Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Massachusetts
Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Massachusetts
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- Emergency: Call 911 for any immediate danger.
- 24/7 mental health help: Call or text 833-773-2445 to reach the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line for crisis and non‑emergency support and care navigation. You can also call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. (mass.gov)
- Report child abuse/neglect: Call the DCF Child‑at‑Risk Hotline 800-792-5200 (24/7). (mass.gov)
- No food at home: Apply for SNAP online and call the DTA Assistance Line 877-382-2363 for same‑day help; ask about expedited SNAP within 7 days if you qualify. (mass.gov)
- At risk of losing housing: Apply for RAFT emergency rent/utility help online; get help by dialing 211 or 877-211-6277. If you are pregnant or with children under 21 and need shelter, call the EA Family Shelter Contact Line 866-584-0653. (mass.gov)
- MassHealth enrollment or questions: Call 800-841-2900 (TTY 711) to apply, update, or ask about programs for disabled children, including the Kaileigh Mulligan Program. (mass.gov)
Why this guide matters
- What you’ll get here: verified phone numbers, 2025 dollar amounts, clear deadlines, and practical steps for single moms raising disabled children in Massachusetts.
- What we fix: most search results skip real timelines, exact benefit caps, and plan‑B options when things get denied. This guide fills those gaps with current figures, direct contacts, and step‑by‑step checklists across health care, income, food, housing, school rights, transportation, and respite—plus region‑specific help.
- Reality check: approvals often take weeks, waitlists happen, and paperwork gets lost. We note typical timelines and common mistakes so you can pivot fast.
Start here
- Apply for MassHealth now: If your child has significant medical needs, apply for MassHealth and ask about MassHealth Standard, CommonHealth, or the Kaileigh Mulligan Program (parent income not counted for certain severely disabled children under 18). Call 800-841-2900 (TTY 711). (mass.gov)
- Request school evaluations today: Email your district to request a special education evaluation. After you sign consent, schools must finish testing within 30 school working days and meet within 45 school working days to decide eligibility and write an IEP. (doe.mass.edu)
- Secure food benefits: Apply for SNAP online; for help call DTA 877-382-2363. Ask to add medical expenses if anyone in your SNAP household is disabled—this can raise your benefit. (mass.gov)
- Use WIC if pregnant/with kids under 5: Call 800-942-1007 or apply online; 2025–2026 income limits are below. (mass.gov)
- Stop a housing crisis early: Apply for RAFT (up to $7,000 in a 12‑month period); if eligible for EA family shelter, call 866-584-0653 to apply and check a possible contact list wait. (mass.gov)
- Get rides to medical visits: Ask your child’s provider to submit a MassHealth PT‑1; approval typically takes up to 3 business days. (mass.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | Who It Helps | 2025 Key Dollar Limits or Caps | How to Apply | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MassHealth Standard/CommonHealth | Children with disabilities | Income rules vary; disabled children over standard limits may qualify via CommonHealth; parental income can be disregarded for certain children via Kaileigh Mulligan | Apply online or by phone | 800-841-2900 (TTY 711) (mass.gov) |
| Kaileigh Mulligan Program | Severely disabled children under 18 at home | Eligibility ignores parental income/assets; clinical level‑of‑care applies | Call MassHealth for screening | 800-841-2900 (TTY 800-497-4648) (mass.gov) |
| SNAP | Low‑income families | Max monthly amounts through Sep 2025; 4‑person max 975∗∗;min∗∗975**; min **23 | Apply via DTA Connect | 877-382-2363 (fns.usda.gov, mass.gov) |
| WIC | Pregnant/postpartum and kids under 5 | 2025–2026 monthly income limit for 3: $4,109 | Apply online or call | 800-942-1007 (mass.gov) |
| RAFT | Rent/utility arrears | Up to $7,000 in 12 months | Apply online; RAAs help | 211 / 877-211-6277 (mass.gov) |
| EA Family Shelter | Pregnant or with child <21, homeless | Income ≤ 115% FPG; centralized line | Phone or in‑person | 866-584-0653 (mass.gov) |
| PFML | Job‑protected paid leave | 2025 weekly max $1,170.64; up to 12–26 weeks depending on reason | DFML portal | See site (employer dependent) (mass.gov) |
