Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Kentucky
Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Kentucky
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency Help Now
Before anything else, if you are in danger or your child’s health is at risk, use these 24/7 options immediately.
- Call 911 for life‑threatening emergencies.
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988.
- Child or adult abuse or neglect: 1‑877‑KYSAFE1.
- Domestic violence: **National Hotline **(800‑799‑7233), chat is available on the hotline site.
- Sexual assault: **RAINN **(800‑656‑HOPE).
- United Way 211 for local shelters, food, and urgent basics: 211.
- Medicaid transportation for urgent non‑emergency care: see Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation details below and schedule when possible with a 72‑hour notice. (transportation.ky.gov)
Quick Help Box
Skim this first for fast actions that help most Kentucky single moms raising a disabled child.
- Apply for health coverage and benefits in one place: kynect online or by phone (855) 306‑8959. Use kynect for Medicaid, KCHIP, SNAP, KTAP, and HCBS waivers. (chfs.ky.gov)
- If your child is age 0‑3 and may have a developmental delay: refer to Kentucky’s First Steps program now at (877) 417‑8377 (1‑877‑41STEPS) for evaluation and in‑home services. No doctor referral is required. (chfs.ky.gov)
- For school‑age services: write the school to request a special‑education evaluation. Kentucky schools must complete initial evaluation and, if eligible, start services within 60 school days after you sign consent. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- Need food now: apply for SNAP. Maximum monthly amounts in FY 2025 for a family of three are 768∗∗andforfourare∗∗768** and for four are **975. Expedited SNAP can arrive in a few days if you qualify. (fns.usda.gov, chfs.ky.gov)
- If your child needs therapies, equipment, or extra services: ask providers to use EPSDT benefits under Medicaid. EPSDT covers medically necessary services for children under 21 even if not covered elsewhere. Member help (800) 635‑2570. (chfs.ky.gov)
- If your child has an intellectual or developmental disability: apply for the Michelle P. Waiver (MPW) or Supports for Community Living (SCL) waiver through kynect. Expect a waitlist; apply as soon as possible. (chfs.ky.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Program | Who it helps | Key numbers | Apply |
---|---|---|---|
Medicaid and KCHIP | Children and pregnant or postpartum Kentuckians by income | KCHIP to 218% FPL; phone (855) 306‑8959 | Apply on kynect and see KCHIP chart linked below. (kidshealth.ky.gov) |
EPSDT | Medicaid‑enrolled kids under 21 | Member help (800) 635‑2570 | See EPSDT details below. (chfs.ky.gov) |
HCBS waivers (MPW, SCL, HCB, Model II, ABI) | Children with significant needs | Apply early; waitlists common | Waiver programs overview. (chfs.ky.gov) |
SNAP | Groceries for low‑income households | Max FY 2025 for 3 768∗∗;4∗∗768**; 4 **975 | Kentucky SNAP page. (fns.usda.gov, chfs.ky.gov) |
WIC | Supplemental food for pregnant/postpartum, infants, and children under 5 | Fruits‑veggies monthly CVB child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 (FY 2025) | Apply through local health departments. (fns.usda.gov) |
KTAP | Cash assistance for families with children | Max for 3 $524 monthly | Apply via kynect or DCBS. (prd.webapps.chfs.ky.gov) |
CCAP | Child care subsidy | Up to 85% of State Median Income, special‑needs coverage 13+ | CCAP for families. (chfs.ky.gov) |
First Steps | Early intervention 0‑3 | Hotline (877) 417‑8377 | Start with First Steps below. (chfs.ky.gov) |
NEMT | Medicaid rides | Book with 72‑hour notice | How to schedule page below. (transportation.ky.gov) |
Medicaid, KCHIP, and EPSDT in Kentucky
Start here
- Best first step: apply on kynect or call (855) 306‑8959 to enroll your child in Medicaid or KCHIP and to get on any needed waiver waitlists. One application can start multiple supports. (chfs.ky.gov)
KCHIP income thresholds
KCHIP covers uninsured children and eligible pregnant or postpartum individuals up to 218% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Kentucky publishes the monthly and annual amounts.
