Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Indiana
Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Indiana (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This hub focuses on Indiana programs, benefits, and legal protections that are designed for people with disabilities—or have disability-specific rules—and that actually move the needle for disabled single mothers. It does not rehash general assistance open to everyone. You’ll find disability-targeted healthcare, in‑home help, adaptive tech, transportation, housing with accessibility or voucher preferences, shutoff protections that rely on medical need, and legal avenues to fix denials. For quick navigation, keep the top “If You Only Do 3 Things” and “Quick Help Box” handy with the emergency steps and phone numbers you’ll need most.
If any link looks unfamiliar, tap it—every program or organization we mention is linked right where you see it using the site’s official page for clarity.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Stop a utility shutoff today: Ask your doctor for a “medical certificate” and give it to your utility to postpone disconnection 10 days (renewable once). Call the utility and the state hotline to log the medical risk, then set a payment plan. Use the state’s consumer pages at Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) and Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) Consumer Affairs for exact rules and help. (in.gov)
- Secure or keep Medicaid when work is on the line: If you’re disabled and working (or about to), ask about MEDWorks (Medicaid for Employees with Disabilities) and, if you get SSI, use Medicaid While Working (1619(b)) so wages don’t end your care. These are disability‑specific and can preserve coverage while you work. (in.gov)
- Get in‑home help fast (even if there’s a waitlist): Call your local INconnect Alliance/Area Agency on Aging to apply for the Health & Wellness Medicaid Waiver (under 60) or PathWays for Aging Waiver (60+), plus the state‑funded CHOICE program as a backup. Use the HCBS waitlist portal to check your place and update contact info. (in.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These Five on Your Phone
- Indiana 211: 24/7 resource line (disability‑aware, interpreters available). Dial 2‑1‑1, text your ZIP to 898‑211, or visit IN 211. (in.gov)
- Indiana Disability Rights (Protection & Advocacy): For disability discrimination, program denials, rights, and access barriers. Call 1-800-622-4845 or use Indiana Disability Rights. (in.gov)
- Medicaid Transportation (Traditional Medicaid): Schedule rides with Verida at 1-855-325-7586; managed‑care members call your plan’s transportation broker. (in.gov)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Indiana): Call or text 988 or see 988 Indiana for mental health crisis support (all languages supported). (in.gov)
- MOMS Helpline (state maternal/parenting resource): Call 1-844-624-6667 for connections to OB/GYNs, diapers, car seats, and local supports at MOMS Helpline. (in.gov)
Who This Guide Is For
You’re a disabled single mom trying to keep care, stay housed, avoid shutoffs, and keep work going without losing benefits. This guide leans on disability‑specific options: waivers, Medicaid buy‑in, assistive tech, disability housing programs, medical‑need shutoff protections, and legal help through Indiana Disability Rights and Indiana Legal Services. It also points to state navigators like INconnect Alliance and crisis lines like 988 Indiana that prioritize accessibility. (in.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Indiana Today
Start with the action that buys you time to breathe. Indiana law includes medical protections and winter rules that help disabled households avoid life‑threatening shutoffs.
- Medical certificate buys time: A regulated utility must postpone shutoff 10 days if you provide a signed statement from a licensed physician or public health official saying shutoff would pose a serious and immediate health threat. You can renew once for another 10 days (natural gas may allow more at the utility’s discretion). Call your utility today; then get your provider’s note. Use the step‑by‑step rules on OUCC’s disconnection page and contact IURC Consumer Affairs if you hit a wall. (in.gov)
- Winter moratorium coverage: Between Dec 1 and Mar 15, regulated electric and gas utilities cannot disconnect customers who qualify for Energy Assistance Program (EAP) and provide written proof to the utility. Confirm eligibility and get intake office contacts via OUCC’s moratorium FAQ and IHCDA EAP directory. (in.gov)
- If you’re with NIPSCO, Duke, AES, Citizens Energy: Ask for “medical” or “emergency medical” status and a payment arrangement right away. NIPSCO notes medical postponements and third‑party alerts on its Financial Support page; see general state rules on OUCC. Keep the utility’s emergency number saved. (nipsco.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
Escalate to IURC Consumer Affairs (1-800-851-4268) and ask a supervisor at your utility to review the medical certificate. Document every call. If you have medical equipment at home, ask Indiana Disability Rights whether a reasonable‑accommodation request applies to your situation. (in.gov)
Health Coverage and Care That Won’t Disappear When You Work
If you’re disabled and parenting alone, health coverage continuity is non‑negotiable. These are the most important disability‑specific pathways.
- Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) Medicaid: If Social Security finds you disabled, you may qualify for ABD Medicaid. Indiana’s 2025 income standard is 1,304.17/monthforahouseholdofone(higherforlargerhouseholds),andupto1,304.17/month for a household of one (higher for larger households), and up to 2,901/month if you qualify under nursing‑facility/waiver rules. Start with Indiana Medicaid’s eligibility guide to confirm which category fits you. (in.gov)
- MEDWorks (Medicaid for Employees with Disabilities): Lets disabled adults 16–64 keep Medicaid while working, with premiums based on income. Indiana is examining updates to long‑stagnant limits (advocates want higher caps in 2025), but MEDWorks remains a key option. Learn how it works at FSSA’s MEDWorks page and check current policy news if you have higher earnings. (in.gov)
- SSI 1619(b) — Medicaid While Working: If you receive SSI, you can often keep Medicaid even after cash SSI stops due to wages, as long as you stay under Indiana’s 2025 threshold ($43,358 gross annual earnings). See the state thresholds table and details at SSA’s 1619(b) page. (ssa.gov)
- Social Security work rules to keep benefits safely: SSDI allows a 9‑month Trial Work Period (TWP) with no cap; in 2025 any month over 1,160countstowardthose9months.AfterTWP,yougeta36‑monthsafetynet(EPE)wherechecksstoponlyinmonthsyourcountableearningsexceedSubstantialGainfulActivity(SGA).2025SGAis1,160 counts toward those 9 months. After TWP, you get a 36‑month safety net (EPE) where checks stop only in months your countable earnings exceed Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). 2025 SGA is 1,620/month (non‑blind) and $2,700/month (blind). Use the official numbers at SSA TWP and SSA SGA. (ssa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask for free work‑incentive counseling. Indiana’s VR‑funded Benefits Information Network (BIN) and federal WIPA (Work Incentives Planning & Assistance) explain how wages affect SSI/SSDI and Medicaid. If your coverage ends by mistake, appeal and call Indiana Disability Rights for advocacy. (iidc.indiana.edu)
In‑Home Help, Attendant Care, and Waivers (Under 60 and 60+)
Indiana split the old A&D Waiver into two waivers on July 1, 2024—this matters for mothers under 60.
- Health & Wellness Waiver (H&W, under 60): For disabled Hoosiers who meet nursing‑facility level of care. Services can include personal care attendants, home mods, and respite so you can parent at home. Apply via your Area Agency on Aging/INconnect Alliance and Medicaid (you need both). See member rules at Indiana Medicaid H&W page and program admin info at FSSA DDRS. (in.gov)
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver: For adults with a qualifying TBI who meet nursing‑facility or ICF/IID level of care (based on age at injury). Review eligibility at Indiana Medicaid’s TBI Waiver then contact your AAA. (in.gov)
- PathWays for Aging Waiver (60+): For older disabled moms, PathWays also includes long‑term supports and managed care coordination. Check plan contacts at PathWays Resources and who qualifies at PathWays Eligibility. (in.gov)
- Waitlists and timelines: Indiana operates with fixed “slots,” so you may wait for an invitation to enroll. As of mid‑2025 FSSA reported active waiting lists and monthly invitations. You can monitor counts and invitations on DDRS’s HCBS waitlist information and verify your info on the HCBS Waitlist Portal. Plan on 10–15 business days for level‑of‑care decisions after assessment; initial waiver enrollment can take weeks to months depending on slot availability. (in.gov)
- CHOICE (state‑funded): If you’re disabled and under 60, you can apply for CHOICE through your AAA as a bridge while you wait on Medicaid waiver slots. CHOICE has no income limit but does have cost‑share and a resource limit; many counties use it to keep people safe at home. Call the AAA network at 1‑800‑713‑9023 or INconnect Alliance to get routed. (in.gov)
Reality check: Waiver policies have been evolving. For example, litigation in 2025 affected whether some parents can be paid attendants for medically complex children. If a change impacts your family, read Indiana Disability Rights’ August 2025 case update and speak with an advocate. (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
If the AAA or plan says “no,” ask for written denial with appeal rights and call Indiana Disability Rights. Keep CHOICE and local respite options active as a backup while you appeal. Use Indiana 211 to find stopgap home‑care hours and church partners. (in.gov)
Assistive Technology, Device Loans, and Low‑Cost Equipment
You can borrow devices, get refurbished equipment, and even find low‑interest AT loans—most at no cost.
