Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Last updated: September 2025
If your back’s to the wall, start with the emergency steps below. This guide focuses on disability‑specific cash, care, housing, tech, and legal help in Wisconsin—not general programs for everyone. You’ll see direct phone numbers, wait‑time expectations, and Plan B options. Keep this page open and call while you read using the linked resources.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Stop a shutoff or restore power today: Call your utility and request a deferred payment agreement, then ask for a medical emergency hold (up to 21 days) under state rules; if they refuse, call the Public Service Commission Consumer Affairs Unit at 1-800-225-7729 and file a complaint while on the line with your utility; also apply for crisis energy help with the statewide Home Energy Plus line at 1-800-506-5596. Use the utility customer rights explained by the state’s commission and the online energy application to get in the queue fast. Utility Customer Bill of Rights (PSC), Energy Assistance application (Home Energy+). (psc.wi.gov)
- Get rides to medical care now: If you have Wisconsin Medicaid (SSI Medicaid, EBD Medicaid, or MAPP), call the Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) manager at 1-866-907-1493 (or 711 TTY) for a ride or gas reimbursement (24¢/mile) and ask for the member ombuds if you’re denied; you can also request an independent review on the same call. Book at least two business days ahead whenever possible. Medicaid NEMT (DHS), Learn how to schedule with MTM (DHS fact sheet). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Apply for disability‑targeted cash now if you’re on SSI: Add the Wisconsin Caretaker Supplement to your monthly SSI—275forthefirsteligiblechild,275 for the first eligible child, 165 for each additional, paid with your state SSI—by contacting your county/tribal agency or applying through ACCESS during a health care or FoodShare application; this is only for SSI parents. Caretaker Supplement (DHS), SSI in Wisconsin (DHS). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Quick Help Box — Phone Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Energy help and shutoff disputes: Call 1-800-506-5596 to apply for Home Energy Plus; call 1-800-225-7729 to escalate disputes to the Public Service Commission; check winter shutoff protection dates (Nov 1–Apr 15). Home Energy+ application, PSC consumer help. (energybenefit.wi.gov)
- Free Medicaid rides or gas reimbursement: Call 1-866-907-1493 (711 TTY) for Wisconsin Medicaid NEMT; download trip logs for gas mileage payments and ask for the member ombuds if you’re denied. NEMT rides & mileage (DHS), Gas Mileage fact sheet. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Disability legal/advocacy help: Call Disability Rights Wisconsin at 1-800-928-8878 or submit an assistance request online; get help with benefits appeals, special education, and abuse/neglect. Disability Rights Wisconsin, Benefit Specialists (DHS). (disabilityrightswi.org)
- Local resource navigation: Contact your Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) or Tribal ADRS at 1-844-WIS‑ADRC (1-844-947-2372); ADRCs connect you to IRIS, Family Care, and county disability services. Find my ADRC, ADRC county/tribal contacts. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Crisis, DV, or Deaf DV help: Call 988 for mental health crisis, 1-800-799-7233 for DV, and text 608-466-2881 (Deaf Unity) for Deaf survivors; DV links include statewide coalition and access to local shelters. Wisconsin DHS hotlines, End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Wisconsin Today
Start by setting up a payment plan with your utility, then request a medical emergency delay (up to 21 days) if you or your child has a serious health condition that would be aggravated by loss of service; if the utility refuses, immediately call the Public Service Commission (PSC) at 1-800-225-7729 and open a complaint. The statewide winter moratorium protects heat from November 1 to April 15, but you must still arrange a plan by April 15 or risk disconnection. PSC Utility Customer Bill of Rights, PSC winter moratorium update. (psc.wi.gov)
Next, apply for energy crisis help the same day through Home Energy Plus—call 1-800-506-5596 or apply online—and ask about after‑hours crisis lines in your county; approvals can take 10 business days in non‑crisis cases, but crisis situations are expedited. Keep copies of your disconnect notice, ID, and income proof ready when you call or upload. Home Energy+ application, DOA WHEAP info. (energybenefit.wi.gov)