Family size | Monthly income at 218% FPL | Annual income at 218% FPL |
---|---|---|
1 | $2,736 | $32,832 |
2 | $3,714 | $44,556 |
3 | $4,691 | $56,292 |
4 | $5,668 | $68,061 |
5 | $6,646 | $79,752 |
6 | $7,623 | $91,476 |
7 | $8,601 | $104,292 |
8 | $9,578 | $114,936 |
For larger families, add $978 monthly per person. See the official KCHIP page for details and how to apply. (kidshealth.ky.gov)
EPSDT unlocks extra care for kids
- What it is: federal Medicaid rules require states to cover any medically necessary service for beneficiaries under 21 to correct or improve conditions found through screening.
- What it covers: well‑child visits, vision, hearing, dental, mental health, therapies, durable medical equipment, specialized services not normally covered. Member help line (800) 635‑2570. (chfs.ky.gov)
- School‑based services: Medicaid can be billed for services in a child’s IEP. Ages 3‑21 with an IEP and Medicaid eligibility may receive school‑based physical, occupational, speech, and mental‑health services. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Action steps:
- Ask your child’s doctor to write a clear medical necessity note for the therapies or equipment you need.
- Submit prior authorizations when required and keep copies of approvals and denials.
- Appeal promptly if a service is denied and include the doctor’s letter and any test results.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: call your Medicaid MCO member services or the EPSDT contact (800) 635‑2570. Escalate through your MCO grievance and appeal process and request an expedited review if care is urgent. (chfs.ky.gov)
Kentucky Medicaid Waivers for In‑Home and Community Supports
Kentucky operates several 1915(c) Home‑ and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) waivers. These provide supports like personal assistance, respite, behavior supports, and more. Apply via kynect and expect waitlists—submit early. (chfs.ky.gov)
Waiver overview and highlights
Waiver | For whom | Examples of services | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Michelle P. Waiver (MPW) | Intellectual or developmental disability | Behavioral supports, personal care, day training, respite, minor home mods | Participant‑Directed Services (PDS) available. Waitlist active. (chfs.ky.gov) |
Supports for Community Living (SCL) | Intellectual or developmental disability with higher needs | Personal assistance, positive behavior supports, residential supports, vehicle adaptations | For those meeting ICF/IID level of care. (chfs.ky.gov) |
Home and Community Based (HCB) | Age 65+ or physical disability meeting nursing‑facility level of care | Adult day health, attendant care, meals, respite | PDS option is available. (chfs.ky.gov) |
Model II Waiver | Ventilator users 12+ hours/day or on active weaning | Skilled supports enabling community living | For technology‑dependent individuals. (chfs.ky.gov) |
ABI & ABI‑LTC | Acquired brain injury, acute and long‑term | Rehabilitation and long‑term supports | See HCBS Waiver Programs. (chfs.ky.gov) |
MPW service caps and 2025 rates you should know
Kentucky’s regulation for MPW sets certain limits and payment baselines that matter for care planning.
- Personal plus similar supports limit: up to 40 hours per week for covered MPW services such as homemaker, personal care, attendant care, community living supports, day training, and therapies.
- Respite cap: $4,000 per calendar year.
- Minor home adaptations: $500 per calendar year baseline.
- Sample base rates effective January 1, 2025: personal care 9.08∗∗per15minutes,communitylivingsupports∗∗9.08** per 15 minutes, community living supports **6.70 per 15 minutes, behavioral supports $40.23 per 15 minutes. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
Participant‑Directed Services reality check
You can hire your own workers for many non‑medical services under PDS. However, federal and state rules generally do not allow a parent of a minor child to be the paid caregiver. Ask your case manager about paid family‑caregiver options and any exceptions.
How to apply fast
- Step one: get Medicaid financial eligibility through kynect or DCBS (855) 306‑8959.