- INDATA (state AT program at Easterseals Crossroads): Try devices for 30 days from the Device Lending Library, get free reused items and computers from the INDATA Depot, and ask about low‑interest AT loans via INDATA Services. Call 1‑888‑466‑1314 to reach an AT funding specialist. (eastersealstech.com)
- AT training and workplace help: INDATA runs free full‑day trainings and AT evaluations, and can advise on workplace accommodations. Explore offerings at INDATA Services and the INDATA Project hub. (eastersealstech.com)
- Telecommunications access (Deaf/HH): Free relay equipment loans and captioned phone programs are available through Relay Indiana/InTRAC (dial 7‑1‑1 to reach relay), with details also on FSSA’s DHHS relay page and Indiana CapTel/Hamilton. (relayindiana.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
If you need AT for work or school and get denied, apply with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and request a VR AT evaluation. Use BIN/WIPA (see below) if benefits are at risk. (in.gov)
Transportation You Can Actually Use
- Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Traditional Medicaid rides are brokered by Verida (call 1‑855‑325‑7586 at least 2 business days ahead; “Where’s My Ride” is option 2). HIP, Hoosier Care Connect, Hoosier Healthwise, and PathWays members get rides through their plan’s broker—check your plan card or use plan numbers listed on PathWays Resources. (in.gov)
- ADA Paratransit (local): If fixed‑route buses don’t work for you, apply for ADA paratransit with your transit agency. Examples: Citilink Access (Fort Wayne) (21‑day eligibility decision), with an expanded Access Plus zone as of July 1, 2025; Transpo Access (South Bend); and IndyGo Access Visitor Status if you’re visiting Indianapolis. (fwcitilink.com)
- Family/associate mileage reimbursement (Traditional Medicaid): If you can’t get a vendor ride, some NEMT policies let a trusted driver get reimbursed—but pre‑approval is required. Start with Verida’s line and the family/associate transportation instructions. (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
Appeal in writing to your health plan for repeated no‑shows and ask your doctor to document missed care risk. File a complaint with the plan and FSSA; ask Indiana Disability Rights about systemic access issues. (in.gov)
Housing When You Need Accessibility or Disability‑Focused Vouchers
- Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA): Indiana’s IHCDA 811 PRA funds units set aside for extremely low‑income adults with disabilities (18–61) tied to Medicaid long‑term services. Ask local disability and housing partners if 811 PRA units are open in your county. (in.gov)
- Mainstream/NED vouchers and HCV: Some housing authorities administer non‑elderly disabled vouchers or HCV preferences. See IHCDA HCV pages and watch waiting list notices and timelines (often 24+ months). (in.gov)
- Home accessibility: If you’re a renter, request reasonable accommodations/modifications in writing under fair housing laws. Use Indiana Civil Rights Commission housing page or HUD Indiana for complaint help; Central Indiana residents can consult Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana. (in.gov)
- Local emergency housing: If violence or safety is the issue, call the statewide domestic violence line at 1‑800‑332‑7385 (ICADV) or 988 for immediate crisis, then connect to local shelters via IN211 and legal help via Indiana Legal Services. (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
If you face discrimination for using a wheelchair, service animal, or voucher, file with ICRC and ask Indiana Disability Rights for advice on effective accommodation requests. Also check whether an 811 PRA property is leasing and get on the list. (in.gov)
Keep More of Your Money (Without Blowing Eligibility)
- INvestABLE Indiana (ABLE accounts): Save for disability expenses without counting against SSI/Medicaid limits. Open and manage an account through INvestABLE Indiana or contact the Indiana ABLE Authority with questions. Use BIN/WIPA to confirm how ABLE fits your benefits plan. (in.gov)
- IHCDA IDA (matched savings): For eligible low‑income savers, Indiana’s Individual Development Accounts can match up to $4,500 for approved goals (like vehicle for work or home repairs). Confirm rules with the local administrator before enrolling. (secure.in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
If a caseworker misapplies asset rules, show the ABLE statute and the IDA program rules, then request a supervisor review. Ask a Benefits Information Network counselor or WIPA to help you document why your savings are allowed. (iidc.indiana.edu)
Disability‑Savvy Employment Supports (If You Can or Want to Work)
- Vocational Rehabilitation (VR): VR can fund training, certification, assistive tech, home‑modifications needed for employment, and job placement for people with disabilities. Call 1‑800‑545‑7763 and connect to your nearest office via VR locations; see “How to Apply” at IN.gov VR FAQ. (in.gov)
- Benefits counseling: Use BIN and WIPA to plan hours and wages so you don’t lose Medicaid or SSDI/SSI by accident. They’ll apply 1619(b), IRWEs, and other work incentives for you. (iidc.indiana.edu)
- WorkOne/DWD career centers: Career advisors, training funds, and accessible services are available through WorkOne (DWD) and Indiana Career Explorer. Request accommodations—DWD lists free auxiliary aids and interpreters—and use virtual appointments if travel is hard. (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
Appeal a VR denial in writing, ask for the VR client assistance program info, and call Indiana Disability Rights if your plan or services stall. Use WorkOne for short‑term job search while you appeal. (in.gov)
Indianapolis Utility and Water Help — What’s Different?