If you live in Milwaukee, note that Milwaukee Water Works does not shut off water for nonpayment; unpaid balances transfer to your property tax bill, but you can ask for a payment plan via PromisePay and still apply for energy assistance for heat/electric. For shutoff risks with electric/gas (e.g., We Energies), use PSC rights and Home Energy Plus. Milwaukee Water Works customer service, MWW PromisePay FAQ. (city.milwaukee.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call PSC again and say “I want to dispute and request a supervisor review,” then file online; also contact your county’s WHEAP agency and ask for crisis intervention, and request help from Community Advocates (Milwaukee) or 211 for same‑day navigation. File a PSC complaint, Community Advocates Energy Assistance (Milwaukee). (psc.wi.gov)
Quick Table — Shutoff Prevention Fast Facts
| Step | Who to call | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Ask for medical emergency delay | Your utility (see PSC Bill of Rights) | Same day hold (up to 21 days) if documented |
| Apply for crisis energy help | Home Energy+ 1-800-506-5596 | Crisis: same day/48 hours; Regular: ~10 business days |
| Escalate refusal | PSC Consumer Affairs 1-800-225-7729 | Same day case number; follow-up within days |
| (psc.wi.gov) |
Targeted Cash for SSI Families: State SSI, SSI‑E, and Caretaker Supplement
If you receive federal SSI—even 1—thestateautomaticallyaddsamonthlystateSSIpayment;2025totalsforaneligibleindividuallivingindependentlyare1—the state automatically adds a monthly state SSI payment; 2025 totals for an eligible individual living independently are 1,050.78 (federal 967+state967 + state 83.78). Ask your ADRC about the SSI‑E Exceptional Expense add‑on ($95.99 per month) if you need 40+ hours of monthly long‑term support or live in qualifying small‑capacity settings. SSI 2025 payment tables (DHS), SSI‑E info (DHS). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Parents on SSI can add the Wisconsin Caretaker Supplement (CTS) to their state SSI payment—275forthefirsteligiblechildand275 for the first eligible child and 165 for each additional child—as long as the child is not also on SSI; you apply through your county/tribal agency or via ACCESS while applying for health care or FoodShare. CTS can slightly lower FoodShare, but the CTS amount is larger in most cases. Caretaker Supplement (DHS), Apply for SSI (DHS guide). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
If you’re applying for SSI or SSDI for the first time, understand that Wisconsin’s Disability Determination Bureau (DDB) makes medical decisions on claims; you can update DDB with new medical records and hospitalizations while your case is pending. Keep DDB’s toll‑free number handy for changes. Apply for disability benefits (DDB), DDB contact (SSA Chicago). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Get free help from a Disability Benefit Specialist through your ADRC, or contact Disability Rights Wisconsin for appeals and overpayment issues. If you’re denied SSI, ask about SSDI based on your work history and consider DVR services to support work while you appeal. Disability Benefit Specialists (DHS), Disability Rights Wisconsin. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Health Coverage That Fits Disability and Work
If you’re an adult with a disability, start with SSI‑Related Medicaid (also called EBD Medicaid) if your income and assets meet program rules; if you work or want to work, use the Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) with a higher income limit (up to 250% FPL adjusted) and a $15,000 asset limit plus special Independence Accounts. MAPP premiums apply above 100% FPL, with hardship waivers available. SSI‑Related Medicaid (DHS), MAPP overview (DHS). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Use long‑term care tailored to disability. IRIS (self‑directed) lets you hire and schedule your own workers and buy supports with an individualized budget; Family Care assigns a care team through a managed care organization; Family Care Partnership integrates Medicare/Medicaid into one plan for adults who are dually eligible in certain counties. Waivers for Family Care and Partnership were renewed through 2029. IRIS program, Family Care & waiver renewal 2025–2029. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
If your child has a disability, apply for Children’s Long‑Term Support (CLTS); Wisconsin uses “continuous enrollment” with much shorter waits than years past, and counties enroll eligible kids using a statewide budget. Ask your county how long enrollment takes right now; statewide averages have fallen under 100 days. CLTS continuous enrollment, CLTS family information. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your ADRC to request a functional screen for IRIS/Family Care; for CLTS/CCOP, contact your county’s children’s services intake and ask for the support and service coordinator to review eligibility and interim supports. If placement isn’t available, ask about CCOP one‑time supports or respite funding while you wait. Find my ADRC, CCOP overview (DHS). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Table — Compare Long‑Term Care Options for Adults
