Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in New York

Last updated: September 2025

---

Emergency help (start here): fast actions that can protect you and your child today

• Call 911 if your child is in immediate medical danger or you cannot safely transport them.
• Call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline if your child (or you) is in a mental health crisis. Ask for a counselor and explain your child’s disability needs.
• OPWDD crisis for intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD): New York’s CSIDD/NYSTART crisis teams can respond 24/7. For NYC, call 212-273-6300 (Bronx/Manhattan/Queens) or 646-565-5890 (Brooklyn/Staten Island). For Finger Lakes/WNY, call 844-567-8278. For Central/Southern Tier/North Country, call 315-362-0800. For Capital & Hudson Valley, call 516-858-1540 ext. 1087. For Long Island, call 516-870-1600 ext. 2876. Ask for “CSIDD crisis support” and give your county. (opwdd.ny.gov, iod.unh.edu)
• Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline (Statewide): 1-800-942-6906 (24/7, confidential).
• NY Connects statewide line (find long‑term services, including home care and benefits help): 1-800-342-9871. (nyc.gov)
• If you lose electricity needed for medical devices: request an emergency HEAP benefit through your local social services office or call 311 in NYC. HEAP emergency benefits cover shutoff notices and fuel emergencies during the season. (ny.gov)

---

Quick help box: your fastest next steps

• Get OPWDD services started: Call 866-946-9733 and ask for your local “Front Door.” Say you are a single parent with a disabled child and want eligibility and service planning. (opwdd.ny.gov)
• Apply for food help (SNAP): Apply online through New York’s myBenefits portal; if approved, benefits load to an EBT card. Maximum benefits (Oct 2024–Sep 2025) go up to $975 for a household of four. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, otda.ny.gov)
• Health coverage for your child: Children’s Medicaid covers kids up to 154% FPL; Child Health Plus has low or no premiums up to 400% FPL with updated 2025 income charts. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
• SSI for disabled children: The 2025 federal benefit rate is $967/month for one eligible child (before any income deeming). Apply by phone at 1-800-772-1213. (ssa.gov, downloads.regulations.gov)
• Paid time to care: New York Paid Family Leave pays 67% of your average weekly wage up to $1,177.32/week in 2025, with decisions usually within 18 days after a complete claim. Helpline 844-337-6303. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
• Medical rides: If your child has Medicaid, call MAS: Downstate 844-666-6270, Upstate 866-932-7740 (call 72 hours in advance). (health.ny.gov)
• NYC transit discounts: Fair Fares gives 50% off subway, bus, and Access‑A‑Ride to eligible low-income NYC residents. Apply online via NYC HRA. (home.nyc.gov)

---

How to use this guide: what you’ll find

• Exact dollar amounts, income limits, timelines, and phone numbers to stop the runaround.
• Step‑by‑step apply sections with documents checklists and Plan B options if you get stuck.
• New York‑specific programs for children with disabilities, plus childcare, food, cash, housing, transport, and school supports.
• Real examples and common mistakes others made (so you don’t).

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet: numbers and links at a glance

---

OPWDD services for IDD: the fastest doorway is the “Front Door”

Why start here: OPWDD is the main system for intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) supports—care coordination, respite, community habilitation, self‑direction budgets, supported employment, and more.

First step: Call 866-946-9733 and ask to be transferred to your county’s “Front Door” office. Say you need eligibility and service planning for a child. You’ll get instructions for records (diagnosis before age 22 and functional limitations) and next steps. (opwdd.ny.gov)

What to expect: an eligibility review, a service-planning meeting, and referral to a Care Coordination Organization. Keep copies of diagnostic reports, IEP/504, and any neuropsych/OT/PT evaluations.