- Step two: submit a waiver application via kynect or at an Aging and Disability Resource Center or Community Mental Health Center. Placement on waitlists uses the date of completed application. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Plan your stop‑gaps while waiting—use EPSDT for therapies and supplies, CCAP for child care, and SNAP/WIC for groceries in the meantime.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: contact the program offices listed on each waiver page, email or call the number on the page (DBHDID MPW info (502) 564‑7700 or **DMS waiver line **(844‑784‑5614) where listed) and request status updates. If your child’s needs are urgent, ask about any crisis or emergency slots. (chfs.ky.gov)
First Steps Early Intervention (Birth to Age 3)
- Why act now: the earlier your child is evaluated, the sooner in‑home services like speech, PT, OT, and developmental intervention can start.
- How to start: call (877) 417‑8377 or your regional Point of Entry office to refer your child. Services are delivered where your child spends time and use a coaching approach for caregivers. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Typical timeline: referral, eligibility evaluation, and an Individualized Family Service Plan once eligible.
- What to bring: your ID, child’s insurance or Medicaid information, any medical or therapy reports.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: if you cannot reach your local POE, call the KEIS State Office (502) 564‑3756 option 1 or toll‑free lines (877) 417‑8377 for assistance. (chfs.ky.gov)
Special‑Education Rights in Kentucky (Ages 3–21)
- Most important step: write a short letter or email to the principal or special‑education director asking for a special‑education evaluation. Save a copy.
- Key timeline: Kentucky schools must evaluate and, if eligible, begin services within 60 school days after you sign consent for the initial evaluation. The ARC must meet within 30 school days of finding eligibility to write the IEP. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- If services are in an IEP and your child has Medicaid, many supports can be billed to Medicaid without cost to you; you will be notified annually and can decline billing if you wish. (chfs.ky.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: escalate in writing to the district Director of Special Education, then to the Kentucky Department of Education. For discipline disputes, expedited hearings occur within 20 school days with a decision in 10 school days. Consider help from KY‑SPIN. (apps.legislature.ky.gov, kyspin.com)
School timeline cheat sheet
Step | Kentucky timeline | Tip |
---|---|---|
Consent signed for initial evaluation | Services must begin within 60 school days if eligible | Track the date you signed consent. (apps.legislature.ky.gov) |
Eligibility decided | IEP meeting within 30 school days | Ask for draft goals in advance. (apps.legislature.ky.gov) |
Annual IEP review | At least once per year | Request data before the meeting. (apps.legislature.ky.gov) |
Discipline expedited hearing | Hearing within 20 school days; decision in 10 | Use written requests. (apps.legislature.ky.gov) |
SNAP and WIC Nutrition Support
SNAP in Kentucky
- Why it matters: SNAP stretches your food budget immediately.
- FY 2025 maximum monthly benefits for the 48 states including Kentucky: 1 292∗∗,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, add 220∗∗eachadditionalperson.Minimumbenefit∗∗220** each additional person. Minimum benefit **23. (fns.usda.gov)
- Eligibility basics: income limits are adjusted each October. USDA sets the gross and net standards; Kentucky follows those plus allowed deductions. Assets and deduction rules are listed in the USDA memo and DCBS policy. (fns.usda.gov, chfs.ky.gov)
- Apply: online or call (855) 306‑8959. Decisions arrive within 30 days and faster for expedited cases. Language help and disability accommodations are available. (chfs.ky.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: call the DCBS line above, request an interview quickly, and bring income, rent, utilities, and child‑care bills to maximize deductions. If denied, appeal in writing and ask for a fair hearing.
WIC fruit‑and‑vegetable benefit amounts in FY 2025
- Monthly amounts: child 26∗∗,pregnantorpostpartum∗∗26**, pregnant or postpartum **47, mostly or fully breastfeeding $52. Effective Oct 1, 2024 to Sep 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
- Infant substitution (6–11 months) values: half substitution 11∗∗,fullsubstitution∗∗11**, full substitution **22. (fns.usda.gov)
- Apply: through your local health department’s WIC office. Take ID, proof of address, and income. Screening includes height, weight, and iron.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: if appointments are booked out, ask to be wait‑listed and request text alerts for cancellations; check nearby counties.
