Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Maryland
Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Maryland
Last updated: September 2025
Maryland offers solid (if sometimes complicated) help for families raising children with disabilities. This hub focuses on fast paths to food, health care, cash-like supports, special education, transportation, respite, and housing/utility help—plus exact Maryland contacts, timelines, and 2025 dollar amounts you can use today.
Quick Help Box — get help now
- Emergencies: If your child is in immediate danger, call 911. For a mental health, autism-related meltdown, or substance-use crisis, call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis counseling in Maryland. See details at the Maryland Department of Health’s 988 page, and the Maryland 988 Campaign. (health.maryland.gov, md988campaign.org)
- One-stop referrals: Dial 2-1-1 (or text your ZIP to 898-211) to find local food, rent, utility, disability, and legal help 24/7. Maryland Relay users dial 7-1-1. More info: 211 Maryland. (211md.org)
- Fast food help (SNAP): Apply online at MarylandBenefits and ask for “expedited SNAP” if you have very low income—benefits can arrive in 7 days; regular processing is 30 days. State SNAP rights and timelines. (dhs.maryland.gov)
- EBT card issues or stolen benefits: Call Maryland EBT 1-800-997-2222 (24/7). Card lock feature and fraud tips here. (dhs.maryland.gov)
- Health/Medicaid for kids (MCHP): Apply through Maryland Health Connection; premiums for MCHP Premium ended in May 2024 (no premiums now). Phone 1-855-642-8572. (health.maryland.gov)
- WIC for pregnant/postpartum, infants, and children under 5: Call 1-800-242-4942 or use the Maryland WIC client portal to book an appointment. 2025–26 income limits = 185% FPL. (health.maryland.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- SSI for a disabled child: 2025 federal max is $967/month (child’s countable income/resources apply). Call SSA 1-800-772-1213 and ask about “SSI for children.” (ssa.gov)
- Autism Waiver registry: Call 1-866-417-3480 to get on Maryland’s Autism Waiver Registry of Interest (do this today—the wait is real). (marylandpublicschools.org)
- Non-emergency medical rides (Medicaid NEMT): Ask your local health department’s Medical Assistance Transportation unit; statewide NEMT program overview here. Example numbers: Queen Anne’s 443-262-4462; Carroll 410-876-4813. (health.maryland.gov)
- Legal advocacy for disability rights/IEP disputes: Disability Rights Maryland 410-727-6352 (state P&A). Maryland Legal Aid intake 1-888-465-2468. (peoples-law.org, mdlab.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (scan-and-go)
| Program | What it covers | Who qualifies (high level) | How to apply | Timelines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (Food) | Monthly food benefits on EBT | Income/resource limits; caregivers of disabled children qualify under normal rules | MarylandBenefits; help via 2-1-1 or DHS Call Center 1-800-332-6347; EBT help 1-800-997-2222 | Expedited in 7 days; otherwise in 30 days. (dhs.maryland.gov) |
| WIC | Healthy foods, formula, nutrition | Pregnant/postpartum, infants/children <5; income ≤ 185% FPL | Call 1-800-242-4942 or use WIC Client Portal | Usually 10–20 days to first benefits; varies by clinic. (health.maryland.gov) |
| MCHP/Medicaid | Full medical, behavioral health, dental (Healthy Smiles) | Most MD kids; income-based; some disability pathways | Apply via Maryland Health Connection 1-855-642-8572 | Coverage can start quickly once verified. (health.maryland.gov) |
| SSI (child) | Monthly cash benefit | Child meets SSA disability + low income/resources | Apply with SSA 1-800-772-1213 | Decision often several months; back pay possible. (ssa.gov) |
| Autism Waiver | In‑home/community ASD services + full Medicaid | ASD dx, ages 1–21, IEP/IFSP ≥15 hrs/week, meets level of care & 300% SSI financial test | Call Registry 1-866-417-3480 | Waitlist; enroll when a slot opens. (marylandpublicschools.org) |
| REM/Model Waiver | Case-managed complex care; medically fragile | Medicaid-eligible with qualifying dx (REM) or nursing/hospital level of care (Model Waiver) | REM Intake 1-800-565-8190; Model Waiver via The Coordinating Center 410-987-1048 | Prioritized/waitlist; varies. (health.maryland.gov) |
