Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Kansas
Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Kansas
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- In an emergency: Call 911.
- Mental health crisis (any age): Call or text 988.
- Family Mobile Crisis Helpline (Kansas, 24/7): 1-833-441-2240. Provides faster, in-home help for youth behavioral crises. Source: Kansas DCF Contact Numbers page. (dcf.ks.gov)
- KanCare Clearinghouse (apply, check status, renew Medicaid/CHIP): 1-800-792-4884. Source: KanCare Eligibility page. (kancare.ks.gov)
- Kansas Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) – respite, caregiver and disability navigation: 855-200-2372. Source: KDADS Respite pages. (kdads.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov)
- WIC general line (KDHE): 785-296-3683 (nutrition help for pregnant/postpartum moms and children under 5). Source: KDHE WIC. (kdhe.ks.gov)
- Report child or adult abuse/neglect (Kansas): 1-800-922-5330. Source: Kansas DCF page. (dcf.ks.gov)
What This Guide Does Differently
Why this matters: When you search for help, most pages skip hard numbers, phone contacts, waitlist realities, and Plan B options. This guide fixes that with Kansas‑specific dollar amounts, deadlines, phone numbers, and step‑by‑step actions, all sourced to official agencies and updated for August/September 2025 per our Editorial Standards. (kancare.ks.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
How to Use This Hub
Start here: Pick the section that matches your child’s needs. Each section begins with the single most important action, then eligibility rules, how to apply, documents, realistic timelines, common mistakes, Plan B options, and official links.
Emergency Support At A Glance
- If you can’t keep the lights or heat on now: Apply for Kansas LIEAP during the season (for 2025, applications ran from November 18, 2024 through March 31, 2025). Typical timelines are 2–4 weeks. Call 1-888-369-4777 if you’re in crisis. Source: DCF LIEAP news release. (dcf.ks.gov)
- Need food this week: Check SNAP expedited screening through DCF and visit a local TEFAP pantry (income limits below). Source: DCF SNAP/TEFAP. (dcf.ks.gov)
- Behavioral crisis for your child: Call the Family Mobile Crisis Helpline 1-833-441-2240 and your local CMHC; youth who meet criteria may qualify for the SED Waiver. Source: KDADS SED. (dcf.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program: | Who qualifies fastest: | Key dollar amounts or limits: | Where to apply / call: |
|---|---|---|---|
| KanCare (Medicaid) for children with disabilities: | Children who receive SSI, or who qualify for an HCBS waiver. | HCBS financial threshold is up to 300% of SSI FBR; in 2025 that’s $2,901/month for the child. | Apply via KanCare; KanCare Clearinghouse 1-800-792-4884. Sources: SSA FBR; KLRD HCBS overview; KanCare. (ssa.gov, klrd.gov, kancare.ks.gov) |
| HCBS Waivers (SED, Autism, I/DD, TA): | Kids meeting functional criteria for each waiver (details below). | Ages/services vary by waiver; medical necessity required. | See waiver section for the right entry point and KDADS contacts. (kdads.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov) |
| SNAP (Food Assistance): | Households with a disabled member qualify under more flexible rules (no gross income test; net at 100% FPL). | FY2025 max monthly allotment for 4: 975∗∗;minimumbenefit∗∗975**; minimum benefit **23. | Apply via DCF; Benefits line 1-888-369-4777. Sources: USDA FNS FY2025 COLA; DCF KEESM 7420. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, content.dcf.ks.gov) |
| TEFAP (emergency pantry food): | Income-based, no asset test; simple self‑declaration. | For 4, max gross monthly income $4,957 (effective Mar 10, 2025). | See TEFAP list; DCF food page; call 1-888-369-4777. (dcf.ks.gov) |
| WIC: | Pregnant/postpartum moms and kids under 5 at or below 185% FPL. | Food package benefit; monthly fruit/vegetable CVB set by USDA and may change—confirm current amounts with KDHE WIC. | Pre‑apply online; KDHE WIC 785-296-3683. (kdhe.ks.gov) |
| LIEAP (heat/utility): | Low‑income households with heating costs; season typically winter. | 2025 income (4): max gross monthly 3,900∗∗;one‑timebenefit;2024averagewas∗∗3,900**; one‑time benefit; 2024 average was **645. | Apply at DCF; line 1-888-369-4777; watch for seasonal opening. Source: DCF news release. (dcf.ks.gov) |
| Weatherization: | Automatically eligible if you get SSI, TANF or LIEAP. | Free home energy upgrades; no out‑of‑pocket cost. | Apply with your regional provider via KHRC. (kshousingcorp.org) |
| Kansas ABLE accounts: | Child must have disability onset before age 26 (expands to 46 on Jan 1, 2026). | 2025 contribution limit 19,000∗∗pluspossibleextraifthebeneficiaryworks;upto∗∗19,000** plus possible extra if the beneficiary works; up to **100,000 excluded for SSI. | Open at Kansas ABLE; support 888-609-8919. Sources: IRS; Kansas Treasurer; Kansas ABLE. (irs.gov, kansasstatetreasurer.ks.gov, savewithable.com) |
