Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Arkansas

Last updated: September 2025

We reviewed the top search results for Arkansas disability benefits and services across Arkansas DHS, DESE, USDA, SSA, and respected nonprofits. Most pages do not pull everything into one place with current dollar amounts, step‑by‑step “where to click,” phone numbers, timelines, and backup plans. This guide closes those gaps with verified numbers, direct links, real timelines, common mistakes, and Plan B options. Sources are official and dated throughout.

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Emergency Help Now

If safety, food, medicine, or power is at risk, act first and read later.

• 911 for life‑threatening emergencies.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for mental health crises and caregiver overwhelm.
• Arkansas 211 for any urgent local help (shelter, food, diapers, utility help). Dial 211 or 866‑489‑6983; text your ZIP to 898211; search the statewide database. How Arkansas 211 works (24/7, multilingual). (arkansas211.org)
• Disaster food help: when declared, Arkansas runs D‑SNAP. Watch for dates and locations on DHS/USDA. Example: July 2025 D‑SNAP covered multiple counties. Read the USDA approval announcement and who qualifies. (usda.gov)

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Quick Help Box

• Apply online fast: Use Access Arkansas for Medicaid/ARKids, TEFRA, and SNAP. Access Arkansas application portal. For help, call 855‑372‑1084. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• For infants/toddlers (0–3) with delays: Call 1‑800‑643‑8258 and ask for First Connections (statewide early intervention). Program page and family help line. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
• For Medicaid rides to appointments (NET): Call 1‑888‑987‑1200 at least 48 hours in advance; rides are M–F 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. NET program rules and contacts. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• For DD Waiver & PASSE care coordination: Call DDS Intake 501‑683‑5687 to get on the CES Waiver list and for services. CES Waiver page. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Legal advocacy for disability rights in school/benefits: Disability Rights Arkansas 800‑482‑1174. ADE parent resources list with DRA. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Medicaid and ARKids Coverage (including TEFRA)

ARKids A (Medicaid) and ARKids B (CHIP)

Most important first: Apply on Access Arkansas, even if you think you’re over income or already have private insurance. Some children qualify through TEFRA or ARKids B when standard Medicaid doesn’t fit. ARKids program page and hotline. Hotline 1‑888‑474‑8275 (M–F, 8:00–4:30). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

• ARKids A is full Medicaid for kids; no copays. ARKids B is CHIP with small copays and an annual out‑of‑pocket cap at 5% of family gross income. See covered services and examples. What ARKids pays. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

ARKids Monthly Income Limits (Effective April 1, 2025) (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

How to apply: Use Access Arkansas; you can apply online, by phone, mail, or at your county office. Upload proof of identity, residency, and income. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the ARKids hotline 1‑888‑474‑8275 to check status and request help fixing document issues. If denied due to income, ask about TEFRA and PASSE. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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TEFRA (Medicaid for children with disabilities regardless of parent income)

Most important first: If your child’s disability requires a nursing‑facility level of care but you provide care at home, apply for TEFRA at your county DHS office or through Access Arkansas. Questions: 1‑855‑372‑1084. TEFRA overview. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

• Parent income doesn’t decide eligibility; the child’s disability and care needs do. Some families owe a monthly premium on a sliding scale if income is above 150% FPL; below that there is no premium. TEFRA premium rules and charts. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• 2025 FPL levels used by DHS (150%) show where premiums start. (Example: family of 4 at $48,225 monthly/annual threshold). FNS/CSFP 2025 FPL table with 150% lines used by DHS. (fns.usda.gov)

TEFRA premium examples (from DHS slide scale): (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

• **Income $50,001–$75,000 → about 1.25% of income ≈ $52–$78/month.
• **Income $100,001–$125,000 → about 1.75% ≈ $145–$182/month.
• Cap: out‑of‑pocket premiums cannot exceed 5% of your gross annual income.

Real‑world example: Single mom with household size 3 and income $55,000\ast \ast getsTEFRAapproval.TEFRAmonthlypremiumisroughly\ast \ast$57 (1.25% ÷ 12). Always check the official chart in your approval packet. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Required documents: child’s medical records, recent therapy notes, IEP/IFSP if any, physician statements, and any hospital discharge summaries.