| Feature | IRIS (self‑directed) | Family Care | Family Care Partnership |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it’s for | Adults with disabilities who want to hire/manage workers | Adults with disabilities who prefer an MCO team | Adults with disabilities with Medicare + Medicaid in certain counties |
| Key control | You hire/schedule workers; manage budget | MCO coordinates providers and services | MCO coordinates health, Medicare, Medicaid, LTC |
| Where available | Statewide | Statewide | Limited counties |
| How to start | IRIS info & call center | Family Care info | Partnership info |
| (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
Transportation That Works When You’re Disabled
Use Medicaid NEMT for covered rides to doctors, therapy, pharmacy, and urgent visits; call 1-866-907-1493 or use 711 TTY to book 2 business days ahead, ask about attendants/children riding with you, and keep your trip logs if you drive yourself for 24¢/mile. If denied, request the member ombuds and independent review during the same call. NEMT rides & gas reimbursement, Fair hearing info (DHS). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
If you’re not using Medicaid or need local trips, look for your county’s “85.21 Specialized Transportation” (older adults and people with disabilities), volunteer driver programs, and mobility managers; ask your ADRC to connect you, or contact WisDOT’s specialized transit program managers. 85.21 Specialized Transportation (WisDOT), Find ADRC/Mobility management. (wisconsindot.gov)
For door‑to‑door ADA paratransit in larger cities, apply with your transit agency: Transit Plus (Milwaukee County), Metro Paratransit (Madison), or Green Bay Metro Paratransit; eligibility decisions usually arrive within 21 days, and fares are set locally. MCTS Transit Plus, Madison Metro Paratransit. (ridemcts.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your ADRC about county taxi vouchers, volunteer rides, and shared‑ride taxis funded by Section 5310 (Enhanced Mobility of Seniors & Individuals with Disabilities); if you’re denied ADA paratransit, appeal within the agency’s window and include provider documentation. WisDOT Section 5310 program, ADRC contacts. (wisconsindot.gov)
Table — Paratransit Contacts (Examples)
| Area | Program | Phone / Link |
|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee County | Transit Plus (MCTS) | 414-343-1700 (711 TRS) |
| Madison & suburbs | Metro Paratransit | 608-266-4466 |
| Green Bay | GB Metro Paratransit | 920-448-3450 |
| Eau Claire (certification) | Western Dairyland – Paratransit Certification | 715-836-7511 |
| (ridemcts.com) |
Assistive Technology, Communication, and Affordable Connectivity
Start with WisTech—Wisconsin’s Assistive Technology Program—for device demonstrations, short‑term device loans, and refurbished equipment; staff can help you test devices before you buy and point to funding. Ask about WisLoan and Telework low‑interest loans for adaptive devices, vehicle mods, ramps, and home accessibility. WisTech (DHS), WisLoan & Telework. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
For phone access if you’re Deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/mobility impairment, apply for a TEPP voucher (new voucher every 35 months; usually 3–4 weeks processing) and ask DHS’s TAP to cover the $100 TEPP co‑pay if your income’s below 200% FPL; pair this with Lifeline phone/internet discounts to lower your monthly bill. TEPP (PSC), TAP copay help (DHS/ODHH). (psc.wi.gov)
If you need interpreters, captioning, or large‑print information, contact the Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (for TAP/TAP+ support) and ask agencies for free auxiliary aids; many state sites offer materials in English, Spanish, and Hmong, and ADRCs must provide language access upon request. TAP (DHS/ODHH), ADRC language access & contacts. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your ADRC to refer you to an Independent Living Center for AT evaluations and explore WisTech’s reuse network for free/low‑cost devices; if TEPP denies certain equipment, request pre‑approval review in writing and ask ODHH to help. WisTech device reuse, Access to Independence AT services. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Table — AT & Communication Programs at a Glance
| Program | What it covers | Key points |
|---|---|---|
| WisTech | Demos, loans, reuse | Try before buying; statewide device libraries |
| WisLoan/Telework | Low‑interest loans | For home mods, vehicle adaptations, hearing aids |
