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Emergency Assistance for Single Mothers in Georgia

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box

Emergency contacts you can call right now:


  • Apply for benefits today: Georgia Gateway or call (877) 423-4746 for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid
  • Food stamps (SNAP) expedited: Get benefits in 7 days if you qualify – apply at Georgia Gateway
  • WIC for pregnant moms/kids under 5: Call (800) 228-9173 or visit Georgia WIC
  • Utility shut-off help (LIHEAP): Schedule at DFCS Energy Assistance or call (877) 423-4746
  • Childcare subsidy (CAPS): Call (833) 442-2277 or apply at CAPS
  • Emergency shelter/homelessness: Call 211 or visit DCA Housing
  • Domestic violence crisis: Georgia hotline (800) 334-2836 available 24/7
  • Unemployment benefits: File at Georgia DOL

If You Need Help Today

Don’t wait – take these steps immediately:

  • Apply for expedited SNAP: Complete application at Georgia Gateway now. If your income and resources are extremely low, you can get food benefits within 7 days after your interview.
  • Call 211 for emergency food boxes and shelter referrals. Available 24/7 from any phone.
  • Prevent utility shut-off: Make LIHEAP appointment at DFCS Energy Assistance. Bring ID, Social Security numbers, recent utility bill, and 30 days of income proof.
  • Pregnant or have kids under 5: Call WIC at (800) 228-9173 for immediate eligibility screening and appointment.
  • Safety concerns: Call 911 for immediate danger. For safety planning call Georgia DV Hotline (800) 334-2836.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit your county DFCS office in person with documents. Ask for same-day screening for expedited SNAP and emergency referrals. Find offices: DFCS Locations.

Main Points

The reality of getting help in Georgia:

  • Georgia Gateway (gateway.ga.gov) is your main application portal for SNAP, TANF, and Medicaid. The system sometimes has delays – call (877) 423-4746 if you encounter problems.
  • TANF cash benefits are low – a family of three gets around $280 per month according to multiple sources, and there’s a 48-month lifetime limit as of August 2025.
  • SNAP and WIC provide faster food assistance than waiting for TANF approval. SNAP can be expedited in 7 days for qualifying families.
  • LIHEAP utility help is seasonal – heating assistance typically opens in December/January, cooling assistance in April/May. Income must be at or below 60% of state median income.
  • Housing voucher waiting lists are usually closed. Focus on eviction prevention through DCA-funded agencies and 211 referrals.
  • Keep documents ready: Photo ID, Social Security numbers, Georgia address proof, 30 days of income records, current bills/lease.
  • If denied, appeal quickly – most programs allow 10-30 days for appeals.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Request supervisor review at DFCS or ask for fair hearing. Get legal help referrals through 211 or your county courthouse website.

Emergency Cash, Food & Housing Programs

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

TANF provides monthly cash assistance to families with children under 18 who have extremely low income and few resources. In Georgia, TANF also covers pregnant women and children age 18 who attend school full-time. The program requires work activities for 30 hours weekly and has strict time limits.

Current benefit amounts (as of August 2025):

  • A family of three (mother and two children) must have gross income below $784 per month and countable assets under $1,000
  • Payment amounts vary by family size but are among the lowest nationally
  • Lifetime limit: 48 months total – use strategically

How to apply:

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for applicant
  • Birth certificates for all children
  • Social Security numbers for all household members
  • 30 days of income proof (pay stubs, award letters)
  • Georgia address verification
  • Child support information

Timeline: Typically 3-6 weeks including required interview

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Crisis Intervention Services Payment (CRISP) – a one-time payment up to 4 times the regular TANF amount for emergency needs.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

SNAP provides monthly benefits on an EBT card to purchase food at grocery stores, farmers markets, and some online retailers. Benefits are based on household size and income, with higher amounts for larger families.