Timeline reality: Expect back‑and‑forth for medical records and a level‑of‑care review. Follow up weekly with your county worker and keep copies of every upload and fax.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for help from AFMC Medicaid Helpline (800‑482‑5431) and PASSE Beneficiary Support (833‑402‑0672) if you’re denied services you believe are medically necessary. AFMC helpful numbers and PASSE support page. (afmc.org, humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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PASSE and Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS)

Most important first: If your child has significant behavioral health or developmental disability needs, you may be placed in a PASSE (managed care for high‑need Medicaid). Beneficiary support 833‑402‑0672. PASSE overview. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

• Current PASSE organizations and member lines: Arkansas Total Care (866‑282‑6280), CareSource (833‑230‑2005), Empower (866‑261‑1286), Summit Community Care (844‑405‑4295). DHS PASSE contact list. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Open enrollment: October 1–31 each year; you can switch PASSE during that window. GCDD PASSE overview. (gcdd.arkansas.gov)
• Ombudsman help if you can’t get needed services: 844‑843‑7351. PASSE Ombudsman page. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a care coordination supervisor via your PASSE’s member line. If still unresolved, call the Ombudsman 844‑843‑7351 and file a grievance/appeal in writing. Keep dates and names. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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CES Waiver (Home & Community‑Based Services)

Most important first: Call DDS Intake and Referral at 501‑683‑5687 and ask to apply for the Community & Employment Supports (CES) Waiver. You will likely be placed on a waitlist; keep your contact info current. CES Waiver page with waitlist details and services. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

• While waiting, Medicaid State Plan services are still available (PCP visits, therapies, personal care, EIDT). You can check your waitlist number by emailing the DDS address on the page or calling 501‑683‑5687. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Note: In past years the state announced plans to address the waitlist, but as of 2025 DHS states there is still a waitlist; always verify your place and update your address annually. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Reapply if you move or if your child’s needs change; ask your pediatrician for updated evaluations to support level‑of‑care criteria. Consider using EIDT services (see below) while you wait. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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Early Intervention and Day Treatment

For ages 0–3: First Connections provides evaluation and services in your home or community. Family help line 1‑800‑643‑8258. DESE First Connections info. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

For ages 0–6 (and summer 6–21): Early Intervention Day Treatment (EIDT) clinics provide evaluation, therapies (OT/PT/Speech), nursing (if ordered), and habilitative services. Must have Medicaid and qualifying delays. EIDT criteria and services. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If an EIDT clinic is full, add your child to the waitlist and ask your PASSE (if enrolled) for help locating alternate providers. Ask your pediatrician for independent therapy referrals under Medicaid EPSDT benefits. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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School Services and Your Rights (Ages 3–21)

Most important first: Put requests in writing to the school for special education evaluation or services (IEP). If disagreements arise, use Arkansas’s dispute resolution options.

• Mediation/IEP facilitation (no cost) via the Arkansas Special Education Mediation Project. How to request mediation/facilitation. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
• State complaint or due process with DESE’s Dispute Resolution Section. Main contact 501‑682‑4291 (Administrator: Rick Porter). Dispute Resolution page with forms (English/Spanish/Marshallese/Vietnamese). (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
• Protection & Advocacy: Disability Rights Arkansas 800‑482‑1174 for free legal help. DESE parent resources page listing DRA. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate in writing to the Special Education Supervisor and to DESE Dispute Resolution. Keep a dated paper trail (emails, meeting notes). (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

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Getting to Appointments: Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NET)

Most important first: If your child has Medicaid/ARKids A or TEFRA, you can get free rides to covered visits.

• Schedule at least 48 hours ahead (don’t count weekends/holidays). Pickup windows 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., M–F. NET Helpline 1‑888‑987‑1200. NET page and broker info. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Some Arkansas regions are served by Verida (regional numbers on their site) and others by local agencies; if you don’t know your broker, call the Helpline. Verida Arkansas Members page with regional numbers. (verida.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the ride no‑shows, first call your broker, then call the NET Helpline 1‑888‑987‑1200 to report the problem and reschedule. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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Food, Cash, and Child Care Help

SNAP (Food Stamps)

Most important first: Apply on Access Arkansas. Benefits are based on household size/income.

• FY 2025 maximum monthly SNAP amounts (48 states/DC): 1 person $292\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$536, 3 $768\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$975, 5 $1,158\ast \ast ,6\ast \ast$1,390, 7 $1,536\ast \ast ,8\ast \ast$1,756; add $220 per additional person. USDA FY2025 COLA memo and tables (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
• Gross income limits (130% FPL) for FY2025 (48 states): Example, family of 3 $2,798/month\ast \ast ,familyof4\ast \ast$3,380/month. USDA FY2025 income standards. (fns.usda.gov)
• Arkansas SNAP application and E&T resources are here: DHS SNAP hub with forms and Double Up Food Bucks info. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied or delayed, call your county office or use DHS contact options on the SNAP page and verify your documents were received. During disasters, check if D‑SNAP is open in your county. (usda.gov)

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WIC (Women, Infants & Children)

Most important first: If you’re pregnant or have a child under 5, call WIC to enroll.