| TEPP (PSC) | Specialized telephone equipment | Voucher every 35 months; 3–4 weeks processing |
| TAP (DHS/ODHH) | Copay help & TAP+ funding | Income‑based; 200% FPL guideline |
| (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
Respite You Can Actually Use
If you care for a child or adult with long‑term needs and other funding is not available or is exhausted, apply to the Respite Care Association of Wisconsin (RCAW) for two grant options: Caregiver Respite Grant (flexible respite for up to five days within 30 days of approval) and Supplemental Respite Grant ($250 for items like safety tech, sensory items, housekeeping). Many families reapply every 60 days when funding allows. RCAW Caregiver Respite Grant, RCAW Supplemental Respite Grant. (respitecarewi.org)
If your child has significant needs, ask your county CLTS coordinator about using CLTS for respite or, if not eligible for CLTS, ask about CCOP one‑time flexible funds for safety items or temporary help; both programs are county‑managed with clear approval steps. CLTS for families, Children’s Community Options Program. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your ADRC for a list of local respite providers and volunteer programs; if RCAW funding is paused, request to be notified when the portal reopens and ask your care manager about short‑term backup funding. Find my ADRC, RCAW announcements. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Housing With Disability Focus in Wisconsin
Search for affordable and accessible units statewide on WIHousingSearch.org and use filters for wheelchair access, elevator, and subsidy; you can also call the bilingual call center at 1-877-428-8844 for listings and help. Check WHEDA’s Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA) properties for units linked to disability services—referrals come through ADRCs, ILCs, and long‑term care programs in select metro areas. WIHousingSearch.org, WHEDA Section 811 PRA. (wihousingsearch.org)
For counseling on vouchers, accessible units, and reasonable accommodations, speak to a HUD‑approved housing counselor and ask your local PHA about Mainstream vouchers for non‑elderly people with disabilities when lists open. Always confirm waitlist status and local preferences. HUD Wisconsin page, HUD rental help in Wisconsin. (hud.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your ADRC about supportive housing through IRIS/Family Care, and ask Disability Rights Wisconsin for help if an accessible accommodation request is denied by a landlord. ADRC directory, Disability Rights Wisconsin. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Accessible Dental and Mental Health Care
For complex or sensory‑adapted dental care, contact Marquette University School of Dentistry’s Delta Dental Urgent & Special Care Clinic (Milwaukee); it has wheelchair lifts, bariatric chairs, and a sensory‑adapted room, with care supervised by faculty. Call 414-288-6790 for the special care clinic or 414-288-7388 for the Advanced Care Clinic. Marquette Special Care Clinic, Advanced Care Clinic. (marquette.edu)
If mental health keeps derailing daily life or parenting, ask your county about Comprehensive Community Services (CCS)—a Medicaid program covering team‑based recovery supports, peer support, and job skills training; most counties participate, and you can co‑enroll with Family Care. CCS overview (DHS), Counties offering CCS. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied CCS or waitlisted, ask your county about Community Support Programs (CSP) for severe mental illness, or use ADRC navigation for other covered services; always ask for patient rights information and how to appeal. CSP consumer info, Client Rights Office (DHS). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Employment and Income While on Disability
If you want to work now or later, call the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) at 1-800-442-3477 for job placement, training, and accommodations; DVR collaborates with benefits counselors to help you work without accidentally losing coverage. Pair DVR with MAPP for Medicaid while working. DVR (DWD), MAPP (DHS). (dwd.wisconsin.gov)
If you receive SSI/SSDI, ask a Work Incentives planner about the Ticket to Work program and how working impacts your benefits; you can search for a WIPA provider or Employment Network online and request an appointment. SSA Ticket to Work Find Help, Disability Benefit Specialists. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If DVR wait times are long, ask about interim training offered by your technical college disability services office; keep copies of job search logs and request reasonable accommodations in writing under the ADA. DVR office locations, ADA guidance (ADA.gov).
