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Emergency Assistance for Single Mothers in Massachusetts

Last updated: August 2025

This comprehensive guide provides current benefit amounts, income limits, and step-by-step application instructions for Massachusetts single mothers facing financial emergencies. All information comes from official Massachusetts and federal government sources.


Quick Help Box

Emergency Numbers & Immediate Action:

• 911 – Life-threatening emergencies

• 866-584-0653 – Emergency family shelter (DHCD)

• 877-382-2363 – SNAP food benefits & TAFDC cash assistance (DTA)

• 800-632-8175 – Heat/utility assistance (LIHEAP)

• 800-841-2900 – MassHealth (healthcare coverage)

• 211 – General resource information

• 877-785-2020 – Domestic violence SafeLink hotline

If You Need Help Today

Get Food Within 7 Days:

Apply for Expedited SNAP if your household has less than $150 gross monthly income and under $100 in cash/checking accounts. Apply at DTA Connect or call 877-382-2363.

Get Emergency Shelter Tonight:

If homeless with children, call 866-584-0653 for Emergency Assistance (EA) family shelter. Massachusetts provides same-day placement when beds are available.

Stop Utility Shutoff:

Call 800-632-8175 for LIHEAP fuel assistance and contact your utility company to request protected status if you have children under 12 months or medical conditions.

Get Cash Assistance:

Apply for TAFDC (Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children) at DTA Connect. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks.

Main Points

Key Benefits Available:

• SNAP provides up to $766/month for a family of 3 (as of February 2025)

• TAFDC cash assistance: $783/month for family of 3 with no income (as of April 2025 after 10% increase)

• RAFT emergency rent help: up to $7,000 per 12-month period

• MassHealth covers children up to 300% of Federal Poverty Level

• EA family shelter provides immediate housing for homeless families with children

Reality Check: Massachusetts has waiting lists for most long-term housing programs. Emergency assistance is available but capacity is limited. Apply for multiple programs simultaneously and have backup plans ready.

SNAP Food Benefits Program

What SNAP Provides

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy food at grocery stores, farmers markets, and authorized retailers. Benefits are calculated based on household size, income, and expenses.

Current SNAP Maximum Benefits (February 2025)

Household Size Maximum Monthly Benefit
1 person $281
2 people $516
3 people $766
4 people $973
5 people $1,155
6 people $1,386

Source: Mass Legal Help SNAP Benefits Chart as of February 2025.

Minimum benefit level for 1- and 2-person households is $23. These numbers are effective as of February 1, 2025.

SNAP Eligibility Requirements

Income Limits (Gross Monthly):

  • Most households: up to 200% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Elderly/disabled households: up to 130% of Federal Poverty Level

Asset Limits:

  • $3,000 in countable resources (cash, bank accounts) or $4,500 if household includes someone age 60+ or disabled

Work Requirements:

  • Able-bodied adults 18-54 without dependents must work or participate in training 80 hours per month

How to Apply for SNAP

Online Application:

  1. Visit DTA Connect
  2. Create account and complete application
  3. Upload required documents
  4. Schedule phone interview (usually within 7-10 days)

Phone Application: Call 877-382-2363 to apply over the phone.

Required Documents:

  • Photo ID for applicant
  • Proof of Massachusetts residency
  • Income verification (pay stubs, unemployment benefits)
  • Rent/mortgage statements
  • Utility bills
  • Birth certificates for children

Processing Time:

  • Regular SNAP: 30 days maximum
  • Expedited SNAP: 7 days if you qualify

Expedited SNAP Processing

You qualify for expedited SNAP if:

  • Gross monthly income under $150 AND liquid assets under $100, OR
  • Housing/utility costs exceed your monthly income plus cash on hand

What to Do if SNAP Application is Denied: Request a fair hearing within 90 days of the denial. Call 800-882-2003 for hearing requests. Continue applying for other programs while appealing.

TAFDC Cash Assistance Program

What TAFDC Provides

Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) provides monthly cash payments to very low-income families with children. The Massachusetts FY 25 budget includes a 10 percent increase in cash assistance benefits for both TAFDC and EAEDC programs starting April 2025.

TAFDC Maximum Benefits (April 2025)

Family Size Maximum Monthly Grant
1 parent + 1 child $578
1 parent + 2 children $783
1 parent + 3 children $896
1 parent + 4 children $1,009

Note: These amounts reflect the 10% increase effective April 2025. Families in private housing receive an additional $40/month rent allowance.

