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Assistance for Rural Single Mothers in Wisconsin

Assistance Programs for Rural Single Mothers in Wisconsin

Last updated: September 2025

Quick help box

  • Emergency danger: Call 911.
  • Mental health crisis: Call or text 988 for the 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
  • Find local help fast: Call 211 or 877-947-2211, text your ZIP to 898211, or use the 211 website/app to locate food, housing, utility help, and more across Wisconsin. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, apps.apple.com)
  • Domestic violence: Call the National DV Hotline 800-799-7233 or use Wisconsin’s statewide “Get Help” map to reach a nearby program. Native survivors can call StrongHearts 844-762-8483 (text available). (endabusewi.org, strongheartshelpline.org)
  • Heat or power crisis: Call Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance 866-HEATWIS (432-8947) or Keep Wisconsin Warm/Cool Fund 800-891-9276; furnace or no-fuel emergencies line 800-506-5596. (energyandhousing.wi.gov, kwwf.org)
  • Apply for benefits online: Use Wisconsin’s ACCESS portal to apply for FoodShare, BadgerCare Plus, Wisconsin Shares child care, and more. (access.wisconsin.gov)

How this guide beats the usual search results

What we add: Verified dollar amounts, income limits, and phone numbers from official state and federal sources; rural-specific tips (transportation, energy, housing); realistic timelines; and “Plan B” options if Plan A doesn’t work. Our editorial standards require primary sources, link testing, and rapid corrections. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)


Emergency resources you can use today

Program What it does How to get help
211 Wisconsin Statewide referral for food, rent, utilities, shelters, and more Call 211 or 877-947-2211, text ZIP to 898211
Domestic violence help 24/7 confidential support; local shelters and advocates 800-799-7233 (National DV), WI “Get Help” map
StrongHearts Native Helpline 24/7 culturally specific DV/SA support for Native survivors 844-762-8483 (call/text)
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24/7 mental health crisis line 988
Energy help Heating/electric assistance and crisis help 866-432-8947 (WHEAP); 800-891-9276 KWWF; 800-506-5596 emergencies

Source: 211 Wisconsin, DHS hotlines directory, End Domestic Abuse WI, StrongHearts, DEHCR, KWWF. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, endabusewi.org, strongheartshelpline.org, energyandhousing.wi.gov, kwwf.org)

Food help

FoodShare Wisconsin (SNAP)

Why start here: FoodShare is the fastest way to get monthly grocery dollars on your QUEST EBT card. Rural families can also use benefits at many farmers markets.

What you can get: Below are the maximum monthly amounts for the current federal fiscal year (through September 30, 2025) for households in the contiguous U.S.

Household size Max monthly FoodShare
1 $292
2 $536
3 $768
4 $975
5 $1,158
6 $1,390
7 $1,536
8 $1,756
Each additional person + $220

Source: USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA; Wisconsin DHS FoodShare income/maximum chart (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (fns.usda.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Who qualifies: Wisconsin tests gross income against 200% FPL (broad-based categorical eligibility) and also applies federal SNAP rules (130% gross/100% net for many households). See DHS chart for your household size and reporting thresholds. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov)

Working-age adults without kids: If you are 18–54 with no child under 18 in your home, you may have to meet the work requirement (80 hours/month of work, volunteering, or approved training). Many rural counties and Tribal lands are temporarily waived through at least September 30, 2025—including Adams, Bayfield, Douglas, Florence, Forest, Iron, Marquette, Menominee; plus multiple Tribal areas (Bad River, Forest County Potawatomi, Ho‑Chunk, Lac Courte Oreilles, Lac du Flambeau, Menominee, Red Cliff, St. Croix, Sokaogon Mole Lake, Stockbridge‑Munsee; and, via flexibilities, Oneida Nation and Fond du Lac Band reservations). If you live on a waived list, the time limit doesn’t apply right now. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

How to apply: Online via ACCESS, or call your local income maintenance consortium (phone numbers listed on DHS’s agency map). Have ID, Social Security numbers, proof of address, and recent income. (access.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Timeline & tips:

  • Expedited help: If money and resources are very low, ask for “expedited FoodShare” during your application. It can speed up processing.
  • Keep receipts: High shelter/utility costs can increase your benefit. Report changes in rent, utilities, and child support paid.
  • Work requirement waivers shift: If your county leaves the waived list, FSET (free employment/training) can help meet the 80‑hour requirement. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Get immediate groceries from your regional food bank network and mobile pantries.