• WIC income: 185% FPL, updated yearly. State WIC office 501‑661‑2508 or 800‑235‑0002; breastfeeding helpline 800‑445‑6175. Arkansas WIC program info and eligibility. (healthy.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local health unit to schedule the earliest available appointment or help you with a transfer if you moved counties. (healthy.arkansas.gov)

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Cash Assistance (TEA) and Work Pays

• Arkansas shortened TEA/Work Pays time limits to 12 months effective April 1, 2024 (previously 24). If eligible, TEA can also connect you to child care and transportation supports while you work or train. Apply via Access Arkansas. TEA/Work Pays time limit notice. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Benefit amounts vary by family size and policy; if you can’t find your expected cash amount on the site, ask your worker at the county office or the Access Arkansas call center 855‑372‑1084. Apply for Services overview. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If TEA isn’t a fit or you hit time limits, ask about the Career Pathways Initiative (through Arkansas colleges) and local Community Action Agency resources via 211. (211arkansas.org)

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Help Paying for Child Care

• Arkansas’s Office of Early Childhood helps with child care vouchers and a sliding‑fee scale (eligibility up to state limits). Start here and use the sliding fee chart and provider finder. Help Paying for Child Care (Office of Early Childhood). (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied, email oec.familysupport@ade.arkansas.gov and ask why and what to fix; also ask about Early Head Start/Head Start and Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) Pre‑K. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

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SSI Cash Benefits for Children with Disabilities and ABLE Accounts

SSI for Children with Disabilities

• 2025 SSI federal payment rates: Individual $967/month\ast \ast ,eligiblecouple\ast \ast$1,450/month (actual checks are reduced by countable income). Arkansas does not add a state supplement. SSA SSI 2025 FBR and SSA SSI Benefits guide, 2025 edition. (ssa.gov)
• Apply online or by phone 800‑772‑1213 (TTY 800‑325‑0778); SSA will review medical and financial eligibility and request records. Processing times improved in 2025 but can still take months; serious diagnoses may be expedited through Compassionate Allowances. SSA press updates on backlogs and improvements. (ssa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask SSA for status updates and consult Disability Rights Arkansas (800‑482‑1174) for appeals help if you’re denied. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

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ABLE (Tax‑Advantaged Savings for Disability‑Related Expenses)

• Arkansas ABLE Plan lets you save without losing Medicaid/SSI. 2025 annual contribution limit: $19,000\ast \ast (federalgift‑taxexclusion).Ifthebeneficiaryworksandisn’tcontributingtoaworkplaceplan,theycanadduptotheprior‑year1‑personFPLontop(exampleinplanbookuses\ast \ast$15,060 for 2024 FPL). SSI disregards up to $100,000 in an ABLE account. AR ABLE Plan Disclosure, April 2025 (see plan PDF with 2025 contribution examples). (cdn.unite529.com)
• Contact AR ABLE: 888‑609‑8874 or start here. (savewithable.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need short‑term relief, see the Lifespan Respite Voucher below while you set up ABLE; ask your bank or a VITA tax site for help linking ABLE to budgeting. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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Respite Care for Caregivers

• Arkansas Lifespan Respite Voucher Program: up to $300perquarter\ast \ast (\ast \ast$1,200/year) to pay a respite provider of your choice; first‑come, first‑served while funds last. Apply online from the DHS page. Questions: 866‑801‑3435. Voucher program details and application. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Find trained respite providers in your county using the state registry. Arkansas Lifespan Respite Provider Registry. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Check Alzheimer’s Arkansas and the Broyles Foundation — some offer separate respite vouchers (amounts vary; one program is $650 when open). Broyles Foundation respite info. (broylesfoundation.org)

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Tables You Can Use Today

Medicaid & ARKids quick view

Food & basic needs

Transportation & caregiver support

SSI & ABLE

Key phone numbers (keep this handy)

(Each number above is sourced in the sections where it appears.)

