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Emergency Assistance for Single Mothers in Montana

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box

• Emergency: Call 911 for life-threatening situations


• Crisis support: Call 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)

• General help: Dial 211 for local resources and immediate assistance

• Apply online: Visit apply.mt.gov for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid applications

• Public assistance help: Call 1-888-706-1535 (Montana DPHHS)

• Domestic violence: Call 1-800-799-7233 National Domestic Violence Hotline

• Housing assistance: Contact Montana Housing at 406-841-2840

• Unemployment benefits: File at uiclaim.mt.gov or call 406-444-2545

If You Need Help Today

• Get food immediately: Visit local food banks (find via Montana 211) – most provide same-day groceries without appointment

• Apply for emergency SNAP: Submit application at apply.mt.gov and check expedited processing box – can receive benefits within 7 days if you qualify

• Find shelter: Call 211 and say “I need emergency shelter with children tonight” – ask about motel vouchers if shelters are full

• Prevent utility shutoff: Call your utility company for payment arrangement, then contact your local HRDC for LIHEAP crisis assistance

• Get immediate healthcare: Apply for Medicaid at apply.mt.gov – coverage can be backdated up to 3 months

Main Points

• Montana offers multiple assistance programs through one application at apply.mt.gov

• TANF cash assistance increased to $725 per month for a family of three as of 2025

• Maximum SNAP benefit for family of four is $973 monthly, though most receive less

• Medicaid expansion covers adults earning up to $21,597 annually (138% of poverty)

• Housing assistance has long waitlists – apply immediately even if not currently eligible

• Keep all required documents ready: ID, Social Security numbers, pay stubs, bills, lease agreements

Emergency Cash, Food, and Housing

SNAP (Food Stamps) Emergency Benefits

SNAP provides monthly food assistance through an EBT card. The maximum monthly benefit for a household of four in Montana is $973, though eligible Montanans receive approximately $178 per month on average.

Expedited SNAP Processing: You may qualify for 7-day emergency SNAP if you have less than $100 cash on hand and monthly income under $150, or if your housing costs exceed your income.

How to apply:

• Visit apply.mt.gov and complete application

• Check the “expedited processing” box

• Upload required documents immediately

• Call 1-888-706-1535 to schedule your phone interview

Required documents:

• Photo ID for applicant

• Social Security numbers for all household members

• Proof of income (last 30 days of pay stubs)

• Rent receipt or lease agreement

• Utility bills

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 1-888-706-1535 and ask to speak with a supervisor. Request a fair hearing if wrongly denied.

TANF Cash Assistance

Montana increased TANF benefits significantly, with families of three now receiving up to $725 monthly – one of the largest increases in the nation. TANF provides temporary cash assistance for basic needs like housing, utilities, and transportation.

Eligibility requirements:

• Montana resident with children under 18

• Meet income and asset limits

• Participate in work activities (with some exemptions)

• 60-month lifetime limit on assistance

Processing time: Typically 2-4 weeks once all documents are submitted

How to apply:

• Complete application at apply.mt.gov

• Attend required interview (by phone or in-person)

• Submit all required documents within 30 days

TANF Diversion Payment: One-time payment to help you start or keep employment. Ask your caseworker about this option if you need help with car repairs, work tools, or first month’s rent to start a job.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about hardship exemptions if you can’t meet work requirements. Contact Montana Legal Services at 1-800-666-6899 for appeal assistance.

Emergency Shelter and Housing

Immediate shelter:

• Call 211 for emergency shelter placement

• Ask specifically for “family shelter” or “motel vouchers”

• Contact local HRDC for Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funds

Housing assistance programs:

• Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers: Managed by Montana Housing – call 406-841-2840 to check waitlist status

• Emergency rental assistance: Available through local HRDCs for rent arrears and deposits

• Coordinated Entry: Contact your HRDC to complete assessment for priority housing placement

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Montana Legal Services about eviction mediation if facing court proceedings. Keep applying to multiple housing programs simultaneously.

Ongoing Benefits Programs

Montana Medicaid and Healthy Montana Kids (HMK)

Montana Medicaid expansion covers adults with incomes up to 138% of poverty – $21,597 for a single adult in 2025. Children may qualify for even higher income limits through HMK (Montana’s CHIP program).

Adult Medicaid income limits (138% FPL):

Family Size Monthly Income Limit
1 person $1,800
2 people $2,430
3 people $3,060
4 people $3,690

Children’s coverage (HMK/CHIP): Income limits up to 261% of poverty level, with small monthly premiums for some income levels.

How to apply:

• Complete application at apply.mt.gov

• Coverage can be backdated up to 3 months

• Call 1-800-362-8312 for Medicaid member help

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about emergency Medicaid for urgent medical needs. Hospital financial assistance programs may also help with bills.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

WIC provides food assistance, nutrition counseling, and breastfeeding support for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5.