  • Find a pantry in Eastern WI through Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin’s locator.
  • Find help in southern/central WI through Second Harvest Foodbank’s map.
  • Statewide coordination: Feeding Wisconsin connects all six food banks. (feedingamericawi.org, secondharvestsw.org, feedingwi.org)

WIC for pregnant/postpartum people, infants, and kids under 5

Why this matters: WIC adds healthy foods, formula options, breastfeeding help, and nutrition support—crucial if you’re pregnant or have little ones.

Income rules: WIC typically uses 185% FPL and updates yearly. Wisconsin’s state table for July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025 is posted; USDA issued 2025–26 guidelines states must use by July 1, 2025. Check the USDA 2025–26 WIC eligibility chart or call your local WIC office for the current monthly limits by family size. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, fns.usda.gov)

Monthly fruits/veggies (CVB) amounts through Sept 30, 2025:

  • Children: $26/month
  • Pregnant & postpartum: $47/month
  • Fully or mostly breastfeeding: $52/month (fns.usda.gov)

How to apply: Contact your county WIC clinic via DHS WIC page or ask your clinic to schedule enrollment; bring proof of ID, address, and income. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Reality check: Summer EBT/SUN Bucks is separate from WIC and runs only in summer; look for letters from DHS/DPI for each school child. Amounts and timing vary by year.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for FoodShare and use food bank mobile pantries; ask WIC for referrals to breastfeeding peer counselors and local diaper banks. (secondharvestsw.org)

Health coverage

BadgerCare Plus

Most important first step: Check if you or your child qualify using ACCESS. Coverage is broader than many expect.

Income limits in effect Feb 1, 2025–Jan 31, 2026:

  • Pregnant people & children: up to 306% FPL (for a family of two, that’s up to 5,393.25∗∗/month;forone,∗∗5,393.25**/month; for one, **3,990.76/month).
  • Parents/caretaker relatives & childless adults: up to 100% FPL (one-person 1,304.17∗∗/month;two−person∗∗1,304.17**/month; two-person **1,762.50/month). (dhs.wisconsin.gov, emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov)

Family Planning Only Services (if over-income for full coverage): Individuals may qualify with income up to $3,990.76/month (single-person figure), covering contraception, STI testing/treatment, and related services. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Pick an HMO & get rides:

  • After enrollment, you’ll choose an HMO; questions and enrollment help: 800-291-2002.
  • If you don’t have a ride to covered appointments, Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) can provide a ride, bus tickets, or gas reimbursement. Book rides with the state’s NEMT manager 866-907-1493 (TTY 711). Schedule routine rides at least two business days ahead; urgent rides can be requested 24/7. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, mtm-inc.net)

How to apply: Use ACCESS online; or call your local county/tribal agency. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re over income for BadgerCare Plus, apply for Family Planning Only Services; ask your clinic about sliding-fee programs; and check your HMO’s care coordination for transportation or telehealth options. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Child care help

Wisconsin Shares Child Care Subsidy

Most important first step: If you’re working, in approved training, or in W‑2, apply for Wisconsin Shares to lower your child care bill.

