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Emergency Assistance for Single Mothers in Indiana

Last updated: August 2025 | Contact information verified: August 24, 2025
Sources: Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Indiana State Department of Health

⚠️ Important: Program rules, benefit amounts, and income limits change frequently. Federal programs typically update in October (SNAP) and April (HUD limits). State programs may change with budget cycles. Always verify current information with the specific agency before making decisions based on this guide.


Quick Help – Need Assistance Today?

• Life-threatening emergency: Call 911 • Need shelter tonight: Call 211 or text HOME to 898211 • Out of food: Apply for SNAP at FSSA Benefits Portal – emergency benefits in 7 days • Power being shut off: Apply for LIHEAP at EAP Portal or call 317-232-7777 • Eviction notice: Call Indiana Legal Services at 844-243-8570 right now • Lost your job: File unemployment at DWD Uplink or 800-891-6499 • Need health coverage: Apply at FSSA Benefits Portal or call 800-403-0864 • Pregnant or have kids under 5: Call WIC at 800-522-0874 for food help • Domestic violence: Call National Hotline 800-799-7233 (24/7 confidential) • Crisis support: Call 211 for immediate local resources

If nothing above works: Call 211 and ask for a “warm handoff” to another agency that can help today.

If You Need Help Today

Get Food Within 24 Hours

Apply for SNAP benefits online at FSSA Benefits Portal. If your income is under $150 this month and you have less than $100 in cash, ask for “expedited SNAP” – you can get benefits within 7 days after identity verification.

If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under 5, call WIC at 800-522-0874. You can often get a same-day appointment and immediate food benefits if you qualify.

Stop a Utility Shutoff Right Now

• Apply for LIHEAP crisis assistance at EAP Portal and upload your shutoff notice • Call your utility company and ask for a payment plan while LIHEAP processes • Call 317-232-7777 (IHCDA) for emergency processing

Keep Your Housing

• Call 211 for emergency rental assistance and shelter programs • If you received an eviction notice, call Legal Services at 844-243-8570 for emergency legal help • Ask about “rapid rehousing” programs that pay first month’s rent and deposits

Get Cash Quickly

Apply for TANF (Family Assistance) at FSSA Benefits Portal. Indiana recently increased TANF benefits from $288 to $320 for a family of three, with further increases planned through 2027.

If you lost your job, file for unemployment benefits immediately at DWD Uplink or 800-891-6499. Indiana pays $37-$390 per week for up to 26 weeks.

Reality Check: Getting help takes time. SNAP can take 7-30 days. TANF takes 2-6 weeks. Plan for delays and ask every agency about emergency funds while you wait.

Main Points You Need to Know

• Apply the same day for multiple programs – SNAP, TANF, and Medicaid use the same application • Ask specifically for expedited processing when your situation is urgent • Keep copies of everything – take photos of documents with your phone as backup • Report changes immediately – income, address, or household changes within 10 days • Most programs have work requirements – understand them before you apply • Indiana has strict eligibility rules – TANF income limits are very low, but recent changes will help • Apply to multiple housing authorities – Section 8 waiting lists can be 2+ years long

Don’t expect miracles: Indiana historically had some of the lowest benefit amounts in the nation, but recent TANF increases show improvement is possible.

Emergency Cash and Food Programs

SNAP (Food Assistance)

What it is: Monthly benefits loaded onto a Hoosier Works EBT card to buy groceries. Maximum benefits for fiscal year 2025 range from $291/month for one person to $975/month for a family of four.

Income limits (USDA FNS, effective October 2024 through September 2025):

Household Size Max Monthly Gross Income Max SNAP Benefit
1 person $1,580 $291
2 people $2,137 $535
3 people $2,694 $768
4 people $3,250 $975

Special Indiana Rules: Indiana has no gross income limit for households with members aged 60+ or with disabilities. There is no asset limit in Indiana.