Diverse Communities: What’s Different and Where to Go
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask DVR to connect you with inclusive employers and ask Disability Rights Wisconsin about discrimination help; for domestic/sexual violence risk, contact End Domestic Abuse WI and request an advocate familiar with LGBTQ+ survivors. Wisconsin DHS hotlines, 211 statewide. (dwd.wisconsin.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Enroll with the WDVA Veterans Outreach and Recovery Program (VORP) for case management, housing/utility help, and mental health navigation; call WDVA at 1-800‑WIS‑VETS for claims help and ask for the Women Veterans Coordinator by name. Recent changes reduced VORP regions back to 11—response may take longer, so call early. WDVA contact, VORP update (July 2025). (dva.wi.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: ADRCs provide interpreters on request and can route you to disability benefits and respite with language access; for DV help, ask for bilingual advocates via the statewide coalition; call 211 for translated referrals in 200+ languages. ADRC directory, End Domestic Abuse WI – Get Help. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources: Contact your Tribal ADRS or GLITC Aging & Disability programs for disability/benefit navigation and culturally responsive supports; you can also use county ADRCs if you prefer. Ask about Tribal WHEAP sites, transportation, and CLTS contacts. Tribal ADRS/ADRC contacts, GLITC aging & disability programs. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Rural single moms with limited access: Use 85.21 Specialized Transportation for volunteer drivers and county vans, and have your provider fax NEMT “standing order” trips to cut phone time; keep a backup plan with your ADRC for last‑minute rides. NEMT (DHS), Find my ADRC. (wisconsindot.gov)
Single fathers: The disability programs above are gender‑neutral; if you’re an SSI parent, you may qualify for the Caretaker Supplement the same as any SSI mom. Get legal help on custody/support through Judicare Legal Aid (North/WI tribes) or your local legal aid. SSI in WI (DHS), DBS program. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Language access: Request interpreters for DHS, ADRC, DVR, SSA, and court hearings; agencies must provide TTY/relay access and alternate formats on request. Use Wisconsin Relay by dialing 711 and ask for large‑print or translated forms. DHS hotlines & access, ADRC services. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call Today)
Milwaukee area: For energy assistance and tenant issues, visit Community Advocates (Energy Assistance 414-270‑4653; Rent Help 414‑895‑7368) and apply via Keep Warm MKE; for disability transit, use MCTS Transit Plus. Milwaukee Water Works customer service, PromisePay FAQ. (communityadvocates.net)
Madison/Dane County: For ADA paratransit and visitor eligibility, contact Metro Paratransit; get benefits help via the Dane County ADRC and mental health support through CCS. For DV help, End Abuse WI can connect you to local programs. (cityofmadison.com)
Green Bay/Fox Valley: Call Green Bay Metro Paratransit at 920‑448‑3450; search accessible rentals on WIHousingSearch; request ADRC support for IRIS/Family Care with Find my ADRC. (greenbaywi.gov)
Eau Claire/Chippewa Valley: For paratransit certification, call Western Dairyland; apply for energy help via Home Energy+ or your county agency; request CCS through your county behavioral health or CCS statewide info. (westerndairyland.org)
Northwoods/Tribal communities: Get benefits and ADRS support via GLITC and the Aging & Disability Resource Center of the North; for veterans, reach WDVA VORP and your county/tribal Veterans Service Office.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing disability‑specific cash: Many SSI parents don’t know about the Caretaker Supplement and leave money on the table; apply through your county/tribal agency, not SSA. SSI in WI, Find my ADRC.
- Waiting too long to fight a shutoff: Don’t wait until the truck arrives; ask your doctor for a same‑day medical certificate and call the PSC if the utility refuses a reasonable plan. PSC rights, Home Energy+ crisis line.
- Skipping NEMT gas logs: If you drive to Medicaid appointments, you may get 24¢/mile—but only if you request and submit logs within 12 months. NEMT mileage details, Mileage fact sheet.
- Assuming there’s a years‑long CLTS wait: Wisconsin uses continuous enrollment; ask your county for current timelines and dashboard data. CLTS continuous enrollment, County contacts.
Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps
- Energy help demand spikes every April: Expect heavy call volumes near the April 15 moratorium end; call early, keep calling, and ask for crisis processing if you have a disconnect date. PSC moratorium notice, WHEAP season guidance.
- VORP coverage trimmed back in 2025: WDVA scaled regions from 16 to 11; services continue but response times may lengthen—ask for a call‑back and follow up weekly. WDVA VORP update, WDVA contact.
