Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Iowa
Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Iowa (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help now
- Immediate danger: Call 911.
- Mental health or suicide crisis: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7 confidential support). (yourlifeiowa.org)
- Statewide help line for mental health, substance use, parenting stress, and maternal mental health: Your Life Iowa — Call 855-581-8111, text 855-895-8398, or use live chat on the Your Life Iowa site. (yourlifeiowa.org)
- Domestic/sexual violence support and shelter navigation: Iowa Victim Service Call Center — Call 1-800-770-1650 (alternate statewide number listed on site) or visit the service site to connect to local advocates 24/7. (survivorshelpline.org)
- Find any local resource fast (food, shelter, rent, utilities, child care, disability services): Call 211 (toll-free backup 866-813-1731), text your ZIP to 898211, or use live chat. (211iowa.org)
Quick help box
- Apply for medical coverage for your disabled child: Start with Iowa Medicaid’s Medicaid for Kids with Special Needs (MKSN). See income table and online application steps below. Phone: 1-800-338-8366. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Get in-home and community supports: Ask about Iowa’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers and Habilitation; learn about waiting lists and the separate state HCBS Rent Subsidy that can help with rent while you wait. Member Services: 1-800-338-8366. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Secure transportation to appointments: Use Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) — schedule rides via your plan’s Access2Care line. See contact table below. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Reduce food costs quickly: Apply for SNAP and WIC. We list the current SNAP max benefits (through September 30, 2025) and WIC fruit/vegetable amounts. SNAP information: 877-347-5678. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, hhs.iowa.gov)
- Afford child care that fits your child’s needs: Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA) offers special-needs rates to providers; we include the current rate tables and the CCA phone. CCA: 866-448-4605. (iowaccrr.org, hhs.iowa.gov)
- Navigate everything with a live specialist: Call Iowa Compass for disability resource navigation across the whole state. Phone or text: 800-779-2001. (cdd.center.uiowa.edu, johnsoncountyiowa.gov)
Why this guide is different
- What you’ll get here: Verified phone numbers, current dollar amounts in bold, realistic timelines, step-by-step instructions, and “Plan B” options if your first try stalls.
- What’s often missing elsewhere: Clear MKSN income limits, HCBS waitlist workarounds (like HCBS Rent Subsidy), NEMT scheduling numbers for each plan, special-needs child care rates, and WIC fruit/veg benefit amounts—plus direct links to official applications.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (save/print)
| Program | What it can do | Key amounts (2025) | Where to apply / call |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKSN (Medicaid for Kids with Special Needs) | Full Medicaid for disabled kids under 19 | Family income up to 300% FPL; monthly limits table below | Apply via HHS Benefits Portal; questions: 1-800-338-8366. (hhs.iowa.gov) |
| Iowa Medicaid NEMT | Free rides to covered medical care | Book at least 2 business days ahead | See plan-specific numbers in the Transportation table below. (hhs.iowa.gov) |
| HCBS Waivers | In‑home & community services; may have waitlist | Multiple waivers (ID, BI, CMH, etc.) | Ask your HHS worker/Member Services 1-800-338-8366. (hhs.iowa.gov) |
| HCBS Rent Subsidy (IFA) | Monthly rent help while awaiting HUD subsidy | Pays up to FMR minus 30% of income | Apply with Iowa Finance Authority; questions: 515-452-0442. (opportunityiowa.gov) |
| SNAP | Monthly grocery EBT | Max for 4-person household: $975 (through 9/30/2025) | Apply via HHS Benefits Portal; report changes: 877-347-5678. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, hhs.iowa.gov) |