| HEAP/LIHEAP | Heating help | Call the Cold Relief Heatline | Online or by phone | 800-632-8175 (mass.gov) |
| MBTA The RIDE | Paratransit service | ADA one‑way 3.35∗∗;Premium∗∗3.35**; Premium **5.60 | Apply via MBTA | 617-222-3200 (customer support) (mbta.com) |
Health coverage and in‑home support
MassHealth options for disabled children
- Most important first: apply for MassHealth and ask whether your child qualifies for MassHealth Standard, CommonHealth, or the Kaileigh Mulligan home‑care pathway if parental income is too high. The Kaileigh Mulligan Program lets certain severely disabled children under 18 qualify without counting parental income or assets. Call 800-841-2900 (TTY 800-497-4648). (mass.gov)
- CommonHealth: for individuals with disabilities whose income is above Standard limits; works even if you have private insurance. Some members pay income‑based premiums. Apply via the online application or by phone. (mass.gov)
- What’s covered: both Standard and CommonHealth include EPSDT for under 21, behavioral health services, durable medical equipment, transportation, and long‑term services like PCA when medically necessary. (mass.gov)
- Timelines: a complete application usually receives a decision within a few weeks; submit requested proofs quickly to avoid delays.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: ask for a case review, submit the Child Disability Supplement, and contact your local hospital’s financial counselor or a MassHealth Enrollment Assister. Call 800-841-2900 (TTY 711) to schedule help. (mass.gov)
MassHealth children’s care coordination, nursing, and personal care
- CARES for Kids: targeted care management for MassHealth members under 21 with complex needs to coordinate medical, school, state agency, and social supports. Ask your pediatrician or call MassHealth 800-841-2900 (TTY 711). (mass.gov)
- Community Case Management (CCM) and continuous skilled nursing: for members who need more than two continuous hours of in‑home nursing daily; CCM can coordinate skilled nursing and related services. Contact CCM at 800-863-6068 (email commcase@umassmed.edu) if your provider recommends it. (mass.gov)
- Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Program: consumer‑directed help with daily living tasks. Parents/guardians cannot be paid PCAs under federal law; another family member or friend can be hired. Apply through a Personal Care Management (PCM) agency; hours are set after an assessment and prior authorization. (mass.gov)
- 2025 PCA wage notes: statewide PCA rates were updated in 2025; contact your PCM for the current rate table. (mass.gov)
- Medical rides (PT‑1): ask your provider to submit a PT‑1 online; approvals typically take 1–3 business days and you’ll be assigned a broker (MART or GATRA) to schedule rides. Escorts (like a parent) can ride when approved. (mass.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: if PCA is denied or hours are cut, request an appeal in writing by the deadline on your notice and ask your PCM to help. For rides, call your broker if drivers are late; for urgent PT‑1 needs, your provider can check status or contact MassHealth to expedite. (mass.gov)
Early Intervention and autism services
- Early Intervention (EI): for birth–3. There is no out‑of‑pocket cost to families for EI services; anyone can refer by contacting the local EI program. Call the Early Intervention Division at 617-624-6060 or find your local program online. (mass.gov)
- DDS Children’s Autism Waiver (AWP): provides up to three years of intensive in‑home services (ABA and related supports) for eligible children (birth through age 9) with an annual Open Request period. For 2025, applications are accepted October 17–31, 2025 only. Watch Mass.gov for the September release of forms. (mass.gov)
- Pediatric Palliative Care Network (PPCN): free, home‑based support (including respite and complementary therapies) for children with life‑limiting conditions; no income test. Contact a regional provider (e.g., Care Dimensions 888-283-1722, Baystate 413-794-6411, etc.) from the PPCN list. (mass.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: if EI services feel too limited, ask for an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) meeting sooner and request specialty consults. If your child is near age 3, request a school evaluation in writing to avoid gaps.