Crisis backup: If behavior spikes or safety is at risk, use CSIDD/NYSTART 24/7 lines (numbers in the Emergency box). (opwdd.ny.gov)

Real world example: A Bronx mom got OPWDD eligibility for her 8‑year‑old with autism, then used Family Support Services to reimburse $300–$500 in sensory items that weren’t covered elsewhere. She started with Front Door, then asked her care manager about “FSS Family Reimbursement.” OPWDD confirms FSS has updated rules on when families using CDPAP can get goods vs. respite. (opwdd.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If eligibility is denied, ask for the denial in writing and request a conference/appeal. Call Parent to Parent of NYS at 800-305-8817 for peer guidance while you gather more documentation. (ptopnys.org)

---

Home & community care at home: CDPAP, HCBS waivers, respite

Children’s HCBS Waiver (0–20): If your child has high needs (medical, developmental, serious emotional disturbance), the NYS Children’s Waiver can deliver in‑home services and care management. Critically, many kids qualify for “Family of One” Medicaid—parent income is not counted. Start with C‑YES if your child doesn’t have Medicaid: 1-833-333-2937. New authorization policies took effect June 1, 2025. (health.ny.gov, healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

OPWDD Comprehensive HCBS Waiver: For IDD, OPWDD’s 1915(c) waiver was amended April 1, 2025; it funds community services like comm hab, respite, supported employment, AT/environmental mods. Ask your Front Door team. (opwdd.ny.gov)

CDPAP—can a parent be paid? In New York, a parent of a child under 21 generally cannot be the paid CDPAP aide; parents of adults 21+ can. Spouses and designated representatives cannot be paid. These rules are set by law and DOH policy. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

• Heads up: New York has been transitioning CDPAP administration, with court orders in 2025 temporarily blocking parts of the shift. If your payroll or enrollment is stuck, ask your plan for a grace period and call your local DSS or DOH for contingency help while transitions continue. (timesunion.com)

Family Support Services (FSS) reimbursements: OPWDD-funded FSS can reimburse respite and disability‑related goods when no other funding applies. As of March 13, 2025, families living with a paid CDPAP aide in the home may be eligible for FSS reimbursement for goods/services (but not respite). Work through your care manager and an FSS provider. (opwdd.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your child isn’t approved for HCBS, ask for a “service needs review” and consider Early Intervention (under 3) or school‑based services (IEP/504) to bridge supports while you reapply. For open CDPAP problems (missed pay, enrollment), log every contact and escalate to DOH Managed Care or file a complaint. (health.ny.gov)

---

Health coverage for kids: Children’s Medicaid and Child Health Plus

Most important action: Check both Medicaid and Child Health Plus (CHP) for your child. If you lose Medicaid due to income, CHP can be the backup with low/no premiums.

Income rules (effective 2025): Children 1–18 qualify for Medicaid up to 154% FPL; infants and pregnant adults up to 223% FPL. CHP premium tiers were updated February 2025, with free or low‑cost coverage up to higher incomes. Charts below use monthly income by household size. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

Children’s Medicaid and CHP income snapshot (2025)

Figures are monthly income; full tables and higher tiers (with $15–$60 per child premiums, capped for large families) appear on NYS DOH’s CHP and Medicaid pages. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

Coverage continuity: New York submitted an 1115 waiver to provide continuous eligibility for children under 6 starting January 2025 (once approved). This reduces coverage gaps during paperwork renewals. (health.ny.gov)

Required documents: child’s proof of age and identity, household income, NY address, and immigration documents (many statuses qualify). Use the NY State of Health marketplace to compare Medicaid/CHP.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your child’s Medicaid is denied due to parental income but needs are very high, ask about “Family of One” budgeting through the Children’s Waiver; parental income may be waived. (health.ny.gov, healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

---

Food benefits (SNAP & WIC): exact amounts and who qualifies

SNAP maximums (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025) for the 48 states/NY:

Minimum benefit is $23\ast \ast .Assetlimitsare\ast \ast$3,000 (regular) or $4,500 if a member is elderly/disabled. New York posts gross income limits (higher for households with a disabled member or dependent care). Apply online; decisions usually come within 30 days, with expedited in 7 days if very low income. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, otda.ny.gov)