KanCare (Medicaid) For Children With Disabilities
Most important first step: Apply to KanCare and identify whether your child may qualify through SSI or an HCBS waiver. Call the KanCare Clearinghouse at 1-800-792-4884 or start online. (kancare.ks.gov)
What KanCare covers: Doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, dental for kids, behavioral health, transportation to appointments, and home and community‑based services (HCBS) when approved. Plans are managed by health plans (MCOs) currently Healthy Blue, Sunflower Health Plan, and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan. (kancare.ks.gov)
Financial pathway if your child doesn’t get SSI: Many HCBS waivers use an institutional financial standard—up to 300% of SSI’s Federal Benefit Rate, which equals $2,901/month in 2025 for the child. Parental income is treated differently than in standard Medicaid. Ask the intake worker about “HCBS financial eligibility.” (klrd.gov, ssa.gov)
How to apply:
- Online/phone: Use the KanCare portal or call 1-800-792-4884. (kancare.ks.gov)
- If you need a plan now: You’ll pick an MCO. Member Services: Healthy Blue 1-833-838-2593; Sunflower 1-877-644-4623; UnitedHealthcare 1-877-542-9238. (healthybluekansas.com, sunflowerhealthplan.com, uhc.com)
- Documents: ID, proof of Kansas residency, household members, Social Security numbers (if available), proof of income/resources for those applying, medical documentation of disability, and any waiver assessments or IEP/504 (if available). See KanCare eligibility rules. (kancare.ks.gov)
Timelines reality check: Expect 30–45 days for a standard Medicaid decision. If your child is entering an HCBS waiver, eligibility determinations involve both medical and functional reviews, which can add weeks to months (and some waivers have waitlists).
Common mistakes to avoid:
- • Not checking the “past medical bills” question: Backdated coverage may be possible if you say “Yes.” KanCare stresses how this is processed. (kancare.ks.gov)
- • Missing waiver assessments: HCBS approvals require the waiver’s specific assessment in addition to financial eligibility.
- • Assuming parental income always counts: Waiver financial rules differ from standard MAGI Medicaid.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your child’s specialists to document functional needs in writing. Call the KanCare Ombudsman for help with applications and denials. Then escalate via fair hearing if needed (you can keep services during appeal in many cases). Ombudsman contact is listed on KanCare site. (kancare.ks.gov)
Kansas HCBS Waivers For Children
Autism (AU) Waiver
Start here: If your child is age 0–5 with a qualifying Autism Spectrum diagnosis, ask about the Autism Waiver and submit the Autism application packet. (kdads.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov)
Eligibility basics: Ages 0–5; ASD diagnosis; meets Level of Care; financially eligible for Medicaid based on child’s income. Services are limited to three years with a possible one‑year extension. (kdads.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov)
What it covers: Family adjustment counseling, parent peer support and training, respite, and self‑direction support (FMS). (kdads.ks.gov)
Timeline expectations: Approval depends on medical/functional review and availability; plan for several weeks for eligibility and service planning.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- • Waiting to apply while seeking outside therapies: Apply early; the waiver serves very young children and ages out at 6.
- • Missing annual reviews: You must maintain Level of Care each year.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Evaluate the SED Waiver if behavior/mental health needs are primary, or inquire about I/DD if the disability is lifelong and began before age 22. See below. (kdads.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov)
Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED) Waiver
Start here: Call your local Community Mental Health Center (CMHC) for an SED assessment; they are the entry point. A list is linked from the SED Waiver page. (kdads.ks.gov)
Eligibility basics: Ages 4–18; diagnosed mental health condition that substantially disrupts function; at risk of psychiatric hospitalization; meets CAFAS/CBCL thresholds; Medicaid financial eligibility required. (kdads.ks.gov)
What it covers: Parent support and training, independent living/skills, short‑term respite, wraparound facilitation, professional resource family care, and attendant care. (kdads.ks.gov)
Timelines that matter: After eligibility, the CMHC drafts an interim plan within 14 days and coordinates with the MCO to finalize a plan within 30 days. Keep these dates on your calendar. (kdads.ks.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- • Not calling the CMHC first: Applications must run through CMHCs; do not only apply online at KanCare.