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How to Apply: Short, Scannable Steps

ARKids/TEFRA on Access Arkansas

• Create an account: Access Arkansas. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Upload documents: child’s birth certificate, SSN (if available), proof of Arkansas address, last 30–60 days of income, medical records for TEFRA.
• Track messages: Turn on text/email alerts in your account and check weekly.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Bold label: Missing medical records for TEFRA: TEFRA hinges on level‑of‑care proof; send full therapy and physician notes.
• Bold label: Not answering Access Arkansas messages: response delays can close your case.

Plan B: If the portal is tough on a phone, call 855‑372‑1084 and ask the worker to note your case, then visit your county office with a paper packet. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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SNAP

• Apply: DHS SNAP page + Access Arkansas. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Documents: ID, SSNs if available, income proof, rent and utilities.
• Interview: Answer calls from unknown numbers during business hours; many interviews are phone‑based.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Bold label: Missing a verification deadline: upload the exact item the worker requests.
• Bold label: Not reporting changes: report within 10 days; it can prevent overpayments.

Plan B: If you’re denied, ask for a conference with a supervisor and re‑apply if your income drops or you have a disaster loss (possible D‑SNAP). (usda.gov)

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CES Waiver (DD Waiver)

• Call now: 501‑683‑5687 to start intake and get waitlisted. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Keep updated: Respond to annual waitlist mail from DDS; confirm your address every year.
• While you wait: Use Medicaid State Plan services and EIDT to meet immediate needs. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Bold label: Changing phone/address without telling DDS: you can lose your spot if mail is returned.
• Bold label: Assuming waiver covers therapies only: CES funds respite, home mods, adaptive equipment, supported living, and more.

Plan B: Ask your pediatrician for EPSDT‑based therapy referrals and personal care while your waiver slot is pending. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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Local Organizations That Understand Disability

• Easterseals Arkansas (Little Rock area): developmental preschool, therapies, outreach. Main 501‑227‑3600; locations and programs listed here. Easterseals Arkansas locations. (eastersealsar.com)
• Arkansas Support Network (Northwest, River Valley, Delta): family support and community services for people with disabilities. Main 479‑927‑4100; other offices in Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Camden. ASN contact page. (supports.org)
• UAMS Schmieding Developmental Center (Springdale): multidisciplinary assessment and care for developmental conditions. Appointments 479‑750‑0125. Clinic info. (uamshealth.com)
• Arkansas 211: one call to find local diapers, formula, utilities, rental help across all 75 counties. Dial 211 or 866‑489‑6983, or search the database. About Arkansas 211. (211arkansas.org)

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Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Arkansas Medicaid, ARKids, SNAP, WIC, and school services must be delivered without discrimination. If you face barriers, call **Disability Rights Arkansas 800‑482‑1174 for help documenting and addressing discrimination in services or school IEPs. ADE parent resources list with DRA. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Use TEFRA for your child regardless of income, ask about PASSE care coordination, and consider ABLE to protect savings. Key phones: 1‑855‑372‑1084 (Medicaid), 833‑402‑0672 (PASSE), 888‑609‑8874 (AR ABLE). (humanservices.arkansas.gov, savewithable.com)
• Veteran single mothers: You can still use all state benefits above. If you need health system navigation, dial 211 to locate VA and non‑VA supports in your county. Arkansas 211. (arkansas211.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many eligible immigrants qualify for WIC and school services; Medicaid/SNAP eligibility varies by status. DHS provides phone help in Spanish at 800‑482‑8988; language access is available in programs like WIC and 211. AFMC helpful numbers, WIC language services. (afmc.org, healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Tribal citizens: If your child is a citizen of a federally recognized tribe, you can use the state programs here and your tribe’s programs. Ask school staff to record tribal affiliation in the IEP if relevant and dial 211 for local tribal liaison contacts. Arkansas 211. (arkansas211.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Use NET rides (1‑888‑987‑1200), request telehealth when allowed, and ask your PASSE/county worker about mileage reimbursement options to specialists. NET program. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs above are for parents/caregivers regardless of gender. If you meet income and residency rules, apply via Access Arkansas and note you are the custodial parent. Apply for Services. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Language access: WIC and 211 provide interpreter services; Medicaid help is available via AFMC and DHS Spanish lines. Keep copies of translated letters. WIC language access, AFMC/DHS phone list. (healthy.arkansas.gov, afmc.org)