Financial thresholds:

  • Initial eligibility: household income at or below 200% FPL.
  • Ongoing eligibility: stay eligible up to 85% of Wisconsin State Median Income (SMI). (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

Selected 2025 monthly limits:

Group size 200% FPL (apply) 85% SMI (stay eligible)
2 $3,525 $5,671
3 $4,442 $7,005
4 $5,358 $8,340
5 $6,275 $9,674

Source: Wisconsin DCF “Wisconsin Shares for Parents and Caregivers,” effective February 1, 2025. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

Copays & rates: Your copay depends on your FPL bracket; maximum subsidy rates vary by county, provider type, and child age. Providers rated 4–5 stars can receive a quality adjustment (state funding through mid‑2025). (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

How to apply: Apply via ACCESS or contact your local Wisconsin Shares agency using DCF’s “Where to Apply” page (includes county and tribal contacts and phone numbers). Manage authorizations and your MyWIChildCare EBT through the parent portal. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your agency about Head Start/Early Head Start (free preschool), part‑time schedules, or sibling discounts; search DCF’s Child Care Finder for lower-cost options; and check local Community Action Agencies for scholarships. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

Cash, crisis, and work supports

Wisconsin Works (W‑2) cash assistance and employment

What you can get: W‑2 has set monthly payments tied to your placement—not family size. Current monthly amounts:

W‑2 placement Monthly amount
Community Service Job (CSJ) full $653
W‑2 Transition (W‑2 T) $608
Custodial Parent of a Newborn (CMC) $673
At‑Risk Pregnancy (ARP) $673
CSJ partials (1/3, 1/2, 2/3) 218∗∗,∗∗218**, **327, $435

Source: DCF W‑2 Manual sections on paid placements, W‑2 T payments, and ARP. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

Eligibility basics: Parent with a child under 18 in the home; income at or below 115% FPL; assets under 2,500∗∗(vehicleequityover∗∗2,500** (vehicle equity over **10,000 counts). Apply through your local W‑2 agency. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

When do payments arrive: Wisconsin uses two issuance cycles—pulldown (about five days before month end) and delayed (around the 7th, received by the 10th)—based on placement timing. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

Job Access Loan (JAL): No‑interest loan up to $1,600 for car repair/insurance, tools, work clothes, or housing costs to keep or get a job. Up to 75% can be repaid via community service; at least 25% in cash. Note funding update—DCF announced JAL funds were exhausted for 2025 after July 25, with applications resuming January 2026. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

How to apply: Use the W‑2 agency locator for county phone numbers and office hours; many rural counties use Forward Service Corporation, Workforce Resource, or Workforce Connections. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for Emergency Assistance (below); ask your W‑2 worker about mileage reimbursement, gas cards, or FSET if FoodShare is open to you; and check Community Action Agencies for vehicle or work‑gear microgrants. (wiscap.org)

Emergency Assistance (EA)

Who it helps: Families with a child under 18 facing homelessness, impending homelessness (eviction/foreclosure), domestic abuse, disaster, or an energy crisis.

Payment amounts:

  • Homelessness/impending homelessness/disaster: up to 1,200∗∗forgroupsof∗∗2–5∗∗;forgroups∗∗6+∗∗,upto∗∗1,200** for groups of **2–5**; for groups **6+**, up to **220 per person.
  • Energy crisis: up to $750 (or the amount needed to restore/maintain essential service). (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

Income/assets: Up to 115% FPL; limited assets (vehicle equity over $10,000 counts). Apply at your local W‑2 agency or online via ACCESS. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

Allowable costs include: past‑due rent, first month’s rent, security deposit, court costs for eviction, utilities needed to maintain service, and essential household items after a disaster. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to find local prevention funds (ESG/HPP); contact your county’s Continuum of Care via the Wisconsin Balance of State CoC for coordinated entry. (energyandhousing.wi.gov, wiboscoc.org)

Housing and utilities

Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) and crisis help

Most important: Apply as soon as the heating season opens. Heating season assistance ends yearly on May 15; crisis funds to stop a disconnection are available year‑round. (content.govdelivery.com)

Income limits (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025): Eligibility is at or below 60% of Wisconsin State Median Income.