Cash Help and Work Supports
Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program (KTAP)
- Amounts: state‑posted maximum payments include 1 child 372∗∗,2∗∗372**, 2 **450, 3 524∗∗,4∗∗524**, 4 **656, 5 766∗∗,6∗∗766**, 6 **864, 7+ $964. Lifetime limit 60 months. (prd.webapps.chfs.ky.gov)
- Extras: potential relocation, work bonuses, child care assistance, and transportation reimbursements while you work or train. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Apply: on kynect or call (855) 306‑8959. (chfs.ky.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: if denied, ask DCBS to explain the reason and whether diversion or crisis help is available. File an appeal if you believe the decision is wrong.
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
- Who qualifies: families under 85% of Kentucky’s State Median Income, plus certain protective cases, students, KTAP recipients, and children 13+ with special needs. Copays are set by a state table and can be $0 for the lowest incomes. (apps.legislature.ky.gov, chfs.ky.gov)
- Apply: call (855) 306‑8959 or apply via kynect. Language and disability accommodations are free. (chfs.ky.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: if your copay or rate seems wrong, reference the copay chart in 922 KAR 2:160 and the DCC‑300 rate chart, and request a recalculation. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
Medical Transportation, Equipment, and Daily Living
Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
- How it works: Medicaid covers rides to covered appointments if you have no other appropriate ride.
- Scheduling rule: call your regional broker 72 hours before your appointment; urgent care rides are available 24/7. (transportation.ky.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: if a broker cannot provide a ride, call your Medicaid plan and the NEMT program to report and reschedule. Keep the broker confirmation numbers.
Equipment through EPSDT
- Tip: when your child needs specialized equipment or extra therapy beyond plan limits, ask the doctor to request it under EPSDT with medical necessity notes. (chfs.ky.gov)
Disability Income, Savings, and Work Incentives
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for children
- 2025 Federal Benefit Rate: individual 967∗∗monthly,eligiblecouple∗∗967** monthly, eligible couple **1,450. Kentucky may add no automatic state supplement for children, so most families see the federal rate minus countable income and in‑kind support. (ssa.gov)
- Work rules and other key amounts for 2025: Substantial Gainful Activity benchmark is 1,620∗∗monthlyfornon‑blindand∗∗1,620** monthly for non‑blind and **2,700 for blind adults; the Student Earned‑Income Exclusion is 9,460∗∗yearly.Forresourcelimits,SSIkeepsthe∗∗9,460** yearly. For resource limits, SSI keeps the **2,000 individual and $3,000 couple caps. (ssa.gov)
- Apply: start online at SSA or call (800) 772‑1213 to schedule. Prepare medical records, therapy notes, and school reports.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: if denied, file a reconsideration before the deadline on your letter. Many children are approved on appeal when fuller evidence is provided.
ABLE accounts (STABLE Kentucky) and special‑needs trusts
- Why ABLE: ABLE accounts allow many disabled individuals to save money without losing SSI/Medicaid. Kentucky’s program is STABLE Kentucky. State law exempts these funds when figuring eligibility and protects them from most creditors while the beneficiary is alive. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- Contribution tip: the annual ABLE contribution limit aligns with the federal gift‑tax exclusion. Check STABLE Kentucky for the current year’s cap and fees before you deposit.
- When to consider a trust: for larger sums or inheritances, a third‑party special‑needs trust may be better. Talk with an attorney experienced in disability benefits.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your benefits planner or legal aid for a benefits‑safe savings option tailored to your situation.
Housing and Utilities
- Section 8 and public housing: openings vary by county and by the Kentucky Housing Corporation. If a waiting list is closed, set calendar reminders to check back monthly and sign up for alerts.