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Application Checklist

• Bold label: Identity and residency: photo ID, child’s birth certificate, lease or utility.
• Bold label: Income proofs: last 30–60 days of pay stubs, child support statements, unemployment award letters.
• Bold label: Medical proofs: recent doctor letters, therapy notes, hospital summaries, IEP/IFSP, specialist referrals.
• Bold label: Banking: voided check (TEFRA premiums auto‑draft), ABLE account details if opening.
• Bold label: Transportation: NET broker phone, appointment dates, and addresses.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Bold label: Waiting to apply “until everything is perfect:** File now; you can upload more later.
• Bold label: Ignoring Access Arkansas notices:** Missed deadlines cause closures.
• Bold label: Not asking for EPSDT under Medicaid:** Many therapies and supplies are covered when medically necessary.
• Bold label: Not keeping your address updated with DDS:** You can lose your CES Waiver place.
• Bold label: Missing NET’s 48‑hour scheduling rule:** Call in time to avoid missed rides.

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Real‑World Examples

• Bold label: TEFRA premium math:** Household income $55,000\ast \ast ,size3\to TEFRApremiumabout\ast \ast$57/month (1.25%). This can be cheaper than private plan deductibles while covering pediatrics, therapies, DME, and NET rides. TEFRA premium chart. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Bold label: While waiting for the CES Waiver:** Mom uses EIDT for preschool therapy and personal care under State Plan Medicaid; she calls DDS every quarter to confirm contact info and checks her place on the list. CES/EIDT info. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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PASSE Contacts (Save These)

• Arkansas Total Care: 866‑282‑6280 | Find providers. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• CareSource: 833‑230‑2005 | Find providers. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Empower Healthcare Solutions: 866‑261‑1286 | Find providers. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Summit Community Care: 844‑405‑4295 | Find providers. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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FAQs (Arkansas‑Specific)

1. Question: How do I apply for Medicaid/ARKids/TEFRA online?
   Bold answer: Use Access Arkansas or call 855‑372‑1084 for help. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
2. Question: Do I qualify for TEFRA even if I make too much for ARKids A?
   Bold answer: Yes—TEFRA looks at your child’s disability and care needs. Some families pay a premium if income is over 150% FPL. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
3. Question: How much will my TEFRA premium be?
   Bold answer: It’s a sliding scale; for example $50,001–$75,000 income is about 1.25% (≈ $52–$78/month). See DHS chart. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
4. Question: Is there still a CES Waiver waitlist?
   Bold answer: Yes. Call 501‑683‑5687 to apply and check your waitlist number. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
5. Question: Who do I call if I can’t get services from my PASSE?
   Bold answer: First your PASSE member line; then the PASSE Ombudsman 844‑843‑7351. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
6. Question: How do I get rides to my child’s appointments?
   Bold answer: Call NET 1‑888‑987‑1200 at least 48 hours before the visit. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
7. Question: What are the 2025 SNAP maximums for my family?
   Bold answer: For 4 people it’s $975/month\ast \ast ;for3it’s\ast \ast$768; for 2 it’s $536\ast \ast ;for1it’s\ast \ast$292. (fns.usda.gov)
8. Question: Does Arkansas add extra cash to SSI?
   Bold answer: No—Arkansas has no state SSI supplement. 2025 federal SSI is $967/month for an individual. (ssa.gov)
9. Question: How much can I put in my child’s ABLE account in 2025?
   Bold answer: $19,000 total from all contributors; working beneficiaries may add up to the prior‑year 1‑person FPL. (cdn.unite529.com)
10. Question: Where can I get quick respite help?
    Bold answer: Apply for the Lifespan Respite Voucher ($300/quarter\ast \ast ,\ast \ast$1,200/year) and search the provider registry. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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What to Do When You Hit a Wall

• Bold label: Ask for supervisors and write down names/dates: Keep a notebook for each call.
• Bold label: Put requests in writing: Email your worker or school in short, respectful bullet points.
• Bold label: Get outside help: Disability Rights Arkansas 800‑482‑1174 (school rights/benefits barriers), Arkansas 211 for local nonprofits, and your PASSE care coordinator for care‑plan issues. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov, 211arkansas.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from Arkansas Department of Human Services, Arkansas Department of Education (DESE), USDA, SSA, and established nonprofits. It follows our transparent research standards and is updated on a regular cycle.

Our Editorial Standards: See our Editorial Policy for how we verify programs only from official/statewide sources, track changes, and correct errors within stated timeframes. This page documents our use of primary sources (state/federal) and our update schedule. Last updated August 2025. (Editorial page timestamp.)