| WIC | eWIC foods, nutrition, breastfeeding help | Children CVB: 26∗∗/mo;pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**/mo; pregnant/postpartum **47; fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 | Find your WIC clinic on Iowa HHS; see income table below. (wicworks.fns.usda.gov, hhs.iowa.gov) |
| CCA (Child Care Assistance) | Helps pay child care; special‑needs rates | Current special‑needs half‑day ceilings listed below | CCA Eligibility Unit 866-448-4605; provider rates PDF linked below. (iowaccrr.org) |
| SSI for Children | Monthly cash if disability & income rules met | 2025 FBR max: child’s SSI up to $967 (individual) | Apply via SSA; see “SSI for children” section. (ssa.gov) |
| IAble (ABLE accounts) | Save for disability needs without losing benefits | Up to $100,000 disregarded for SSI; no cap for Medicaid | Learn more and open at IAble; help: 888-609-8910. (deal.town, ia.savewithable.com) |
Health coverage you can act on today
Medicaid for Kids with Special Needs (MKSN)
What to do first: Apply for MKSN if your child is under 19 and meets Social Security disability standards. This covers physician/specialist care, therapy, supplies, EPSDT screenings, and more under a managed care plan you choose. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Eligibility basics: Child under 19, meets SSA disability standard, U.S. citizen, and family income at or below 300% FPL (see monthly limits below). (hhs.iowa.gov)
- 2025 monthly income limits (MKSN)
| Household size | Monthly income limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $3,645 |
| 2 | $4,930 |
| 3 | $6,215 |
| 4 | $7,500 |
| 5 | $8,785 |
| 6 | $10,070 |
| 7 | $11,355 |
| 8 | $12,640 |
Source: Iowa HHS MKSN. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- How to apply: Submit the Medicaid application online or to your local HHS office. Member Services: 1-800-338-8366 (Mon–Fri). Relay Iowa TTY 1-800-735-2942. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Timelines: Most Medicaid applications are processed within about 30–45 days. If urgent (new diagnosis, new treatment), tell HHS when you submit and follow up by phone within 7–10 days.
- Reality check: If your employer covers at least half the premium, you may be required to enroll your child in the employer plan too; Medicaid remains payer of last resort. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about the Hawki program for uninsured siblings (income up to roughly 302% FPL; premiums capped at $40 per family/month). Hawki help line 800-257-8563. For denials/appeals, see HHS Appeals (1-888-723-9637) or contact Disability Rights Iowa (800-779-2502). (hhs.iowa.gov, disabilityrightsiowa.org)
Your Medicaid plan and getting to appointments
- Choose/verify your MCO: Iowa has three Medicaid health plans — Wellpoint, Iowa Total Care, and Molina. Check your providers are in-network and call Member Services if unsure. Iowa Medicaid Member Services: 1-800-338-8366. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Book rides at least 2 business days ahead. Use your plan’s Access2Care line:
- Wellpoint: Schedule 844-544-1389; Where’s My Ride 844-544-1390. (wellpoint.com)
- Iowa Total Care: Schedule 877-271-4819. (iowatotalcare.com)
- Molina: Schedule 866-849-2062. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Fee-for-Service Medicaid: MTM rides 866-572-7662; complaints 866-436-0457. (mtm-inc.net)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If a ride is late or missed, call the Where’s My Ride line (if provided) or your broker. Escalate to Iowa Medicaid Member Services 1-800-338-8366 and file a grievance with your plan. (hhs.iowa.gov)
Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP)
- Why to try it: If you (or your child) have Medicaid and employer coverage is available, Iowa may reimburse premiums if it’s “cost‑effective.”
- HIPP phones: 1-888-346-9562 (toll‑free) or 515-974-3282 (Des Moines). Email: hipp@hhs.iowa.gov. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about MEPD (Medicaid for Employed People with Disabilities) if you’re a working mom with a disability yourself; sliding‑scale premiums start at $43 at 150% FPL (effective August 1, 2025). (hhs.iowa.gov)
HCBS waivers and rent help while you wait
Action step: Get on the right waiver waitlist now, and ask about interim supports.
