Wyoming EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This Wyoming‑specific guide gives you straight answers, current dollar amounts, links to official sources, and practical steps to get every credit you qualify for. It covers 2024 returns filed in 2025 and, where available, 2025 figures so you can plan ahead.

Quick help box (start here)

• Need free, in‑person tax help? Call the IRS VITA/TCE locator at 800‑906‑9887 or AARP Tax‑Aide at 888‑227‑7669 to book free prep near you. These programs help with EITC, CTC, and more. Details: IRS free tax help page. (eitc.irs.gov)
• Filing yourself online for free? Use IRS Free File (AGI ≤ $84,000) or IRS Direct File (Wyoming is supported). Direct File supports EITC, CTC, CDCC, PTC and more for simple returns. (irs.gov)
• Federal EITC (2024): up to $7,830\ast \ast with3+kids;incomelimitsdependonfamilysize.2025planning:upto\ast \ast$8,046. Use the IRS EITC Assistant to check fast. See IRS EITC tables and press fact sheet. (irs.gov)
• Child Tax Credit (CTC) for 2024 returns (filed in 2025): up to $2,000\ast \ast perchildunder17;upto\ast \ast$1,700 per child may be refundable (ACTC). IRS Schedule 8812 instructions and IRS refundable credits page. (irs.gov)
• Refund timing reality check: If you claim EITC or ACTC, by law the IRS can’t issue your refund before mid‑February; most early filers see money by around March 3 (direct deposit, error‑free). Track it in “Where’s My Refund?” IRS timing page. (irs.gov)
• Wyoming has no state income tax and therefore no state EITC/CTC. Focus on federal credits and property‑tax relief programs listed below. State’s official “About Wyoming” page. (wyo.gov)

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Why this guide is different (and better than most search results)

• It shows 2024 filing-season numbers and 2025 planning figures side‑by‑side, with links to the IRS pages that set those amounts.
• It adapts everything to Wyoming—no state income tax, so we dive into real Wyoming property‑tax relief and give you the state phone number (307‑777‑7320) and deadlines.
• It gives fast action steps, realistic timelines, “what to do if this doesn’t work,” and direct phone numbers/links so you don’t have to hunt around.
• Every dollar figure is sourced to an official government page (IRS, WY Department of Revenue, CMS/HHS). No guesses, no fluff.

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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What Wyoming single moms should claim first

1) Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

Most impactful credit for working parents. If you worked in 2024, check eligibility even if your income was low or you don’t owe tax.

• 2024 max credit: up to $7,830\ast \ast (3+kids),\ast \ast$6,960 (2 kids), $4,213\ast \ast (1child),\ast \ast$632 (no kids). 2025 planning: up to $8,046 (3+ kids). See full tables and income limits at IRS. (irs.gov)
• 2024 income limits (Head of Household): under $59,899\ast \ast (3+),\ast \ast$55,768 (2), $49,084\ast \ast (1),\ast \ast$18,591 (no kids). 2025 planning limits: $61,555\ast \ast ,\ast \ast$57,310, $50,434\ast \ast ,\ast \ast$19,104. (irs.gov)
• Investment income must be ≤ $11,600\ast \ast (2024)and\le \ast \ast$11,950 (2025). (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
• Refund timing: due to federal law, early EITC/ACTC refunds generally release by about March 3 if you e‑file and choose direct deposit and the return is error‑free. Track it in Where’s My Refund?. (irs.gov)

How to apply (fast path)

• File a federal return (Form 1040/1040‑SR). If claiming a child, attach Schedule EIC. You can e‑file free with IRS Free File or IRS Direct File. (irs.gov)
• Get free help at VITA/TCE or AARP Tax‑Aide: call 800‑906‑9887 (VITA/TCE) or 888‑227‑7669 (Tax‑Aide). (eitc.irs.gov)
• Unsure if you qualify? Use the IRS EITC Assistant. (irs.gov)

Required documents

• Photo ID, SSNs for you and children, all W‑2/1099s, proof your child lived with you (school, medical, or childcare records), daycare provider info (if claiming CDCC), bank routing/account for direct deposit. See IRS EITC publication for specifics. (irs.gov)

