Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in North Dakota (2025 Ultimate Guide)

Last updated: September 2025

---

Quick Emergency Help

• Call: 911 for any life‑threatening emergency.
• Mental health crisis line: 988 (call or text). For ND details, see FirstLink 988 page. (myfirstlink.org)
• Find urgent local help (shelter, food, bills, transportation): dial 211 or 701‑235‑7335 (FirstLink). Text your ZIP to 898‑211. See FirstLink Get Help Now. (myfirstlink.org)
• ND Health & Human Services Customer Support Center (Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, CCAP, LIHEAP, transportation): 1‑866‑614‑6005, 701‑328‑1000, TTY 711; email applyforhelp@nd.gov; see Apply for Help. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation for Medicaid members (ask about rides, meals, lodging): call Customer Support Center 1‑866‑614‑6005 or email applyforhelp@nd.gov (title your email “Medicaid Travel”). See the Medicaid Member Handbook and NEMT page. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Quick Help Box

• Fastest first step: apply online for benefits at the state portal, or call the Customer Support Center if you need a person to walk you through it. Use the Self‑Service Portal or dial 1‑866‑614‑6005. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Food today + application help: find a pantry or Mobile Food Pantry via Great Plains Food Bank “Get Help”, and get SNAP application help by calling 1‑855‑405‑0000. (greatplainsfoodbank.org, hhs.nd.gov)
• Special‑needs navigation for families: call Family Voices of ND (701‑493‑2634 or 1‑888‑522‑9654) and Pathfinder Services of ND (Parent Training and Information Center, 701‑837‑7500). (fvnd.org)
• Early Intervention (birth–3): contact your regional Human Service Center’s Developmental Disabilities team (see Early Intervention contacts). (hhs.nd.gov)
• School IEP help: start with your school and the ND Department of Public Instruction Special Education page, and call Pathfinder PTI (701‑837‑7500) for coaching. See NDDPI Special Education and Pathfinder Services of ND. (nd.gov, pathfinder-nd.org)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Where to Start)

---

Why this guide is different

What you’ll find here: verified 2025 income limits, maximum benefit amounts, exact phone numbers, and step‑by‑step actions specific to North Dakota—with realistic timelines, common pitfalls, and “Plan B” options. All numbers and rules below link directly to official ND or federal sources, reflecting updates effective through August–September 2025 per those agencies’ pages and notices. See citations at the end of each section.

---

Programs that most single moms of children with disabilities qualify for first

Medicaid for Children, Children with Disabilities “Buy‑In,” and EPSDT

Most important first step: apply for ND Medicaid coverage for your child. Children with disabilities in ND can qualify in three ways—regular children’s Medicaid (by age/income), Children with Disabilities coverage (up to 250% FPL with a 5% monthly premium), and EPSDT/Health Tracks services that fill in medically necessary care.

• Children’s Medicaid income limits effective April 1, 2025: Age 0–5 at 152% FPL and age 6–18 at 138% FPL. Monthly limits are posted by family size (example: family of 3: age 0–5 up to $3,376\ast \ast ;age6–18upto\ast \ast$3,065). See the full chart at ND HHS. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Children with Disabilities coverage (Medicaid “buy‑in”): families up to 250% FPL can enroll a child under 19 who meets SSA disability criteria. Premium equals 5% of household gross income per month; there is no asset limit; children can have private insurance too. Income limits effective April 1, 2025 (example: family of 3 up to $5,553\ast \ast /month;familyof4upto\ast \ast$6,698/month). (hhs.nd.gov)
• EPSDT/Health Tracks: all Medicaid‑enrolled kids up to age 21 get comprehensive screening, dental, vision, hearing, and all medically necessary follow‑up services, even when not typically covered for adults. Learn more at ND Health Tracks. (hhs.nd.gov)

How to apply: Online via the Self‑Service Portal or call 1‑866‑614‑6005 to apply by phone or request a mailed application. If you need in‑person help, visit your local Human Service Zone office listed on HHS (or ask the call center to connect you). (hhs.nd.gov)

Documents to gather: ID, SSNs, proof of ND residency, income for the last 30 days, child’s medical documentation supporting disability (for the Children with Disabilities coverage), and health insurance information if any. (See ND Medicaid eligibility page for details and options if over income but with high medical bills/client share.) (hhs.nd.gov)