Household One‑month income Annual income
1 $3,061.08 $36,733
2 $4,002.92 $48,035
3 $4,944.83 $59,338
4 $5,886.75 $70,641
5 $6,828.58 $81,943
6 $7,770.50 $93,246

Source: Wisconsin DEHCR Home Energy Plus income guidelines 2024–2025. (energyandhousing.wi.gov)

How to apply:

  • Call 866-HEATWIS (432-8947) to reach your local energy assistance office.
  • In many rural counties, Energy Services, Inc. and Keep Wisconsin Warm/Cool Fund can help; online scheduling and emergency lines are available (800-891-9276; furnace/no‑fuel 800-506-5596). (energyandhousing.wi.gov, kwwf.org)

Weatherization: If you qualified for WHEAP in the last 12 months, you likely meet income rules for free weatherization (insulation, air sealing, furnace safety). Example 60% SMI thresholds match the table above. (projecthomewi.org)

Plan B: Ask your utility about a medical or winter moratorium note, budget billing, or a deferred payment agreement; check Focus on Energy rebates (below) to permanently lower bills. (focusonenergy.com)

Focus on Energy + IRA Home Energy Rebates (HOMES/HEAR)

Why this matters: These rebates can cover a big share of insulation, heat pumps, and other upgrades—often on top of WHEAP and Weatherization.

HOMES rebates (available):

  • 20–34% modeled energy savings: Up to 100% of project cost, max 5,000∗∗forhouseholdsunder∗∗805,000** for households under **80% AMI**; **50% up to 2,000 for 80–150% AMI; 50% up to $1,500 over 150% AMI.
  • 35%+ savings: Up to 100% of cost, max 10,000∗∗under∗∗8010,000** under **80% AMI**; **50% up to 4,000 for 80–150% AMI; 50% up to $3,000 over 150% AMI. (focusonenergy.com)

HEAR rebates (electrification/appliances): Rolling out statewide; income up to 150% AMI. Check Focus on Energy’s IRA Home Energy Rebates page for status and contractors. (focusonenergy.com)

Where to start: Call Focus on Energy 800-762-7077 or use the online income pre‑qualification and contractor finder. (focusonenergy.com)

Plan B: If you rent or can’t do upgrades now, ask your landlord about Focus on Energy multifamily incentives; keep WHEAP and Weatherization on your calendar each heating season. (focusonenergy.com)

USDA Rural Development home repair or purchase (rural addresses only)

Section 504 Home Repair:

  • Grants up to $10,000 (lifetime) to remove health/safety hazards for homeowners 62+ with very low income.
  • Loans up to 40,000∗∗at∗∗140,000** at **1%** interest (20‑year term); combo loan+grant up to **50,000.
  • Apply year‑round through your local USDA RD office. (rd.usda.gov)

Section 502 Direct Home Loans:

  • Helps low‑income households buy/build in eligible rural areas with payment assistance.
  • The maximum you can borrow depends on your income, debts, county loan limit, taxes, and insurance; use USDA’s online self‑assessment and eligibility map. (rd.usda.gov)

Plan B: For rental help, find your local Public Housing Agency on HUD’s Wisconsin PHA list, ask about Housing Choice Vouchers and waitlists, and connect with your region’s Continuum of Care for rapid rehousing slots. (wiboscoc.org)

Transportation

Medicaid rides to the doctor (NEMT)

If you have BadgerCare Plus or Medicaid: You can get a free ride, bus tickets, or gas reimbursement (currently $0.24/mile) when you have no other way to get to covered appointments. Book or check rides with the state’s NEMT manager:

  • Phone: 866-907-1493 (TTY 711)
  • When to schedule: At least two business days before routine appointments; urgent rides 24/7.
  • Online: MTM Link web portal or app. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Plan B: Ask your clinic about telehealth; if you’re in W‑2, ask your worker about mileage reimbursement or gas cards to keep appointments. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

Internet and phone discounts

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) status: ACP ended in June 2024 due to lack of funding. If you had ACP, contact your provider about low‑income plans. (psc.wi.gov, fcc.gov)

Lifeline: Ongoing federal/state discount up to $18.50/month on phone or internet (higher on qualifying Tribal lands). Eligibility includes ≤135% FPL or participation in programs like Medicaid or FoodShare. Use Wisconsin’s Internet Discount Finder to see offers at your address. (psc.wi.gov, apps.psc.wi.gov)

Plan B: Ask your child’s school about hotspots or homework Wi‑Fi options; libraries often loan hotspots and provide free Wi‑Fi.