Real‑world example (2024 filing)

• Head of household, 2 kids, earned income $23,000\ast \ast .BasedontheIRStable,you’renearthemaximumEITCof\ast \ast$6,960 for two kids (exact amount depends on AGI and phase‑out; check the IRS table/assistant for your precise number). (irs.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Filing with the wrong filing status (Head of Household rules are strict).
• Claiming a child who doesn’t meet the residency or SSN rules.
• Forgetting that investment income over the cap disqualifies EITC.
• Using an unverified paid preparer who refuses to sign your return. See IRS EITC due‑diligence reminders. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If your EITC was denied in a prior year, you may need Form 8862 to claim again. VITA/TCE or an LITC can help fix issues or appeal. Use the LITC directory or call TAS at 877‑777‑4777. (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)

2) Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)

• For 2024 returns: up to $2,000\ast \ast perqualifyingchildunder17;upto\ast \ast$1,700 per child may be refundable (ACTC). Phase‑out begins at $200,000 (Single/HOH). Use Schedule 8812. (irs.gov)
• For 2025: watch for IRS updates. As of September 2025, IRS has not announced a higher CTC for 2025; verify when 2025 Schedule 8812 instructions post. (irs.gov)

How to apply

• File Form 1040 and Schedule 8812. Check the refundable portion and understand the mid‑February refund hold if you also claim ACTC. (irs.gov)

Required documents

• SSNs for each child, birth certificates if needed, proof of residency and relationship (school/medical records, custody papers). See Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)

Reality check

• Refunds with ACTC are held until mid‑February. Most early filers see deposits by about March 3 if error‑free. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If you don’t qualify for CTC (child is 17+ or lacks an SSN), you may qualify for the nonrefundable Credit for Other Dependents (up to $500). See Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)

3) Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCC)

If you paid for childcare so you could work or look for work, this nonrefundable credit can still lower your tax.

• Claim up to $3,000\ast \ast inexpensesfor1childor\ast \ast$6,000 for 2+; percentage is 20%–35% depending on your income (2024 rules). File Form 2441. (irs.gov)
• You’ll need your childcare provider’s name, address, and TIN (Form W‑10 can help you collect it). (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If your tax is already zero and you can’t use a nonrefundable credit, make sure you claimed EITC/CTC/ACTC and the Premium Tax Credit if you had Marketplace coverage. (irs.gov)

4) Saver’s Credit (if you put even a little into retirement)

• Worth 10%–50% of up to $2,000\ast \ast youcontributedtoaretirementplan(\ast \ast$4,000 if married filing jointly). 2024 AGI ceilings: HOH ≤ $57,375\ast \ast ;Single\ast \ast \le$38,250. 2025 ceilings: HOH ≤ $59,250\ast \ast ;Single\ast \ast \le$39,500. Claim on Form 8880. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If nonrefundable credits don’t help this year, still consider small contributions for future years; this credit stacks with EITC/CTC when you have tax due. (irs.gov)

5) Premium Tax Credit (health insurance bought on HealthCare.gov)

Wyoming uses the federal Marketplace (HealthCare.gov). The Inflation Reduction Act kept enhanced subsidies through 2025: there’s no strict upper‑income cap if the benchmark premium would exceed 8.5% of income. Reconcile on Form 8962. (irs.gov, cms.gov)

• If your 2024 income changed, report it to the Marketplace to avoid owing back APTC. See IRS Topic 612 and Publication 974 for how it’s calculated. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If employer coverage is “affordable,” you may be ineligible. Affordability thresholds adjust yearly (for 2025 plan years, employee‑only affordability is 9.02% of household income). (irs.gov)

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Wyoming property‑tax relief for homeowners (important if you own)

Wyoming has no state income tax credit, but the state does offer a Property Tax Refund Program (PTR) that can put real money back in your pocket.