- Electric (AES Indiana) & Gas/Water (Citizens): You still have the same medical‑certificate and winter moratorium rights under state rules explained by OUCC. If the shutoff date is set, call the company the same day, send the doctor’s note, and ask for a reasonable payment plan per state guidelines. If you can’t resolve it, call IURC Consumer Affairs for mediation. (in.gov)
- NIPSCO territory (Northern Indiana): The Financial Support page notes medical postponements and third‑party alerts; still, your strongest protections are the statewide rules. Keep both links handy and call 1‑800‑4NIPSCO for arrangements. (nipsco.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask your clinician to fax a clearer medical statement and send it to the utility’s medical certificate team; then escalate to the IURC. Request help from Indiana 211 for local emergency funds. (in.gov)
Tables: Quick Reference
Table 1 — Health Coverage & Income Rules (Disability‑Specific)
| Program | Who It Helps | 2025 key amounts | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABD Medicaid | Disabled adults meeting SSA disability | Single adult income ≈ 1,304/mo(higherwithwaiversupto1,304/mo (higher with waivers up to 2,901); assets and medical need apply | Indiana Medicaid Eligibility Guide (in.gov) |
| MEDWorks | Working disabled adults 16–64 | Premiums based on income; program under review for potential updates | FSSA MEDWorks; get counseling via BIN (in.gov) |
| SSI 1619(b) | SSI recipients who work | Indiana 1619(b) threshold $43,358/yr | SSA 1619(b) State Thresholds (ssa.gov) |
Table 2 — In‑Home Supports & Waivers
| Program | Age | What You Get | How long it takes | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health & Wellness Waiver | < 60 | Attendant care, home mods, respite | LOC decision ~11 days; then invite when slots open | H&W info + AAAs/INconnect (in.gov) |
| TBI Waiver | Any adult with qualifying TBI | Home/community services if NF/ICF level of care | Similar to H&W | TBI Waiver (in.gov) |
| PathWays for Aging | ≥ 60 | Managed LTSS, care coordination, transportation | Annual slot limits; monthly invites | PathWays Resources + Waitlist info (in.gov) |
Table 3 — Transportation at a Glance
| Need | Program | How to book | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid trip (Traditional) | Verida (FFS) | Call 1‑855‑325‑7586 ≥ 2 business days ahead | Use member or facility portal if easier |
| Medicaid trip (HIP, HCC, HHW, PathWays) | Your MCE’s broker | Check plan card/portal | Different brokers per plan |
| Local ADA paratransit | Transit agency | Apply once; book by phone/app | Example: Citilink Access; Transpo Access |
Table 4 — Utility Shutoff Protections for Medical Need
| Protection | What it does | How to claim | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical certificate | 10‑day postponement (renewable once) | Doctor/public health statement to utility | OUCC Disconnections (in.gov) |
| Winter moratorium | Dec 1–Mar 15 protection for EAP applicants | Apply for EAP; give proof to utility | OUCC Winter FAQ (in.gov) |
| Complaint/fairness support | Mediation/help with wrong shutoff | Call IURC 1‑800‑851‑4268 | IURC Consumer Assistance (in.gov) |
Table 5 — Disability Housing Options
| Option | Who qualifies | Apply/learn more |
|---|---|---|
| Section 811 PRA | Extremely low‑income adults with disabilities linked to long‑term services | IHCDA 811 PRA (in.gov) |
| HCV (with NED/Mainstream, if available) | Non‑elderly disabled or general HCV | IHCDA HCV; watch waitlist notices (in.gov) |
| Fair housing enforcement | Disability accommodations & modifications | ICRC Housing, HUD Indiana, FHCCI (in.gov) |
Local Organizations, Charities, and Support