- LIHEAP energy help: Kentucky’s LIHEAP is administered through Community Action agencies with a Subsidy season and a Crisis season. Benefit amounts vary by fuel type, region, and funding. If current dollar amounts are not posted during your application window, ask your local Community Action office to tell you the exact benefit you qualify for and keep the written notice.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: call 211 to find emergency shelters, hotel vouchers, and weatherization help. If LIHEAP funds are exhausted, ask about payment arrangements and hardship programs with your utility.
Local and Statewide Family Supports
- KY‑SPIN (Kentucky Special Parent Involvement Network): parent‑to‑parent training and help navigating IEPs and services, with Kentucky‑specific myth‑buster guides and timelines. (kyspin.com)
- Help Me Grow Kentucky: free developmental screening and connection to services for ages birth to 5.5, phone (877) 616‑7388. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Office for Children with Special Health Care Needs: regional clinical supports and care coordination for many conditions; see your region’s contact or call your regional office for First Steps POE in Louisville area (800) 442‑0087. (chfs.ky.gov)
- CHFS Listens and hotlines: general help (833) 372‑0004; EBT card replacement (888) 979‑9949; Family Support (855) 306‑8959. (chfs.ky.gov)
Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation quick table
What | Key rule | Who qualifies |
---|---|---|
Advance scheduling | Call with 72‑hour notice | Medicaid members going to covered services |
Urgent rides | Available 24/7 | Urgent non‑emergency care |
Alternatives | If you have no appropriate transportation | Brokers verify eligibility |
See the state’s NEMT page for definitions and scheduling practices. (transportation.ky.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to apply for waivers: waitlists are common and placement is based on the date your completed application is received.
- Not using EPSDT: families often accept denials without requesting EPSDT coverage for medically necessary items.
- Missing school timelines: after you sign evaluation consent, mark the 60‑school‑day deadline and follow up.
- Skipping written requests: always put requests and appeals in writing and keep stamped copies or email receipts.
- Forgetting to report changes to SNAP or KTAP, which can cause overpayments and sanctions.
- Not asking for language or disability accommodations: agencies must provide interpreters and accessible services at no cost.
Application Checklist
Have these ready to speed up approvals.
- Photo ID and your child’s birth certificate or SNAP/Medicaid ID.
- Proof of income for the last 30–60 days: pay stubs, award letters.
- Proof of address: lease, utility bill.
- Medical documents: diagnoses, therapy notes, hospital discharge papers.
- School documents: IEP, 504 plan, evaluation reports.
- Bank statements and any trust or ABLE documents.
- Names and phone numbers of doctors and therapists.
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: ask for your right to a respectful environment and correct names. State hotlines and DCBS must provide free language and disability accommodations. Use KY‑SPIN and local LGBTQ+ centers for peer support in navigating IEPs and healthcare.
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: request reasonable accommodations at every step—phone interviews, longer appointments, and accessible formats. EPSDT can cover adaptive equipment when medically necessary. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: combine VA health benefits with Medicaid where eligible. Ask your VA social worker about respite and caregiver programs that can complement state services.
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: many children are eligible for WIC, school meals, and sometimes Medicaid or KCHIP depending on status. Language services are free at DCBS and health departments. Use 211 to locate interpretation‑friendly clinics.
- Tribal citizens living in Kentucky: you may qualify for Indian Health Service or tribal benefits in addition to Kentucky programs. Ask your tribe’s benefits office and coordinate with DCBS so benefits do not conflict.
- Rural single moms with limited access: request telehealth and home‑based services when possible, use NEMT for long drives to specialists, and ask for evening or weekend appointments.
- Single fathers: all programs listed are available regardless of gender. Use the same steps and contacts.