Health coverage quick‑compare
| MassHealth Path | Key Eligibility Point | What It Can Pay For | Where To Start |
|---|---|---|---|
| MassHealth Standard | Financial eligibility for children | Full benefits incl. EPSDT, BH services, transportation, long‑term supports | MassHealth application |
| CommonHealth | Disability pathway even over income | Similar to Standard; premiums may apply | MassHealth application |
| Kaileigh Mulligan | Severe disability, under 18, parental income not counted | MassHealth eligibility and covered services | Call MassHealth 800-841-2900 |
| CARES for Kids | Under 21 with complex needs | Care coordination across systems | Ask pediatrician or MassHealth |
| PCA Program | Functional need for ADL/IADL help | Paid personal care hours (non‑parent PCAs) | Contact a PCM agency |
Sources: MassHealth program pages and regulations. (mass.gov)
Income you can use to stabilize your household
SSI for disabled children
- 2025 federal SSI amounts: max federal payment is $967/month for an individual; amounts vary with countable income and some states add supplements. Apply through Social Security. (ssa.gov)
- Tips: bring medical records, school IEPs, and evaluations to support functional limitations.
- Timeline: initial decisions can take several months; appeals are common.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your pediatric providers to write functional statements; consider filing for reconsideration. SSI approval can open doors to automatic MassHealth and SNAP adjustments. (ssa.gov)
Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)
- Care for a seriously ill child: up to 12 weeks of family leave; total PFML across reasons capped at 26 weeks per benefit year. 2025 maximum weekly benefit is $1,170.64. Use DFML’s estimator for your amount. A 7‑day unpaid waiting week typically applies. (mass.gov)
- How to apply: file through your employer or directly with DFML, upload medical certification from the child’s provider.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: ask about topping off with accrued PTO up to your Individual Average Weekly Wage; this is allowed for applications filed on/after November 1, 2023. (mass.gov)
Cash assistance if you need it
- TAFDC (for families with children or pregnancy): maximum monthly payments (private housing) range from 604∗∗forahouseholdof1to∗∗604** for a household of 1 to **1,925 for 10, issued in two deposits per month. Apply online; decisions generally within 30 days. (mass.gov)
- EAEDC (for certain disabled adults or those caring for a disabled person): program‑specific income limits vary by living arrangement; for example, the rest home rate includes the facility rate plus 72.80∗∗PNA.Ifcaringforadisabledpersonathome,thedisabledperson’sincomemustbe≤∗∗72.80** PNA. If caring for a disabled person at home, the disabled person’s income must be ≤ **1,500/month. (mass.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your DTA worker to screen for disability exemptions, transportation benefits, and child care referrals that support compliance and reduce sanctions.
Food security that fits special needs
SNAP for families that include a disabled member
- Maximum benefits through September 30, 2025 in the 48 states include a 975∗∗maximumforafamilyoffourandminimum∗∗975** maximum for a family of four and minimum **23 for small eligible households. Standard deduction for HH size 1–3 is 204∗∗;sheltercap∗∗204**; shelter cap **712; homeless deduction $190.30. Apply online or call DTA 877-382-2363. (fns.usda.gov)
- Massachusetts quick chart (selected values from DTA):
| Household Size | Max Monthly Income (screening) | Max Monthly SNAP Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,608 | $292 |
| 2 | $3,525 | $536 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $768 |
| 4 | $5,358 | $975 |
| 5 | $6,275 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $7,192 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $8,108 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $9,025 | $1,756 |
| Each additional | +$917 | +$220 |
Source: DTA SNAP eligibility page updated for FY2025. (mass.gov)
- If someone is disabled or 60+: report medical expenses over 35/month∗∗.Youcanself‑declareupto∗∗35/month**. You can self‑declare up to **190/month; over that, provide receipts—this can raise your benefit. Submit via DTA Connect or fax. (mass.gov)