- Protection & advocacy and fair housing: Indiana Disability Rights can take disability rights cases statewide; Central Indiana fair housing help is at FHCCI; state complaint info is at ICRC Housing. (in.gov)
- Assistive tech and training: INDATA at Easterseals Crossroads (loans, reuse, trainings) and Relay Indiana/InTRAC (captioned phones/relay) are statewide. (eastersealstech.com)
- Legal help: Civil legal help (benefits, disability discrimination, housing) is available through Indiana Legal Services (ILS) and guidance via Indiana Legal Help. For disability‑specific legal advocacy, contact Indiana Disability Rights. (indianalegalservices.org)
- Independent living & peer support: INSILC lists Centers for Independent Living with peer mentoring, skills, and advocacy; see the CIL directory on INSILC’s Centers page. (insilc.org)
- Crisis & maternal resources: For mental health, call or text 988 Indiana; for maternal supports and referrals, call MOMS Helpline at 1‑844‑624‑6667. (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
Use Indiana 211 to uncover hyper‑local supports (churches, civic groups) for ramps, utility deposits, and short‑term rides, and ask a CIL about peer‑led solutions that aren’t posted online. (in.gov)
Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call)
- Central Indiana (Marion, Hamilton, Hendricks): INconnect member CICOA for waiver/CHOICE referrals; paratransit via IndyGo Access visitor info if you have a comparable certification. Call MOMS Helpline for postpartum supports. (in.gov)
- Northeast (Allen and region): Citilink Access paratransit and new Access Plus+ zone; INSILC for CIL connections. (fwcitilink.com)
- North Central (St. Joseph area): Transpo Access paratransit; AAA via INconnect Alliance contacts; crisis help via 988 Indiana. (sbtranspo.com)
- Statewide: Medicaid rides through Verida for FFS; work incentives advice via BIN; legal support via Indiana Legal Services. (in.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming a general program is your only option: As a disabled parent, you often have special protections—medical shutoff delays and disability‑specific waivers among them. Confirm rules using OUCC and Indiana Medicaid’s waiver pages before giving up. (in.gov)
- Not reporting work changes the right way: If you’re on SSI/SSDI, use SSA’s work incentives guidance and get BIN/WIPA help to avoid preventable overpayments. (ssa.gov)
- Waiting for a phone call about the waiver list: Keep your info updated on the HCBS Waitlist Portal or you can miss your invitation window. (in.gov)
Reality Check
- Expect wait times: Non‑crisis Medicaid applications often run 10–15 business days; waiver enrollment depends on monthly slot “invitations,” so it can be months. DDRS posts slot and waitlist updates on its HCBS waitlist page. Call to confirm current availability before applying. (in.gov)
- Utility policies vary: State rules set the floor, but each utility’s process differs. Keep OUCC and your utility’s medical form info handy, and document who you spoke with and when. (in.gov)
- Program rules change: Indiana has made major long‑term care and waiver changes since 2024. Check FSSA updates and PathWays updates before you apply. (in.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Who to call/click |
|---|---|
| Medical shutoff delay | OUCC Disconnections; IURC Consumer Affairs (1‑800‑851‑4268) (in.gov) |
| Medicaid ride (FFS) | Verida 1‑855‑325‑7586; plan broker if HIP/HCC/PathWays (in.gov) |
| VR services | VR Office Locator; VR main 1‑800‑545‑7763 (in.gov) |
| Assistive tech | INDATA Device Loans/Reuse; Relay Indiana/InTRAC (711) (eastersealstech.com) |
| Legal help | Indiana Disability Rights; Indiana Legal Services (in.gov) |
Application Checklist (print/screenshot‑friendly)
- Photo ID and Social Security cards: For you and your minor children; request replacements at SSA and get state ID help through IN 211 if needed.