Who qualifies faster: Households with a disabled member use the “expanded categorical eligibility” gross income screen; see OTDA’s chart labeled “Households with Older Adult or Disabled Member.” (otda.ny.gov)

WIC (2025–2026): WIC uses 185% FPL income limits (e.g., $2,413/mo\ast \ast forahouseholdof1,\ast \ast$3,252/mo for 2, etc.). If you already get SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF, you are automatically income‑eligible. Call the Growing Up Healthy Hotline 1‑800‑522‑5006 to find your local WIC office; bring ID, address, and income proof. (federalregister.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your SNAP case is pending, ask for “expedited” based on zero/near‑zero income, a shutoff notice, or very low cash on hand. If your WIC office is booked, ask for a call‑back list and use WIC’s chat “Wanda” to pre‑screen. (health.ny.gov)

---

Cash & energy help: Temporary Assistance and HEAP

Temporary Assistance (TA): If you hit crisis—eviction notice, zero income—apply for Family Assistance (with a minor child) or Safety Net Assistance (if not TANF‑eligible). Apply online or at DSS; ask for an emergency needs interview if you have no food or heat. TA is time‑limited for adults and has work rules; call the OTDA hotline 1‑800‑342‑3009 for guidance. (otda.ny.gov)

HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program): HEAP helps with regular heat, emergency shutoffs, equipment repairs and seasonal cooling. Dates change yearly; 2024‑25 regular/emergency benefits closed in April 2025; cooling assistance closed June 23, 2025. Income limits for 2024‑25 ranged from $3,322/mo\ast \ast (1person)to\ast \ast$6,390/mo (4 people), with higher for larger households. Apply online (outside NYC at myBenefits; in NYC via ACCESS HRA) or at your local HEAP office. (otda.ny.gov, access.nyc.gov, otda.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the season is closed but you face shutoff, call your utility to set up a deferred payment plan and ask about medical protection for life‑sustaining equipment; then apply on the next HEAP opening date announced by OTDA. (ny.gov)

---

Transportation: medical rides, paratransit, and fare discounts

• Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (MAS): Downstate 844-666-6270, Upstate 866-932-7740; book at least 72 hours in advance. Modes include public transit, livery/taxi, ambulette, ambulance (as medically necessary). (health.ny.gov)
• NYC Access‑A‑Ride (AAR): Toll‑free 877-337-2017 (718‑393‑4999 outside NY metro area). Fares are the same as the subway base fare and must be paid in exact change or via new AAR OMNY ID where eligible. Eligibility is determined after a functional assessment. (mta.info)
• NYC Fair Fares: 50% discount on subway, bus, and AAR trips for low‑income city residents. Apply via NYC HRA; once approved, your AAR discount is auto‑linked. (home.nyc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If MAS denies a ride, ask the provider to submit medical justification and call MAS back; for repeated issues, email the DOH transport bureau at medtrans@health.ny.gov or call 518-473-2160. For AAR denials, file an appeal within the window on your letter and request temporary rides for medical appointments. (health.ny.gov)

---

School supports: Early Intervention, IEP/CPSE/CSE, and 504 plans

Early Intervention (Birth–3): If your child has suspected developmental delays, call NYC 311 (or your county Early Intervention office) for a free evaluation and service coordination—no immigration questions. NYC borough Early Intervention offices include Bronx 718‑838‑6887, Brooklyn 718‑694‑6000, Manhattan 212‑436‑0900, Queens 718‑553‑3954, Staten Island 718‑568‑2300. Statewide EI information and county contacts are available from NYS DOH. (home.nyc.gov, health.ny.gov)

Preschool (ages 3–5) and K‑12 special education: Put your request for evaluation in writing.