| DDA Family Supports Waiver | Respite, personal supports, AT, mods | Children with developmental disabilities | Start DDA eligibility; regional office help | Waitlist; apply now. (health.maryland.gov) |
| NEMT/Mobility | Medicaid rides; ADA paratransit | Medicaid members; riders with disabilities | Contact county NEMT; MobilityLink 410-764-8181 | Same/next day in some areas; schedule ahead. (health.maryland.gov, mta.maryland.gov) |
| OHEP (Energy) | Utility grants; arrearage help | Income-based | Apply via OHEP; arrearage grants up to 2,000∗∗electric/∗∗2,000** electric/**1,000 gas | Varies; apply early each fiscal year. (dhs.maryland.gov) |
Food help you can use this month
SNAP (Food Stamps): amounts, rules, and how to get approved fast
- Most important action: Submit your application now and ask for “expedited SNAP.” If your income is near zero, you may get benefits within 7 days; otherwise within 30 days. Maryland’s SNAP rights page spells this out. (dhs.maryland.gov)
- Maximum monthly SNAP amounts in FY2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025) for the 48 states/DC:
Source: USDA’s FY2025 COLA and Congressional Research Service summary. (fns.usda.gov, everycrsreport.com)
Household size Max SNAP 1 $292 2 $536 3 $768 4 $975 5 $1,158 6 $1,390 7 $1,536 8 $1,756 Each add’l $220 - Asset limits (unless categorically eligible): 3,000∗∗standard;∗∗3,000** standard; **4,500 if someone is 60+ or disabled in the household. (fns.usda.gov)
- Maryland income screens (Oct 2024–Sep 2025): State table shows the gross and net monthly income limits used in screening (your final eligibility considers deductions). Check the official DHS chart (e.g., 3-person gross 2,798∗∗;net∗∗2,798**; net **2,152). (dhs.maryland.gov)
- How to apply: Use MarylandBenefits.gov (application portal) or call the DHS Call Center 1-800-332-6347 for your local office. EBT questions or stolen benefits: 1-800-997-2222. (dhs.maryland.gov, dhr.maryland.gov)
- Tip: Turn in the application even if documents are not ready—your filing date locks in. You can upload later. This is on the state “Applying for SNAP” page. (dhs.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2-1-1 and ask for a SNAP navigator near you. If there’s an error or delay past 30 days, request a fair hearing (instructions on the state rights page), or contact Disability Rights Maryland 410-727-6352 if disability-related rules are involved. (dhs.maryland.gov, 211md.org, peoples-law.org)
WIC (Pregnancy, babies, and young kids)
- Most important action: Book a WIC appointment—calling 1-800-242-4942 or using the Maryland WIC Client Portal. (health.maryland.gov)
- 2025–26 WIC income limits (185% FPL; effective July 1, 2025). Monthly examples used by MSDE for reduced-price meals (same 185% FPL):
Sources: USDA WIC guidance and MSDE’s 2025 income tables. (fns.usda.gov, news.maryland.gov)
Household Monthly income at 185% 1 $2,413 2 $3,261 3 $4,109 4 $4,957 - Documents: ID, address, proof of income, and for children, immunization records if available (state page lists acceptable proofs). (health.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2-1-1 for pantries and TEFAP sites; TEFAP is administered by DHS with distribution through Maryland Food Bank/Capital Area Food Bank “Find Food” tools. (211md.org, dhs.maryland.gov)
Cash-like income for your child’s disability
SSI for children (Social Security)
- Most important action: File the SSI application for your child by phone (1-800-772-1213) or at SSA.gov. The 2025 maximum federal benefit rate is 967/month∗∗(couplerate∗∗967/month** (couple rate **1,450), adjusted for your child’s countable income. (ssa.gov)
- Resource limit: To qualify, countable resources must be ≤ 2,000∗∗forthechild(certainthingsdon’tcount,includingupto∗∗2,000** for the child (certain things don’t count, including up to **100,000 in an ABLE account). SSA Spotlights list the excluded resources. (ssa.gov)
- ABLE + SSI: Maryland ABLE lets you save up to 19,000∗∗in2025(ormoreifyourchildworksunderABLEtoWorkrules)withoutjeopardizingMedicaidandwithSSIcashbenefitsunaffecteduntiltheaccountexceeds∗∗19,000** in 2025 (or more if your child works under ABLE to Work rules) without jeopardizing Medicaid and with SSI cash benefits unaffected until the account exceeds **100,000. Contact Maryland ABLE at 1-855-563-2253. (marylandable.org)