- HIP produce match: as of September 1, 2025, HIP caps are 40/month∗∗forHH1–2,∗∗40/month** for HH 1–2, **60/month for HH 3–5, and $80/month for HH 6+. Use SNAP at participating farms to earn the match. (mass.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: call Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline 800-645-8333 or your local pantry while your case processes; ask DTA about expedited SNAP within 7 days if income and expenses qualify. (mass.gov)
WIC for pregnant/postpartum parents and kids under 5
- 2025–2026 income limits: for a household of 3, monthly limit 4,109∗∗;of4,∗∗4,109**; of 4, **4,957. WIC now supports online ordering pilots at select retailers to make pickups easier for caregivers. Call 800-942-1007. (mass.gov)
- Seasonal bonus: WIC families may also receive Farmers Market Nutrition coupons (2025 booklet $30 per family member over 4 months old). (mass.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: ask the clinic for a same‑day phone appointment and bring proof of participation in MassHealth/SNAP/TAFDC to speed income verification. (mass.gov)
Housing and utilities when disability raises costs
RAFT and EA family shelter
- RAFT emergency funds: up to $7,000 within 12 months for rent, utilities, moving, or mortgage help. Eligibility generally ≤ 50% AMI (or 60% AMI if at risk of DV). Apply online; RAAs can help if tech is a barrier. Call 211 for assistance. (mass.gov)
- EA family shelter: income must be ≤ 115% FPG, with specific homelessness reasons (no‑fault eviction, DV risk, disaster, substantial health/safety risk). Due to capacity limits, a contact list and prioritization process is in place statewide through at least November 9, 2025. Apply by phone 866-584-0653 or in person at listed offices. (mass.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: ask about HomeBASE, re‑ticketing to safe family housing, legal aid for eviction defense, and disability‑related prioritization such as having a family member with an intellectual/developmental disability or medical equipment requiring refrigeration (which can affect prioritization). (mass.gov)
Heat and utility help
- HEAP/LIHEAP: apply starting October 1 for the Nov 1–Apr 30 heating season. Call the Cold Relief Heatline 800-632-8175 or apply online. 2025 income limit examples (60% SMI): family of 3 79,470∗∗;of4∗∗79,470**; of 4 **94,608. Discounts for eligible electric/gas customers are automatic once enrolled. (mass.gov)
- HEARTWAP: emergency heating system repair/replacement for eligible households; call 800-632-8175 or your local agency. (mass.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your utility about medical hardship protections and winter shutoff moratoriums, and request a payment plan tied to LIHEAP approval.
School rights and timelines you can enforce
- Action item: send an email to the district’s special education office requesting an evaluation. After you give consent, the school must complete testing within 30 school working days, hold the team meeting and provide the proposed IEP/placement within 45 school working days, and provide evaluation summaries at least 2 days before the team meeting. If consent is signed close to summer, certain timelines extend up to 14 days after the end of school. (doe.mass.edu)
- Independent evaluations: if you disagree with the school’s testing, you can request a publicly funded Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE). Districts must either agree to fund or file with BSEA within 5 school days; after the IEE report is received, the team must reconvene within 10 school days. (doe.mass.edu)
- Dispute options: you can use mediation or file for a due process hearing; the BSEA has specific timelines for responses and resolution meetings. Phone 781-397-4750 for BSEA intake. (mass.gov)
Education timelines quick table
| Step | Deadline |
|---|---|
| District completes evaluations after consent | 30 school working days |
| Team meeting and proposed IEP/placement | Within 45 school working days of consent |
| Provide evaluation summaries to parent | At least 2 days before team meeting |
| IEE district response or filing | Within 5 school days of parent request |
| Team reconvenes after IEE received | Within 10 school days |
| Year‑end consent window | If consent within 30–45 school working days before school ends, IEP or ineligibility notice due within 14 days after year end |
Source: 603 CMR 28.05 and DESE policy memos updated June 2025. (doe.mass.edu)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: put missed deadlines in writing, copy the special education director, request mediation, and if needed file with BSEA. Save all emails and notices.