Current benefit amounts (October 2024 – September 2025): Based on USDA federal standards, maximum monthly benefits include:

  • 1 person: up to $292
  • 2 people: up to $536
  • 3 people: up to $768
  • 4 people: up to $975
  • 5 people: up to $1,158

Source: USDA SNAP Benefits

Expedited SNAP: If you have very low income and resources under $100, you may get benefits within 7 days after your interview.

How to apply:

  • Online: Georgia Gateway
  • Phone: (877) 423-4746
  • In person: Local DFCS office

Income limits (gross monthly):

  • 1 person: $1,580
  • 2 people: $2,137
  • 3 people: $2,694
  • 4 people: $3,250

Source: SNAP Income Limits

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your application is delayed beyond 30 days, call (877) 423-4746 and ask to speak with a supervisor. You can also visit your DFCS office for in-person assistance.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

WIC provides monthly benefits for healthy foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 who are at nutritional risk.

Current cash value benefits (FY 2025):

  • Children (1-4 years): $26 monthly for fruits and vegetables
  • Pregnant/postpartum women: $47 monthly for fruits and vegetables
  • Fully breastfeeding women: $52 monthly for fruits and vegetables

Source: USDA WIC FY 2025 Benefits

Additional WIC benefits include:

  • Baby formula and baby food
  • Milk, eggs, cheese, whole grain bread
  • Peanut butter, beans, cereal
  • Nutrition counseling and breastfeeding support

How to apply:

  • Call Georgia WIC: (800) 228-9173
  • Online screening: Georgia WIC

Income limits: Up to 185% of federal poverty level

  • 1 person: $2,583 monthly
  • 2 people: $3,487 monthly
  • 3 people: $4,391 monthly
  • 4 people: $5,295 monthly

Automatic eligibility: If you receive SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF, you’re automatically income-eligible for WIC.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If no WIC appointments are available soon, ask to be put on a cancellation list. Emergency food boxes are available through 211 while you wait.

Housing and Utility Assistance

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps with heating and cooling bills, energy crises, and weatherization. The program operates seasonally with priority given to households with members age 65+ or who are medically homebound.

Current program details (as of August 2025):

Income eligibility: At or below 60% of state median income

  • 1 person: $33,038 annually
  • 3 people: Approximately $48,000 annually
  • 5 people: $73,700 annually

Source: DFCS LIHEAP Press Release

Program seasons:

  • Heating assistance: Opens first workday of December (seniors/homebound), January (all others)
  • Cooling assistance: Opens first workday of April (seniors/homebound), May (all others)

How to apply:

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for all household members
  • Social Security numbers
  • Recent utility bill showing threat of disconnection
  • 30 days of income proof
  • Lease or mortgage information

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your utility company directly for payment plans. Many Georgia utilities offer customer assistance programs. Also check with 211 for local energy assistance funds.

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) manages voucher programs in many counties. Waiting lists open infrequently and close quickly due to high demand.

Eligibility: Household income must be below 50% of Area Median Income (Very Low Income limits)

How to check for openings:

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply to multiple local housing authorities for both vouchers and public housing. Contact DCA-funded homeless prevention providers: DCA Homeless Resources.

Health Coverage Programs

Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids

Georgia offers several Medicaid programs depending on age, income, and circumstances. Coverage can be retroactive and typically begins the month of approval.

Program types:

Children’s Medicaid/PeachCare:

  • Ages 0-1: Up to 252% of federal poverty level
  • Ages 1-5: Up to 158% of federal poverty level
  • Ages 6-18: Up to 138% of federal poverty level
  • PeachCare premiums: $0-$36 per child monthly depending on income

Pregnant Women’s Medicaid:

  • Up to approximately 225% of federal poverty level
  • Covers prenatal care, delivery, and 12 months postpartum

Georgia Pathways to Coverage (adults 19-64):

  • Up to 100% of federal poverty level
  • Requires 80 hours monthly of qualifying activities (work, training, volunteering, school)

How to apply:

  • Online: Georgia Gateway
  • Help line: (877) 423-4746
  • Pregnancy/children help: Right from the Start (800) 809-7276
  • PeachCare member services: (877) 427-3224

Source: Georgia Medicaid

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied for missing documents, call Right from the Start at (800) 809-7276 for application assistance if pregnant or applying for children.