Table — SSI & ABLE quick facts
| Item | 2025 value |
|---|---|
| SSI federal max (child) | $967/month |
| Resource cap (child) | $2,000 (many exclusions) |
| ABLE annual contribution limit (MD ABLE) | $19,000 |
| ABLE balance disregard for SSI | Up to $100,000 |
Sources: SSA 2025 SSI amounts; SSA resource rules; Maryland ABLE. (ssa.gov, marylandable.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for SSA reconsideration if denied; get help from Disability Rights Maryland 410-727-6352 or Maryland Legal Aid 1-888-465-2468 if you need advocacy. (peoples-law.org, mdlab.org)
Health coverage and Medicaid pathways
Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP) and Medicaid
- Most important action: Apply for your child at Maryland Health Connection or call 1-855-642-8572. As of May 1, 2024, Maryland ended MCHP Premium payments—no premiums due. (health.maryland.gov)
- Dental for all Medicaid kids and adults: Use the Maryland Healthy Smiles Dental Program (no copays/premiums). Member services 1-855-934-9812; provider search available. (health.maryland.gov)
- Pick an MCO: Maryland’s HealthChoice MCOs have member perks; see the state comparison tools and quality ratings. (health.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: For access-to-care issues, call your HealthChoice MCO member services, the HealthChoice Helpline 1-800-284-4510, or your county’s Administrative Care Coordination Unit (example: Carroll 410-876-4908). (health.maryland.gov)
Home- and community-based Medicaid programs (deep help)
- Autism Waiver (MSDE/MDH): Call the Registry 1-866-417-3480 to get on the list now. Eligibility includes ASD diagnosis; age 1–21; IEP/IFSP with ≥15 hours/week; meets ICF-IID level of care; financial eligibility generally at 300% of SSI with asset limits (2,000∗∗or∗∗2,000** or **2,500 category). Services include Intensive Individual Support Services, respite, therapeutic integration, residential habilitation (when needed), and service coordination. (marylandpublicschools.org, elevates.marylandpublicschools.org)
- Model Waiver (medically fragile children): Lets children who require hospital/nursing-facility level of care receive care at home; parents’ income and assets are disregarded for eligibility. Enrollment is capped at 200 participants; The Coordinating Center assists with intake 410-987-1048. (health.maryland.gov)
- REM (Rare & Expensive Case Management): For Medicaid members with specific complex diagnoses; get case management and covered services like private duty nursing. Call 1-800-565-8190; fax/e-mail intake listed on the MDH REM page. (health.maryland.gov)
- DDA Family Supports Waiver: For children with developmental disabilities; provides respite, personal supports, assistive tech, environmental modifications, nursing support, and more. Start by applying for DDA eligibility; contact your DDA regional office (Central MD 410-234-8200). Note: financial eligibility for DDA waivers looks at the child’s income/resources—not the parent’s. (health.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need in-home nursing/supports now, ask your child’s pediatrician for medically necessary orders under regular Medicaid; also ask your MCO care manager about short-term options while waiting. For waiver waitlist issues, contact DDA Constituent Services (410) 456‑7837. (health.maryland.gov)
Special education, early intervention, and your rights
Birth–3: Maryland Infants & Toddlers Program (MITP)
- Most important action: Refer online now at the MITP referral site or call your county’s Single Point of Entry (for example, Montgomery 240-777-3997, Prince George’s 301-925-6627, Baltimore City 410-396-1666). The statewide contact directory is posted by MSDE. (referral.mditp.org, marylandpublicschools.org)
Ages 3–21: Child Find and IEP
- Call your school system’s Child Find office to request evaluations. Example contacts: Baltimore City 443-984-1011; Montgomery 301-947-6080 (ages 3–21); Prince George’s 301-925-6600 (ages 3–5) and 301-618-8300 (ages 6+). (elevates.marylandpublicschools.org)