Monthly food benefits include:

• Fruits and vegetables

• Whole grains

• Milk and dairy products

• Eggs and peanut butter

• Infant formula (if needed)

How to apply:

• Find your local WIC clinic at Montana WIC

• Call 1-800-433-4298 for appointments

• Bring ID, proof of address, income verification

Income limits: Generally higher than SNAP – up to 185% of poverty level

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about presumptive eligibility if you’re already receiving Medicaid or SNAP.

Current Benefit Amounts and Income Limits (August 2025)

SNAP Maximum Monthly Benefits

Household Size Maximum Benefit
1 person $292
2 people $536
3 people $768
4 people $973
5 people $1,155
6 people $1,386

Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Service

TANF Monthly Cash Benefits

Montana TANF benefits for family of three: $725 per month (2025 increase)

Income Limits by Program

Program 1 Person 2 People 3 People 4 People
SNAP (gross) $2,510 $3,408 $4,306 $5,204
Medicaid (adults) $1,800 $2,430 $3,060 $3,690
TANF $557 $777 $979 $1,178

Work and Training Resources

Job Service Montana

Montana’s employment services help with job search, resume writing, and skills training.

Services include:

• Job placement assistance

• Resume and interview preparation

• Skills training programs

• Apprenticeship opportunities

How to access:

• Visit MontanaWorks.gov for job listings

• Find local Job Service office locations online

• Call 406-444-2545 for unemployment insurance questions

Child Care Assistance

Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship helps working parents pay for licensed child care while working or attending school.

How it works:

• Parents pay a co-payment based on income

• State pays remainder directly to child care provider

• Available for children up to age 13

How to apply:

• Apply at Montana DPHHS Child Care

• Ask about 30-day backdate if you already started care

• Can be combined with other assistance programs

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask TANF caseworker about emergency child care funds. Some employers offer child care assistance programs.

Unemployment Insurance

Weekly benefit amounts: Montana sets minimum and maximum weekly benefits annually – check current amounts at Montana Department of Labor.

How to file:

• Submit initial claim at uiclaim.mt.gov

• File weekly claims to continue receiving benefits

• Participate in required job search activities

Processing time: First payment typically within 2-3 weeks after filing

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal denied claims within 30 days. Contact Job Service for help with claim issues.

Housing Assistance Programs

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

Montana Housing administers the statewide Section 8 program, providing rental assistance to low-income families.

How it works:

• You pay 30% of income toward rent

• Voucher covers remainder up to payment standard

• Can be used with any participating landlord

Eligibility:

• Household income below 50% of Area Median Income

• Priority for families below 30% of AMI

• Must pass background check

How to apply:

• Check waitlist status at Montana Housing

• Call 406-841-2840 for current openings

• Apply immediately when waitlist opens

Reality check: Waitlists are often closed with multi-year waits. Apply to multiple housing authorities if available in your area.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Look into Project-Based Section 8 apartments that have their own waitlists. Ask about local preference categories that might move you up the list.

Emergency Rental Assistance

Local Human Resource Development Councils (HRDCs) provide emergency help with:

• Past-due rent payments

• Security deposits

• Utility deposits

• First month’s rent

Typical assistance: $500-$2,000 depending on need and available funds

How to apply: Contact your regional HRDC directly – see Resources by Region section

What to do if this doesn’t work: Try multiple sources – Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul, local churches often have emergency funds of $50-$500.

Health Coverage and Medical Assistance

Montana Medicaid Coverage

Montana Medicaid covers comprehensive health services including:

• Doctor visits and preventive care

• Hospital services

• Prescription medications

• Mental health services

• Substance abuse treatment

Special coverage for pregnant women:

• Coverage throughout pregnancy and 60 days postpartum

• May have higher income limits than regular adult Medicaid

• Covers prenatal care, delivery, and newborn care

Emergency Medical Services

If you don’t have insurance:

• Hospital emergency rooms must provide screening regardless of ability to pay

• Ask about hospital charity care programs

• Community health centers offer sliding scale fees

Prescription assistance:

• Ask pharmacies about manufacturer discount programs

• Check NeedyMeds.org for drug assistance programs

• Some pharmacies offer $4 generic programs

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact hospital financial counselors about payment plans. Apply for Medicaid even while receiving care – coverage can be backdated.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to apply: Submit applications immediately, even without all documents

• Missing phone interviews: Answer unknown numbers during business hours – it might be your caseworker

• Not reporting all expenses: Include child care, medical costs, and utility expenses to maximize SNAP benefits

• Skipping expedited SNAP: Check the emergency processing box if you qualify

• Applying to only one program: Use the single application to apply for multiple benefits