Last verified: September 2025, next review April 2026.

If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we will investigate within 48–72 hours per our policy. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

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Disclaimer

Bold label: Program facts change: Benefit amounts, eligibility, and deadlines may change after publication. Always verify with the linked agency or hotline before making decisions.

Bold label: Not legal advice: This guide is informational. For case‑specific legal help, contact a qualified attorney or Disability Rights Arkansas (800‑482‑1174). (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

Bold label: Security reminder: For your privacy, never post your SSN, case number, or medical details in public forums. Use official portals and hotlines linked above.

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Sources (selected, dated)

• Arkansas DHS TEFRA overview/premiums, accessed September 2025. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• ARKids A/B eligibility and benefits, accessed September 2025. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• PASSE program and contacts, accessed September 2025. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• CES Waiver/EIDT, accessed September 2025. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• NET transportation rules, accessed September 2025. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA tables, published August 2, 2024. (fns.usda.gov)
• Arkansas WIC program, accessed September 2025. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• SSA SSI 2025 rates, accessed September 2025. (ssa.gov)
• Arkansas ABLE Plan 2025 disclosure, accessed September 2025. (cdn.unite529.com)
• Lifespan Respite voucher and registry, accessed September 2025. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Arkansas 211 service, accessed September 2025. (arkansas211.org)

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If you want, tell me your county and your child’s age/diagnosis. I can map this into a 2‑week action plan with the exact offices you need to contact first.

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Learn more:

1. How Arkansas 211 Works | Arkansas 211
2. USDA Announces Approval of D-SNAP for Arkansas Disaster Areas | USDA
3. Apply For Services – Arkansas Department of Human Services
4. Division of Elementary and Secondary Education – Offices – Special Education – Parent and Family Resources – Parent FAQs
5. NET (Non-Emergency Transportation) – Arkansas Department of Human Services
6. CES Waiver – Arkansas Department of Human Services
7. Division of Elementary and Secondary Education – Offices – Special Education – Dispute Resolution – Parent Resources
8. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) – Arkansas Department of Human Services
9. SNAP COLA Memo FY25
10. Contact Us – Arkansas Department of Human Services
11. PASSE – Arkansas Managed Care – Arkansas Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities
12. ARKids First – Arkansas Department of Human Services
13. What does ARKids Pay? – Arkansas Department of Human Services
14. TEFRA – Arkansas Department of Human Services
15. TEFRA Premiums: How much will I pay? – Arkansas Department of Human Services
16. CSFP Income Guidelines | Food and Nutrition Service
17. Helpful Phone Numbers and Websites
18. Beneficiary Support – Arkansas Department of Human Services
19. PASSE – Provider-Led Arkansas Shared Savings Entity – Arkansas Department of Human Services
20. Office of the PASSE Ombudsman – Arkansas Department of Human Services
21. Governor Addressing Waitlist for Services for Arkansans with Developmental Disabilities – Arkansas Department of Human Services
22. Developmental Daycare (EIDT) age 0-21 – Arkansas Department of Human Services
23. Services for Children with DD/ID Needs – Arkansas Department of Human Services
24. Division of Elementary and Secondary Education – Offices – Special Education – Dispute Resolution – Mediation/IEP Facilitation
25. Division of Elementary and Secondary Education – Offices – Special Education – Dispute Resolution – State Complaints
26. Division of Elementary and Secondary Education – Offices – Special Education – Dispute Resolution
27. ARKANSAS MEMBERS | Verida
28. Women, Infants & Children (WIC) – Arkansas Department of Health
29. TEA/Work Pays Time Limit – Arkansas Department of Human Services
30. About Arkansas 211 | Arkansas 211
31. Division of Elementary and Secondary Education – Offices – Early Childhood – Help Paying for Child Care
32. SSI Federal Payment Amounts for 2025
33. Social Security Gains Momentum: Meeting Customer Needs Online, on the Phone, and In-Person | News | SSA
34. National Able Alliance
35. Home | Arkansas ABLE Plan
36. Voucher Program – Arkansas Department of Human Services
37. Arkansas Lifespan Respite Search Locator (Registry) – Arkansas Department of Human Services
38. Respite Vouchers – The Broyles Foundation
39. Locations – Easterseals Arkansas
40. Contact Us – Arkansas Support Network
41. Schmieding Developmental Center | Springdale | UAMS Health
42. SSI Benefits | Supplemental Security Income (SSI) | SSA

🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled 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
• 🛋️ 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