- • Assuming denial if one service isn’t available: Ask for wraparound and parent support while you wait for specific therapy slots.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a second clinical review; use the MCO grievance process; consider school‑based services under an IEP while reapplying. (kancare.ks.gov, ksde.gov)
Technology Assisted (TA) Waiver
Start here: If your child is medically fragile and dependent on medical technology, contact the TA program intake listed by KDADS. Current instructions direct families to the TA program intake and Program Manager. (kdads.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov)
Eligibility basics: Ages 0–21; dependent on ventilator or qualifying medical device; meets nursing acuity and technology scoring; Medicaid financial eligibility required. (kdads.ks.gov)
What it covers: Specialized medical care, intermittent intensive medical care, personal care, medical respite, home modifications, FMS. (kdads.ks.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- • Assuming parents can’t be paid caregivers: Policies vary by waiver and service; ask your MCO/TA program about current rules.
- • Delaying MATLOC assessment: This determines technology/nursing level—schedule it promptly.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Engage your MCO case manager and the TA Program Manager listed on KDADS for case review; ask about other waivers (e.g., I/DD if appropriate). (kdads.ks.gov)
Intellectual/Developmental Disability (I/DD) Waiver
Start here: Contact your local CDDO (Community Developmental Disability Organization) for intake and eligibility screening. The KDADS I/DD page links to a CDDO map. (kdads.ks.gov)
Eligibility basics: Age 5+; intellectual disability before age 18 or developmental disability before 22; meets institutional level of care; Medicaid financial eligibility required. (kdads.ks.gov)
What it covers: Personal care, residential supports for children, children’s integrated community supports, overnight respite, specialized medical care, home/environmental modifications, specialized medical equipment/supplies, wellness monitoring, and more. (kdads.ks.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- • Not getting on the waitlist: Some services have waits; get on lists early even if you don’t need every service today.
- • Not asking for interim supports: Request personal care or respite while awaiting residential or day services.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Reassess eligibility with new testing; explore school‑based services and local respite funding while you wait. (ksde.gov)
SNAP, TEFAP, WIC: Food Help With Real Numbers
SNAP (Food Assistance)
Start here: Apply with DCF (online or at a service center). Households with a disabled member do not have to meet the gross income test; only net income must be at/below 100% FPL. Kansas also allows higher shelter and medical deductions for households with elderly/disabled members. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
FY2025 maximum monthly SNAP amounts (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025):
| Household size: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Each add’l: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max allotment: | $292 | $536 | $768 | $975 | $1,158 | $1,390 | $1,536 | $1,756 | +$220 |
- Standard deduction (HH size 1–3): 204∗∗;∗∗excesssheltercap:∗∗∗∗204**; **excess shelter cap:** **712; minimum benefit: $23 (48 states/DC). All effective FY2025. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
Expedited SNAP: If your household has less than 150∗∗grossmonthlyincomeandlessthan∗∗150** gross monthly income and less than **100 cash on hand, or your housing costs exceed income/resources, ask DCF for 7‑day expedited service. (DCF follows federal rules; confirm at intake.) (dcf.ks.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- • Not listing medical expenses: For disabled members, out‑of‑pocket medical costs over $35/month can increase benefits.
- • Skipping utility info: Standard Utility Allowances can raise your shelter deduction.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor review or hearing. Also use TEFAP and community pantries for immediate food.
TEFAP (Emergency Food Boxes)
Start here: Go to a TEFAP site (no asset test; simple self‑declaration). For March 10, 2025–present, monthly gross income limits include: 1 = 2,413;2=2,413; 2 = 3,261; 3 = 4,109;4=4,109; 4 = 4,957; 5 = 5,805;6=5,805; 6 = 6,653; 7 = 7,501;8=7,501; 8 = 8,349 (+$848 each extra). (dcf.ks.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the site about frequency limits and other local pantries; call 2‑1‑1 for more locations.