Typical timeline: eligibility decisions are generally made within several weeks; call 1‑866‑614‑6005 if you have urgent medical needs so your case notes reflect urgency. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Family Voices of ND (701‑493‑2634 or 1‑888‑522‑9654) for navigation help and appeal tips; ask HHS about client‑share coverage for high medical needs; consider applying for SSI (see below) and ask your providers to document medical necessity for EPSDT. (fvnd.org, hhs.nd.gov)

Table — Children’s Medicaid and Children with Disabilities (2025)

---

Home & Community‑Based Services (HCBS) Waivers for Children

Most important first step: call ND HHS Medical Services Division and ask which children’s waiver best matches your child’s needs, then request an assessment.

• Autism Spectrum Disorder Waiver (birth–17): provides case management, respite, supplies, and more to keep kids at home; 2025 ND public notice proposed increasing age eligibility to through age 20, raising provider rates, and increasing slots (proposals pending CMS approval). Contact Children’s Waiver Administrator (701) 328‑4630, dhsautism@nd.gov. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Children with Medically Fragile Needs Waiver (ages 3–17): offers case management, in‑home supports, equipment/supplies, dietary supplements, modifications, respite, and non‑medical transportation. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Children’s Hospice HCBS Waiver: supports families when a child meets hospice criteria. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Traditional ID/DD HCBS Waiver (all ages): for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities meeting ICF/IID level of care; services include habilitation, environmental mods, equipment/supplies, infant development, parenting support, and more. (hhs.nd.gov)

How to start: call Medical Services Division (701) 328‑7068 or (800) 755‑2604, TTY 711, or email dhsmed@nd.gov to ask for a children’s waiver screening; see the ND Medicaid Waivers page for current approvals and public notices. (hhs.nd.gov)

Realistic timeline: eligibility review and slot availability can take weeks to months. Ask to be placed on any applicable waitlist and request written confirmation. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask HHS about 1915(i) options or other state plan services, check whether EPSDT can fund comparable services, and contact Family Voices of ND (1‑888‑522‑9654) for problem‑solving. (hhs.nd.gov, fvnd.org)

---

CHIP “Healthy Steps” (when you’re over Medicaid but still need coverage)

Why it matters: if family income is above children’s Medicaid limits but not too high, your uninsured child may qualify for CHIP coverage.

• CHIP income limits (effective April 1, 2025): up to 205% FPL (5% disregard included). Example monthly limits: family of 2 $3,614\ast \ast ;familyof3\ast \ast$4,553; family of 4 $5,493; see full chart at ND HHS. Questions go to 1‑866‑614‑6005. (hhs.nd.gov)

How to apply: apply online through the state portal or get help via your local Human Service Zone. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask about the Children with Disabilities coverage (buy‑in up to 250% FPL) or explore a marketplace plan with cost‑sharing reductions if eligible. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Food and Nutrition

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

Most important first step: apply online, then call Great Plains Food Bank if you want free help finishing the application or submitting documents.

• Income limits and maximum benefits for FY 2025 (Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025): ND shows gross income thresholds and maximum monthly allotments. For example, max benefit is $975\ast \ast for4,\ast \ast$1,158 for 5, $1,756\ast \ast for8;200$5,200/month. See ND SNAP tables. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Application help: Great Plains Food Bank SNAP Outreach 1‑855‑405‑0000; email SNAP@greatplainsfoodbank.org. (hhs.nd.gov)

How to apply: use the Self‑Service Portal or request a paper form via the Customer Support Center 1‑866‑614‑6005. (hhs.nd.gov)

Realistic timeline: routine applications typically process within a few weeks; if little/no income and urgent need, ask about expedited service. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: use 211 to locate food pantries; check Mobile Food Pantry dates and locations through Great Plains Food Bank Mobile Food Pantry. (greatplainsfoodbank.org)

Table — SNAP FY 2025 Maximum Monthly Allotments (Lower 48)

---

WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children)

Most important first step: call your nearest WIC clinic (or 1‑800‑472‑2286) to schedule an intake. In‑person enrollment is required, but the visit is quick and benefits load to a WIC card right away.