- TEPP vouchers aren’t instant: Typical processing is 3–4 weeks; apply online and track status; combine with TAP copay help if income‑eligible. TEPP processing timeline, TAP copay help.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First call | Backup plan |
|---|---|---|
| Shutoff/disconnect | PSC Consumer Affairs 1-800-225-7729 | Home Energy+ 1-800-506-5596 |
| Cash for SSI parents | Caretaker Supplement | ADRC Benefit Specialist |
| Rides to doctors | NEMT 1-866-907-1493 | ADRC for county rides |
| Respite | RCAW Caregiver/Supplemental grants | CLTS/CCOP via county |
| Accessible housing search | WIHousingSearch | WHEDA Section 811 PRA |
Application Checklist (Print/Save This)
- Photo ID and Social Security number for you and each child. ADRC help, DHS ACCESS.
- Proof of disability (SSA notices, DDB correspondence, doctor letters). DDB apply/update, SSA local office finder.
- Income proof (award letters, pay stubs, child support, unemployment). Caretaker Supplement rules, SSI in WI.
- Utility papers (disconnect notice, payment plan offers). PSC consumer rights, Home Energy+.
- Medical appointment info (provider name/address; ForwardHealth ID for NEMT). NEMT scheduling, ForwardHealth member portal.
If Your Application Gets Denied
- Read the notice: Note the reason and appeal deadline; many DHS programs allow 45 days to request a fair hearing. DHS fair hearings, ADRC benefit specialists.
- Ask for reconsideration: For NEMT, request an independent reviewer and the member ombuds on the same call; for energy, ask your WHEAP agency to escalate a crisis when a disconnect date is near. NEMT appeals and ombuds, Home Energy+ info.
- Get advocacy: Contact Disability Rights Wisconsin or Judicare Legal Aid (North/Tribal) for public benefits or DV‑related housing issues; ask your ADRC to document barriers and provide language or accessibility accommodations. Disability Rights Wisconsin, Judicare Legal Aid.
County‑Specific Variations You Should Know
- Family Care Partnership availability: Partnership operates only in certain counties; if not available, choose IRIS or Family Care; ADRCs have current county maps. Family Care Partnership, ADRC directory.
- Energy agencies differ: Milwaukee County applications flow through Community Advocates, while other counties use local agencies or West CAP; always confirm your local WHEAP contact. Community Advocates Energy Assistance, Home Energy+ county map.
- Water policies vary: Milwaukee Water Works doesn’t shut off for nonpayment but rolls past‑due charges to taxes; other municipal utilities may differ—ask your city water utility about shutoff rules. Milwaukee Water Works, PSC water consumer page.
FAQs (Wisconsin‑Specific, 2025)
- How long does NEMT take to approve rides?
You can schedule as soon as eligibility is confirmed—book at least two business days ahead; urgent medical needs may be same day; gas logs must be submitted within 12 months for reimbursement at 24¢/mile. NEMT schedules & mileage, Mileage fact sheet. - What is the 2025 state add‑on to SSI?
For an eligible individual, the 2025 state payment is 83.78(total83.78 (total 1,050.78 with federal). Couples and SSI‑E amounts differ; check the DHS table. SSI 2025 payments, SSI‑E program. - Can both parents get CTS if both are on SSI?
Yes; if both parents in the home get SSI and meet all rules, the household can receive CTS for eligible children (not for a child who also gets SSI). CTS details, SSI eligibility notes. - How do I find accessible housing quickly?
Search and filter for accessibility on WIHousingSearch.org, call the toll‑free housing locator, and ask your ADRC or IRIS/Family Care team to submit 811 PRA referrals where available. WIHousingSearch, WHEDA 811 PRA. - Is there special help for Deaf or hard‑of‑hearing moms?
Apply for TEPP and TAP to get specialized phones and copay help; for safety planning or abuse, contact Deaf Unity by text or email, and use the National Deaf Hotline after hours. TEPP (PSC), Deaf Unity. - What’s the fastest way to get respite?
If CLTS or IRIS funds aren’t available, apply to RCAW’s Caregiver Respite Grant and Supplemental Respite Grant; approvals depend on funding and documentation. RCAW grants, RCAW Supplemental details. - How can I get assistive tech without buying first?