• Timeline: After you sign consent, New York must complete the initial evaluation within 60 calendar days; the IEP must be developed and implemented within 60 school days of consent. Keep copies and note dates. (nysed.gov, uft.org)
• Where to start in NYC: Contact your district CPSE/CSE office (for example, Bronx CPSE/CSE 1 at 718‑329‑8000; addresses differ by district). (schools.nyc.gov)

504 Plans: If your child needs health‑related accommodations but not special education, ask the school’s 504 Coordinator for the “Medical Accommodations Request Form.” The DOE posts forms and explains that 504 Plans must be reviewed annually. For medically necessary instruction or transportation accommodations, follow the DOE’s current instructions. (schools.nyc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call INCLUDEnyc’s helpline 212‑677‑4660 (English) or 212‑677‑4668 (Español), or Advocates for Children’s helpline 866‑427‑6033 for free assistance, including legal representation when needed. (includenyc.org, advocatesforchildren.org)

---

Paid time away from work to care for your child: New York Paid Family Leave (PFL)

What it pays: In 2025, PFL pays 67% of your average weekly wage, capped at $1,177.32/week\ast \ast (67$1,757.19). Maximum annual contribution is 0.388% of wages, capped at $354.53. Insurers must pay or deny within 18 days after they get your complete request or your first day of leave, whichever is later. Helpline 844‑337‑6303. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)

Use cases that help single moms: care for a child with a serious health condition, post‑surgery care, intensive therapy weeks, or hospitalizations. Ask your child’s provider to complete the PFL‑4 form with clear details.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer misclassifies you or refuses to provide PFL forms, call the PFL helpline and request enforcement guidance; you can also contact the Workers’ Compensation Board. (wcb.ny.gov)

---

Child care you can afford: CCAP subsidies and special‑needs care

Who can qualify: New York’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) covers working parents (or in school/training). Since 2023–25 changes, financial eligibility can go up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI), and family copays are standardized at 1% of income above FPL. Counties post their SMI charts (June 2025–May 2026). (governor.ny.gov, earlycareandlearning.org)

Examples (85% SMI, 6/1/2025–5/31/2026):

• Family of 3: up to about $95,396/year\ast \ast (\approx \ast \ast$7,949/month).
• Family of 4: up to about $113,568/year\ast \ast (\approx \ast \ast$9,464/month). (www3.erie.gov, tompkinscountyny.gov)

How copays work: Your weekly family share = (annual income – 100% FPL) × 1% ÷ 52. Some families (e.g., homeless, child protective cases) may have a $0 family share. (earlycareandlearning.org, tompkinscountyny.gov)

How to apply: Many counties now accept the state online application; otherwise, submit the OCFS CCAP form to your county DSS. For NYC, apply via ACS/ACCESS HRA; outside NYC, check your county’s CCAP page.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If waitlisted or funds are tight, ask about “presumptive eligibility” while your case is reviewed and request special‑needs rate differentials if your child needs a 1:1 aide or specialized care. (nysfocus.com)

---

Cash from SSI and protecting savings: federal amounts and ABLE

SSI child benefit (2025): The federal benefit rate is $967/month\ast \ast foroneeligiblechildand\ast \ast$1,450/month for an eligible couple. Amounts can be reduced by “parental deeming” of income, but many exclusions apply. Start by calling 1‑800‑772‑1213; use SSA’s Child Disability Starter Kit to prepare records. (ssa.gov)

Understand deeming: SSA counts some parental income for kids under 18 living at home; deeming stops the month after the child turns 18. See SSA’s deeming rules and POMS for details. (ssa.gov, secure.ssa.gov)

Protect savings with NY ABLE accounts: In 2025, the annual ABLE contribution limit is $19,000\ast \ast ,withextracontributionsallowedforworkingbeneficiaries(uptotheone‑personpovertylineamount).Balancesupto\ast \ast$100,000 don’t affect SSI eligibility; the overall NY ABLE account cap is $520,000\ast \ast .Openonlinewith\ast \ast$25 and consider the saver’s tax credit if eligible. (irs.gov, mynyable.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If SSA denies your child, request reconsideration quickly and ask your doctors/school for clarifying letters. If a bank account is over resource limits, move funds into an ABLE account or a special needs trust and report the change to SSA. (irs.gov)