• Income guidelines: effective May 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026, a family of 4 may qualify up to $4,957\ast \ast /month(or\ast \ast$59,478/year). See the full ND WIC income table and clinic phone list. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Monthly fruits/veggies Cash‑Value Benefit (final federal rule): children $26\ast \ast ;pregnant\ast \ast$47; partially/fully breastfeeding $52. See USDA WIC Works food package tables. (wicworks.fns.usda.gov)

How to apply: use the Apply for WIC page to find the exact phone number for your county (examples: Fargo 701‑277‑1455, Bismarck/Mandan 701‑255‑3397). (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your clinic about breastfeeding peer counselors, formula options during supply issues, and referrals to pantries; call 211 to find additional food resources. (myfirstlink.org)

---

Cash Assistance, Child Care, and Work Supports

TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

Most important first step: apply online and ask about North Dakota’s updated rules. Since 2023, ND increased its TANF “standard of need” to 50% of the Federal Poverty Level and removed the “pay‑after‑performance” delay so eligible families can access cash sooner. (hhs.nd.gov)

• How benefits are calculated: ND bases the monthly benefit on the TANF Basic Standard of Need (linked to 50% FPL), minus countable income and certain deductions. A 2024 state example showed a family of 3 eligible for around $492/month after reforms; current benefits vary by household, income, and allowable expenses. (hhs.nd.gov)

How to apply: apply at the TANF page or call the Customer Support Center 1‑866‑614‑6005. For work services, ND partners with JOBS providers after approval. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask if you qualify for TANF Kinship Care (if caring for a relative child), SNAP, and LIHEAP; talk with Vocational Rehabilitation about employment supports that fit your child’s care schedule. See ND VR contact below. (hhs.nd.gov)

Table — 2025 TANF Reference (How ND figures the benefit)

---

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

Most important first step: apply and ask for help estimating your co‑pay. ND extended eligibility periods to 18 months, reduced co‑pays for many families, and pays providers up to state maximums (with additional incentives). (hhs.nd.gov)

• Income limits (effective Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025): family of 3 up to $6,462\ast \ast /month;familyof4upto\ast \ast$7,694/month. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Maximum state provider rates (monthly, full‑time): centers can be paid up to $1,278\ast \ast forinfants,\ast \ast$1,243 toddlers, $1,040\ast \ast preschool,\ast \ast$855 school‑age. (hhs.nd.gov)

How to apply: use the CCAP page or call the Customer Support Center 1‑866‑614‑6005. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask providers if they accept CCAP and if they have special‑needs experience; call Pathfinder PTI for inclusive childcare advocacy; check Bright & Early ND for quality‑rated programs. (hhs.nd.gov)

Table — CCAP 2025 Snapshot

---

Getting to medical care

Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for Medicaid

Most important first step: if your child is on Medicaid, call the Customer Support Center to arrange a ride at least 3 business days ahead. Family/friends can enroll as paid NEMT providers. See the NEMT chapter for contacts and rules (meals/lodging when needed, out‑of‑state travel when approved). (hhs.nd.gov)

Who to call: Customer Support Center 1‑866‑614‑6005; provider enrollment handled by Noridian (701) 277‑6999. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your child’s clinic for medical necessity letters; request authorization in writing; if denied, ask how to appeal and call Family Voices ND for tips. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

School and early childhood supports

Early Intervention (birth to age 3) and Right Track

Most important first step: refer your child if you have any concerns (speech, movement, social, learning). Evaluations are free, and services are delivered at home with coaching for you.

• Contact: call your regional Human Service Center’s Developmental Disabilities team (see the Early Intervention page with all phone numbers). Examples: West Central (Bismarck) 701‑328‑8888; Southeast (Fargo) 701‑298‑4500. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Right Track: free developmental screening, follow‑along, and ideas for families birth–3; request the program via Developmental Disabilities at (701) 328‑8930 or 1‑800‑755‑8529 (TTY 711). (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: call Pathfinder Services of ND (701‑837‑7500) for parent‑to‑parent support and help advocating for services. (pathfinder-nd.org)

Special Education (IEP, ages 3–21)

Most important first step: write a short letter/email to your principal asking for a special education evaluation; attach any medical reports and examples of need (behavior logs, failed vision/hearing screen, etc.).