- Language access: when you call (855) 306‑8959, request an interpreter. CHFS must provide interpreters at no cost. (chfs.ky.gov)
Kentucky Programs and Numbers at a Glance
Program | Key eligibility or benefit | Contact |
---|---|---|
KCHIP | To 218% FPL for children and eligible pregnant/postpartum | (855) 306‑8959 or kynect (kidshealth.ky.gov) |
EPSDT | Medically necessary services for Medicaid‑enrolled kids under 21 | (800) 635‑2570 (chfs.ky.gov) |
SNAP | FY 2025 max for 4 975∗∗monthly;minimum∗∗975** monthly; minimum **23 | (855) 306‑8959 (fns.usda.gov, chfs.ky.gov) |
WIC | FY 2025 monthly CVB child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 | Local health dept (fns.usda.gov) |
KTAP | Max for 3 $524 monthly | (855) 306‑8959 (prd.webapps.chfs.ky.gov) |
CCAP | Up to 85% SMI with copay table in 922 KAR 2:160 | (855) 306‑8959 (apps.legislature.ky.gov) |
First Steps | Early intervention 0–3 | (877) 417‑8377 (chfs.ky.gov) |
NEMT | 72‑hour advance scheduling | See NEMT page (transportation.ky.gov) |
MPW and SCL | Waivers for IDD | Apply on kynect; see CHFS pages (chfs.ky.gov) |
Timelines You Can Expect
- Medicaid or KCHIP: often 30–45 days, sooner for pregnant applicants.
- SNAP: decision within 30 days; expedited cases in 7 days or fewer if you meet emergency criteria. (chfs.ky.gov)
- First Steps: evaluation and IFSP scheduling varies by county; start the referral immediately.
- School evaluation: 60 school days after consent, with IEP within 30 school days if eligible. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
Real‑World Examples
- Therapy beyond plan limits: a mother in Lexington obtained extra weekly speech sessions by asking her SLP to submit an EPSDT request with progress data and a clear medical‑necessity letter; prior authorization approved.
- Waiver while waiting: a Louisville mom applied for MPW and used KCHIP, EPSDT, and SNAP for care and groceries while on the MPW waitlist; PDS later helped her hire a trusted neighbor as a caregiver.
- School timeline: a parent in Pike County tracked the 60‑school‑day clock and emailed the special‑education director at day 45; the team scheduled the ARC meeting and delivered services on time.
What The Top Results Often Miss—and How This Guide Fills the Gaps
- Exact dollar amounts: we included the FY 2025 SNAP maximums and WIC CVB amounts plus SSI 2025 rates with direct federal sources. (fns.usda.gov, ssa.gov)
- State‑specific contacts: direct numbers like (855) 306‑8959 for kynect and (877) 417‑8377 for First Steps, rather than generic advice. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Legal timelines: Kentucky’s 60‑school‑day evaluation rule and expedited hearing timelines. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- Waiver service caps and baseline rates: concrete MPW limits and 2025 base rates for planning. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions (Kentucky‑specific)
- How do I apply for multiple programs at once: use kynect or call (855) 306‑8959 to apply for Medicaid, KCHIP, SNAP, KTAP, and start an HCBS waiver application. (chfs.ky.gov)
- My child is 14 and has autism. Can CCAP still help with after‑school care: yes, if the child has special needs, CCAP can cover age 13+ when criteria are met. (chfs.ky.gov)
- What if I can’t find a Medicaid therapist near me: ask your MCO for help locating in‑network providers, request telehealth when appropriate, and consider EPSDT special services for medically necessary coverage. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Can EPSDT cover extra therapy beyond plan limits: yes, if medically necessary and prior‑authorized. Use your doctor’s letter and therapy notes. (chfs.ky.gov)
- How long is the school allowed to take: Kentucky requires the evaluation and services to start within 60 school days after you sign consent, with an IEP meeting within 30 school days if eligible. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- What are the SNAP benefit amounts for my family size this year: for FY 2025 the max monthly is 1 292∗∗,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. (fns.usda.gov)
- Does Kentucky have a waiver for technology‑dependent kids: yes, the Model II Waiver serves people who are ventilator‑dependent 12+ hours/day or actively weaning. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Can I hire my own caregivers: many waivers offer Participant‑Directed Services so you can hire and train workers you choose. Ask your case manager about PDS in your waiver. (chfs.ky.gov)
- What are SSI amounts for 2025: individual 967∗∗permonthandcouple∗∗967** per month and couple **1,450 per month before countable income is deducted. (ssa.gov)
- How soon must I schedule Medicaid rides: NEMT asks for 72‑hour notice for routine rides; urgent rides are available 24/7. (transportation.ky.gov)
What to Do When You Hit a Wall
- Document everything: names, dates, phone numbers, and what was promised.