- Know your dispute options: Maryland’s Family Support & Dispute Resolution Branch offers mediation, state complaints, and due process info. Family Support Services can coach you through next steps. (marylandpublicschools.org)
Table — Fast school contacts (sample of large jurisdictions)
| Jurisdiction | Birth–3 contact | Child Find (3–21) |
|---|---|---|
| Baltimore City | 410-396-1666 | 443-984-1011 |
| Baltimore County | 443-809-2169 | 443-809-3017 |
| Montgomery | 240-777-3997 | 301-947-6080 |
| Prince George’s | 301-925-6627 | 301-925-6600 (3–5), 301-618-8300 (6+) |
| Howard | 410-313-7017 | 410-313-7046 |
Source: MSDE contact lists. (elevates.marylandpublicschools.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for an IEP facilitation or mediation through the state FSDR unit; get parent-friendly guides (MSDE Parent Information Series). For legal help, call Disability Rights Maryland 410-727-6352. (marylandpublicschools.org)
Child care and respite so you can breathe
Child Care Scholarship (CCS) and finding inclusive care
- Important update: MSDE announced a temporary CCS enrollment freeze effective May 1, 2025; new applicants may be waitlisted until funding is available. You can still apply and hold your place in line. Info line 877-227-0125. (news.maryland.gov)
- Specialized referrals: Use Maryland Family Network’s LOCATE services. General referrals 877-261-0060; Special Needs Service 1-800-999-0120; email specialneeds@marylandfamilynetwork.org. (marylandfamilynetwork.org, earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
- How to choose a provider: Ask whether they accept the state scholarship, have experience with your child’s needs, and are willing to include IEP/behavior plans. LOCATE’s specialists can pre-screen for you.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Look at Head Start/Early Head Start and public pre‑K, and ask your IEP team about placement supports.
Respite options
- DDA Family Supports Waiver respite: If your child is on/eligible for DDA services, respite can be in-home, at a provider home, licensed site, or state-certified camp. (health.maryland.gov)
- Maryland Respite Care Program (DHS): For family caregivers of children/adults with developmental or functional disabilities—financial reimbursement for short-term care. Apply via your Local Department of Social Services or call DHS 1-800-332-6347. (dhs.maryland.gov)
- Family Caregiver Support (Dept. of Aging): Check respite and caregiver resources through Maryland Access Point 1-844-MAP‑LINK and your local Area Agency on Aging. (mdod.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your health plan about respite-like supports through autism or behavioral services; ask school teams about after‑school therapeutic programs (e.g., Therapeutic Integration under the Autism Waiver). (marylandpublicschools.org)
Transportation to appointments and everyday life
- Medicaid NEMT: If your child has Medicaid and no other ride, call your county’s Medical Assistance Transportation program. State overview here; examples: Queen Anne’s 443-262-4462; Carroll 410-876-4813. (health.maryland.gov)
- MTA MobilityLink (ADA paratransit): If disability prevents bus/rail use in the Baltimore-area service zone, call MobilityLink 410-764-8181 (reservations) or the Transit Information Contact Center 1-866-743-3682. (mta.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your MCO for care management and transport help; for time‑sensitive rides (e.g., dialysis), MTA has interim reservation options (Hart to Heart 443‑573‑2037). (mta.maryland.gov)
Housing repairs, accessibility, and utilities
Keep utilities on and lower bills
- OHEP utility help: Apply year‑round. Arrearage Retirement Assistance may pay up to 2,000∗∗onpast‑dueelectricand∗∗2,000** on past‑due electric and **1,000 on gas (must owe $300+; generally once every five years). Apply by phone, paper, or online at MarylandBenefits; local office directory and FY26 income table are posted on DHS. (dhs.maryland.gov)
- Energy efficiency and equipment: DHCD EmPOWER, WAP, and MEAP equipment programs can provide free weatherization, HVAC replacements, and repairs for income‑eligible families. Income limits updated July 2025 are posted at DHCD. (dhcd.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 for local Fuel Fund partners and charities; ask your utility about medical customer protections.