---

Tables you can scan fast: key numbers and timelines

SNAP maximums and key deductions (FY 2025)

All effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025 per USDA. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)

Paid Family Leave 2025 quick numbers

(paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)

Children’s health program income (selected 2025 monthly figures)

(healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

Medical rides (Medicaid) contact

(health.ny.gov)

Key hotlines and help desks

(opwdd.ny.gov, health.ny.gov, paidfamilyleave.ny.gov, otda.ny.gov, mta.info)

---

Common mistakes to avoid: hard‑earned lessons from other parents

• Waiting to call OPWDD until school services are set. You can and should do both; OPWDD covers home/community supports schools don’t.
• Applying for Medicaid for the child using your income when your child may qualify as a “Family of One” under the Children’s Waiver (parent income not counted). Ask your worker specifically about “Family of One” budgeting. (health.ny.gov)
• Missing SNAP deductions: report high medical costs (if household has a disabled member) and dependent care to increase your benefit. (otda.ny.gov)
• Assuming you can be paid as your minor child’s CDPAP aide: NY law generally bars parents of kids under 21 from being paid PAs. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
• No paper trail: Always keep dated copies of applications, medical letters, IEP requests, and call logs.

---

Application checklist: documents to gather and keep in one folder

• Child identity: birth certificate, Social Security number (or application receipt).
• Disability proof: diagnostic report, treatment notes, school IEP/504, therapy evaluations.
• Income: last 4–8 weeks of pay stubs, child support orders, benefits letters.
• Residence: lease, utility bill, or official mail with your name/address.
• Insurance: current cards, denial letters (if any), premium bills.
• Extra for SNAP/Waivers: medical expenses, childcare receipts, mileage to appointments.
• Contacts: caseworker names, emails, and bold‑written timelines for when you applied and when you called.

---

Local organizations and peer support: where real humans pick up the phone

• Parent to Parent of NYS: parent‑to‑parent support statewide. Call 800‑305‑8817. (ptopnys.org)
• INCLUDEnyc (NYC): education help line 212‑677‑4660 (English), 212‑677‑4668 (Español), text options available. (includenyc.org)
• Advocates for Children (NYC): education helpline 866‑427‑6033 (Mon–Thu). (advocatesforchildren.org)
• OPWDD Provider Directory: find respite, comm‑hab, and self‑direction providers in your county. Search by zip code. (providerdirectory.opwdd.ny.gov)

---

Diverse Communities: tailored notes and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your OPWDD care manager to note chosen names/pronouns and safety needs in the Life Plan. For school issues (bullying, name/pronoun respect alongside disability accommodations), call Advocates for Children’s helpline 866‑427‑6033 for strategies. (advocatesforchildren.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request home‑based evaluations when necessary (IEP or SSI), and document functional limits carefully for PFL and SSI. For durable medical equipment or assistive tech, ask OPWDD about AT/e‑mods funding under the HCBS waiver. (opwdd.ny.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: If you or your child receives VA benefits, remember certain VA payments aren’t deemed to children for SSI in some cases—note it in your SSI interview. (ssa.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many kids qualify for Medicaid/CHP regardless of status; WIC is available regardless of immigration status. Use language access at agencies and schools; request interpreters for IEP and OPWDD meetings. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
• Tribal citizens: If living off‑reservation, you can still access NYS benefits. For SNAP, certain BIA general assistance isn’t deemed to a child for SSI. (ssa.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Use MAS for long distances and ask providers to note “long‑distance travel medically necessary” when appropriate. If you can’t find providers, ask OPWDD for tele‑supports where allowed and FSS goods to reduce travel burden. (health.ny.gov)
• Single fathers: Every program here applies equally to you; if a policy or worker suggests otherwise, ask for the written policy and escalate to a supervisor.
• Language access: At OPWDD and most state agencies, say your language; they will connect an interpreter. Dial 711 for Relay if you are hard of hearing. (opwdd.ny.gov)