TAFDC Eligibility Requirements

Who Can Apply:

  • Parents with dependent children under 18 (or under 19 if in high school)
  • Pregnant women in their third trimester
  • Principal relatives caring for dependent children

Income Requirements:

  • Gross income must be below the TAFDC payment standard for your family size
  • Assets limited to $2,500 for most families ($15,000 if someone in household is age 60+ or disabled)

Work Requirements:

  • Most parents must participate in work activities after receiving benefits
  • Exemptions available for: parents with child under 2, domestic violence survivors, certain disabilities

How to Apply for TAFDC

Application Process:

  1. Apply online at DTA Connect
  2. Complete phone interview within 30 days
  3. Provide required verification documents
  4. Attend orientation meeting if approved

Time Limits: You can get 24 months of benefits every 5 years. If you are exempt from the 24 month time limit, there is no time limit for you.

Special Benefits:

  • $300 one-time payment for new baby
  • First $50 of child support paid is passed through to family monthly

What to Do if TAFDC is Denied: Request a fair hearing within 30 days. Call 800-882-2003. Apply for EAEDC if you have a disability. Consider applying for SNAP separately as you may still qualify.

MassHealth Healthcare Coverage

What MassHealth Covers

MassHealth is Massachusetts’ Medicaid program providing free or low-cost health insurance including doctor visits, prescriptions, mental health services, dental care, and emergency services.

MassHealth Income Limits (2025)

Category Income Limit (% of Federal Poverty Level)
Adults (19-64) 138% FPL
Children (0-18) 300% FPL
Pregnant Women 200% FPL

Example Monthly Income Limits for Family of 3:

  • Adults: approximately $2,600/month
  • Children: approximately $5,700/month
  • Pregnant women: approximately $3,800/month

How to Apply for MassHealth

Online Application:

  1. Visit MA Health Connector
  2. Complete application
  3. Upload income verification
  4. Receive determination typically within 2-3 weeks

Phone Application: Call 800-841-2900 (TTY 800-497-4648)

Required Documents:

  • Social Security numbers for all family members
  • Proof of Massachusetts residency
  • Income verification
  • Immigration documents (if applicable)

Emergency Coverage: Hospitals can provide “Presumptive Eligibility” for immediate coverage. Ask hospital financial counselors about this option.

What to Do if MassHealth is Denied: Appeal within 30 days by calling 800-841-2900. Apply for ConnectorCare if income is too high for MassHealth but still need affordable coverage.

Emergency Housing Assistance

Emergency Assistance (EA) Family Shelter

EA provides immediate shelter placement for homeless families with children under 21 or pregnant women.

How to Apply: Call 866-584-0653 for immediate assessment. Applications are processed same-day when shelter is available.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Families with children under 21 or pregnant women
  • Homeless or about to become homeless within 24 hours
  • Massachusetts residents
  • Income at or below 115% of Federal Poverty Level

Current Capacity Issues: Beginning on December 31, 2025 through December 31, 2026, the total capacity of the emergency housing assistance program shall not exceed 4,000 families. This creates waiting lists during high-demand periods.

Length of Stay: Families can stay up to 9 months while searching for permanent housing.

RAFT Emergency Rental Assistance

RAFT provides up to $7,000 per 12-month period so your family can stay in your current home or move to a new one. You may use the money for rent, utilities, moving costs, and mortgage payments.

What RAFT Covers:

  • Rent arrears
  • First month’s rent and security deposit
  • Utility arrears connected to housing
  • Moving expenses

How to Apply:

  1. Contact local Housing Consumer Education Center (HCEC)
  2. Complete application with required documentation
  3. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks

Required Documents:

  • Lease or mortgage documents
  • Proof of income
  • Eviction notice (if applicable)
  • Utility shutoff notices
  • Landlord W-9 form

What to Do if RAFT is Denied: Apply to multiple regional RAFT administrators. Each region has slightly different criteria. Consider HomeBASE program if you qualify for EA shelter.

Utility and Energy Assistance

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

LIHEAP helps with heating bills, utility arrears, and energy efficiency improvements.

Benefit Amounts: Varies based on heating source, family size, and income. Benefits typically range from $200-$1,200 annually.

How to Apply:

  • Call 800-632-8175
  • Apply online through local Community Action Agency
  • Applications accepted starting November 1 each year

Income Eligibility: Up to 60% of Massachusetts State Median Income

Emergency Fuel Assistance: Available year-round for heating emergencies and shutoff situations.

Utility Protection Programs

Medical Protection: If someone in your household has a life-threatening medical condition or there’s a child under 12 months, utilities cannot shut off service. Contact your utility company with doctor’s verification.

Arrearage Management Programs: Most utilities offer payment plans that can reduce or forgive past-due amounts for income-eligible customers.

What to Do if Utilities are Shut Off: Call 877-886-5066 (MA Department of Public Utilities Consumer Division) for emergency assistance connecting utilities when children are in the home.