Home accessibility
- Maryland WholeHome: Grants/loans to fix hazards, add accessibility features, and upgrade energy equipment (low interest; sometimes deferred). (dhcd.maryland.gov)
- Accessible Homes for Seniors (for multigenerational households with a senior caregiver or grandparent): grants up to $25,000 or 0% deferred loans for accessibility modifications (grab bars, ramps, doorway widening). Contact DHCD Special Loan Programs (301) 429‑7409. (dhcd.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Check county programs (e.g., Prince George’s HOPP up to 30,000∗∗or∗∗30,000** or **50,000 for very low income for repairs & accessibility), or Habitat for Humanity accessibility programs in Montgomery/PG. (princegeorgescountymd.gov, habitatmm.org)
Everyday food, rent, and emergency cash
- Emergency Assistance to Families with Children (EAFC): One‑time emergency cash through your local DSS for rent or utilities; generally available once every two years when funds exist. Apply in person/online; bring ID, proof of address, income for last 2 months, and the eviction/shut‑off notice. DHS EAFC page explains documents. (dhs.maryland.gov)
- Food sites: Use the Maryland Food Bank/Capital Area Food Bank “Find Food” tools linked from DHS TEFAP page for nearby pantries and meal sites. (dhs.maryland.gov)
Diverse Communities — tailored pointers
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: 988 has an affirming option when you call or text. Many MCOs list LGBTQ‑competent providers in their directories; ask your plan to help you filter. (health.maryland.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Maryland ABLE can protect savings up to $100,000 for SSI while covering disability expenses; DDA’s Family Supports Waiver and Autism Waiver provide respite and in‑home supports. (marylandable.org, health.maryland.gov, marylandpublicschools.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Call 988 then “Press 1” for the Veterans line. Ask SSA about expedited SSI claims for Wounded Warriors; ask your VA social worker to coordinate with Medicaid/NEMT for your child. (health.maryland.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Kids may qualify for MCHP regardless of a parent’s status; WIC is available to eligible residents. Language access is standard: Maryland Relay 7‑1‑1; 211 has 150+ languages. (health.maryland.gov, 211md.org)
- Tribal citizens: Contact your school’s Title VI coordinator for cultural supports, and use 2‑1‑1 for local Native‑serving resources (food, mental health). (211md.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Ask for telehealth coverage through your MCO; use NEMT for long trips; ask MITP/IEP teams for services closer to home (including through provider travel). (health.maryland.gov)
- Single fathers: All programs above are gender‑neutral; fathers are eligible as custodial parents.
- Language access: Request interpreters at DSS, WIC, schools, and MCOs. Maryland Relay 7‑1‑1 supports TTY/voice. (mta.maryland.gov)
Transportation and school—two quick tables to keep handy
Table — NEMT and Mobility quick contacts
| Service | Area | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid NEMT (Queen Anne’s) | County rides to covered care | 443-262-4462 |
| Medicaid NEMT (Carroll) | County rides to covered care | 410-876-4813 |
| MTA MobilityLink | Baltimore metro ADA paratransit | 410-764-8181 |
| Transit Info Contact Center | Statewide MTA info | 1-866-743-3682 |
Sources: County health/NEMT pages; MTA contacts. (health.maryland.gov, mta.maryland.gov)
Table — WIC and Healthy Smiles (dental) phone list
| Program | Phone | What for |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland WIC | 1-800-242-4942 | Appointments, clinic help |
| Healthy Smiles Dental Program | 1-855-934-9812 | Medicaid dental providers/benefits |
Sources: MDH WIC and Healthy Smiles program pages. (health.maryland.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing expedited SNAP: Don’t skip the box/statement for emergency SNAP—this can shave 7–23 days off. (dhs.maryland.gov)
- Waiting to join the Autism Waiver registry: The list is long; call 1‑866‑417‑3480 today even if you’re still gathering evaluations. (marylandpublicschools.org)
- Not appealing school decisions: If the IEP isn’t implemented or your request is denied, use state mediation/complaint options—there are timelines that can resolve issues before due process. (marylandpublicschools.org)
- Letting Medicaid lapse: Keep your address updated with Maryland Health Connection (1‑855‑642‑8572) so you don’t miss redetermination mail. (health.maryland.gov)
- Underusing ABLE: If gifts or back pay push you near the SSI resource limit ($2,000), consider a Maryland ABLE account to stay eligible. (ssa.gov, marylandable.org)
Application checklist (gather these once, reuse everywhere)
- Photo ID for you and child’s birth certificate or other identity proof.
- Social Security numbers (or proof you’ve applied) for household members applying.
- Proof of Maryland address (lease, recent utility bill).
- Income for last 30–60 days (pay stubs, child support, unemployment, SSA letters).