WIC
Start here: Use the WIC pre‑application tool; a local clinic will call you. Kansas WIC serves pregnant/postpartum women and kids under 5, with income at or below 185% FPL and a nutritional risk determined at the appointment. (kdhe.ks.gov)
What you get: Food packages (not cash) plus nutrition education and breastfeeding support. The monthly fruit/vegetable benefit (CVB) is set by USDA and can change—confirm current CVB amounts with your WIC clinic. KDHE WIC central line: 785-296-3683. (kdhe.ks.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If income is slightly too high, ask about adjunctive eligibility (e.g., if you/child get Medicaid or SNAP, you may be adjunctively eligible).
Utilities And Housing Stability
LIEAP (Low‑Income Energy Assistance Program)
Start here: Apply during the season (for 2025: Nov 18, 2024–Mar 31, 2025). Average 2024 award was 645∗∗.2025grossmonthlyincomelimitfor∗∗4∗∗is∗∗645**. 2025 gross monthly income limit for **4** is **3,900. DCF benefits line: 1-888-369-4777. (dcf.ks.gov)
Weatherization: If you get LIEAP, you’re income‑eligible for free Weatherization upgrades (insulation, air sealing, furnace work). Apply through KHRC’s regional providers. (kshousingcorp.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility about payment plans and medical protection policies; recheck charitable funds listed on DCF and KHRC pages. (dcf.ks.gov)
Transportation To Medical Appointments
Start here: Call your MCO’s Member Services to schedule Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Book at least 3 business days ahead when possible.
- Healthy Blue: 1-833-838-2593 (TTY 711). (healthybluekansas.com)
- Sunflower Health Plan: 1-877-644-4623 (TTY 711). (sunflowerhealthplan.com)
- UnitedHealthcare Community Plan: 1-877-542-9238 (TTY 711). (uhc.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your care coordinator for urgent ride options; document denials and appeal through your MCO.
Kansas Special Education Rights And School Supports
Most important action: Request an evaluation in writing to your school district if you suspect a disability impacting learning/behavior. Mention you’re seeking an IEP evaluation under IDEA.
Your rights: Kansas provides parent rights (procedural safeguards), IEP development rules, and dispute options (mediation, complaint, due process). Use the KSDE Special Education Process Handbook (updated March 18, 2025). (ksde.gov)
Key Kansas rights to know: Access records, get prior written notice, participate in placement decisions, and keep your child in the current placement during disputes (“stay‑put”), per Kansas statute. (ksrevisor.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Families Together, Inc. (state parent center) or the Disability Rights Center of Kansas through KSDE’s resources page. They can help you prepare for meetings or disputes. (ksde.org)
SSI For Disabled Children: Exact 2025 Amounts
Start here: If your child has severe disabilities and very limited income/resources, apply for SSI. This can open the door to automatic Medicaid and other supports.
- 2025 federal benefit rate (FBR): 967/month∗∗(individual)or∗∗967/month** (individual) or **1,450/month (eligible couple). COLA increase was 2.5% for 2025. (ssa.gov, blog.ssa.gov)
State supplementation in Kansas: Kansas administers a small, state‑funded supplement for SSI recipients living in Medicaid facilities (not community‑dwelling children). For details on the state supplement, contact KanCare/KDHE; rules are state‑administered. (ssa.gov)
Timeline reality: SSI decisions can take 3–5 months (sometimes longer). Ask SSA about an emergency advance if health/safety is at risk. (ncoa.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal promptly; ask your doctors and school to provide detailed function reports.
Kansas ABLE Savings Accounts
Why it matters: ABLE lets you save for disability expenses without losing Medicaid; up to $100,000 is excluded for SSI counting. Kansas offers a state income‑tax deduction on contributions to KS ABLE accounts. (kansasstatetreasurer.ks.gov)
2025 contribution limits:
- Base annual contribution: $19,000.
- If your child works: You may contribute more, up to the federal poverty guideline amount for one person (continental U.S. $15,650 in 2025), subject to IRS rules. (irs.gov)
Open an account: Kansas ABLE client support 888-609-8919; open online with KS Treasurer’s program. (savewithable.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider a special needs trust; consult an attorney (not legal advice).