How to apply:

  1. Go to FSSA Benefits Portal
  2. Complete application online (takes 20-30 minutes)
  3. Upload photos of your ID, pay stubs, rent receipt, and utility bills
  4. Answer the phone when DFR calls for your interview

Timeline: Expedited SNAP can be approved within 7 days after identity verification if you qualify. Regular SNAP takes up to 30 days.

Documents needed: • Photo ID for adults • Social Security cards for everyone • Last 30 days of pay stubs (if working) • Rent receipt or lease • Recent utility bills

Reality check: Only about 36% of SNAP households receive the maximum amount. If you work, expect roughly $200-500/month for a family of three.

TANF (Family Assistance Cash Help)

What it is: Monthly cash assistance for families with children under 18. Recent legislation (Senate Bill 265) increased benefits for the first time since 1988.

Current benefit amounts (as of 2025):

Family Size Maximum Monthly Cash
1 child only $248
1 parent + 1 child $409
1 parent + 2 children $513

The first increase in eligibility took effect July 2025. Income eligibility is expanding from 13-17% of federal poverty level to 50% by 2027.

Work requirements: You must complete 20 days of job search before approval. Adults have a 24-month lifetime limit, children have 60 months.

How to apply:

  1. Apply at FSSA Benefits Portal (same application as SNAP)
  2. Complete required job search activities
  3. Attend mandatory IMPACT program meetings
  4. Cooperate with child support enforcement

Timeline: Interview within 1-2 weeks, decision within 2-6 weeks, first payment the following month if approved.

Reality check: In 2022, Indiana approved just 7% of TANF applications. Even with recent increases, benefits remain low compared to actual living costs.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

What it is: Special food packages for pregnant women, new moms, and children under 5. Includes healthy foods, breastfeeding support and nutrition education to pregnant women, postpartum women, breastfeeding mothers and children up to age 5.

Income limits: Up to 185% of federal poverty level. For 2025:

Household Size Max Monthly Income
1 person $2,298
2 people $3,102
3 people $3,905
4 people $4,709

How to apply: Call 800-522-0874 or contact your county health department. You’ll need an appointment for a health screening.

Timeline: Often same week if appointments are available.

Automatic qualification: If you already get SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF, you automatically meet WIC’s income requirements.

Health Coverage Options

Indiana Medicaid Programs

Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) for adults 19-64: Covers individuals with annual incomes up to $20,793 for singles, $28,214 for couples, and $43,056 for a family of four (138% of federal poverty level).

Hoosier Healthwise for children and pregnant women: Covers children up to age 19 and pregnant women at higher income limits than adult Medicaid. Children often qualify even when parents don’t.

How to apply: Apply at FSSA Benefits Portal or call 800-403-0864.

Fast Track option for HIP: Make a $10 Fast Track payment while your application processes to expedite your HIP Plus coverage start date.

Reality check: Recent legislation may restrict HIP enrollment with work requirements and enrollment caps, threatening coverage for over 200,000 Hoosiers.

Housing Assistance Programs

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

What it is: Federal rental assistance where you pay 30% of your income toward rent and the program covers the rest.

Income limits: Must be “very low income” (typically 50% of Area Median Income). Income limits are maximum income limits allowed based on household size and are established by HUD for low income households.

Reality check: After applying to waiting lists, it may take up to or more than 24 months before you may be selected. Households spend an average of 16 months on a waiting list before receiving a voucher in Indiana.

How to apply: Apply to an open waitlist through local housing authorities. Most services are provided by Local Subcontracting Agencies throughout Indiana.

Major Indiana Housing Authorities: • Indianapolis: Indianapolis Housing Agency – 317-261-7777 • Fort Wayne: Fort Wayne Housing Authority – 260-267-9300 • Evansville: Evansville Housing Authority – 812-428-8500 • South Bend: South Bend Housing Authority – 574-235-9346 • Bloomington: Bloomington Housing Authority – 812-339-3491

Note: IHCDA does not cover Indianapolis/Marion County – contact Indianapolis Housing Agency directly.