- Medical/education records: diagnosis letters, IEP/IFSP, therapy notes—especially for waivers and school services.
- Insurance cards and MCO name (if already enrolled).
- Bank statements and ABLE info (SSI/resource-sensitive programs).
- Eviction/shut‑off notices for EAFC/OHEP; past‑due amounts (e.g., electric $300+ if seeking arrearage. (dhs.maryland.gov)
If you can only do three things today
- Apply for SNAP (ask for expedited) and book WIC if you have kids under 5.
- Submit an MITP/Child Find referral if you have any concern about your child’s development or school supports.
- Add your child to the Autism Waiver registry if autism is suspected or diagnosed.
Local organizations and hotlines to keep close
- Pathfinders for Autism Helpline 443-330-5341 for provider lists and family support. (pathfindersforautism.org)
- The Parents’ Place of Maryland (PPMD): Statewide training and IEP help—linked from the MSDE Autism Waiver resources list. (elevates.marylandpublicschools.org)
- Disability Rights Maryland (P&A) 410-727-6352 or 1-800-233-7201 (education, benefits, community services). (peoples-law.org)
- Maryland Department of Disabilities (MDOD) info line 1-800-637-4113 for cross‑agency navigation. (mdod.maryland.gov)
- 211 Maryland call 2‑1‑1 or text ZIP to 898‑211 for statewide referrals. (211md.org)
Reality checks, timelines, and Plan B
- SNAP: If you applied and hear nothing by day 7 (expedited) or day 30 (regular), call your LDSS or 1‑800‑332‑6347 and request a supervisor/fair hearing; ask 2‑1‑1 for emergency pantries as a bridge. (dhs.maryland.gov)
- WIC: Clinics get busy. If phones are jammed, use the WIC Client Portal to self‑schedule and upload docs. (health.maryland.gov)
- Autism Waiver/DDA: Waits are common. While you wait, ask your MCO for in‑home behavioral health (ABA where covered), and use school IEP services and county-funded respite (if available). (marylandpublicschools.org)
- Medicaid rides: Book several days ahead for routine care; for urgent time‑sensitive care, ask about same‑day slots or interim vendors (e.g., Hart to Heart 443‑573‑2037). (mta.maryland.gov)
Frequently asked questions (Maryland‑specific)
- How much SNAP could my family of three receive at most: Up to $768/month in FY2025, depending on income/deductions. (everycrsreport.com)
- How fast can I get SNAP: As soon as 7 days if you qualify for expedited service; otherwise within 30 days. (dhs.maryland.gov)
- What is the 2025 SSI amount for a child: Up to $967/month, before counting any income. (ssa.gov)
- Can savings disqualify my child from SSI: Yes, if countable resources exceed 2,000∗∗.AnABLEaccountcanprotectupto∗∗2,000**. An ABLE account can protect up to **100,000 for SSI. (ssa.gov)
- Is there a premium for MCHP: No. MCHP Premium payments ended May 1, 2024. (health.maryland.gov)
- How do I get on the Autism Waiver: Call the Registry 1‑866‑417‑3480; slots open as others disenroll. (marylandpublicschools.org)
- My child has complex medical needs—what program should I ask about: The Model Waiver (cap 200) and REM program; intake lines 410‑987‑1048 (Model Waiver) and 1‑800‑565‑8190 (REM). (health.maryland.gov)
- Who provides dental care under Medicaid: The Maryland Healthy Smiles Dental Program; member line 1‑855‑934‑9812. (health.maryland.gov)
- How can I get a medical ride: Call your county Medical Assistance Transportation program; see the state NEMT overview and county contacts. (health.maryland.gov)
- If I’m about to lose power, can OHEP help: Yes—apply ASAP. Arrearage grants can pay up to 2,000∗∗electric/∗∗2,000** electric/**1,000 gas if you owe $300+. (dhs.maryland.gov)
Quick Reference Tables — benefits and amounts you asked for
Table — SNAP max allotments (FY2025)
| HH size | Max |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each add’l | $220 |
Source: USDA/CRS. (fns.usda.gov, everycrsreport.com)
Table — WIC monthly income limits at 185% FPL (Jul 1, 2025–Jun 30, 2026)
| HH size | Monthly limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,413 |
| 2 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $4,957 |