- Iowa’s HCBS waivers: AIDS/HIV, Brain Injury (BI), Children’s Mental Health (CMH), Elderly, Health & Disability (HD), Intellectual Disability (ID), Physical Disability (PD). Waiting lists exist for some waivers; priority is based on assessed need. Start with Member Services 1-800-338-8366. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- How to apply: Submit a waiver application and complete a Priority Need Assessment. Your HHS worker or MCO care coordinator can help. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Rent while you wait: The Iowa Finance Authority’s HCBS Rent Subsidy can pay part of your rent if you’re on an HCBS waiver or Habilitation and paying over 30% of income toward rent. Max subsidy equals local Fair Market Rent (FMR) minus 30% of your income. Payments process monthly; applications are accepted continuously (waitlist if funds are tight). Contact 515-452-0442 or email HCBSifa@iowafinance.com. (opportunityiowa.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply to multiple Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) for Section 8 and public housing. Use HUD’s Rental Help for Iowa to find PHAs and subsidized apartments. Apply widely due to long waitlists. (hud.gov)
Food and nutrition you can lock in fast
SNAP (Food Assistance)
- Max benefits through September 30, 2025 (48 states): 1 person 292∗∗,2∗∗292**, 2 **536, 3 768∗∗,4∗∗768**, 4 **975, 5 1,158∗∗,6∗∗1,158**, 6 **1,390, 7 1,536∗∗,8∗∗1,536**, 8 **1,756; each additional 220∗∗.Theminimumbenefitis∗∗220**. The minimum benefit is **23. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, everycrsreport.com)
- Apply/report changes: Use the HHS Benefits Portal; report changes via 877-347-5678. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to locate local pantries and Double Up Food Bucks sites; for farmers’ markets EBT rules, see HHS’s guide. (211iowa.org, hhs.iowa.gov)
WIC
- Monthly fruit & veggie Cash Value Benefit (CVB): Children (1–4) 26∗∗;pregnantorpostpartum∗∗26**; pregnant or postpartum **47; fully/mostly breastfeeding $52. (wicworks.fns.usda.gov)
- Iowa WIC income guidelines: Effective July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025 (and updated for July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). Check the current table on Iowa HHS WIC. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your WIC clinic about breastfeeding support, pump access, and referrals to Early ACCESS and CHSC for feeding therapy if needed. (hhs.iowa.gov)
Child care you can actually use
- Child Care Assistance (CCA): Helps pay for child care while you work, look for work, or are in training. CCA also pays higher rates for children with special needs when a qualified professional documents the need and the provider completes required forms. CCA Eligibility Unit: 866-448-4605 (email: ccaapps@hhs.iowa.gov). (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Special‑needs rate ceilings (half‑day = up to 5 hours, effective July 1, 2024) — Licensed centers (selected entries):
| Age group | Basic (no IQ4K) | Special needs (no IQ4K) | Basic (IQ4K 5) | Special needs (IQ4K 5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infant/Toddler | $25.66 | $51.94 | $27.00 | $51.94 |
| Preschool | $19.50 | $30.43 | $22.97 | $30.43 |
| School‑Age | $16.50 | $30.34 | $18.50 | $30.34 |
Source: Iowa CCR&R/HHS payment letter, effective 7/1/2024. Additional tables for Child Development Homes and in‑home care are in the same document. (iowaccrr.org)
- How to apply: Apply online via the Child Care Client Portal or submit the paper application; for questions call 866-448-4605. (iowa.gov)
- Timelines: Approvals vary, but expect 2–3 weeks if you submit all documents quickly. Ask about backdating from the application date.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Talk with your child’s provider about becoming a CCA provider or about special‑needs rate documentation; call CCR&R and ask for help with local openings that accept CCA. (iowaccrr.org)
School and early intervention supports
- Early ACCESS (birth–3): If you have concerns, refer immediately. Phone: 1-888-425-4371 (1‑888‑IAKIDS1). Online referral available. A service coordinator is assigned after referral. (educate.iowa.gov, iafamilysupportnetwork.org)
- Area Education Agencies (AEAs, age 3–21): AEAs evaluate and deliver special education supports with your school. Use the AEA locator by ZIP or the list below to contact your region. (iafamilysupportnetwork.org)