Emergency Housing Assistance

Call 211 for: • Emergency shelter placement • Rapid rehousing (short-term rent assistance)
• Deposit and utility connection assistance • Homeless prevention programs

Work and Training Support

Unemployment Benefits

How much you can get: Indiana pays $37-$390 per week based on 47% of your average weekly earnings, for up to 26 weeks.

Eligibility requirements: Must have earned at least $4,200 in base period, at least $2,500 in last six months of base period, and be unemployed through no fault of your own.

How to apply:

  1. File online at DWD Uplink
  2. Call 800-891-6499 if you can’t apply online
  3. File weekly vouchers to maintain benefits

Timeline: You should receive your first payment within 3 weeks if there are no issues. Indiana law requires a one waiting period week.

Child care assistance: Contact your local DFR office or apply through FSSA Benefits Portal. Income limits typically allow families earning up to 85% of state median income.

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Single Mom, Two Kids, Earning $1,800/Month

What she could qualify for: • SNAP: About $300-400/month (income reduces maximum amount) • WIC: $78/month in produce benefits (if kids under 5) • Medicaid for children: Yes • HIP for mom: Yes (income under $20,793/year limit) • TANF: Possibly, under new expanded eligibility rules • Section 8: Maybe, depends on local income limits and long waiting lists

Reality: She’d get substantial food and health coverage help but would still struggle with housing costs.

Example 2: Pregnant Woman, No Job, Living with Family

What she could qualify for: • SNAP: Expedited processing, up to $291/month for one person • WIC: $47/month in produce benefits
• Medicaid pregnancy coverage: Yes, likely immediate coverage • TANF: Depends on family income and living situation • Section 8: Could apply but very long waiting lists

Timeline: SNAP in 7 days, WIC same week, Medicaid in 2-3 weeks.

Example 3: Recently Lost Job, One Child, Was Earning $2,200/Month

What she could qualify for: • Unemployment: $275-390/week for 26 weeks • SNAP: About $400-500/month initially • Medicaid for child: Yes • HIP for mom: Yes • Emergency rent assistance: Maybe through local programs

Key: File for unemployment immediately – benefits are based on when you file, not when you lost the job.

Specific Resources for Different Situations

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

• Apply for all programs normally – sexual orientation and gender identity don’t affect eligibility • If you face discrimination, document it (worker name, date, time) and request a supervisor • Contact Lambda Legal (866-542-8336) for legal support if needed

Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children

• If you receive SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid • SNAP has special rules for households with disabled members – no gross income limits • Ask about “child-only” TANF if your child gets SSI • Priority for housing assistance may be available

Veteran Single Mothers

• Ask about HUD-VASH vouchers (housing for homeless veterans) • HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing combines Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance with case management and clinical services provided by the VA • May qualify for expedited services through some programs

Immigrant/Refugee Single Mothers

• Qualified immigrants may be eligible after 5-year waiting period • Refugees, asylees, and trafficking victims often qualify immediately • Emergency services (like emergency Medicaid) may be available regardless of status • Your U.S. citizen children can get benefits even if you can’t

Tribal Members

• Can use both state programs and tribal-specific resources • Contact your tribal housing office in addition to applying to state housing authorities
• Indian Health Service facilities may be available for healthcare

Rural Single Mothers

• Use 211 to find traveling WIC clinics and mobile food pantries • Some WIC locations offer services without set appointment times for benefit reloading • Transportation may be provided for required appointments • Internet access required for many applications – check public libraries

Single Fathers

• All programs listed here are available to single fathers with custody • Don’t be discouraged if staff seem surprised – you have the same rights as single mothers

Indiana Resources by Region

Central Indiana (Marion County/Indianapolis)

• Indianapolis Housing Agency: 317-261-7777 • Marion County DFR: FSSA Benefits Portal • Legal Services: Indiana Legal Services – 844-243-8570

Northeast Indiana (Allen County/Fort Wayne)