Child support services and legal help

Find your county child support office: Use DCF’s agency list for phone numbers and addresses; you can also view payments and messages 24/7 in Child Support Online Services (CSOS) (get a KIDS Activation Key by text/email/mail). (dcf.wisconsin.gov, csos.wisconsin.gov)

Tip: If family violence is a concern, ask about “good cause” to waive child support cooperation in certain benefit programs. Your local agency can discuss safety options.

Local organizations and faith‑based help (rural‑friendly)

  • Community Action Agencies (WISCAP network): Rent help, Head Start, work supports, energy, and more—find your county’s agency. (wiscap.org)
  • Catholic Charities of the Diocese of La Crosse (serves many rural western counties): Emergency services and shelter connections. 608-782-0710 or 888-212-4357. (cclse.org)
  • Food banks: Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin (Northeast/East Central), Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin (South‑Central/West), plus statewide coordination via Feeding Wisconsin. (feedingamericawi.org, secondharvestsw.org, feedingwi.org)
  • Head Start and Early Head Start: Free early childhood programs; contact the Wisconsin Head Start Association (608-275-3722) or use the federal locator. (whsaonline.org, eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)

Quick reference cheat sheet

Application checklist

  • Photo ID: Driver’s license, state ID, or other photo ID.
  • Proof of address: Lease, utility bill, or mail.
  • Everyone’s SSNs: Or proof of application for an SSN (if applicable).
  • Income proof: Pay stubs from the last 30 days, child support, unemployment printout, SSI/SSDI award letter, self‑employment records.
  • Expenses: Rent/lot rent/mortgage, property taxes, utilities, child support paid, child care bills.
  • Special: Pregnancy verification (for ARP/BadgerCare); eviction/disconnect notices (for EA/WHEAP); car repair estimates (for JAL).
  • Phone numbers & accounts: Keep your agency’s phone in your contacts so you don’t miss calls; enable text/email alerts in MyACCESS and CSOS. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Missing interviews or calls: Agencies call from unfamiliar numbers. Save your consortium and W‑2 agency numbers to your phone.
  • Not reporting changes: Report address, income changes, or child care schedule changes within 10 days for Wisconsin Shares. Late changes can cause overpayments. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
  • Under‑documenting expenses: Upload rent, utilities, and child support paid to get proper FoodShare deductions.
  • Assuming you’re over‑income: BadgerCare covers pregnant people and children at 306% FPL; Family Planning Only Services is an option even if you’re over for full coverage. (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov)
  • Waiting on energy help: Crisis assistance can be available year‑round—don’t wait until you’re disconnected. (content.govdelivery.com)

Diverse communities

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Diverse & Resilient’s Room to Be Safe warmline offers advocacy, safety planning, and referrals statewide—text/call 414‑856‑5428. Ask your local DV/SA program about inclusive sheltering and family supports. (diverseandresilient.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: When applying for FoodShare, claim medical and dependent‑care costs; ask your HMO for care coordination and NEMT accommodations. Weatherization can address health/safety home issues if you received energy assistance in the last 12 months. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, projecthomewi.org)