- Procedural safeguards: Iowa’s Notice of Procedural Safeguards explains your IDEA rights, available in multiple languages. Keep a copy for IEP meetings. (educate.iowa.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact the ASK Resource Center partnership (via Iowa Department of Education) for family advocacy, or Disability Rights Iowa for legal advocacy related to special education. (educate.iowa.gov, disabilityrightsiowa.org)
Income supports tied to disability
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for children
- Amounts: The 2025 federal benefit rate (FBR) is up to 967/month∗∗foraneligibleindividual(child)and∗∗967/month** for an eligible individual (child) and **1,450/month for an eligible couple, before state supplements or reductions for income. Parental income “deeming” rules apply for child cases. (ssa.gov)
- Work and SSA numbers you may hear: 2025 Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) is 1,620/month∗∗(non‑blind);∗∗1,620/month** (non‑blind); **2,700/month (blind). These are adult measures but sometimes referenced during youth transition. (ssa.gov)
- How to apply: Start an online child disability report and contact SSA for an appointment. Keep detailed records from doctors, therapists, school, and AEAs.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Request reconsideration by the 60‑day deadline; ask Iowa Legal Aid (1-800-532-1275) or Disability Rights Iowa (800-779-2502) for guidance. (iowalegalaid.org, disabilityrightsiowa.org)
State Supplementary Assistance (SSA, state program)
- Why it matters: Iowa’s State Supplementary Assistance can help with special needs that federal SSI does not cover (e.g., family life homes, in‑home health-related care).
- 2025 standards (selected): Family Life Home payment to family 1,003∗∗;personalneedsallowance∗∗1,003**; personal needs allowance **126; payment standard $1,129. See HHS page for full categories. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Discuss with your HHS worker whether another SSA category or exception to policy fits your situation; consider an HHS appeal if denied. (hhs.iowa.gov)
Housing options and contacts
- HCBS Rent Subsidy: See the section above; this is often the fastest rent help for families active with HCBS/Habilitation. (opportunityiowa.gov)
- HUD Housing Choice Vouchers and subsidized apartments: Apply with multiple PHAs at once to improve your odds. Use HUD’s Rental Help: Iowa page to find PHAs and search subsidized apartments statewide. (hud.gov)
- Regional examples: Central Iowa Regional Housing Authority and Southern Iowa Regional Housing Authority manage HCVs in many counties (waitlists vary by funding). Check each PHA’s application status. (cirhahome.org, sirha-ia.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your AEA social worker or MCO care coordinator for housing advocacy letters, request reasonable accommodations (extra bedrooms for durable medical equipment or live‑in aide), and keep applying.
Transportation and equipment supports beyond insurance
- NEMT rides: See the contact table under health coverage. Reimbursement for mileage, meals, or lodging may be available for long‑distance care — ask your broker before traveling. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Title V supports via CHSC: Child Health Specialty Clinics (CHSC) provide care coordination, family navigation, and gap‑filling services for children and youth with special health care needs statewide. Family Navigator line 866-219-9119. (chsciowa.org)
- Children at Home: Modest, flexible funding for families raising a child under 22 with a developmental disability; family net taxable income under $60,000; can pay for equipment, respite/adaptive child care, out‑of‑area travel to treatment, and more (not basic living expenses). Apply through the Iowa Family Support Network. Phones: 888-425-4371 and 515-558-9946. (iafamilysupportnetwork.org, swiamhds.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Iowa Compass (800-779-2001) to find charitable funds, condition‑specific foundations, and loan closets for equipment. (cdd.center.uiowa.edu)
Save safely with an IAble account (without losing benefits)
- Why IAble matters: Money in ABLE accounts is disregarded for Medicaid, and up to $100,000 is disregarded for SSI eligibility — great for saving toward housing, vehicle mods, therapies, and assistive tech. IAble help: 888-609-8910. (deal.town, ia.savewithable.com)
- Tax note: Iowa offers a state tax deduction for IAble contributions (limit adjusts periodically). Confirm the current year’s amount on IAble and the Iowa Department of Revenue pages before filing your taxes. (ia.savewithable.com, revenue.iowa.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your AEA or CHSC social worker about special‑needs trusts and compare with ABLE accounts for your situation.