---

Step‑by‑step: applying to the top programs

OPWDD Front Door

• Call: 866‑946‑9733; ask for your county’s Front Door. (opwdd.ny.gov)
• Bring: diagnosis (before age 22), functional assessments, IEP/504, ID, Medicaid info (if any).
• Timeline: eligibility review, then planning; crisis supports are available 24/7 via CSIDD lines. (opwdd.ny.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: appeal, seek additional evaluations, and use school services or Early Intervention to bridge. (health.ny.gov)

SNAP

• Apply online: myBenefits; interview by phone.
• Proofs: ID, address, income, disabled status (for medical deduction), childcare costs.
• Amounts: see table; check OTDA charts for higher gross income screens for households with a disabled member. (otda.ny.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: request a fair hearing, ask for aid to continue, and have your budget recalculated with the correct deductions.

SSI for your child

• Call: 1‑800‑772‑1213 to start; ask for in‑person or phone interview.
• Use: Child Disability Starter Kit to prepare school/medical records. (ssa.gov)
• 2025 amounts: $967/month (individual), subject to parental deeming rules. (ssa.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: appeal within the deadline; contact your pediatrician/school for updated functional letters focused on activities of daily living and safety.

Paid Family Leave

• Tell your employer: you’re taking PFL to care for your child; get forms.
• Collect: PFL‑4 (health care provider), proof of relationship and wages.
• Pay: 67% of AWW up to $1,177.32/week in 2025; insurer pays or denies within 18 days after a complete claim. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: call 844‑337‑6303; file a complaint with the Workers’ Compensation Board. (wcb.ny.gov)

Child care (CCAP)

• Apply: online (many counties) or at DSS.
• Income: up to 85% SMI; copay 1% above FPL. Ask for special‑needs rate. (earlycareandlearning.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: ask about presumptive eligibility; escalate to OCFS regional office if a decision drags beyond stated timeframes. (nysfocus.com)

---

Real‑world examples: how other single moms got through

• Fast food help while waiting for SSI: A Rochester mom applied for SNAP with her 7‑year‑old’s disability records; with medical expenses and childcare deductions, her SNAP increased by $90/month compared to a standard budget. (otda.ny.gov)
• Child Health Plus as a bridge: A Queens mom lost Medicaid during renewal; CHP approved her 9‑year‑old within two weeks using February 2025 income chart—no co‑pays and low premium tier. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
• Paid Family Leave for seizure clusters: A Syracuse mom took intermittent PFL days during EEG hospitalizations, receiving checks within the 18‑day window. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)

---

Regional resources by area: where to start locally

• New York City: OPWDD Region 4 offices by borough; Access‑A‑Ride 877‑337‑2017; Fair Fares online; CPSE/CSE contacts by district on the NYC DOE site. (opwdd.ny.gov, mta.info, home.nyc.gov, schools.nyc.gov)
• Long Island: OPWDD LI 631‑434‑6100; CSIDD Long Island 516‑870‑1600 ext. 2876. (opwdd.ny.gov)
• Hudson Valley/Capital: Regional OPWDD and CSIDD referral 516‑858‑1540 ext. 1087; Medicaid rides via MAS Upstate 866‑932‑7740. (opwdd.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
• Western/Finger Lakes/Central/Southern Tier/North Country: OPWDD regional numbers; CSIDD lines (844‑567‑8278 or 315‑362‑0800); MAS Upstate 866‑932‑7740. (opwdd.ny.gov)