- Proof of disability: SSA award letter or doctor’s medical documentation; see disability definitions at SSA Disability and program criteria on Indiana Medicaid Eligibility. (in.gov)
- Income and assets: Pay stubs, child support, bank balances; if working, list IRWEs for SSDI/SSI rules from SSA Red Book updates and Work Incentives. (ssa.gov)
- Care needs summary: Daily tasks you need help with, safety risks (e.g., seizures, mobility limits). Use H&W Waiver criteria to frame needs. (in.gov)
- Proof for utility medical delay: Doctor/public health letter stating service loss is a serious immediate threat; deliver to utility per OUCC guidance. (in.gov)
- Transportation plan: Verida confirmation (FFS) or plan broker info; ADA paratransit eligibility letter (e.g., Citilink/Transpo/IndyGo Access). (sbtranspo.com)
If Your Application Gets Denied
- Medicaid/waivers: File an appeal by the deadline on your notice (usually measured in days from the notice date). Keep coverage if allowed pending appeal. Ask Indiana Disability Rights for help and contact your AAA to keep CHOICE or other interim services going. (in.gov)
- SSDI/SSI: You generally have 60 days to appeal each step. Get legal help through Indiana Legal Services and use SSA work rules pages if work caused the issue. (indianalegalservices.org)
- Paratransit/NEMT: Appeal in writing with medical documentation and missed‑care notes. If you can’t resolve with your plan or broker, ask IURC or IDR whether accessibility laws apply. (in.gov)
County‑Specific Variations You’ll Notice
- Marion County (Indianapolis): Managed‑care networks and provider availability may differ under PathWays for Aging; call PathWays Member Support for plan contacts, and confirm local paratransit processes at IndyGo Access. (in.gov)
- Allen County (Fort Wayne): Expanded paratransit service area via Access Plus+ launched July 1, 2025—fares and zones differ from standard Access. (fwcitilink.com)
- Northern Indiana (NIPSCO electric/gas): Utility websites note medical postponements and payment tools; rules still follow state protections on OUCC. Call 1‑800‑4NIPSCO for arrangements and third‑party alerts. (nipsco.com)
Diverse Communities (Inclusion & Access)
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for respectful care and language access wherever you go; state mental‑health lines like 988 Indiana are trained to support any identity, and disability rights help through Indiana Disability Rights applies equally. For fair housing related to gender identity or sexual orientation, see HUD Indiana resources. (in.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: If you’re a veteran with a disability, ask about VA care, state veteran benefits, and disability plates if needed; see the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs and contact the VA Women Veterans Program at your nearest VA facility. Use IN 211 to locate veteran‑specific housing and financial aid. (in.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can request interpreters at WorkOne/DWD and health services. For civil legal help (public benefits, housing, language rights), apply with Indiana Legal Services, which runs an Immigrants’ and Language Rights Center. Use IN 211 to find culturally specific agencies. (in.gov)
- Tribal/Native families: For federal housing and benefits issues, use HUD Indiana and the Social Security work incentives pages (SSA disability work). Ask Indiana Disability Rights about state civil rights and access questions. (hud.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: If transit is thin, maximize Verida for medical rides, request telehealth through your Medicaid plan, and use Relay Indiana for captioned calls if hearing loss is a barrier. Ask AAA/INconnect for CHOICE support while you wait on waiver slots. (in.gov)
- Single fathers: Disability rules are gender‑neutral. You can use MEDWorks, waivers, and VR just the same. Parenting‑time questions go to the Parenting Time Helpline. (in.gov)
- Language access & accessibility: State agencies provide interpreters and auxiliary aids upon request; DWD and DMHA list access lines. If denied interpretation or accessible formats, contact Indiana Disability Rights. (in.gov)
How to Apply for Disability‑Specific Programs (Steps)
- Medicaid/waivers
- Call your AAA first: Use INconnect Alliance to book an intake and a level‑of‑care assessment.
- Apply for Medicaid: Apply online/phone and select the disability category. Use Indiana Medicaid Eligibility Guide to match the right program.
- Track your waitlist: Keep your contact info current in the HCBS Waitlist Portal. (in.gov)
- MEDWorks
- Confirm disability and employment: Review FSSA MEDWorks.
- Get benefits counseling: Talk to BIN so you know premiums and reporting.
- Enroll and set up premiums: Keep proof of wages; report changes fast. (in.gov)
- Assistive technology (INDATA)
- Borrow first: Request a 30‑day loan from Device Lending Library.
- Ask for reuse: Check INDATA Depot for free refurbished items.