• Fort Wayne Housing Authority: 260-267-9300 • Allen County DFR: FSSA Benefits Portal

Northwest Indiana (Lake County/Gary)

• Gary Housing Authority: 219-881-6400 • Lake County DFR: FSSA Benefits Portal

Southwest Indiana (Vanderburgh County/Evansville)

• Evansville Housing Authority: 812-428-8500 • Vanderburgh County DFR: FSSA Benefits Portal

South Central Indiana (Monroe County/Bloomington)

• Bloomington Housing Authority: 812-339-3491 • Monroe County DFR: FSSA Benefits Portal

Program Comparison Table

Program Max Monthly Benefit Income Limit (Family of 3) How Long to Get Help
SNAP $768 $2,694/month 7-30 days
TANF $513 Expanding to ~$2,150/month 2-6 weeks
WIC Varies by category $3,905/month Same week
Unemployment $1,690/month ($390/week) Based on past wages 2-3 weeks
Section 8 Varies by rent ~50% AMI 1-3+ years waiting

Common Mistakes That Delay Your Benefits

SNAP/TANF Mistakes

• Not answering unknown calls: DFR often calls from different numbers for interviews • Missing the interview: Reschedule immediately if you can’t make it • Not reporting expedited need: Specifically ask for “expedited SNAP” if you qualify • Incomplete documents: Upload clear photos of all required documents

Housing Mistakes

• Applying to only one housing authority: Apply everywhere you’re willing to live • Not updating contact information: You’ll lose your place if they can’t reach you • Waiting for perfect timing: Apply even if lists are closed – they’ll add you to future openings

General Mistakes

• Not keeping copies: Always save confirmation numbers and screenshots • Not reporting changes: Income or address changes must be reported within 10 days • Giving up too quickly: If denied, you can often appeal or reapply with more documentation

What to Do If You’re Denied

  1. Request written reason for denial
  2. File appeal within 10 days if you disagree
  3. Ask for “aid pending” to continue benefits during appeal when allowed
  4. Get help from Legal Services: 844-243-8570

When Programs Don’t Work – Plan B Options

If SNAP is denied or delayed:

• Contact local food banks through Feeding America • Ask churches about emergency food assistance • Look into Salvation Army and local soup kitchens

If housing assistance isn’t available:

• Negotiate payment plan with landlord in writing • Contact 211 for emergency rental assistance programs • Ask family/friends about temporary housing • Look into transitional housing programs

If utilities are being shut off:

• Ask utility company for medical necessity extension if anyone has health conditions
• Contact local churches and charities for one-time bill assistance • Look into budget billing plans to spread costs

If you can’t find work:

• Consider gig work (Uber, DoorDash) for immediate income • Ask current/former employers about temporary positions • Check with temp agencies for same-week work

Emergency mindset: When you’re in crisis, accept help that gets you through today. You can make longer-term plans once you’re stable.

Timeline Expectations – Be Realistic

Week 1

• Apply for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid online • Call WIC for appointment
• File unemployment if applicable • Contact 211 for emergency assistance

Week 2-3

• Attend SNAP/TANF interview • WIC appointment and first benefits • First unemployment payment (if approved) • Emergency assistance decisions

Month 2-3

• Regular SNAP benefits begin • TANF decision and first payment • Medicaid/HIP coverage starts • Begin required work activities

Month 6+

• Review and recertify for ongoing programs • Housing assistance applications may start moving • Job training programs may be available

Managing expectations: Getting stable takes months, not days. Focus on immediate needs first (food, shelter, healthcare) then work on longer-term stability.

Common Questions Single Moms Ask

“Can I get help if I work?”

Yes, but income limits vary by program. SNAP and WIC have higher income limits. TANF limits are expanding but still very low. Working actually helps you qualify for programs like child care assistance and unemployment benefits.

“What if I don’t have all the documents?”

Apply anyway with what you have. Upload additional documents later. Ask about “good cause” exceptions if you’re fleeing domestic violence or other crisis situations.