Transportation and access
- MassHealth PT‑1 rides: curb‑to‑curb for covered appointments. Processing typically 1–3 business days; you will get broker info to schedule rides, and one escort is allowed if approved. (mass.gov)
- MBTA Reduced Fare TAP Card: riders with disabilities get roughly 50% reduced fares; 10weeklyor10 weekly or 30 monthly LinkPass options. Apply online; approvals can take 6–8 weeks. (mbta.com)
- MBTA The RIDE paratransit: ADA one‑way 3.35∗∗;Premium∗∗3.35**; Premium **5.60. Personal care attendants ride free. Schedule 1–5 days in advance. (mbta.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: if PT‑1 is denied, ask your provider to update medical need and resubmit; if RIDE trips are often late, file a complaint with the broker and request eligibility review for door‑to‑door assistance.
Home modifications and equipment
- Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP): 0% interest, no monthly payment loans up to 50,000∗∗forhomeownersandupto∗∗50,000** for homeowners and up to **30,000 for owners of manufactured/mobile homes to make accessibility changes (ramps, bathrooms, sensory rooms, etc.). Repayment typically when you sell or transfer the home. Call 866-500-5599. (cedac.org)
- Assistive tech financing: AT Loan Program offers low‑interest loans for devices if HMLP doesn’t fit. (mass.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: apply to CICRF below to reimburse uncovered medically necessary modifications if your out‑of‑pocket costs reach the threshold.
When bills explode from medical care
- Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund (CICRF): reimburses uncovered medically related expenses for children under 22 when family out‑of‑pocket costs exceed 10% of the first 100,000∗∗ofincomeplus∗∗15100,000** of income plus **15%** of income above **100,000 within a 12‑month period (look back up to 24 months). Call 617-624-5951 or apply online. (mass.gov)
- Covered examples: specialist equipment, home/vehicle mods, travel for care, some therapies not covered by insurance; reimbursement is payor‑of‑last‑resort. Processing times vary. (mass.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: ask for help from the DPH Division for Children & Youth with Special Health Needs Community Support Line 800-882-1435 to explore other options. (mass.gov)
Local and regional help
- Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Family Support: call your DDS Area Office to request intake, eligibility, and family support navigation (including respite). Funding varies by region and is not published statewide; ask about your local Family Support Center. Examples:
- DDS Charles River West Area Office: 617-623-5950 (Somerville/Waltham/Watertown/Cambridge). Family Support Center: Bridges Homeward 617-876-4210. (mass.gov)
- DDS Lowell Area Office: 978-322-4300; Family Support Centers include Seven Hills 508-579-8995, Cambodian Mutual Assistance 978-454-6200. (mass.gov)
- DDS Fall River Area Office: 508-730-1209. (mass.gov)
- DDS Berkshire Area Office: 413-447-7381 (Pittsfield). (mass.gov)
- Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB): case management, flexible family support (subject to eligibility/funds), camperships; general info 617-727-5550, toll‑free 800-392-6450. (mass.gov)
- Division for Children & Youth with Special Health Needs: statewide resources, SSI/public benefits trainings, Family TIES; Community Support Line 800-882-1435. (mass.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing medical expense deductions on SNAP: families with a disabled member forget to report recurring costs over $35/month, leaving dollars on the table. (mass.gov)
- Waiting to request a school evaluation: services start with consent. Put it in writing and date it to lock in the 30/45‑day school deadlines. (doe.mass.edu)
- Assuming parental income makes MassHealth impossible: Kaileigh Mulligan may qualify your child regardless of your income if they meet clinical criteria. (mass.gov)
- Not using PT‑1: paying for rides out‑of‑pocket when MassHealth transportation can help. (mass.gov)
- Skipping HIP: not using the monthly HIP cap at farmers’ markets to stretch SNAP benefits on produce. (mass.gov)
Application checklist
- Identity and residency: photo ID; lease/utility bill.
- Income proofs: last 30 days of pay stubs; benefit letters (SSI, SSDI, child support); self‑employment logs.
- Medical/disability: provider letters, IEP/IFSP, therapy notes, hospital discharge summaries.
- Expenses: rent/mortgage, utilities, child care receipts, out‑of‑pocket medical costs (prescriptions, OTC supplies, mileage to appointments).