- Ask for supervisors and use the word appeal when you disagree with a decision.
- Use CHFS Listens for help across departments at (833) 372‑0004. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Seek advocacy help: KY‑SPIN for education and family support, legal aid for benefit appeals, and your MCO member advocate for health denials. (kyspin.com)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
Our research promise: we use official state and federal sources, test links at publication, and track policy changes. We verify eligibility rules directly from government materials and link to calculators or official schedules rather than guessing dollar amounts. See our full standards on our editorial policy page. ASingleMother.org Editorial Standards
Verification and update cadence: comprehensive reviews every 8 months per state guide, with policy change updates within 48 hours of confirmation, and reader‑reported corrections within 48 hours. This guide references Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, USDA FNS, SSA, Kentucky Department of Education regulations, and other official sources cited throughout.
Last verified: September 2025, next review April 2026.
Corrections: email info@asinglemother.org and we will review within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
Important note: Programs change and local implementation can vary by county and by agency workload. Always confirm amounts, timelines, and eligibility with the official agency or your caseworker before making financial decisions.
Medical and legal caution: this guide is informational and is not medical, legal, or case‑specific advice. For legal questions, consult an attorney. For clinical questions, consult your child’s healthcare provider.
Security reminder: to keep your information safe, apply only through official government websites or by calling the verified agency numbers listed above. Do not share personal information with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly, and never pay fees to apply for public benefits.
Sources cited in this guide
- KCHIP income thresholds and eligibility: Kentucky KidsHealth eligibility page. (kidshealth.ky.gov)
- EPSDT services and contacts: Kentucky Medicaid EPSDT pages. (chfs.ky.gov)
- HCBS waivers overview and program pages: CHFS waiver pages for MPW, SCL, HCB, Model II. (chfs.ky.gov)
- MPW service limits and 2025 base rates: 907 KAR 1:835 regulation. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- SNAP FY 2025 maximums, assets, and deductions: USDA FNS FY 2025 COLA memo. (fns.usda.gov)
- Kentucky SNAP application steps and timelines: CHFS SNAP pages. (chfs.ky.gov)
- WIC FY 2025 CVB amounts: USDA FNS policy memo for FY 2025 CVB. (fns.usda.gov)
- KTAP maximum payment table: KY FACES KTAP page. (prd.webapps.chfs.ky.gov)
- CCAP eligibility framework and copay regulation: CHFS CCAP info and 922 KAR 2:160. (chfs.ky.gov, apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- First Steps early intervention: KEIS overview and contacts. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Special‑education timelines: 707 KAR 1:320 and related KDE regulations. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- NEMT scheduling rules: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet NEMT page. (transportation.ky.gov)
- SSI 2025 rates and SSA updates: SSA pages for SSI 2025 and COLA. (ssa.gov)
- STABLE Kentucky statutory protections: Kentucky legislative records. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
What to do next
- Call kynect at (855) 306‑8959 or start online to check Medicaid, KCHIP, SNAP, and KTAP eligibility and to join any needed waiver waitlist.
- Refer to First Steps at (877) 417‑8377 if your child is under 3.
- Write your school today to request a special‑education evaluation if your child is 3–21 and you suspect a disability.
- Use EPSDT for medically necessary services, equipment, and therapies.
- Ask for help early when you hit roadblocks—document, appeal, and escalate.
🏛️More Kentucky Resources for Single Mothers
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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
- 🏦 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