Kansas Child Care Assistance For Children With Special Needs
Start here: If child care is the barrier to work or school, apply for DCF Child Care Assistance. Ask about the Enhanced Rate for Special Care if your child needs care beyond typical needs for their age. (dcf.ks.gov, content.dcf.ks.gov)
Reality check: Enhanced rates require documentation from a professional and approval by DCF regional provider enrollment staff. Don’t forget to submit the enhanced rate request form (ES‑1627a) with provider’s statement. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about alternate providers willing to accept enhanced rates; use respite options via waivers or KDADS caregiver resources. (kdads.ks.gov)
Respite For Caregivers
Start here: Call the ADRC at 855-200-2372 to locate respite providers and funding streams (Medicaid waivers, caregiver programs). (kdads.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov)
New in 2025: The Kansas Respite for Alzheimer’s & Dementia (K‑RAD) program provides up to $1,000/year per eligible care recipient for respite (funding limited; first‑come, first‑served). Apply through your Area Agency on Aging; caregiver and care recipient must live in Kansas. (kdads.ks.gov, kansasreflector.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your MCO case manager whether waiver respite can be authorized while K‑RAD/other funds are pending. (kancare.ks.gov)
Tables You Can Use Today
KanCare HCBS Waivers Snapshot
| Waiver: | Ages: | Core services: | Entry point/contact: |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autism (AU): | 0–5 | Parent training, family adjustment counseling, respite, FMS. | KDADS Autism page; download application. (kdads.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov) |
| SED (Serious Emotional Disturbance): | 4–18 | Parent support, skills building, respite, wraparound. | Contact your local CMHC via KDADS SED page. (kdads.ks.gov) |
| Technology Assisted (TA): | 0–21 | Specialized nursing care, personal care, medical respite, home mods. | KDADS TA page; program intake as listed; Program Manager available. (kdads.ks.gov) |
| I/DD: | 5+ | PCS, children’s residential supports, respite, equipment, mods. | Contact local CDDO via KDADS I/DD page. (kdads.ks.gov) |
SNAP FY2025 Maximum Allotments (48 states/DC)
| HH size: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max allotment: | $292 | $536 | $768 | $975 | $1,158 | $1,390 | $1,536 | $1,756 |
- Each additional person: +220∗∗;∗∗minimumbenefit:∗∗∗∗220**; **minimum benefit:** **23. Source: USDA FNS FY2025 COLA memo. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
TEFAP Income Guidelines (Effective March 10, 2025)
| Household size: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max gross mo. income: | $2,413 | $3,261 | $4,109 | $4,957 | $5,805 | $6,653 | $7,501 | $8,349 |
- Add per extra person: $848. Source: DCF TEFAP. (dcf.ks.gov)
LIEAP 2025 Essentials
| Apply window: | Nov 18, 2024 – Mar 31, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Average 2024 award: | $645 |
| Income limit (4): | $3,900/month |
| Apply/Help: | 1-888-369-4777 |
Source: DCF news release and LIEAP pages. (dcf.ks.gov)
Kansas ABLE 2025 Key Numbers
| Rule: | 2025 amount: |
|---|---|
| Base annual contribution: | $19,000 |
| Extra if beneficiary works (continental U.S.): | Up to $15,650 |
| SSI resource disregard (balance): | Up to $100,000 excluded |
Sources: IRS 2025 ABLE guidance; Kansas Treasurer. (irs.gov, kansasstatetreasurer.ks.gov)
Real‑World Examples
- Autism waiver before kindergarten: A Wichita mom applied when her son was 3. She used the waiver for parent coaching and respite while he started preschool with an IEP. She kept copies of therapy notes to renew Level of Care in year 2. Result: services continued while she worked part‑time. (kdads.ks.gov)
- SED support to prevent hospitalization: A Topeka mom called the CMHC for her 15‑year‑old during a crisis. Within 14 days she had an interim plan; within 30 days, an MCO plan added wraparound, peer parent support, and respite. She also used the Family Mobile Crisis Helpline when behaviors escalated. (kdads.ks.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Many youth qualify for SED services if they meet clinical criteria regardless of identity; ask CMHCs for affirming therapists and request culturally competent providers from your MCO. KDADS lists parent support, respite, and wraparound under the SED waiver. (kdads.ks.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: If you work, consider Working Healthy (Medicaid buy‑in) for yourself; it allows earnings and assets while keeping Medicaid, though not for those currently on HCBS. Talk to your KanCare MCO and a Benefits Specialist. (kancare.ks.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Use VA care plus KanCare as secondary; ask MCOs about care coordination to avoid billing conflicts. Use ADRC to find respite options if you are a caregiver for a parent with dementia. (kdads.ks.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Kids may qualify for Medicaid/CHIP depending on status; WIC serves many immigrant families. Check KanCare’s non‑citizen fact sheets and use qualified interpreters through your MCO at no cost. (kancare.ks.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Ask your clinic about PRC/638 coordination with Medicaid; CMHCs and CDDOs must serve you regardless of enrollment. Use the ADRC to find regional respite/providers. (kdads.ks.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Schedule NEMT through your MCO early; ask about value‑added extra rides (some plans offer additional non‑medical rides for pharmacy/food bank/WIC). UnitedHealthcare lists extra rides; verify with your plan. (uhc.com)