Key points

• Refund up to 75% of your property‑tax bill, capped at ½ the county median residential tax. You must have paid your taxes “timely.” Annual application; deadline is the first Monday in June. (wyo-prop-div.wyo.gov)
• Income must be ≤ the greater of 125%–145% of your county or state median household income (DOR posts a yearly sheet). Assets generally ≤ the DOR limit per adult (home, one car per adult, and retirement accounts excluded). Check the current DOR brochure and median tables before you apply. (revenue.wyo.gov, docs.google.com)
• Refunds are issued between April 1 and September 30 (processing window). Apply online at WPTRS or through your County Treasurer. State program phone: 307‑777‑7320. (revenue.wyo.gov)

Table: 2024 county median property tax (half‑median cap reference)

Source: WY DOR “2024 Median Property Tax Calculations.” Your individual refund is the lesser of 75% of your tax or ½ the county median; income/assets apply. (docs.google.com)

How to apply (PTR)

• Go to the DOR PTR page and follow the “2024 Online Application” link (or pick up a paper form at your County Treasurer). If you’re stuck, call 307‑777‑7320. (revenue.wyo.gov)

Required documents

• Proof of full payment, tax bill, household income documents (W‑2s, 1099s, Social Security, etc.), and an asset listing as of December 31. See DOR PTR FAQ. (revenue.wyo.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing proof of payment; incomplete income/asset documentation; mailing after the deadline. DOR will send a deficiency letter and you have 14 days to fix it; after Sept 30, late fixes may fail. (revenue.wyo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask your County Assessor about the county‑option Property Tax Deferral (currently authorized in Teton County) or the Veterans’ Exemption ($6,000 assessed value). Contact your County Assessor; program details are on DOR’s Tax Relief page. (wyo-prop-div.wyo.gov)

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Filing options in Wyoming (free, fast, safe)

• Free in‑person help: VITA/TCE (800‑906‑9887) and AARP Tax‑Aide (888‑227‑7669). Ask for EITC/CTC review. (eitc.irs.gov)
• Free online filing: IRS Free File (AGI ≤ $84,000) or IRS Direct File (Wyoming supported). (irs.gov)
• Need IRS office help? IRS TAC appointment line 844‑545‑5640; Casper TAC has reopened. Use “Contact Your Local Office” via the TAC locator. Deaf/HoH TTY/TDD 800‑829‑4059. (irs.gov)

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Tables you can use now

Table 1 — Federal EITC amounts and income caps

Source: IRS EITC tables (English & Spanish). (irs.gov)

Table 2 — 2024 Child Tax Credit (filed 2025)

Source: IRS Schedule 8812 instructions; IRS refundable credits page. (irs.gov)

Table 3 — Child & Dependent Care Credit (2024 rules)

Source: IRS Topic 602; Publication 503. (irs.gov)

Table 4 — Saver’s Credit income ceilings

Source: IRS news/Pub 571; verify using Form 8880 instructions. (irs.gov)

Table 5 — Wyoming Property Tax Refund program (at a glance)

Source: WY DOR PTR page & FAQs. (revenue.wyo.gov)

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Step‑by‑step: file right and get your refund faster

• Gather documents:
  • Government ID, SSNs/ITINs, W‑2/1099s, proof your child lived with you (school/medical/daycare records), daycare provider details (Form W‑10), Marketplace Form 1095‑A (if applicable), and bank info for direct deposit.
• Choose your free filing method:
  • IRS Free File (≤ $84,000 AGI), IRS Direct File (Wyoming supported), or in‑person VITA/TCE 800‑906‑9887 / AARP Tax‑Aide 888‑227‑7669. (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
• Double‑check credits:
  • EITC (Schedule EIC if you have kids), CTC/ACTC (Schedule 8812), CDCC (Form 2441), Saver’s Credit (Form 8880), Premium Tax Credit reconciliation (Form 8962). (irs.gov)
• E‑file + direct deposit; expect up to 21 days for non‑EITC returns; if you claimed EITC/ACTC, expect funding by early March if you filed early, deposit selected, and no errors. Use “Where’s My Refund?” for updates. (irs.gov)

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• You must file a tax return to get EITC/CTC, even if your income is low. Credits like EITC/ACTC do not count as income for federal benefits and are excluded as a resource for at least 12 months (helps with SNAP/Medicaid/SSI/TANF and housing). (irs.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• If you used Advance Premium Tax Credit for Marketplace insurance, you must file Form 8962 to reconcile or you could lose future APTC. (irs.gov)
• Beware of paid preparers who promise a bigger refund or charge by the refund size. Use IRS Free File, Direct File, VITA/TCE, or check the IRS preparer directory. (irs.gov)