Managed Care and transportation contacts (keep this handy)
| Topic | Contact |
|---|---|
| Iowa Medicaid Member Services | 1-800-338-8366; Des Moines 515-256-4606; IMEmember@hhs.iowa.gov (Mon–Fri). (hhs.iowa.gov) |
| Wellpoint NEMT (Access2Care) | Schedule 844-544-1389; Where’s My Ride 844-544-1390. (wellpoint.com) |
| Iowa Total Care NEMT (Access2Care) | 877-271-4819. (iowatotalcare.com) |
| Molina NEMT (Access2Care) | 866-849-2062. (hhs.iowa.gov) |
| Fee‑for‑Service Medicaid NEMT (MTM) | Rides 866-572-7662; complaints 866-436-0457. (mtm-inc.net) |
Money for groceries and kids’ meals (details you can use now)
SNAP maximum monthly allotments (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025)
| Household size | Maximum |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each add’l | $220 |
Sources: USDA FNS FY2025 COLA; CRS SNAP primer (quoting FNS table). Apply via Iowa HHS; report changes 877-347-5678. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, everycrsreport.com, hhs.iowa.gov)
WIC fruit & vegetable benefit amounts (current)
| Participant | CVB per month |
|---|---|
| Child age 1–4 | $26 |
| Pregnant/postpartum | $47 |
| Fully or mostly breastfeeding | $52 |
Source: USDA WIC Works and WIC Breastfeeding Support (final food package changes, April 2024). (wicworks.fns.usda.gov)
Resources by region: AEAs (special education/local help)
| AEA | Phone(s) | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest AEA 12 | 800-352-9040 (Early ACCESS: 712-222-6050) | nwaea.org |
| Prairie Lakes AEA 8 | 866-540-3858 (Early ACCESS: 712-335-6057) | plaea.org |
| Central Rivers AEA | 800-542-8375 | centralriversaea.org |
| Green Hills AEA | 712-366-0503 | ghaea.org |
| Heartland AEA 11 (DSM area) | 800-362-2720 | heartlandaea.org |
| Grant Wood AEA | 319-399-6700 (EA intake 319-399-6746) | gwaea.org |
| Mississippi Bend AEA | 800-947-2329 | mbaea.org |
| Great Prairie AEA | 800-622-0027 | gpaea.org |
| Keystone AEA | 800-632-5918 | keystoneaea.org |
Source: Iowa Family Support Network AEA directory. (iafamilysupportnetwork.org)
Realistic timelines and tips
- MKSN and Medicaid: Aim for 30–45 days; call Member Services after 10 business days if no update. Keep treatment letters ready to fax if asked. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- HCBS waivers: Waits vary. Get on the list now; ask your coordinator to document any health/safety risks for priority.
- Child care: Plan 2–3 weeks once documents are complete; request special‑needs rate in writing.
- SNAP: Emergency SNAP may be issued within 7 days if your household meets emergency criteria; ask at application.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing documents: Keep a single folder with birth certificates, Social Security cards, proof of Iowa address, income, custody papers, IEP/IFSP, and medical letters. Missing one item can delay a decision by weeks.
- Not checking network: Before choosing an MCO, confirm your child’s specialists are in‑network.