• Not keeping copies: Save all documents, emails, and application confirmations

• Missing deadlines: Submit required documents within stated timeframes

• Not appealing denials: You have rights to fair hearings – use them

Diverse Communities Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

• Montana Fair Housing: Report discrimination at Montana Human Rights

• PFLAG Montana: Find local support groups at pflag.org

• Pride Foundation: Emergency financial assistance – check eligibility at pridefoundation.org

• Ask service providers about LGBTQ+-affirming policies before accessing services

Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children

• Apply for SSI/SSDI: Contact Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213

• SNAP medical deductions: Report medical expenses to increase food benefits

• Disability Rights Montana: Legal advocacy at 1-800-245-4743

• Montana Independent Living: Support services at montanailc.org

• Special education services: Contact your school district for IEP/504 plans

Veteran Single Mothers

• Montana Veterans Affairs: Call 406-324-3742 for state-specific benefits

• VA Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Rental assistance – find providers at VA SSVF

• VR&E Education Benefits: Vocational rehabilitation at 1-800-827-1000

• Priority for housing: Veterans preference in some public housing programs

Immigrant/Refugee Single Mothers

• Legal immigration status required: For most federal benefits, but children who are citizens can receive assistance

• WIC available: Regardless of immigration status for pregnant/postpartum women

• Emergency Medicaid: Available for emergency medical conditions

• International Rescue Committee: Refugee services in Missoula – 406-542-2926

• Montana Immigrant Justice Alliance: Legal support and resources

Tribal-Specific Resources

• Tribal TANF: Many tribes operate separate TANF programs with different rules

• Indian Health Service: Healthcare at no cost at IHS facilities

• Native American Food Distribution Program: Alternative to SNAP on some reservations

• Housing assistance: Tribal housing authorities may have shorter waitlists

• Contact tribal social services: Each reservation has specific programs available

Rural Single Mother Families

• Transportation assistance: Ask HRDC about travel vouchers for appointments

• Telehealth services: Available through most Montana healthcare providers

• Mobile food pantries: Check with local food banks for delivery schedules

• School services: McKinney-Vento Act provides transportation and support for homeless students

• Internet access: Libraries offer free computer and internet use for applications

Single Fathers

All programs listed apply to single fathers caring for children:

• Same eligibility rules: Apply at apply.mt.gov for all benefits

• Father-friendly services: Request male caseworkers if preferred

• Parenting resources: Fatherhood programs available through some HRDCs

• Child support services: Montana Child Support Enforcement at 1-800-346-5437

Resources by Region

Human Resource Development Councils (HRDCs)

HRDCs provide LIHEAP, housing assistance, food programs, and emergency services.

HRDC Region 1 – Southwest Montana (Butte) • Phone: 406-533-6855 • Website: buttehrdc.org • Services: Emergency rent, LIHEAP, food assistance

HRDC Region 2 – Helena Area
• Phone: 406-447-1625 • Website: rmdc.net • Services: Housing stabilization, energy assistance

HRDC Region 3 – Bozeman/Gallatin • Phone: 406-587-4486 • Website: thehrdc.org • Services: Emergency assistance, coordinated entry

HRDC Region 4 – Havre/Hi-Line • Phone: 406-265-6743 • Website: hrdc4.org • Services: Rural outreach, energy assistance

HRDC Region 5 – Billings/Yellowstone • Phone: 406-247-4732 • Services: Housing, food assistance, LIHEAP

HRDC Region 6 – Lewistown/Central Montana • Phone: 406-535-7488 • Website: hrdc6.org • Services: Rural services, emergency assistance

HRDC Region 7 – Eastern Montana (Glendive) • Phone: 406-377-3564 • Services: Energy assistance, food programs

HRDC Region 8 – Great Falls • Phone: 406-454-5701 • Services: Homeless services, housing assistance

HRDC Region 9 – Kalispell/Flathead • Phone: 406-752-6565 • Services: Emergency rent, coordinated entry

HRDC Region 10 – Missoula • Phone: 406-728-3710 • Services: Comprehensive assistance programs

Other Key Resources

Salvation Army Locations: • Billings: 406-245-6208
• Bozeman: 406-587-3407 • Great Falls: 406-761-5445 • Helena: 406-442-1540 • Missoula: 406-549-0710

Food Banks (Montana Food Bank Network): • Find locations: mfbn.org • Mobile food pantries: Check schedules online

Legal Aid: • Montana Legal Services: 1-800-666-6899 • Free legal clinics: Available in most counties

Application Timelines and Processing

Typical Processing Times

Program Emergency Timeline Standard Timeline
SNAP 7 days (expedited) 30 days
TANF N/A 2-4 weeks
Medicaid Same day (emergency) 45 days
WIC 1-2 weeks 1-2 weeks
Housing assistance N/A 6 months – 2+ years

Required Documents Checklist

For all applications:

• Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID)

• Social Security cards for all household members

• Birth certificates for children

• Proof of Montana residency (utility bill, lease)

For income-based programs:

• Last 30 days of pay stubs

• Unemployment insurance records

• Self-employment records

• Child support documentation

For SNAP specifically:

• Rent receipt or lease agreement

• Utility bills (electric, gas, water, phone)

• Child care receipts

• Medical expense receipts (if over 60 or disabled)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Submit applications without missing documents, then provide them within the allowed timeframe. Call 1-888-706-1535 to confirm what’s still needed.