Sources: USDA/Federal Register; MSDE IEGs. (fns.usda.gov, news.maryland.gov)
Table — Energy and arrearage quick facts
| Program | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Electric arrearage grant | Up to $2,000 | Past‑due $300+; generally once every 5 years |
| Gas arrearage grant | Up to $1,000 | Same rules as above |
Source: DHS OHEP “Applying for Energy Assistance.” (dhs.maryland.gov)
Resources by region (examples to get you started)
- Baltimore City: Child Find 443‑984‑1011; MITP 410‑396‑1666; DSS general 1‑800‑332‑6347; 211 for local food and housing. (elevates.marylandpublicschools.org)
- Montgomery County: MITP 240‑777‑3997; Child Find 301‑947‑6080; Habitat HARP accessibility 301‑990‑0014 x1019 (free accessibility mods for eligible homeowners). (elevates.marylandpublicschools.org, habitatmm.org)
- Prince George’s County: MITP 301‑925‑6627; Child Find 301‑925‑6600 (Ages 3–5) and 301‑618‑8300 (6+); HOPP repairs/accessibility up to 30,000–30,000–50,000. (elevates.marylandpublicschools.org, princegeorgescountymd.gov)
- Howard County: MITP 410‑313‑7017; Child Find 410‑313‑7046. (elevates.marylandpublicschools.org)
- Queen Anne’s County: MITP 443‑262‑4456; NEMT 443‑262‑4462. (marylandpublicschools.org, health.maryland.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Dedicated benefits researchers specializing in government assistance programs.
Methodology: We use only primary sources—official Maryland and federal websites and established nonprofits—and we verify links, archive sources, and track policy changes. See our Editorial Standards.
Scope: This guide relies on Maryland Department of Human Services, Maryland Department of Health, MSDE, USDA, HUD/DHCD, SSA, and statewide nonprofits (e.g., 211 Maryland, Maryland ABLE, Pathfinders).
Maintenance: Regularly reviewed; urgent corrections within 24–48 hours when verified.
Last verified: September 2025; next review: April 2026.
Disclaimer
Accuracy and changes: Program amounts, eligibility rules, and contacts change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency before applying or acting. We cite official sources and update quickly, but we cannot guarantee individual outcomes.
Health and safety: For medical or mental health crises, call 911 or 988. For legal advice, contact a licensed attorney or Disability Rights Maryland 410‑727‑6352.
Security: Protect your benefits. Never share PINs. For EBT issues, only use Maryland’s official EBT line 1‑800‑997‑2222 or the state’s ConnectEBT portal. (dhs.maryland.gov)
Citations (selected)
- SNAP FY2025: USDA COLA; CRS table of maximums; Maryland income standards and rights/timelines. (fns.usda.gov, everycrsreport.com, dhs.maryland.gov)
- WIC: USDA 2025–26 WIC Income Eligibility; MSDE 2025 school meal IEGs; Maryland WIC contact/apply. (fns.usda.gov, news.maryland.gov, health.maryland.gov)
- SSI 2025: SSA 2025 amounts; SSA Spotlights on resources. (ssa.gov)
- Maryland ABLE: MD ABLE homepage and contact (annual limit, SSI disregard up to $100,000). (marylandable.org)
- Medicaid/MCHP & Healthy Smiles: MDH MCHP and apply; Healthy Smiles program page. (health.maryland.gov) (health.maryland.gov)
- Autism Waiver/Model Waiver/REM: MSDE Autism Waiver; MDH Model Waiver fact sheet; MDH REM program. (marylandpublicschools.org, health.maryland.gov)
- DDA Family Supports Waiver & contacts: DDA waiver info and regional contacts. (health.maryland.gov)
- NEMT/Mobility: MDH Community Support Services (NEMT); county NEMT pages; MTA Mobility contacts. (health.maryland.gov, mta.maryland.gov)
- Energy/utility help: OHEP applying page (amounts); DHCD energy/weatherization programs. (dhs.maryland.gov, dhcd.maryland.gov)
- Early intervention/Child Find: MSDE MITP and Child Find contact lists and referral portal. (marylandpublicschools.org, referral.mditp.org)
- 211/988: 211 Maryland and MDH 988. (211md.org, health.maryland.gov)
If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org. We update verified corrections within 48 hours.
🏛️More Maryland Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maryland
- 📋 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