- Letting ride windows pass: For NEMT, book at least 2 business days ahead and cancel if plans change to avoid suspension. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Skipping appeals: You usually have 60 days to appeal Medicaid denials. Appeals are free. Use HHS Appeals and ask Iowa Legal Aid or DRI for help. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Not applying because of work income: MKSN counts family income differently than many programs; check the table — many working families still qualify. (hhs.iowa.gov)
Application checklist
- Identity and residence: Photo ID, child’s birth certificate, Social Security numbers, proof of Iowa address (lease or utility).
- Income: Last 30 days of pay stubs, child support, SSI/SSDI letters, unemployment, workers’ comp.
- Medical/disability: Doctor’s diagnosis letters, therapy notes, medication list, hospital discharge paperwork, IEP/IFSP.
- Insurance: Employer coverage info if any (HIPP review may need policy details). (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Child care: Provider information, special‑needs documentation for CCA special‑needs rate. (rules.iowa.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your providers and MCO for affirming mental health and pediatric services; your child’s IEP/IFSP can include supportive counseling goals if disability‑related. Your Life Iowa offers confidential support 24/7. (yourlifeiowa.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Consider IAble to save for equipment or home modifications without losing Medicaid; check HIPP if employer coverage is available; request HCBS personal care/respite where appropriate. (ia.savewithable.com, hhs.iowa.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Coordinate VA care with Medicaid; ask your MCO care coordinator about authorizations to avoid gaps; 211 can locate county VA offices and veterans’ family supports. (211iowa.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Children may be eligible for Medicaid/Hawki based on their status even if you are not. Ask HHS about language access and interpreter services (free) when applying or during appointments. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Tribal citizens: You can choose or opt out of managed care in some circumstances. Ask Member Services to review your options and connect with tribal health resources. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Leverage NEMT and telehealth; CHSC and AEAs support tele‑consults; ask about mileage reimbursement for long trips. (chsciowa.org, hhs.iowa.gov)
- Single fathers: All programs here are gender‑neutral; dads can apply for the same supports for their disabled children. Use the same contacts and steps.
- Language access: For Medicaid and SNAP, free interpreter services and TTY are available — request them at the start of each call. (hhs.iowa.gov)
Plan B options at the end of each major section
- If Medicaid is denied or delayed: Apply for Hawki for other children and appeal within 60 days; ask DRI/Iowa Legal Aid to review. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- If you can’t find respite or home care: Get on the HCBS waitlist, ask CHSC/Iowa Compass for local respite providers, and see if your AEA can add family training/supports to an IFSP/IEP. (chsciowa.org)
- If rent is unaffordable: Apply for HCBS Rent Subsidy and multiple PHAs; ask for reasonable accommodation letters. (opportunityiowa.gov, hud.gov)
- If food benefits aren’t enough: Pair SNAP with WIC, and call 211 for pantries and community meals. (hhs.iowa.gov, 211iowa.org)
Frequently asked questions (Iowa‑specific)
- How do I know if my child meets the disability standard for MKSN: SSA’s child disability rules apply; your child’s medical records and school/therapy reports are key. Call Member Services 1-800-338-8366 to ask about documentation. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Can I keep my child on my employer plan and still use Medicaid: Yes, and in some cases you must if your employer pays at least half the premium; Iowa’s HIPP may reimburse the premium if cost‑effective. HIPP: 1-888-346-9562. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- How soon should I book Medicaid rides: At least 2 business days before the appointment; urgent exceptions exist — explain the urgency when you call. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- What are the 2025 SNAP max benefits for a family of four in Iowa: $975/month through September 30, 2025 (standard 48‑state amounts). (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- What are WIC’s fruit/veg amounts: Child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 per month. (wicworks.fns.usda.gov)
- Can CCA pay higher rates for my child’s special needs: Yes, if a qualified professional documents the need and your provider completes the process; see the special‑needs rate tables above. (iowaccrr.org)
- Is there rent help while I wait for Section 8: Yes — Iowa’s HCBS Rent Subsidy for waiver/habilitation participants. Contact 515-452-0442. (opportunityiowa.gov)
- How much is SSI in 2025: Up to $967 for an individual (before countable income deductions). Parental income deeming applies to children. (ssa.gov)
- Where do I go if I think my child needs early intervention: Early ACCESS referral line 1-888-425-4371 or use the online form; an Early ACCESS coordinator will contact you. (educate.iowa.gov)
- Who can help if my Medicaid or SNAP is wrongly denied: File an HHS appeal (1-888-723-9637), and contact Iowa Legal Aid (1-800-532-1275) or Disability Rights Iowa (800-779-2502). (hhs.iowa.gov)
About This Guide
- Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Dedicated benefits researchers focused on government assistance programs for families.