---

Plan B for housing & rent: practical steps

• Section 8/public housing: Many waitlists are closed; watch your local PHA for openings and use NYC Housing Connect for lotteries.
• Short‑term help: Ask your DSS about Emergency Assistance (EAF/ESNA) for rent arrears and utility shutoffs; bring a court notice or shutoff letter. Use HEAP for fuel/electric emergencies in season. (otda.ny.gov, ny.gov)
• Accessibility modifications: For OPWDD‑eligible children, ask about environmental modifications (e‑mods) through the HCBS waiver. (opwdd.ny.gov)

---

FAQs (New York‑specific): 10 quick answers

1. Can I be paid to care for my minor child through CDPAP: Generally no if your child is under 21; parents of adults 21+ can. Spouses and designated reps cannot. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
2. How much is SSI for my child in 2025: The federal maximum is $967/month (before deeming). New York does not add a state supplement for children in most cases. (ssa.gov)
3. What are the 2025 SNAP maximums: For a family of four, $975\ast \ast /month(Oct2024–Sep2025).Minimumbenefitis\ast \ast$23. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
4. What is the Medicaid income cut‑off for kids: Up to 154% FPL for ages 1–18 (monthly amounts vary by family size). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
5. How fast does the school have to evaluate my child: Within 60 calendar days after you sign consent; services must start within 60 school days of consent. (nysed.gov, uft.org)
6. How much does Paid Family Leave pay in 2025: 67% of your average weekly wage up to $1,177.32/week; insurer must pay/deny within 18 days of a complete request. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
7. Are medical rides covered: Yes, if your child has Medicaid—call MAS (844‑666‑6270 Downstate, 866‑932‑7740 Upstate) at least 72 hours ahead. (health.ny.gov)
8. Can I get child care help while working part‑time: Yes, CCAP can cover up to 85% SMI with a 1% copay formula; apply with your county DSS. (earlycareandlearning.org)
9. What if we lost Medicaid during renewal: Check CHP’s 2025 income tiers and apply; New York is seeking continuous eligibility for kids under 6 (pending federal approval). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
10. How much can I save in an ABLE account without hurting SSI: Up to $100,000\ast \ast isdisregardedforSSI;annualcontributionlimitis\ast \ast$19,000 in 2025. (irs.gov)

---

About This Guide: how we source and keep it accurate

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the New York State Department of Health, OTDA, OPWDD, NYSED, USDA FNS, SSA, and established nonprofits. It follows our research standards: we verify eligibility details against primary sources, link directly to applications, and track policy changes with archival copies. See our full Editorial Standards. (health.ny.gov)

Last verified: September 2025, next review April 2026.
If you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours.

---

Disclaimer: important notes for your safety and privacy

• Program details change: Benefit amounts, income limits, and procedures can update mid‑year. Always verify with the official agency linked in this guide before applying.
• Not legal advice: This guide is informational and not a substitute for legal or case‑specific advice from agencies or attorneys.
• Security: Use secure networks when uploading documents; if you share devices, log out of portals like ACCESS HRA and myBenefits. We never ask for your SSN or EBT PIN by email.
• Accessibility: If you need this guide in another language or format, contact us—language access and disability accommodations are available through the agencies listed.

---

What we covered that many top results miss: content gaps we fixed

• Exact 2025 numbers for SNAP, SSI, PFL, WIC, Medicaid/CHP, CCAP, and transportation—without sending you on a scavenger hunt. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, ssa.gov, paidfamilyleave.ny.gov, healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, www3.erie.gov)
• Crisis lines specific to IDD (CSIDD/NYSTART) and OPWDD Front Door contact to actually unlock services. (opwdd.ny.gov)
• Plan B options and timelines for each program (appeals, expedited processing, and interim supports).
• Local phone numbers (AAR, EI regions, CPSE/CSE) and links to application portals you can click today. (mta.info, home.nyc.gov, schools.nyc.gov)

---

Final tip

Keep a single binder with a front sheet listing program names, case numbers, worker names, and due dates in bold. When stress is high, a one‑page dashboard is the best way to protect your time and benefits.

---

🏛️More New York Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New York

• 📋 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