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Diverse Communities: tailored notes for Wyoming families

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Filing status is about dependents and household, not sexual orientation. If your child has the required SSN and lived with you long enough, you can usually claim EITC/CTC if income and other rules fit. VITA/TCE sites offer free help and can provide language access. (eitc.irs.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: A child with a permanent and total disability can be a “qualifying child” for EITC at any age if other tests are met. See the IRS disability & EITC guidance. (irs.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: You may qualify for the Wyoming Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption ($6,000 assessed value) through your County Assessor. Bring your DD‑214 and ask the Assessor’s office. (wyo-prop-div.wyo.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: For EITC/CTC, both you (and spouse if filing jointly) need a valid SSN by the return due date; the child must have an SSN for CTC/ACTC. Some families may instead qualify for the nonrefundable Credit for Other Dependents. VITA/TCE and LITCs can help with mixed‑status questions. See Pub 596 and Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)
• Tribal‑specific notes (Wind River Reservation): EITC/CTC rules apply the same way. Per‑capita payments may be taxable or not depending on the source; bring all 1099s to VITA/TCE. If you need representation in a tax dispute, find an LITC via Pub 4134. (irs.gov)
• Rural moms with limited internet: Call 800‑906‑9887 to find the closest VITA/TCE site; IRS TAC appointment line 844‑545‑5640 for in‑person IRS help (Casper TAC now open). (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
• Single fathers raising kids: The same credits apply if the child lived with you and meets IRS tests.
• Language access: IRS Free File and Direct File offer English/Spanish options; VITA/TCE provides interpretation; IRS TACs can arrange phone interpreters in many languages. (irs.gov)

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Local resources (Wyoming)

• Wyoming Department of Revenue – Property Tax Refund Program: Apply or get help or call 307‑777‑7320. (revenue.wyo.gov)
• “Find tax help near me”: VITA/TCE 800‑906‑9887; AARP Tax‑Aide 888‑227‑7669. (eitc.irs.gov)
• IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center appointments: 844‑545‑5640; TTY/TDD 800‑829‑4059. (irs.gov)
• Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITC): use the LITC finder / Pub 4134 for representation in audits/appeals. (irs.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing or incorrect SSNs (yours, your child’s).
• Claiming Head of Household when you don’t meet the tests.
• Forgetting to attach Schedule EIC (if claiming kids) or Schedule 8812 (CTC/ACTC).
• Not reconciling Advance Premium Tax Credit (Form 8962).
• Using last year’s numbers or non‑official blogs for 2025 planning.
• Mailing your WY property‑tax refund application after the deadline or without proof of payment. (irs.gov, wyo-prop-div.wyo.gov)

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What to do if things go sideways

• IRS rejected your e‑file? Use the rejection code in your software, fix, and resubmit. If identity verification is requested, follow the letter instructions promptly.
• Refund delayed? Check “Where’s My Refund?” daily. If 21+ days after e‑file (or past early March for EITC/ACTC) and no update, call the IRS or visit a TAC (appointment line 844‑545‑5640). (irs.gov)
• Audit or letter? Call VITA/TCE or find an LITC. TAS (Taxpayer Advocate Service) can help with hardships at 877‑777‑4777. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)

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State‑specific FAQs (Wyoming)