• Your rights and dispute options: see NDDPI’s Special Education page for procedural safeguards, IEP facilitation, mediation, complaints, or due process; Protection & Advocacy can advise; the Parent Training & Information Center is Pathfinder Services of ND (701‑837‑7500). (nd.gov)
• Practical coaching: PTI can help you prepare for meetings, draft parent concerns, and understand evaluations and IEP goals. (pathfinder-nd.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: request an IEP facilitation or mediation through the state; escalate to a state complaint if timelines or services are missed; call Pathfinder for strategy. (nd.gov)

---

Disability income and savings

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for a disabled child

Most important first step: if your child’s disability severely limits daily functioning, apply for SSI; it can open doors to Medicaid and other supports.

• 2025 federal benefit rate (FBR): individual up to $967\ast \ast /month;eligiblecouple\ast \ast$1,450/month; ND does not add a state supplement. (ssa.gov)
• Parental deeming: SSA counts part of a parent/stepparent’s income until the child turns 18; rules are detailed in SSA’s “Spotlight on Deeming.” (ssa.gov)

How to apply: start online at SSA or call 1‑800‑772‑1213 (TTY 1‑800‑325‑0778) to schedule an appointment; bring medical and school records.

What to do if this doesn’t work: appeal on time (keep deadlines), ask doctors and school to update documentation, and consult Family Voices ND for navigating the process. (fvnd.org)

ABLE disability savings accounts (for kids and adults)

Key reality: North Dakota does not run its own ABLE program. ND residents open ABLE accounts with other states’ plans. The Bank of North Dakota provides guidance and comparison tools. (bnd.nd.gov)

• Where to start: see BND’s ABLE resource page and the National ABLE Resource Center to compare plans. Many plans allow online certification for guardians. ABLE balances are excluded for Medicaid and mostly for SSI (first $100,000 disregarded). (bnd.nd.gov, nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: if an ABLE plan struggles to accept ND guardianship documents, try a different state plan that supports online certification per BND’s guidance. (bnd.nd.gov)

---

Housing help in 2025

Important update: ND’s pandemic‑era Housing Stabilization/ND Rent Help program is ramping down in 2025 as federal ARPA funds end. New homelessness rehousing applications stopped March 15, 2025, and many services sunset by late 2025. Eviction prevention assistance may be available depending on funding. Call NDHS Housing Stabilization (701) 328‑1907 or dial 211 for local alternatives. (hhs.nd.gov)

Plan B now: apply for local Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) through your area housing authority (e.g., Fargo HRA 701‑293‑6262, Grand Forks HRA 701‑746‑2545, Minot HRA 701‑852‑0485, Burleigh County HRA 701‑255‑2540). A compiled list of ND housing authority contacts is available via regional agencies. (greatplainsha.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask 211 to screen for deposit assistance, legal eviction defense, utility shutoff protections, and local city/county funds; talk with your child’s school social worker about McKinney‑Vento supports.

---

Health programs worth knowing

• Special Health Services (SHS) Financial Coverage Program: “gap‑filler” for diagnostics/treatment for children and youth with special health care needs up to age 21; income limits adjust annually; contact (800) 755‑2714 or see the SHS page for eligibility and covered services. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Women’s Way (free breast/cervical cancer screening) for eligible women; 2025 income guidelines example: family of 4 up to $5,358.33/month. See Women’s Way eligibility. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Regional and state contacts you’ll use often

• Customer Support Center (all applications, case questions): 1‑866‑614‑6005, 701‑328‑1000, TTY 711; applyforhelp@nd.gov. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Developmental Disabilities Regional Offices (for Early Intervention/children’s DD questions): see full list with phones for Bismarck, Devils Lake, Dickinson, Fargo, Grand Forks, Jamestown, Minot, Williston on HHS. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Vocational Rehabilitation Regional Offices (transition‑age youth services): Fargo 701‑298‑4459, Bismarck 701‑328‑8800, Grand Forks 701‑795‑3100, Minot 701‑857‑8642, Williston 701‑774‑4662, Jamestown 701‑253‑6388, Dickinson 701‑227‑7600, Devils Lake 701‑665‑2235. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Parent support and navigation: Pathfinder PTI 701‑837‑7500; Family Voices of ND 701‑493‑2634/1‑888‑522‑9654. (pathfinder-nd.org, fvnd.org)

---

Tables you can screenshot

Table — 2025 Children’s Health Coverage Income Limits (monthly)

Table — 2025 WIC Income Guidelines (May 1, 2025 – Jun 30, 2026)

Table — CCAP State Provider Rate Maximums (full‑time monthly, effective Jul 1, 2024)

Table — 2025 SSI Key Numbers

---

Real‑world example

Scenario: You’re working 32 hours/week, making $17/hour, with two kids—one is 8 with autism and high therapy needs.