Unemployment Insurance Benefits

Massachusetts Unemployment Benefits

Weekly Benefit Amount: Up to $1,015/week maximum (50% of average weekly wage)

Dependent Allowance: $25/week per dependent child up to 50% of your weekly benefit amount

How to Apply:

  1. File online at UI Online
  2. File weekly claim certifications
  3. Complete required work search activities

Processing Time: 2-4 weeks for initial determination

What to Do if Unemployment is Denied: Appeal within 10 days by calling 617-626-6800. Continue job search activities during appeal process.

WIC Nutrition Program

What WIC Provides

WIC provides monthly food benefits, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support for pregnant women, new mothers, and children up to age 5.

Monthly Food Package Value:

  • Children: approximately $26/month in fruits/vegetables
  • Pregnant/breastfeeding women: approximately $47/month in fruits/vegetables
  • Plus monthly allocations of milk, eggs, cereal, peanut butter, and other nutritious foods

How to Apply:

  1. Call 800-942-1007
  2. Schedule appointment at local WIC clinic
  3. Bring proof of identity, residency, and income
  4. Complete nutrition assessment

Income Eligibility: Up to 185% of Federal Poverty Level (automatic eligibility if receiving SNAP, TAFDC, or MassHealth)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Application Errors:

• Missing interview appointments – Always call back same day if you miss a scheduled interview

• Not reporting address changes – Update your address immediately with all agencies

• Incomplete documentation – Submit what you have and ask about alternatives for missing documents

• Waiting to apply – Apply immediately even if you don’t have all documents ready

• Not asking for expedited processing – Request expedited service if you meet criteria

• Forgetting to recertify – Mark renewal dates on your calendar and submit paperwork early

What to Do if Applications Are Repeatedly Denied: Contact Massachusetts Legal Aid at 617-357-5757 for free legal assistance with benefit applications.

Diverse Communities Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

Fenway Health

  • Phone: 617-267-0900
  • Services: LGBTQ+ affirming healthcare, mental health services
  • Website: fenwayhealth.org

The Network/La Red

  • Hotline: 617-695-0877
  • Services: LGBTQ+ domestic violence support
  • Website: tnlr.org

Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children

Disability Benefits 101

  • Website: ma.db101.org
  • Services: Benefits planning for people with disabilities

MassHealth Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Program

ADA Accommodations: Request reasonable accommodations from DTA, DHCD, and other agencies. Each agency has an ADA coordinator available.

Veteran Single Mothers

Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services

  • Phone: 617-210-5480
  • Services: Chapter 115 benefits, housing assistance
  • Website: mass.gov/veterans

Veterans Service Officers (VSO): Each city/town has a VSO who can help access federal and state veterans benefits.

Immigrant/Refugee Single Mothers

Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA)

  • Phone: 617-350-5480
  • Services: Immigration legal help, resource connections
  • Website: miracoalition.org

International Institute of New England

  • Phone: 617-695-9990
  • Services: Refugee resettlement, ESL classes
  • Website: iine.org

Benefit Eligibility for Non-Citizens:

  • Emergency MassHealth available regardless of immigration status
  • SNAP eligibility depends on immigration status – ask DTA to screen your household
  • WIC available for eligible immigrants

Tribal-Specific Resources

Massachusetts Commission on Indian Affairs

Rural Single Mother Families

Rural communities often face:

  • Limited public transportation
  • Fewer local service offices
  • Longer wait times for home visits

Solutions:

  • Use mobile intake services offered by Community Action Agencies
  • Request phone interviews when in-person visits are difficult
  • Ask about document pickup services

Single Fathers

All programs in this guide are available to single fathers with custody of their children. Use the same applications, phone numbers, and eligibility criteria listed throughout this guide.

Resources by Region

Boston Area

DTA Office – Boston

  • Address: 56 Roland Street, Boston, MA
  • Phone: 617-348-5000

Boston Housing Authority

Worcester/Central Massachusetts

DTA Office – Worcester

  • Address: 340 Main Street, Worcester, MA
  • Phone: 508-929-2675

Worcester Housing Authority

  • Phone: 508-635-3000

Springfield/Western Massachusetts

DTA Office – Springfield

  • Address: 95 State Street, Springfield, MA
  • Phone: 413-205-8900

Springfield Housing Authority

  • Phone: 413-781-4600

Lowell/Merrimack Valley

DTA Office – Lowell

  • Address: 220 Pawtucket Street, Lowell, MA
  • Phone: 978-674-7600

Lowell Housing Authority

  • Phone: 978-452-6191

Common Questions Single Mothers Ask (FAQs)

1. How quickly can I get SNAP food benefits in Massachusetts?

If you qualify for expedited SNAP (income under $150/month and assets under $100), you should receive benefits within 7 days. Regular SNAP processing takes up to 30 days.

2. What’s the maximum TAFDC cash assistance I can receive?

For a single mother with two children, the maximum TAFDC grant is $783/month as of April 2025, plus $40/month if you pay private rent.