- School: dated evaluation request letters; prior IEPs; progress reports.
Realistic timelines
- SNAP: decision within 30 days; expedited within 7 days if you qualify. (mass.gov)
- MassHealth: varies; submit all verifications ASAP to avoid holds.
- PFML: a 7‑day waiting period before payments; total weeks vary by reason up to 26. (mass.gov)
- IEP process: 30 day evaluations, 45 day meeting/IEP, 2 days for evaluation summaries. (doe.mass.edu)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Your privacy and safety: ask MassHealth and DTA for a case note limiting disclosure; MBHHL offers affirming providers and interpreter services in 200+ languages. Phone: 833-773-2445. (mass.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Fastest route: apply for MassHealth (ask about CommonHealth/Kaileigh Mulligan), request PCA evaluation, and use PT‑1 for appointments. Phone: 800-841-2900. (mass.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Extra options: VA home modification grants and caregiver supports; a general VA line is 800-827-1000. Also check PFML for caregiving leave. (mass.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Important: SNAP is not part of a public charge test, and U.S. citizen kids can qualify even if parents are not eligible. Ask for free interpreters with MassHealth/DTA. Phone: DTA 877-382-2363. (mass.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Tip: ask your MassHealth plan and local DDS office if there are culturally specific providers and family support centers that work with Wampanoag or other Native families.
- Rural single moms with limited access: Use PT‑1 and check if telehealth can cover therapies; LIHEAP can lower heating costs, and MBTA programs may not apply outside service areas. Phone: Cold Relief 800-632-8175. (mass.gov)
- Single fathers: Note: all programs here are gender‑neutral. Eligibility is based on the child and household.
- Language access: Ask for interpreters: MassHealth and the BHHL provide no‑cost interpretation; use 711 for MassRelay if you are Deaf or hard of hearing. (mass.gov)
Tables you can use now
PFML benefits at a glance
| Item | 2025 Rule |
|---|---|
| Max weekly benefit | $1,170.64 |
| Waiting week | 7 days (unpaid) |
| Family leave to care for seriously ill family member | Up to 12 weeks |
| Combined annual max | Up to 26 weeks |
Source: DFML benefit pages. (mass.gov)
MBTA The RIDE fares
| Fare Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| ADA one‑way | $3.35 |
| Premium one‑way | $5.60 |
Note: PCAs ride free; premium fare may apply for late changes or service outside ADA zone. (mbta.com)
WIC income limits (June 5, 2025–June 30, 2026)
| Household Size | Monthly Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,413 |
| 2 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $4,957 |
| 5 | $5,805 |
Full table on Mass.gov; call 800-942-1007 to verify. (mass.gov)
LIHEAP 2025 example income limits (60% SMI)
| Household Size | Max Income |
|---|---|
| 3 | $79,470 |
| 4 | $94,608 |
Call the Cold Relief Heatline 800-632-8175 for your exact limit and agency. (mass.gov)
IEP timeline checkpoints you can cite in meetings
| Step | Must Happen By |
|---|---|
| Evaluations complete | 30 school working days after consent |
| Team meeting and proposed IEP | 45 school working days after consent |
| Evaluation summaries | 2 days before team meeting |
| IEE district response/file | 5 school days; reconvene within 10 school days after IEE received |
Cite 603 CMR 28.05 and DESE memos (June 2025). (doe.mass.edu)
Plan B for common roadblocks
- Denied MassHealth: appeal by the date on your notice, ask your child’s providers to submit new clinical info, and ask about Kaileigh Mulligan or CommonHealth. (mass.gov)
- SNAP too low: report shelter costs, dependent care, and all medical costs for any disabled member; DTA can adjust mid‑certification. (mass.gov)
- School won’t evaluate: send a dated letter again and reference 603 CMR 28.05; if still blocked, request mediation or file at BSEA. (doe.mass.edu, mass.gov)
- No rides showed: call your broker right away and report to MassHealth if chronic; ask your provider to update PT‑1 notes for assistance needs. (mass.gov)
FAQs (Massachusetts‑specific)
- What is the fastest way to get in‑home help for a child who needs hands‑on care?