• Children’s Medicaid: your family’s gross is about $2,176\ast \ast everytwoweeks(\ast \ast$4,712/month). Age 6–18 Medicaid (138% FPL) at family of 3 allows $3,065\ast \ast /month,soyour8‑year‑oldlikelyneeds\ast \ast ChildrenwithDisabilities\ast \ast coverage(250$5,553). Premium equals 5% of income (~$236/mo), less any private insurance premium you pay. (hhs.nd.gov)
• ASD Waiver: call Medical Services to request screening; ask about respite and service management while on a waitlist (if any). (hhs.nd.gov)
• SNAP: if rent, childcare, and deductions bring net income down, you may still qualify; apply and have Great Plains Food Bank help. Max for 3 is $768 if zero income—your actual amount depends on deductions. (hhs.nd.gov)
• CCAP: with monthly gross near $4,712\ast \ast ,you’rebelowthe3‑personcap(\ast \ast$6,462). Apply and ask to estimate your co‑pay. (hhs.nd.gov)
• School: request an IEP evaluation in writing; call Pathfinder (701‑837‑7500) to prep. (pathfinder-nd.org)

---

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing documentation: don’t submit an application without proof of income for the last 30 days, IDs, and your child’s medical/therapy summaries. Keep a single folder for copies.
• Guessing income: list gross pay correctly (before taxes); if hours vary, include paystubs covering fluctuations.
• Not asking for EPSDT: if your child needs something unusual (extra therapy sessions, specialized equipment), explicitly say it’s medically necessary under EPSDT.
• Skipping appeals: if denied, file an appeal before the deadline and ask what evidence can fix the issue.
• Waiting on rides: schedule Medicaid transportation at least 3 days before appointments; ask about hotel/meals if travel is far.
• Not using local allies: call 211, Family Voices, Pathfinder, and your regional Human Service Center—free, real help is available. (hhs.nd.gov, myfirstlink.org, fvnd.org)

---

Application checklist (print and use)

• Photo ID for you and any other adult in the household.
• Social Security numbers (or proof of application) for household members.
• Proof of ND residency (lease, utility bill, mail).
• Income proof for last 30 days (paystubs, child support, unemployment, SSI/SSDI letters).
• Child’s medical documentation (diagnoses, IEP/IFSP, therapy plans) if applying for Children with Disabilities coverage or waivers.
• Health insurance information (cards and premiums).
• Bank/asset info if requested (TANF/ABD Medicaid may ask).
• Contacts list (doctors, therapists, school contacts) for quick calls during processing.

---

Diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: ask local clinics for inclusive providers; Pathfinder and Family Voices serve all families; report any discrimination to HHS or your clinic’s patient advocate. Plan B: call 211 to locate affirming mental health and parent groups. (myfirstlink.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Vocational Rehabilitation can help you find or keep a job with accommodations that fit caregiving; call (800) 755‑2745 or your regional VR office for student/youth services. Plan B: ask for school transition planning starting by age 16 via NDDPI. (hhs.nd.gov, nd.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: ask VA for caregiver and EFMP‑like supports; for community navigation, call 211 to identify local veteran‑friendly programs. Plan B: ND VR also serves veterans with disabilities alongside VA care. (myfirstlink.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: many programs are open to qualified non‑citizens; SNAP has special rules. Call Customer Support 1‑866‑614‑6005 or Refugee Resettlement via HHS for help. Plan B: WIC eligibility is based on income/nutrition risk regardless of immigration status. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: contact your tribal housing authority and health services (e.g., Turtle Mountain Housing 701‑477‑5673; Fort Berthold Housing 701‑627‑4731), and your local IHS unit for care coordination; for state waivers/Early Intervention you still access ND HHS regional offices. Plan B: call 211 for reservation‑area partner lists. (greatplainsha.com)
• Rural single moms with limited access: use the Medicaid NEMT program for long‑distance specialty care (ask about meals/lodging). Mobile Food Pantries regularly serve rural towns—check schedules. Plan B: request telehealth visits and school‑based therapy where possible. (hhs.nd.gov, greatplainsfoodbank.org)
• Single fathers: all programs above also apply; WIC can serve dads, grandparents, or caregivers of eligible kids under 5. Plan B: Great Plains Food Bank and 211 do not require a specific family composition. (hhs.nd.gov, myfirstlink.org)
• Language access: HHS offers free translation for Medicaid calls and many documents; ask for an interpreter when you call 1‑866‑614‑6005. Plan B: Pathfinder offers resources in multiple languages and can point to translated materials. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Local organizations and support