Work and Training Resources

Unemployment Insurance (UI)

Georgia provides unemployment benefits for eligible workers who lost jobs through no fault of their own. Benefits are limited to 14-26 weeks depending on the state’s unemployment rate.

Benefit amounts:

  • Minimum: $55 per week
  • Maximum: $365 per week
  • Based on previous earnings

How to file:

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your claim is denied, request an appeal by the deadline shown in your decision notice. Contact WorkSource Georgia for job training programs.

Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS)

CAPS provides childcare subsidies for working parents or those in approved training/education programs. Families pay a sliding-scale fee based on income.

How to apply:

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about waiting list status and priority categories. Some counties may have shorter waits than others.

Current Benefit Amounts Summary Table

Program Household Size Monthly Benefit Income Limit (Monthly)
SNAP 3 people Up to $768 $2,694 gross
TANF 3 people Around $280 Below $784 gross
WIC – Child 1 child $26 fruits/vegetables 185% FPL
WIC – Pregnant 1 pregnant $47 fruits/vegetables 185% FPL
PeachCare Per child $0-$36 premium Varies by age

Sources: USDA, Georgia DFCS, Georgia DPH (as of August 2025)

SNAP Income Limits Table

Household Size Gross Monthly Income Net Monthly Income
1 $1,580 $1,215
2 $2,137 $1,644
3 $2,694 $2,073
4 $3,250 $2,500
5 $3,807 $2,929

Source: SNAP eligibility guidelines (October 2024 – September 2025)

WIC Income Limits Table

Household Size Monthly Income Limit Annual Income Limit
1 $2,583 $30,996
2 $3,487 $41,844
3 $4,391 $52,692
4 $5,295 $63,540
5 $6,199 $74,388

Source: USDA WIC Income Guidelines (July 2025 – June 2026)

Georgia Pathways Income Limits Table

Household Size Monthly Income Limit (100% FPL)
1 $1,255
2 $1,704
3 $2,152
4 $2,600
5 $3,048

Must also meet 80-hour monthly activity requirement

LIHEAP Income Limits Table (60% State Median)

Household Size Annual Income Limit
1 $33,038
2 $43,200 (estimated)
3 $53,400 (estimated)
4 $63,600 (estimated)
5 $73,700

Source: Georgia DFCS (December 2024)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Application errors that delay benefits:

  • Missing your SNAP/Medicaid interview call. Keep your phone charged and voicemail clear. If you miss the call, contact (877) 423-4746 immediately to reschedule.
  • Not uploading required documents. Georgia Gateway requires proof of identity, 30 days of income, address verification, and Social Security numbers. Upload clear photos or scan documents.
  • Applying too late for seasonal programs. LIHEAP funding runs out quickly – apply in December for heating assistance, April for cooling assistance.
  • Waiting only for housing vouchers. Apply to multiple housing authorities and explore public housing options while using DCA eviction prevention services.
  • Forgetting to report changes. Report address, income, or household changes within 10 days to avoid overpayments or case closure.
  • Not asking about expedited SNAP. If you have very low income and resources under $100, specifically request expedited processing for 7-day approval.

Diverse Communities Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

Specific resources for LGBTQ+ families:

  • All Georgia benefit programs (SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, WIC) cannot discriminate based on sexual orientation or gender identity
  • For health services including HIV support: Georgia DPH Ryan White Services
  • Georgia Equality provides LGBTQ+ resource referrals: georgiaequality.org
  • When applying for benefits, you can request accommodations for chosen names or pronouns

Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children

Additional supports available:

  • Request “reasonable accommodations” for DFCS appointments (accessible location, extra time, interpreter) – note this in your Georgia Gateway application
  • Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA): Employment services for people with disabilities – call (844) 367-4872 or visit GVRA
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Apply at Social Security Administration or call (800) 772-1213
  • Children with disabilities may qualify for higher income limits on some programs