Answer: Ask your provider to refer for a PCA evaluation through a PCM agency and submit MassHealth medical necessity. Parents/guardians can manage hiring; another relative/friend can be the paid PCA (but not a parent/guardian). (mass.gov) - My income is too high for MassHealth Standard—what now?
Answer: Apply for CommonHealth (disability pathway) or Kaileigh Mulligan if your child is severely disabled and under 18; parental income can be disregarded under Kaileigh Mulligan. (mass.gov) - How much SNAP could we get?
Answer: A 4‑person household’s FY2025 maximum is $975; your actual amount depends on income and deductions. Use DTA Connect or call 877-382-2363. (fns.usda.gov, mass.gov) - Can SNAP go up because of disability medical costs?
Answer: Yes—tell DTA about costs over 35/month∗∗;youcanself‑declareupto∗∗35/month**; you can self‑declare up to **190/month. Over that, submit receipts. (mass.gov) - Do I have to wait months for a school evaluation?
Answer: No. After you sign consent, testing must be done in 30 school working days and the IEP decision within 45 school working days. (doe.mass.edu) - How much PFML could cover time off to care for my child?
Answer: In 2025, the weekly max is $1,170.64 with up to 12 weeks of family leave (total PFML up to 26 weeks across reasons). (mass.gov) - What if we need shelter but the system is full?
Answer: EA uses a contact list and prioritization; keep your documents ready and respond by the stated deadline (often 12 p.m. next business day) when offered a space. Ask about HomeBASE. Call 866-584-0653. (mass.gov) - Is there help paying for accessibility renovations?
Answer: Yes—HMLP offers 0% loans up to 50,000∗∗(∗∗50,000** (**30,000 for manufactured homes), no monthly payments. Call 866-500-5599. (cedac.org) - Who coordinates complex care across doctors, school, and services?
Answer: MassHealth’s CARES for Kids can coordinate across systems for eligible children under 21; ask your pediatrician or MassHealth. (mass.gov) - Our expenses are overwhelming even with insurance—anything else?
Answer: CICRF may reimburse uncovered expenses once your out‑of‑pocket costs cross the 10% + 15% income threshold. Call 617-624-5951. (mass.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
Methodology: We use only primary sources such as Massachusetts state agencies (MassHealth, DESE, DDS, DTA, EOHLC), USDA FNS, and SSA. Every dollar figure and phone number above links to an official source and includes a citation. If you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we will review within 48 hours.
Editorial standards: We follow strict source‑verification, change‑tracking, and inclusivity guidelines. See our full editorial policy for how we vet numbers and update pages. (mass.gov)
Disclaimer
Accuracy and changes: Program rules, dollar amounts, and eligibility can change at any time. Always verify details with the relevant agency before you apply or act. This guide is for general information and is not legal advice, financial advice, or medical advice.
Security: Protect your personal information. Apply only through official government portals or verified nonprofits. If a website asks for fees to apply for public benefits, it is likely a scam.
Health content: For medical decisions, consult your licensed clinician. If you or your child are in crisis, call 911, the BHHL 833-773-2445, or 988 right now. (mass.gov)
Source highlights used in this guide
- MassHealth & children’s programs: CommonHealth, CARES, Kaileigh Mulligan, transportation, PCA rules. (mass.gov)
- SNAP 2025 COLA and DTA Massachusetts charts. (fns.usda.gov, mass.gov)
- PFML 2025 amounts and rules including top‑off. (mass.gov)
- IEP timelines and DESE policy memos. (doe.mass.edu)
- Housing and utility help: RAFT, EA Family Shelter, HEAP/LIHEAP. (mass.gov)
- Autism Waiver 2025 Open Request dates. (mass.gov)
- CICRF thresholds and contacts. (mass.gov)
- MBTA The RIDE fares. (mbta.com)
If something here doesn’t work for you, email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.
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Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Massachusetts
- 📋 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