• FirstLink 211: ND’s 24/7 helpline for resources and crisis support; dial 211 or 701‑235‑7335; text ZIP to 898‑211. (myfirstlink.org)
• Great Plains Food Bank: pantries, mobile distributions, and SNAP application help (1‑855‑405‑0000). (hhs.nd.gov)
• ND Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health: parent‑run support (701‑222‑3310, 1‑888‑621‑7096). (ndffcmh.org)
• Pathfinder Services of ND (PTI): education rights and family coaching (701‑837‑7500). (pathfinder-nd.org)
• Family Voices of ND (F2F): health system navigation and peer support (701‑493‑2634, 1‑888‑522‑9654). (fvnd.org)

---

Region‑by‑region quick phones (Human Service Centers)

• West Central (Bismarck): 701‑328‑8888 (Toll‑free 1‑888‑328‑2662)
• Southeast (Fargo): 701‑298‑4500 (Toll‑free 1‑888‑342‑4900)
• Northeast (Grand Forks): 701‑795‑3000 (Toll‑free 1‑888‑256‑6742)
• North Central (Minot): 701‑857‑8500 (Toll‑free 1‑888‑470‑6968)
• Northwest (Williston): 701‑774‑4600 (Toll‑free 1‑800‑231‑7724)
• South Central (Jamestown): 701‑253‑6300 (Toll‑free 1‑800‑260‑1310)
• Badlands (Dickinson): 701‑227‑7500 (Toll‑free 1‑888‑227‑7525)
  Source: HHS regional pages. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

Timelines and what to expect

• Medicaid/CHIP: several weeks from a complete application; coverage can be retroactive in some cases—ask when you apply. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Children’s waivers: allow time for level‑of‑care assessments and slot assignment; keep calling monthly for status updates. (hhs.nd.gov)
• SNAP: allow a few weeks; if urgent, ask about expedited processing. (hhs.nd.gov)
• WIC: typically active on the day of your in‑person enrollment. (hhs.nd.gov)

---

FAQs (North Dakota‑specific)

1. Where do I apply for multiple programs at once: Use ND’s Apply for Help portal or call 1‑866‑614‑6005 to apply for Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, and CCAP together. (hhs.nd.gov)
2. My child is over Medicaid income but has high medical bills: Ask about “client share” coverage for high medical needs and the Children with Disabilities buy‑in up to 250% FPL (5% premium). (hhs.nd.gov)
3. Does ND cover ABA therapy for autism: Yes, under Medicaid policy; for coordinated services consider the ASD Waiver (respite, service management). Contact the Children’s Waiver Administrator (701) 328‑4630. (hhs.nd.gov)
4. We live rural—how do we get to specialists: Medicaid NEMT can pay family/friends as drivers and may cover meals/lodging for medically necessary travel when authorized. Call 1‑866‑614‑6005. (hhs.nd.gov)
5. Can older teens get coverage: youths who age out of foster care remain Medicaid‑eligible to age 26; CHIP covers uninsured kids through the month they turn 19. (hhs.nd.gov)
6. How much could SNAP pay my household: maximums (if zero income) range from $292\ast \ast (1person)to\ast \ast$1,756 (8 people) for FY 2025. Actual benefits depend on deductions (rent, utilities, child care). (hhs.nd.gov)
7. What does TANF pay now: ND ties the standard of need to 50% FPL and calculates your benefit after subtracting countable income/expenses; call 1‑866‑614‑6005 to estimate your family’s amount. (hhs.nd.gov)
8. Can I get child care help while job‑hunting or in training: Yes; CCAP helps when working or in approved training/education, with 2024–25 enhancements reducing many co‑pays. (hhs.nd.gov)
9. How can I save money for my child without losing benefits: use an ABLE account (open in another state’s plan; ND provides guidance). Balances up to $100,000 are ignored for SSI resource limits; Medicaid eligibility isn’t affected. (bnd.nd.gov)
10. Who can help me if I’m denied or stuck: Family Voices of ND (1‑888‑522‑9654), Pathfinder PTI (701‑837‑7500), or the HHS Customer Support Center (1‑866‑614‑6005). (fvnd.org, pathfinder-nd.org, hhs.nd.gov)