“How much can I earn and keep benefits?”

Each program is different. SNAP reduces gradually as income increases and has no gross income limit for households with elderly or disabled members. Report all changes within 10 days.

“Can I get help if I live with family?”

Depends on whether you buy and prepare food together. If you’re a separate “household” for food purposes, you can often apply independently. Housing programs look at your individual income.

“What if I have a car?”

Vehicles count as a resource for SNAP, but states determine how they count. Vehicles under $4,650 in value or used for work/school are often excluded.

“How long can I get help?”

• SNAP: As long as you meet requirements (recertify every 6-12 months) • TANF: 24-month lifetime limit for adults, 60 months for children • WIC: Until child turns 5, or 1 year postpartum for women • Unemployment: 26 weeks maximum • Section 8: No time limit if you follow program rules

“What if I’m denied?”

You can appeal most decisions within 10 days. Get help from Legal Services at 844-243-8570. Sometimes it’s just missing paperwork or a misunderstanding.

“Can I apply if I’m undocumented?”

Emergency services are available regardless of immigration status. Your U.S. citizen children can get benefits even if you can’t. Some local charities don’t check immigration status.

Resources Directory

Statewide Helplines

• 211 Indiana: Dial 211 or text HOME to 898211 • Indiana FSSA: 800-403-0864 • WIC: 800-522-0874 • Unemployment: 800-891-6499 • LIHEAP/Energy Assistance: 317-232-7777 • Legal Services Indiana: 844-243-8570

Crisis Support

• Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233 • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Online Applications

• SNAP/TANF/Medicaid: FSSA Benefits Portal • Unemployment: DWD Uplink • Energy Assistance: EAP Portal

Document Help

• Vital Records: Indiana State Department of Health • Social Security Cards: ssa.gov or 800-772-1213

Important Warnings and Reality Checks

About Benefit Amounts

Indiana has historically had some of the lowest assistance payments in the nation, though recent TANF increases show improvement. Don’t expect these programs alone to solve financial problems – think of them as a foundation while you build stability.

About Waiting Times

Everything takes longer than you want. Section 8 waiting lists may exceed 24 months. Even SNAP can take 30 days. Plan accordingly and don’t rely on just one program.

About Work Requirements

Most programs require you to work or participate in job training. TANF requires 20 days of job search before approval. Understand what’s expected before you apply.

About Income Reporting

Report ALL income immediately – cash jobs, child support, help from family, unemployment benefits. Programs share information with each other and monitor for unreported income.

Disclaimer

Program rules, benefit amounts, and income limits change frequently. This guide provides general information as of August 2025, but you should always verify current requirements with the specific agency before applying. Contact information and program availability can change without notice.

This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For legal questions about benefits, appeals, or eligibility, contact Indiana Legal Services at 844-243-8570.

The information in this guide comes from official government sources, but errors can occur. Always check with the agency directly for the most current and accurate information about your specific situation.

When in doubt, apply anyway. It’s better to try and be denied than to assume you don’t qualify and miss out on help you need.

About This Guide

Compiled by ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Indiana State Department of Health, and Indiana Department of Workforce Development.

This comprehensive resource follows our editorial standards using only official government sources and established organizations. While carefully researched and regularly updated, this guide is not affiliated with any government agency and individual outcomes cannot be guaranteed as program rules and funding change frequently.

Last verified: August 2025
Next review: February 2026

Despite our careful verification process, errors may occur. Email corrections to info@asinglemother.org and we respond within 48 hours to serve Indiana families better.

Official Sources Referenced

• Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) – in.gov/fssa • USDA Food and Nutrition Service – fns.usda.gov • U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – hud.gov • Indiana State Department of Health (WIC) – in.gov/health/wic • Indiana Department of Workforce Development – in.gov/dwd • Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority – in.gov/ihcda • Indiana Legal Services – indianalegalservices.org • Indiana 211 – in211.communityos.org

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