Veteran Single Mothers

Military family specific resources:

  • Georgia Department of Veterans Service: Help with VA claims, housing, and benefit referrals – call (404) 656-2300 or visit GDVS
  • Veterans may have different eligibility rules for some programs – always mention military service when applying
  • VA Community Resource and Referral Center: (877) 927-8387

Immigrant/Refugee Single Mothers

Resources for non-citizen families:

  • Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA): For refugee households not eligible for TANF – apply through DFCS
  • Children who are US citizens can receive benefits regardless of parent’s immigration status
  • New American Workforce Initiative: Job training for immigrants through WorkSource Georgia
  • Legal immigration status is required for most adult benefits, but emergency services are available regardless of status

Tribal-Specific Resources

For Native American families:

  • Georgia benefits are available even if you’re a member of a tribe not based in Georgia
  • Indian Health Service: Coordination with Medicaid/PeachCare – see IHS Patient Eligibility
  • Apply for Georgia state programs through the same process (Georgia Gateway)

Rural Single Mother Families

Addressing transportation and access barriers:

  • USDA Rural Development: Housing and utility programs – call (706) 546-2162
  • Use 211 to find Community Action Agencies in your county for local assistance
  • Apply for SNAP/TANF/Medicaid online to save travel costs to DFCS offices
  • Many rural utilities offer customer assistance programs – call your provider directly

Single Fathers

Programs available for male single parents:

  • All programs listed (TANF, SNAP, Medicaid, WIC for children) are available to single fathers raising children
  • Apply through the same process: Georgia Gateway
  • Child support services available through Georgia DCSS
  • Dad’s advocacy: Some local fatherhood programs provide additional support – contact 211 for referrals

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

1. How fast can I get SNAP benefits in Georgia?

If you qualify for expedited service (very low income and resources under $100), you can get benefits within 7 days after your interview. Regular processing takes up to 30 days. Apply at Georgia Gateway or call (877) 423-4746.

2. What’s the maximum TANF payment in Georgia for a family of three?

Based on current eligibility requirements, a family of three with income below $784 monthly can receive TANF benefits. While exact payment amounts aren’t published online, multiple sources indicate Georgia has one of the lowest TANF benefit levels nationally. Contact DFCS at (877) 423-4746 for current payment standards.

3. Can I get WIC if I already receive SNAP?

Yes! WIC and SNAP serve different purposes. If you receive SNAP, you’re automatically income-eligible for WIC. WIC provides specific healthy foods for pregnant women and children under 5, plus nutrition education. Call (800) 228-9173 to apply.

4. How do I stop a utility shut-off in Georgia?

Apply for LIHEAP immediately at DFCS Energy Assistance or call (877) 423-4746. Also contact your utility company directly for payment arrangements. Georgia Power customers can call (888) 660-5890 for assistance programs.

5. Are there any housing voucher waiting lists open in Georgia?

Most are closed, but check DCA Housing Choice Voucher Program frequently. Sign up for email alerts. Meanwhile, apply for eviction prevention through DCA-funded agencies and call 211 for shelter referrals.

6. What are the Medicaid income limits for children in Georgia?

Children have higher income limits than adults:

  • Ages 0-1: Up to 252% of federal poverty level
  • Ages 1-5: Up to 158% of federal poverty level
  • Ages 6-18: Up to 138% of federal poverty level

For a family of three, this means monthly income up to approximately $3,500-$5,400 depending on child’s age.

7. How much unemployment will I get in Georgia?

Georgia unemployment benefits range from $55 to $365 weekly, based on your previous earnings. Benefits last 14-26 weeks depending on the state’s unemployment rate. Apply at Georgia Department of Labor.

8. Can I work part-time and still get SNAP?

Yes. SNAP counts your earned income with allowable deductions (20% earned income deduction, standard deduction, shelter costs over half your income). Report all income changes to maintain benefits.