---

What to do if applications are delayed or denied

• Call the Customer Support Center with your case number; ask what exact document is missing and how to upload it.
• Request supervisory review if you believe rules were applied incorrectly.
• File an appeal using the HHS appeal form noted on each program page; appeals are time‑sensitive—watch your mail.
• Ask advocates to review your file: Family Voices, Pathfinder, and in education cases, NDDPI’s dispute resolution options. (nd.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
Our commitment: this hub uses only official state/federal sources (ND Health & Human Services, NDDPI, USDA, SSA, HUD/local housing authorities, and established nonprofits) and is maintained per our Editorial Standards. We verify links, quote eligibility from official materials, and update promptly when policies change. This guide is not affiliated with any government agency and is not legal advice. Individual outcomes vary.

Last verified: September 2025 • Next scheduled review: April 2026

---

Disclaimer

Program details change: always confirm income limits, benefit amounts, and submission addresses with the relevant agency before applying. We link directly to official sources and note effective dates where provided.

Health and safety: this guide is informational and not medical or legal advice. For emergencies, dial 911. For mental health crises, dial 988.

Security: to protect your information, only submit documents through official ND HHS portals, mail addresses, or verified emails/phones listed here. If you see a broken link or error, email info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it quickly, per our editorial policy.

---

Sources (selected)

• Children’s health coverage and client‑share: ND Medicaid Eligibility (children, ABD, client share). Effective dates April 1, 2025. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Children with Disabilities coverage (250% FPL, 5% premium): ND Medicaid publications page. Effective April 1, 2025. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Medicaid HCBS waivers: ND Medicaid Waivers overview and handbook pages, waiver services and contacts. Autism waiver public notice June–July 2025. (hhs.nd.gov)
• CHIP “Healthy Steps”: income limits effective April 1, 2025. (hhs.nd.gov)
• SNAP income limits and maximum allotments (FY 2025): ND SNAP page and publications. (hhs.nd.gov)
• WIC: ND income guidelines (May 1, 2025 – Jun 30, 2026); USDA WIC Works CVB amounts. (hhs.nd.gov, wicworks.fns.usda.gov)
• CCAP: 2024–25 enhancements, income limits, and provider rate maximums. (hhs.nd.gov)
• TANF: increase to 50% FPL standard of need; benefit calculation references; application page. (hhs.nd.gov, nd.gov)
• NEMT: ND Medicaid handbook chapters and newsletters with ride setup and provider enrollment contacts. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Special Education/IEP: NDDPI Special Education; dispute resolution options. (nd.gov)
• Family Voices of ND: contacts and services. (fvnd.org)
• Pathfinder Services of ND (PTI): contacts and services. (pathfinder-nd.org)
• ABLE accounts: Bank of North Dakota ABLE resource page; ND Medicaid policy manual references. (bnd.nd.gov, nd.gov)
• Housing stabilization wind‑down: ND HHS program updates and FAQs (2025). (hhs.nd.gov)
• SSI 2025: SSA COLA page and Red Book “What’s New in 2025”. (ssa.gov)

---

What to do next: start your application in the ND portal, put the bolded phone numbers into your contacts, and call one ally today (Family Voices or Pathfinder) so you have a second set of eyes on your forms.

---

🏛️More North Dakota Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Dakota

• 📋 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