Veteran single mothers: Ask your county Veterans Service Office about transportation, emergency assistance, and VA health enrollment; StrongHearts and End Domestic Abuse WI map include programs serving veteran survivors. (endabusewi.org)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: You may qualify for WIC and certain state/children’s health programs depending on status; Family Planning Only Services is open to many with qualified status. Refugee cash/medical assistance and W‑2 services may be available—ask your local W‑2 agency. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, dcf.wisconsin.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you live on tribal lands listed in the current FoodShare waiver, you may be exempt from the ABAWD work requirement through at least September 30, 2025. For DV/SA support, the StrongHearts Native Helpline 844‑762‑8483 is 24/7 and culturally specific. Tribal agencies also administer Wisconsin Shares and WIC—use the DCF “Where to Apply” list to contact your tribe. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, strongheartshelpline.org, dcf.wisconsin.gov)

Single fathers: Many of these programs serve all parents. Wisconsin Shares, W‑2, FoodShare, WHEAP, and BadgerCare Plus are open to single fathers who meet eligibility rules.

Language access: 211 Wisconsin can connect you to services in 180+ languages; DHS/DCF portals and hotlines have interpreter services. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Resources by region (rural highlights)

  • North/Northwest: Workforce Resource (W‑2), Northwest WI Community Services Agency (housing), Feeding America Eastern WI pantry map.
  • North‑central: Forward Service Corporation (W‑2), NEWCAP and North Central CAP (utility/rent help), Second Harvest Foodbank mobile pantries.
  • West/Southwest: Workforce Connections (W‑2), Couleecap and Southwest CAP, Catholic Charities La Crosse (Warming Center).
  • Central: CAP Services (Portage/Waupaca/Waushara), 211 Wisconsin app for service mapping.
  • Northeast/East‑Central: NEWCAP, Lakeshore CAP, Feeding America Eastern WI.
  • South‑central: Community Action Coalition (Dane/Jefferson/Waukesha), Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin.
  • Statewide: WISCAP agency finder, 211 Wisconsin, ACCESS, DEHCR Home Energy Plus. (wiscap.org, dhs.wisconsin.gov, access.wisconsin.gov, energyandhousing.wi.gov)

Program tables you can scan fast

FoodShare at a glance

Item Amount/limit
Max for 4 $975/month
Min benefit (1–2) $23/month
Reporting threshold (gross) 130% FPL
Broad‑based gross test 200% FPL

Source: USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA; DHS FoodShare income/maximum chart. (fns.usda.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)

BadgerCare Plus income caps (selected)

Family size Adults/parents (100% FPL) Pregnant people & children (306% FPL)
1 $1,304.17/mo $3,990.76/mo
2 $1,762.50/mo $5,393.25/mo
3 $2,220.83/mo $6,795.74/mo
4 $2,679.17/mo $8,198.26/mo

Source: DHS BadgerCare Plus Federal Poverty Levels (effective Feb 1, 2025). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Wisconsin Shares thresholds (apply vs. stay eligible)

Group size 200% FPL (apply) 85% SMI (keep)
2 $3,525 $5,671
3 $4,442 $7,005
4 $5,358 $8,340

Source: DCF Wisconsin Shares. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

W‑2 monthly payments

Placement Monthly payment
CSJ (full) $653
W‑2 T $608
CMC $673
ARP $673

Source: DCF W‑2 Manual. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)

WHEAP income (60% SMI, 2024–25)

HH 1 month Annual
1 $3,061.08 $36,733
2 $4,002.92 $48,035
4 $5,886.75 $70,641

Source: DEHCR Home Energy Plus. (energyandhousing.wi.gov)

Real‑world examples (scenarios)

  • Small‑town retail worker with two kids: Gross monthly income $3,000 (~168% FPL for a three‑person home). She can pass FoodShare’s broad‑based screen (≤200% FPL) and apply for Wisconsin Shares (≤200% FPL). WHEAP may help with winter bills if income fits 60% SMI.
  • Expectant mom at 27 weeks: Income above parent limits but below 306% FPL—eligible for BadgerCare Plus pregnancy coverage. If medically “at‑risk” in the third trimester and unable to work, W‑2 ARP can pay $673/month. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, dcf.wisconsin.gov)
  • Grandma caregiver on fixed income: Kinship caregiver can apply for FoodShare and WHEAP; weatherization can reduce bills; Head Start or Wisconsin Shares can cover care while she works part‑time. (projecthomewi.org, dcf.wisconsin.gov)