- Fund the purchase: Explore Alternative Financing Program if VR or Medicaid won’t cover it. (eastersealstech.com)
- Paratransit and NEMT
- Apply once for ADA paratransit with your agency (e.g., Citilink Access).
- Use Medicaid NEMT for medical trips (Verida).
- Back‑up ride: Pre‑approve a family driver via Family/Associate Transportation. (fwcitilink.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask Indiana Disability Rights for advocacy and file appeals on time. If an agency doesn’t return calls, escalate to a supervisor and document with dates/times. (in.gov)
10 Frequently Asked Questions (with Answers)
- How can I keep Medicaid if I start working part‑time?
Use MEDWorks if you’re 16–64 and disabled, or 1619(b) if you get SSI; Indiana’s 2025 1619(b) threshold is $43,358. BIN or WIPA can map which is better for you. (in.gov) - What are the current Social Security work limits?
In 2025, SGA is 1,620/mo(non‑blind)and1,620/mo (non‑blind) and 2,700/mo (blind). The TWP trigger is $1,160/mo. See SSA SGA and SSA TWP. (ssa.gov) - How long do waiver decisions take?
Level‑of‑care decisions typically take around 11 days once an assessment is complete; actual waiver enrollment depends on monthly invitations and capacity. Track updates on the DDRS HCBS waitlist page. (in.gov) - Can I get paid to care for my own child?
It depends on the program and current policy. There’s active litigation around parent‑provided care under H&W Waiver policies; see IDR’s 2025 update and ask your case manager for current rules. (in.gov) - How do I stop a shutoff when I rely on electricity for medical gear?
Ask your clinician for a medical certificate and give it to the utility. State rules require a 10‑day postponement (renewable once). Use OUCC Disconnections for how‑to, and call IURC if refused. (in.gov) - Is there help with adaptive phones or captioned calls?
Yes—Relay Indiana/InTRAC offers free loaner equipment and captioned phone programs; see FSSA DHHS relay page and Indiana CapTel. (relayindiana.com) - Where can I get affordable assistive tech now?
Borrow or get free reused devices from INDATA; for computers and magnifiers, see INDATA Depot. (eastersealstech.com) - How do I change child support if I became disabled?
Request a modification through your county child support office; the state lists rules and contacts at DCS Child Support and KidsLine (1‑800‑840‑8757). (in.gov) - How do I get paratransit if I’m new to town?
Most systems honor visitor eligibility for 21 days; see IndyGo Access Visitor Info and apply with your home city’s certification letter. (indygo.net) - Is there a way to save without losing benefits?
Yes—open an INvestABLE Indiana ABLE account for qualified disability expenses, and consider an IHCDA IDA if eligible. Get BIN/WIPA advice first. (in.gov)
Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)
Esta guía ofrece ayudas y programas específicos para madres solteras con discapacidades en Indiana: cobertura médica por discapacidad (Medicaid ABD), trabajo sin perder Medicaid (MEDWorks y 1619(b)), apoyos en el hogar por medio de “waivers” (Health & Wellness y PathWays), tecnología de asistencia (INDATA), transporte médico (Verida), protección contra cortes de servicios por razones médicas (OUCC), y ayuda legal (Indiana Disability Rights, Indiana Legal Services). Para apoyo inmediato, llame a 2‑1‑1 (Indiana 211), a 988 (988 Indiana), o al MOMS Helpline 1‑844‑624‑6667 (MOMS Helpline). Esta traducción fue creada usando herramientas de IA; confirme detalles con las fuentes oficiales enlazadas. (in.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Indiana Family & Social Services Administration (FSSA) — Medicaid eligibility, waivers, PathWays, VR, and 211. (in.gov)
- Indiana Medicaid — ABD/waiver criteria and transportation. (in.gov)
- Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) — Section 811 PRA, HCV info. (in.gov)
- Social Security Administration (SSA) — SGA, TWP, 1619(b) thresholds. (ssa.gov)
- *[OUCC/IURC](https://www.in.gov/oucc/ — Disconnection, moratorium, and consumer rights.
- INDATA at Easterseals Crossroads — AT loans, reuse, and training.
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 is general information for Indiana disabled single mothers. It is not legal advice or an eligibility guarantee. Always confirm current rules with the official sources linked here and keep copies of everything you submit. If you need legal help, contact Indiana Disability Rights or apply with Indiana Legal Services.
🏛️More Indiana Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Indiana
- 📋 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