1. Does Wyoming have a state EITC or state CTC?
   No. Wyoming has no state individual income tax, so there’s no state EITC/CTC. Focus on federal credits and the state Property Tax Refund program. (wyo.gov)
2. When will I get my refund if I claim EITC/ACTC?
   The IRS can’t issue those refunds before mid‑February; most early filers see deposits by about March 3 if they e‑filed with direct deposit and returns are error‑free. (irs.gov)
3. Can I still get EITC if I didn’t work the whole year?
   Yes—EITC is based on earned income; part‑year work can qualify if other rules are met. Use the IRS EITC Assistant. (irs.gov)
4. My child lived with me and my ex during the year. Who claims EITC?
   It depends on residency months, relationship, age, and tie‑breaker rules. Pub 596 explains; VITA/TCE can help you avoid errors. (irs.gov)
5. Do EITC/ACTC refunds affect SNAP/Medicaid/SSI/Housing?
   No. Federal law excludes tax refunds (including EITC/ACTC) as income, and excludes them as a resource for at least 12 months. (irs.gov, fns.usda.gov)
6. Is childcare help refundable?
   For 2024 returns, the Child & Dependent Care Credit is nonrefundable (but still reduces tax owed). File Form 2441. (irs.gov)
7. I bought Marketplace insurance. What do I need at tax time?
   Form 1095‑A and Form 8962 to reconcile the Premium Tax Credit. Enhanced subsidies continue through 2025. (irs.gov)
8. I own a home in Wyoming—how do I lower property taxes?
   Apply for the Property Tax Refund Program by the first Monday in June; call 307‑777‑7320 or apply online. Refunds can be up to 75% of your bill, capped by your county’s median. (wyo-prop-div.wyo.gov)
9. I’m separated but still legally married—can I claim EITC?
   Possibly, under special rules for separated spouses (see Rule 3 in Pub 596). Get help at VITA/TCE to ensure you meet all tests. (irs.gov)
10. Where can I get free help to file?
    Call 800‑906‑9887 (VITA/TCE) or 888‑227‑7669 (AARP Tax‑Aide) for appointments statewide, or use IRS Free File or IRS Direct File. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)

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Application checklist (keep this handy)

• Government photo ID and SSN/ITINs for you and kids.
• Proof your child lived with you (school, medical, childcare records).
• All income forms: W‑2, 1099‑NEC/MISC, 1099‑INT/DIV, SSA‑1099, 1099‑G (unemployment), etc.
• Childcare provider info (name, address, TIN; use Form W‑10).
• Marketplace Form 1095‑A (if applicable).
• Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit.
• For WY PTR: proof of tax payment, tax bill, all household income docs, assets list (as of Dec 31). (revenue.wyo.gov)

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If you prefer examples, here are three (rounded; check the IRS tool for exact amounts)

• 2024 return: HOH, 1 child, earned $18,000\ast \ast .LikelynearthemaxEITC(\ast \ast$4,213), plus potential CTC/ACTC up to $2,000\ast \ast (upto\ast \ast$1,700 refundable). Exact credit depends on AGI/phaseouts. (irs.gov)
• 2024 return: HOH, 2 children, earned $32,000\ast \ast ,paid\ast \ast$4,000 childcare. EITC likely high (max $6,960\ast \ast ),CDCCabout\ast \ast 20$6,000, and CTC/ACTC per child. (irs.gov)
• 2024 PTR: Laramie County homeowner paid $1,500\ast \ast in2024propertytax,meetsincome/assets.Refundisthelesserof\ast \ast 75$1,500 ($1,125\ast \ast )orthecounty½‑mediancap(\ast \ast$1,090.19**)—so likely about $1,090. (docs.google.com)

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What this guide adds that most pages miss

• Side‑by‑side 2024 and 2025 EITC numbers (from IRS pages)—not opinions.
• Wyoming‑specific property‑tax refunds with county median caps and the exact state phone number.
• Direct links to IRS Free File, IRS Direct File (Wyoming is supported), VITA/TCE phone lines, and IRS refund timing rules.
• Clear Plan B steps for common roadblocks.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the Wyoming Department of Revenue, IRS, CMS, and established nonprofits. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

• Program rules, income limits, and amounts change. Always verify on the official websites linked above or by calling the listed agency numbers before you apply or rely on figures.
• This article provides general information, not legal or tax advice for your specific situation. Consider consulting a qualified tax professional for personalized guidance.
• Keep your information safe: use only official .gov websites when entering SSNs or banking details; look for https (lock icon); avoid sharing sensitive info by email or text; use strong passwords and two‑factor authentication for IRS Online Account and state portals.
• ASingleMother.org is independent and does not collect or store your tax documents or SSNs.

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🏛️More Wyoming Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Wyoming

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 🍎 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
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs 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