3. Can I get emergency shelter the same day I apply?

Yes, if beds are available. Call 866-584-0653 for EA family shelter. Massachusetts processes applications same-day but capacity is limited to 4,000 families statewide.

4. How much emergency rent help can RAFT provide?

RAFT provides up to $7,000 per 12-month period for rent, utilities, and moving costs.

5. Do my children qualify for MassHealth if I work full-time?

Children qualify for MassHealth up to 300% of Federal Poverty Level. For a family of 3, that’s approximately $5,700/month gross income.

6. Can I apply for multiple programs at the same time?

Yes. Apply for SNAP, TAFDC, and MassHealth simultaneously through DTA Connect. Apply separately for RAFT, LIHEAP, and WIC.

7. What if I’m denied for benefits?

Request a fair hearing within 30-90 days depending on the program. Call 800-882-2003 for DTA program appeals or 800-841-2900 for MassHealth appeals.

8. How long do I have to wait for Section 8 housing vouchers?

Most housing authorities have closed waiting lists or wait times of 2-5 years. Apply immediately when lists open and consider applying to multiple authorities.

9. Can utilities be shut off if I have young children?

No, utilities cannot be shut off if you have children under 12 months or someone with a life-threatening medical condition. Contact your utility immediately to establish medical protection.

10. Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to receive benefits?

Requirements vary by program. MassHealth Emergency is available regardless of immigration status. SNAP and TAFDC have specific immigration requirements – ask agencies to screen your household eligibility.

Benefit Calculation Examples

Example 1: Single Mother, Two Children, Part-time Work

Income: $1,200/month gross Rent: $800/month Likely Benefits:

  • SNAP: approximately $350-500/month
  • MassHealth: Full coverage for all three family members
  • LIHEAP: $400-800/year for heating assistance
  • Childcare assistance: Available through EEC

Example 2: Unemployed Single Mother, One Child

Income: $0/month Homeless:

  • SNAP: Maximum $516/month (expedited processing)
  • TAFDC: $578/month
  • EA Shelter: Immediate placement when available
  • WIC: $26-47/month in food benefits plus basic food package

Example 3: Single Mother, Three Children, Lost Job

Previous income: $2,500/month Now unemployed:

  • Unemployment: Up to $1,015/week plus $75/week for three dependents
  • SNAP: Maximum $890/month for family of 4
  • MassHealth: Full family coverage
  • RAFT: Up to $7,000 to prevent eviction

Important Program Changes and Updates

Recent Changes (2025)

  • TAFDC benefits increased 10% effective April 2025
  • EA family shelter capacity capped at 4,000 families starting December 2025
  • SNAP minimum benefits increased to $23/month for small households

Upcoming Changes

  • Additional TAFDC increases may be considered in FY26 budget
  • EA program time limits may be extended based on housing market conditions

Summary Table: Key Massachusetts Benefits for Single Mothers

Program Maximum Monthly Benefit Income Limit Apply By
SNAP (3 people) $766 ~200% FPL DTA Connect
TAFDC (1 parent + 2 children) $783 Below payment standard DTA Connect
MassHealth Full coverage 138-300% FPL MA Health Connector
WIC ~$26-47 + food package 185% FPL 800-942-1007
RAFT $7,000/year Varies Local HCEC
LIHEAP $200-1,200/year 60% SMI 800-632-8175
EA Shelter Free housing 115% FPL 866-584-0653

Sección en Español

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

Ayuda de Emergencia para Madres Solteras en Massachusetts

Números Telefónicos de Emergencia:

  • 911 – Emergencias que amenazan la vida
  • 866-584-0653 – Refugio familiar de emergencia
  • 877-382-2363 – Beneficios de comida SNAP y asistencia en efectivo TAFDC
  • 800-841-2900 – MassHealth (cobertura médica)

Programas Principales:

  • SNAP: Hasta $766/mes para familia de 3 personas
  • TAFDC: $783/mes para madre con 2 niños sin ingresos
  • MassHealth: Cobertura médica gratuita para familias de bajos ingresos
  • RAFT: Hasta $7,000 por año para ayuda con renta
  • WIC: Beneficios de comida para mujeres embarazadas y niños menores de 5 años

Cómo Aplicar: Visite DTA Connect o llame 877-382-2363 para SNAP y TAFDC. Para MassHealth, visite MA Health Connector o llame 800-841-2900.

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

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance, Department of Housing and Community Development, MassHealth, 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

This guide provides general information about Massachusetts assistance programs and should not replace official guidance from state agencies. Program rules, benefit amounts, and eligibility requirements can change. Always verify current information directly with the relevant agency before making decisions. Application approval depends on individual circumstances and meeting all program requirements. While we strive for accuracy, this guide does not guarantee benefit eligibility or approval. For official program information, contact the agencies directly using the phone numbers and websites provided throughout this guide.

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