- Methodology: We use only primary sources — official Iowa HHS, USDA FNS, HUD, SSA, and established nonprofit sites — with live links and contact numbers you can use immediately. See citations throughout and our Editorial Standards. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Update cycle and accuracy: We monitor policy changes and update guides within 48 hours of confirmed changes; links are checked regularly, and reader‑reported corrections are investigated within 48 hours.
- Last verified: September 2025; next review: April 2026.
- Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org.
Disclaimer
- Program facts change: Income limits, benefit amounts, and procedures change. Always verify with the relevant agency before you act. We link directly to official sources and give phone numbers to confirm details on the spot.
- No legal advice: This guide is general information, not legal advice. For case‑specific guidance, contact the agencies listed, Iowa Legal Aid, or a qualified attorney.
- Security: For your privacy, don’t post personal information publicly. Apply only through official government portals we link here, and avoid sharing account numbers or SSNs by text or email unless your agency instructs you to do so on a secure channel.
Sources
- Iowa Medicaid and Member Services (plan selection, contacts, transportation, MKSN, HIPP, MEPD) — Iowa HHS pages and plan sites. (hhs.iowa.gov, wellpoint.com, iowatotalcare.com, mtm-inc.net)
- HCBS waivers and Rent Subsidy — Iowa HHS HCBS pages; Iowa Finance Authority HCBS Rent Subsidy program details. (hhs.iowa.gov, opportunityiowa.gov)
- SNAP — USDA FNS FY2025 COLA; CRS SNAP primer quoting FNS tables; Iowa HHS SNAP portal. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, everycrsreport.com, hhs.iowa.gov)
- WIC — USDA WIC Works and WIC Breastfeeding Support (final food package changes, CVB amounts); Iowa HHS WIC income guidelines. (wicworks.fns.usda.gov, hhs.iowa.gov)
- Child Care Assistance (special‑needs rates) — Iowa CCR&R/HHS rate letter, effective 7/1/2024; CCA contact. (iowaccrr.org, hhs.iowa.gov)
- SSI/SGA 2025 — SSA Red Book “What’s New in 2025”. (ssa.gov)
- State Supplementary Assistance 2025 standards — Iowa HHS. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Early ACCESS and AEAs — Iowa DOE and Iowa Family Support Network. (educate.iowa.gov, iafamilysupportnetwork.org)
- Iowa Compass — University of Iowa Center for Disabilities & Development page. (cdd.center.uiowa.edu)
- IAble — State Treasurer/IAble notices and IAble site contact. (deal.town, ia.savewithable.com)
- Crisis resources — Your Life Iowa; 211 Iowa; Iowa Victim Service Call Center. (yourlifeiowa.org, 211iowa.org, survivorshelpline.org)
What we guarantee
- All external links: Point to official government or established nonprofit resources.
- Eligibility and dollar figures: Sourced directly to government materials with dates where provided.
- Corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours.
If something you tried above still isn’t working, reply with your county and your child’s primary need, and we’ll help you map a Plan B with local contacts and a call script you can use.
🏛️More Iowa Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Iowa
- 📋 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