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

1. How fast can I get SNAP benefits in Montana? If you qualify for expedited SNAP (very low income and resources), you can receive benefits within 7 days of application. Regular SNAP processing takes up to 30 days.

2. What’s the maximum TANF I can get in Montana? Montana increased TANF to $725 per month for a family of three in 2025 – one of the highest increases in the nation.

3. Can I apply for multiple programs at once? Yes, the single application at apply.mt.gov lets you apply for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, and LIHEAP simultaneously.

4. What if I’m working but still need help? You can still qualify for SNAP, Medicaid, and child care assistance while working. TANF also offers support services like child care and transportation to help you keep your job.

5. How long can I receive TANF? Montana has a 60-month lifetime limit on TANF cash assistance, though some exceptions exist for domestic violence survivors and other hardships.

6. Is the Section 8 waitlist open in Montana? Waitlist status changes frequently. Call Montana Housing at 406-841-2840 to check current status and apply when open.

7. Can I get help with past-due rent? Yes, contact your local HRDC for Emergency Solutions Grant funds that can pay past-due rent and prevent eviction.

8. What if I don’t have all the required documents? Submit your application anyway and provide missing documents within the allowed timeframe. Don’t delay applying because you’re missing paperwork.

9. How do I check my SNAP benefit balance? Call the number on the back of your EBT card or check online through your state’s EBT website.

10. What happens if my application is denied? You have the right to a fair hearing. Call 1-888-706-1535 to request an appeal within 90 days of the denial notice.

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Maria – Single mom, 2 children, no income

Maria recently left an abusive relationship with her 4-year-old and infant. She has no income and $50 in cash.

Immediate actions: • Apply for expedited SNAP (qualifies for 7-day processing) • Apply for emergency shelter through 211 • Apply for TANF and Medicaid at apply.mt.gov • Contact WIC for immediate food assistance • Ask HRDC about emergency cash assistance

Expected benefits: • SNAP: Up to $768 monthly for family of 3 • TANF: Up to $725 monthly cash assistance
• Medicaid: Full coverage for all family members • WIC: Additional food assistance for herself and infant

Reality check: Applications take time even in emergencies. She’ll need temporary help from food banks and shelters while waiting for benefits to start.

Example 2: Jennifer – Working mother, 1 child, $2,200/month income

Jennifer works full-time but struggles with high child care costs and rent.

Immediate actions: • Apply for SNAP (may qualify for reduced benefits) • Apply for Best Beginnings child care assistance • Check Medicaid eligibility (over income limit for adults but child may qualify) • Apply for LIHEAP energy assistance

Expected outcomes: • SNAP: May receive $100-200 monthly depending on expenses • Child care: Reduced to sliding scale co-payment • Medicaid: Child likely qualifies for HMK coverage • LIHEAP: Help with seasonal heating costs

Reality check: Working families often qualify for less assistance but still receive significant help with child care and food costs.

Spanish Summary / 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.

Programas Principales de Asistencia en Montana:

• SNAP (Cupones de Comida): Hasta $973 mensuales para familia de 4 personas

• TANF (Asistencia Temporal): $725 mensuales para familia de 3 personas

• Medicaid: Cobertura médica gratuita para familias de bajos ingresos

• Asistencia de Vivienda: Ayuda con renta y depósitos

Cómo Aplicar:

• Visite apply.mt.gov para aplicar en línea • Llame al 1-888-706-1535 para ayuda en español • Marque 211 para recursos locales inmediatos

Documentos Necesarios:

• Identificación con foto • Números de Seguro Social • Comprobantes de ingresos (últimos 30 días) • Recibo de renta • Facturas de servicios públicos

Asistencia de Emergencia:

• 911 – Emergencias médicas • 211 – Recursos locales y refugio • 988 – Crisis de salud mental

Para información detallada en inglés, consulte las secciones completas arriba.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Montana Department of Public Health and 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 rules, benefit amounts, and eligibility requirements change frequently. While this guide uses the most current information available as of August 2025, you should always verify current program details by contacting the relevant agency directly or visiting their official website. Individual circumstances vary, and eligibility cannot be guaranteed based on information in this guide. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Always consult with qualified professionals for assistance with your specific situation.

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