Borrow devices through WisTech’s loan program and search reuse listings; if you decide to buy, ask about WisLoan financing. WisTech device loan, WisLoan overview. - Can I keep Medicaid while working?
Yes, via MAPP (with premiums above 100% FPL). MAPP allows up to $15,000 in countable assets and special Independence Accounts for savings. MAPP consumer guide, MAPP policy updates (April 2025). - How fast can my child get CLTS?
Wisconsin uses continuous enrollment; counties work to enroll eligible kids promptly. Ask your county for current average days from eligibility to services. CLTS continuous enrollment, County CLTS contacts. - I’m a veteran—who can help me right now?
Call WDVA’s VORP coordinator for your region for housing, treatment, and benefits navigation, or submit an online help request; note regional coverage changed in 2025. VORP program, VORP update (July 2025).
Birmingham‑Style, Location‑Specific Tip — Milwaukee Water Bill Help
If your water bill is Milwaukee Water Works, request an interest‑free payment plan through MWW’s customer center and note they don’t shut off for nonpayment; past‑due balances transfer to your property tax bill. Pair that with energy assistance for gas/electric and use PromisePay if it reopens for enrollment. PSC consumer page, Community Advocates – Energy.
Tables — Cash and Care at a Glance
Table — Disability‑Targeted Cash in Wisconsin (2025)
| Program | Who qualifies | Typical amount |
|---|---|---|
| State SSI add‑on | Anyone who gets any federal SSI | $83.78/mo for single (2025) |
| SSI‑E | SSI member with 40+ hrs/mo LTC needs or in small licensed setting | +$95.99/mo |
| Caretaker Supplement | SSI parent(s) with eligible child not on SSI | 275firstchild;275 first child; 165 each additional |
Table — Medical Transportation & Mileage
| Option | Coverage | How to use |
|---|---|---|
| NEMT rides | Medicaid rides to covered care | Call 1‑866‑907‑1493 or 711 TTY; book ≥2 business days ahead |
| Mileage reimbursement | 24¢/mile to/from appointments | Request logs before visit; submit within 12 months |
Spanish summary (Resumen en español)
Este resumen rápido cubre los puntos más urgentes para madres solteras con discapacidades en Wisconsin. Use los enlaces oficiales; esta traducción se generó con herramientas de IA.
- Corte de servicios: Pida un plan de pago y una “emergencia médica” con su compañía; si se niegan, llame a 1‑800‑225‑7729 (Comisión de Servicios Públicos) y solicite ayuda; pida ayuda de energía en 1‑800‑506‑5596 o en línea. Derechos del cliente (PSC), Home Energy+.
- Transporte médico (Medicaid): Llame al 1‑866‑907‑1493 (o 711 TTY) para viajes o reembolso de gasolina (24¢/milla); pida hablar con el “ombudsman” si le niegan. Transporte NEMT, Folleto NEMT.
- Efectivo para padres con SSI: Solicite el “Caretaker Supplement” (CTS): 275porelprimerhijoy275 por el primer hijo y 165 por cada hijo adicional—se paga con su SSI estatal. CTS, SSI en Wisconsin.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)
- Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC)
- Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA)
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT)
- Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA)
- HUD – Wisconsin
- Disability Rights Wisconsin
- Respite Care Association of Wisconsin
- Marquette University School of Dentistry – Special Care Clinic
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimers
- This guide is informational only: Always confirm the latest income limits, dollar amounts, and coverage rules with the agency before applying; funding varies by county and availability. DHS programs, PSC consumer rights.
- Timelines are estimates: Expect 10–15 business days for typical energy applications and 3–4 weeks for TEPP vouchers; crisis cases and medical needs may be expedited. Home Energy+, TEPP timeline.
- Ask for accessibility: Request interpreters, relay, large‑print, or alternate formats at no cost; agencies must provide reasonable accommodations. DHS hotlines & access, ADRC services.
Tip: Before each call or appointment, write three bullets: the problem, what you’re asking for, and what documents you have. Then mention your disability‑related need for accommodation, and ask the worker to note it in your file. This small step speeds approvals across many Wisconsin programs.
🏛️More Wisconsin Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Wisconsin
- 📋 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
