) - Who fixes a missed Medicaid ride or rude driver?
Report to your broker and the NET Helpline 1‑888‑987‑1200. If it’s systemic, contact DHS and DRA. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Where can I complain about unsafe group home conditions?
Report to DHS Division of Provider Services & Quality Assurance and call DRA. Keep dates/times and take photos if safe. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Tables You Can Screenshot
Paratransit Quick Numbers
| Region | Service | Phone | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central AR | METRO Links | 1‑501‑375‑6717 | Schedule METRO Links (rrmetro.org) |
| Northwest AR | ORT ADA | 1‑800‑865‑5901 (opt 2) | ORT ADA Guide (ozark.org) |
| Fort Smith area | Fort Smith Transit | 1‑479‑783‑6464 | Curbside Service (fortsmithar.gov) |
Key Government Contacts
| Topic | Number/Link |
|---|---|
| Access Arkansas (apply/renew) | 1‑855‑372‑1084; Access Arkansas (afmc.org) |
| PASSE Ombudsman | 1‑844‑843‑7351; PASSE Ombudsman (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| NET Rides | 1‑888‑987‑1200; DHS NET (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Disability Rights Arkansas | 1‑800‑482‑1174; DRA (disabilityrightsar.org) |
Utility Shutoff Playbook
| Step | What to Do | Where |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ask for medical hold if applicable | Entergy medical hold (billtoolkit.entergy.com) |
| 2 | Apply for LIHEAP and confirm pledge | GetLIHEAP; ADEQ LIHEAP info (entergy.com) |
| 3 | Enroll in utility payment plan | CAW Promise; SWEPCO Dollar Energy Fund (carkw.com) |
Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español
Esta sección fue creada con herramientas de traducción de IA. Por favor verifique la información en las páginas oficiales enlazadas.
- Medicaid para niños con discapacidad (TEFRA): Solicite en TEFRA en DHS y pida ayuda al 1‑855‑372‑1084. TEFRA está aprobado por CMS hasta 2030. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Servicios en casa para adultos con discapacidad (ARChoices): Cobertura para asistentes personales, respiro, modificaciones del hogar y más en ARChoices. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Transporte médico (NET): Llame 1‑888‑987‑1200 con 48 horas de anticipación; más información en DHS NET. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Ayuda para facturas de energía (LIHEAP): Solicite en línea en GetLIHEAP.com o busque su agencia local en el volante de ADEQ/E&E. (entergy.com)
- Asistencia legal y defensa: Disability Rights Arkansas (1‑800‑482‑1174) y Legal Aid of Arkansas (1‑800‑952‑9243). (disabilityrightsar.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS)
- Medicaid.gov – Arkansas TEFRA & Waivers
- Social Security Administration – Red Book & Fast‑Track
- HUD Arkansas – Rental Help
- Disability Rights Arkansas
- ICAN – Arkansas Assistive Technology Program
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 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
This guide is informational only, not legal or financial advice. Program rules and funding change fast. Always confirm current eligibility, documents, wait times, and benefit amounts with the official agency or provider before you apply. For emergencies, use 911 and contact your providers and utility companies directly.
🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural 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
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs 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