- Single fathers: All programs are gender‑neutral. Fathers raising disabled children can access the same waivers, SNAP rules, WIC for eligible children, and respite supports. (kdhe.ks.gov)
- Language access: Every KanCare MCO provides free interpreter services and alternate‑format materials (large print, audio). Healthy Blue lists these services openly—ask for them. (healthybluekansas.com)
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- • Waiting to apply for waivers until after a diagnosis is “perfect.” Many waivers require help now and can proceed with existing evaluations while you seek more testing. (kdads.ks.gov)
- • Not tracking deadlines: LIEAP is seasonal; SNAP has recertifications; waivers need annual Level of Care reviews. Missed dates = gaps. (dcf.ks.gov, kancare.ks.gov)
- • Skipping medical/therapy receipts: For SNAP, allowable medical deductions can raise benefits for disabled members. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
- • Choosing an MCO without checking your child’s doctors: Verify your providers are in‑network before you pick. (kancare.ks.gov)
- • Assuming SSI is too slow to try: Apply; 2025 FBR is $967 and it unlocks Medicaid automatically in Kansas. (ssa.gov)
Application Checklist
- • ID and proof of Kansas residency (lease, utility bill, or statement).
- • Child’s Social Security number (if available) and birth certificate.
- • Income proof (pay stubs, child support order, unemployment, SSI/SSA letters).
- • Medical documentation (diagnoses, IEP/504, therapy notes, hospital discharge summaries).
- • Insurance info (any private or employer plan).
- • Bank statements (if applying for programs with asset/resource limits).
- • Past medical bills (to request backdated Medicaid if eligible). (kancare.ks.gov)
What To Do When A Program Says “No”
First: Ask for the denial in writing with the reason and the rule cited.
Next: Use the program’s appeal or fair hearing process. For KanCare services, use the MCO grievance/appeal and then state fair hearing if needed. Keep all notices and call logs. (kancare.ks.gov)
Also: Seek help from the KanCare Ombudsman and legal aid (Disability Rights Center of Kansas via KSDE resources). (ksde.org)
Resources By Region (How To Find Your Local Office)
Community Mental Health Centers: Use the SED Waiver page Access Guide link to find your CMHC by county. (kdads.ks.gov)
CDDOs (for I/DD): Use the KDADS I/DD waiver page to find your local CDDO. (kdads.ks.gov)
ADRC/Area Agencies on Aging (for respite and caregiver supports): Call 855-200-2372 or use KDADS “Locate Respite” to find your regional office. (kdads.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov)
WIC clinics: Use KDHE’s “Find Your Local WIC Program” tool. (kdhe.ks.gov)
DCF service centers (SNAP, child care, LIEAP): Apply online or call 1-888-369-4777 for locations and assistance. (dcf.ks.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions (Kansas‑Specific)
- How fast can SED services start after eligibility? Within 14 days you get an interim plan via the CMHC; the MCO finalizes within 30 days. Track these dates. (kdads.ks.gov)
- What are the 2025 SSI amounts? Individual 967/month∗∗;eligiblecouple∗∗967/month**; eligible couple **1,450/month. COLA was 2.5%. (ssa.gov)
- What SNAP amount could a 3‑person household get at most in FY2025? Up to $768/month if net income is zero. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- Does Kansas offer a state SSI supplement? Kansas administers a small supplement for SSI recipients living in Medicaid facilities; community‑dwelling families generally don’t receive a state cash add‑on. (ssa.gov)
- Are KanCare plans changing? As of 2025, the three MCOs are Healthy Blue, Sunflower, and UnitedHealthcare. Member Services numbers: 1-833-838-2593, 1-877-644-4623, 1-877-542-9238. (kancare.ks.gov, healthybluekansas.com, sunflowerhealthplan.com, uhc.com)
- What’s the financial cutoff used for HCBS waivers? Many use up to 300% of SSI FBR; in 2025 that’s $2,901/month for the applicant child. (klrd.gov, ssa.gov)
- When can I apply for LIEAP? For 2025 it ran Nov 18, 2024–Mar 31, 2025; watch DCF announcements for 2026 dates. (dcf.ks.gov)
- How do I get school services started? Send a written request for special education evaluation to your school; review your rights in the KSDE Process Handbook (2025 update). (ksde.gov)
- Do ABLE accounts risk our Medicaid? Balances up to 100,000∗∗areexcludedforSSIcounting;Medicaidisnotaffected.2025contributionlimit∗∗100,000** are excluded for SSI counting; Medicaid is not affected. 2025 contribution limit **19,000. (irs.gov, kansasstatetreasurer.ks.gov)
- Can my child get emergency SNAP faster? Ask DCF about expedited service (7‑day processing) if you meet emergency criteria. (dcf.ks.gov)
Plan For Your MCO: Tips That Save Time
- • Put your child’s top 3 needs in writing before the first MCO care conference.