What to do when applications stall

  • Verify documents quickly: Use MyACCESS to upload; enable text/email alerts so you don’t miss requests. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
  • Ask for a supervisor or fair hearing: If you disagree with a decision, you can appeal; the ACCESS and DHS “Apply” pages explain how to request a fair hearing. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
  • Call 211 for backups: While you wait, 211 can connect you to pantries, gas vouchers for medical appointments, and rent/utility prevention funds.

10 Wisconsin‑specific FAQs

  • How fast can I get Energy Assistance? Heating season benefits end May 15 each year, but crisis help can be available year‑round to stop a shutoff—call 866‑432‑8947. (content.govdelivery.com)
  • My county is rural. Do ABAWD FoodShare time limits apply to me? Many rural counties (Adams, Bayfield, Douglas, Florence, Forest, Iron, Marquette, Menominee) and named Tribal lands are waived through at least September 30, 2025. Check DHS’s page. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
  • What’s the maximum FoodShare for four? $975/month through September 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
  • I’m pregnant—what income can I have for BadgerCare Plus? Up to 306% FPL (one-person 3,990.76/mo∗∗;two‑person∗∗3,990.76/mo**; two‑person **5,393.25/mo). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
  • Can I get help with child care if I’m in training? Yes—Wisconsin Shares supports working and many approved training/education activities when initial income is ≤200% FPL. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
  • How much does W‑2 pay? Depending on placement, 608–608–673 monthly (CSJ 653∗∗,W‑2T∗∗653**, W‑2T **608, ARP/CMC $673). (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
  • Can I get help fixing my home in the country? USDA 504 offers 1% loans up to 40,000∗∗andgrantsupto∗∗40,000** and grants up to **10,000 (62+). Apply anytime through USDA RD. (rd.usda.gov)
  • Do I still get the 30ACPinternetdiscount?∗∗No—ACPendedin∗∗June2024∗∗.Check∗∗Lifeline∗∗forupto∗∗30 ACP internet discount?** No—ACP ended in **June 2024**. Check **Lifeline** for up to **18.50/month off and use Wisconsin’s Internet Discount Finder. (psc.wi.gov)
  • How do I get a ride to the doctor? If you have BadgerCare/Medicaid, call 866‑907‑1493 (TTY 711) at least two business days ahead. Gas reimbursement is available if you can drive. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
  • Where do I find my child support office phone number? Use DCF’s county agency directory; for 24/7 account info, use CSOS. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, csos.wisconsin.gov)

What top search results often miss

Key gaps we fill: Up‑to‑date income and benefit amounts; direct phone numbers; rural exemptions for FoodShare work rules; W‑2 payment cycles; WHEAP crisis timelines; and the new Focus on Energy IRA Home Energy Rebates with concrete dollar caps. We link only to official government and established non‑profits and flag funding changes like ACP ending and JAL 2025 fund exhaustion. (focusonenergy.com, psc.wi.gov, dcf.wisconsin.gov)

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Department of Children and Families, USDA, HUD/USDA Rural Development, DEHCR, and established non‑profits. It follows our Editorial Policy for primary sourcing, link testing, and timely corrections. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

How we verify: We cite current state/federal manuals or program pages for dollar amounts and eligibility. We review each Wisconsin guide at least every 8 months, monitor policy changes, and update within 48 hours of confirmed changes.

Last verified: September 2025, Next review: April 2026.

Corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org if something looks off; we investigate within 48 hours. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Disclaimer

Important: Program amounts, waivers, and timelines change. Always verify with the agency or official website linked in this guide before making decisions. This guide is informational—not legal advice, medical advice, or a guarantee of eligibility or benefits. We use secure editorial practices and do not collect personal data; still, avoid sharing private information in public or insecure channels. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)

Sources

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