9. How do I get childcare help while working?

Apply for CAPS (Childcare and Parent Services) by calling (833) 442-2277 or online at CAPS. You’ll pay a sliding-scale family fee based on income, and the state pays the remainder to your childcare provider.

10. What if I don’t have internet access to apply online?

All DFCS offices have computers in their lobbies for public use. You can also call (877) 423-4746 to apply by phone for most programs. Find your local office: DFCS Locations.

Resources by Region

Metro Atlanta (Fulton, DeKalb, Clayton, Cobb, Gwinnett Counties)

Regional contacts:

  • Atlanta Community Food Bank: Emergency food boxes and mobile pantries – call (404) 892-9822
  • United Way of Greater Atlanta: Dial 211 or visit 211online.org
  • Atlanta Housing Authority: Public housing and vouchers – (404) 892-4700
  • Georgia Power customer assistance: (888) 660-5890

Central Georgia (Bibb, Houston, Baldwin Counties)

Regional contacts:

  • Middle Georgia Community Action Agency: (478) 751-9940
  • Macon Housing Authority: (478) 751-2936
  • Georgia Power Middle Georgia: (888) 660-5890

North Georgia (Athens-Clarke, Hall, Floyd Counties)

Regional contacts:

  • Northeast Georgia Community Action Agency: (706) 896-2241
  • Athens Housing Authority: (706) 353-7720
  • Rome Housing Authority: (706) 295-8000

Coastal Georgia (Chatham, Glynn Counties)

Regional contacts:

  • Community Action Agency of Savannah: (912) 234-6758
  • Savannah Housing Authority: (912) 235-5600
  • Glynn Community Crisis Center: (912) 264-4357

Southwest Georgia (Muscogee, Dougherty, Lowndes Counties)

Regional contacts:

  • Community Action for Improvement: (229) 439-7585
  • Columbus Housing Authority: (706) 571-3000
  • Albany Housing Authority: (229) 430-6500

What to do if local resources are unavailable: Call the statewide numbers provided throughout this guide: DFCS (877) 423-4746, DCA (404) 679-4840, or 211 for backup contacts.

Resumen en Español

Esta sección en español fue traducida por inteligencia artificial. Para información oficial, consulte las fuentes en inglés listadas en esta guía.

This Spanish section was translated by artificial intelligence. For official information, consult the English sources listed in this guide.

Ayuda de Emergencia para Madres Solteras en Georgia

Contactos de Emergencia:

  • Solicitar beneficios: Georgia Gateway o llame (877) 423-4746 para SNAP, TANF, Medicaid
  • Cupones de comida rápidos: Puede obtener beneficios en 7 días si califica
  • WIC para embarazadas/niños menores de 5: Llame (800) 228-9173
  • Ayuda con servicios públicos: Programe en LIHEAP o llame (877) 423-4746
  • Refugio de emergencia: Llame 211
  • Violencia doméstica: Línea de Georgia (800) 334-2836 disponible 24/7

Programas Principales:

  • SNAP (cupones de comida): Hasta $768 mensual para familia de 3
  • TANF (asistencia en efectivo): Aproximadamente $280 mensual para familia de 3
  • WIC: $26-$52 mensual para frutas y verduras
  • LIHEAP: Ayuda con facturas de calefacción/aire acondicionado
  • Medicaid: Seguro médico gratuito para niños y madres embarazadas

Documentos Necesarios:

  • Identificación con foto
  • Números de Seguro Social
  • Comprobante de ingresos de 30 días
  • Comprobante de dirección en Georgia

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Georgia Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.

This guide 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: August 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 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Program details, benefit amounts, and eligibility requirements can change frequently. While we verify information from official sources, always confirm current requirements directly with the relevant agency before making decisions. This guide provides general information only and is not a substitute for official program guidance. Individual circumstances vary and eligibility cannot be guaranteed.

Contact the official agencies listed throughout this guide for the most current information and to verify your specific situation. Benefits and services are subject to funding availability and program changes.

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