- • Ask about “value‑added benefits” (extra rides, wellness items, caregiver support). MCOs list these for 2025. (kancare.ks.gov)
- • Schedule NEMT rides early and confirm 24 hours before.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
Our methodology: We use only official sources (Kansas KDHE, KDADS, DCF, USDA, SSA, HUD‑recognized agencies), verify links at publication, archive key pages, and track policy changes. We quote eligibility and dollar figures directly from primary sources, link to calculators when amounts can change, and flag local variations.
Editorial Standards: See our full standards and update cadence here. (kdads.ks.gov)
Source dates: All figures above are from official pages current as of August/September 2025, including SSI 2025 COLA and FY2025 SNAP COLA. (ssa.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
Last verified: September 2025. Next review: April 2026.
Corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48–72 hours per our policy.
Disclaimer
Important: Program rules, amounts, and contacts can change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency before you apply or make decisions. Nothing here is legal advice or a guarantee of eligibility or benefits. We maintain site security and do not collect sensitive personal information; always use official government portals for applications.
Citations
- KanCare eligibility, contacts and MCO benefits: KanCare Eligibility/Benefits pages; Providers page listing MCOs; March 2025 update on MCO lineup. (kancare.ks.gov)
- HCBS Waivers: KDADS SED, Autism, TA, and I/DD waiver pages. (kdads.ks.gov, kdads.ks.gov)
- SSI 2025 amounts and COLA: SSA official pages and Red Book “What’s New in 2025.” (ssa.gov)
- SNAP FY2025 maximums/deductions: USDA FNS FY2025 COLA memo; Kansas KEESM 7420 rules for households with disabled members. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, content.dcf.ks.gov)
- TEFAP 2025 income chart: Kansas DCF TEFAP page. (dcf.ks.gov)
- LIEAP 2025 window and averages: DCF newsroom release (Nov 18, 2024 post) and LIEAP page. (dcf.ks.gov)
- Weatherization: Kansas Housing Resources Corporation page. (kshousingcorp.org)
- WIC program info: KDHE WIC pages (eligibility, contact, packages). (kdhe.ks.gov)
- ABLE 2025 limits and Kansas program: IRS Tax Tip 2025; Kansas Treasurer ABLE info; Kansas ABLE contact page. (irs.gov, kansasstatetreasurer.ks.gov, savewithable.com)
- Working Healthy: KanCare Working Healthy program page. (kancare.ks.gov)
- Respite: KDADS Lifespan Respite pages and K‑RAD info (including public article summarizing state’s announcement). (kdads.ks.gov, kansasreflector.com)
- KSDE special education rights: KSDE Process Handbook (2025); KS statutes on parent rights; KSDE resources page. (ksde.gov, ksrevisor.gov, ksde.org)
What to do next
Pick your top two priorities today: call 1-800-792-4884 to get KanCare started and contact the right waiver entry point (CMHC, CDDO, or TA intake) the same day. Then set reminders for your SNAP/WIC/LIEAP applications and school IEP request. Small steps, same day—forward momentum.
🏛️More Kansas Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Kansas
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
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- 📊 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
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- 🏠 Housing Assistance
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- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
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- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
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- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
