Menu
kansas

Grants for Single Mothers in Kansas

Kansas Single Mother’s Guide to Benefits, Grants, and Support Programs (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

If You Need Help Today

If you’re facing an immediate crisis, here are three steps you can take right now:


  1. Call 2-1-1 – Free 24/7 help finding emergency assistance for housing, food, utilities, and more
  2. Apply for Emergency SNAP at dcf.ks.gov – you can get benefits within 7 days if you qualify for expedited service
  3. Contact local food banks – Most don’t require paperwork and can help today

Emergency Numbers:

  • Crisis and suicide prevention: 988
  • Domestic violence hotline: 1-800-799-7233
  • Kansas child abuse hotline: 1-800-922-5330

Main Points

Kansas provides assistance through multiple programs, but the reality is that eligibility requirements are very strict and benefit amounts are among the lowest in the nation. According to the Kansas Action for Children, “Kansas has seen a marked decline in families living in poverty receiving TANF benefits. When the program began in 1995/1996, more than half (52) of every 100 Kansas families living below the poverty line received TANF income support, compared to just nine families of every 100 families in 2019/2020.”

What you need to know:

  • Income limits are extremely low – According to the Kansas Action for Children, families must make a maximum monthly income of $519 for a family of three, or roughly $6,220 per year for initial TANF eligibility
  • Time limits are short – Cash assistance is available for up to 24 months in your lifetime
  • Real grants exist but are limited – Educational grants are available but competitive
  • Multiple programs can help – Even if you don’t qualify for cash assistance, you may qualify for food, healthcare, or childcare help
  • Work requirements apply – Most programs require work, school, or job training

Reality Check: Kansas has some of the most restrictive benefit requirements in the country, according to multiple policy research organizations. Don’t get discouraged if you’re denied for one program – apply for others and consider appealing decisions.

Cash Assistance and Emergency Help

Kansas TANF (Successful Families Program)

According to the Kansas Department for Children and Families, The Successful Families Program offers employment services and support services to low-income families. That support may include cash assistance.

Current benefit amounts: The maximum monthly benefits are extremely low. Based on the Kansas Legislative Division of Post Audit, the maximum cash assistance benefit for a family of 2 in Shawnee County living in non-shared housing is $326 per month.

Income eligibility: Currently, to be eligible, families must meet all the following criteria: At least one child under age 18 lives in the household. For initial eligibility, make a maximum monthly income of $519 for a family of three, or roughly $6,220 per year. The household has less than $2,250 in resources and assets.

Family Size Maximum Monthly Income Maximum Annual Income
1 parent, 1 child $326 $3,912
1 parent, 2 children $519 $6,228
1 parent, 3 children Approximately $650 $7,800

Requirements:

  • Must be U.S. citizen or qualified legal resident
  • Must live in Kansas
  • Must have children under 19
  • Adults in the household must participate in program requirements to stay in compliance, including participation in approved work activities
  • Must cooperate with child support enforcement

Time limits: Cash assistance is available for up to 24 months in your lifetime.

How to apply:

  • Online: dcf.ks.gov
  • Phone: 1-888-369-4777
  • In person: Local DCF office

Reality Check: Kansas has some of the lowest TANF benefits in the nation. According to the Kansas Action for Children, these benefit amounts haven’t been updated since 1997, making them worth much less due to inflation.

SNAP (Food Assistance)

Kansas’s food assistance program provides monthly benefits to buy groceries. According to the USDA, this program is more accessible than cash assistance.

Maximum benefit amounts (October 2024 – September 2025): Based on USDA guidelines:

  • 1 person: $292/month
  • 2 people: $536/month
  • 3 people: $768/month
  • 4 people: $975/month

Income limits: The gross income limit for SNAP benefits in Kansas is 130% of the Federal Poverty Level. There is no gross income limit in Kansas for households that include a member who is age 60 years or older or has a disability.

Family Size Monthly Income Limit (130% FPL) Annual Income Limit
1 person $1,697 $20,370
2 people $2,291 $27,490
3 people $2,885 $34,610
4 people $3,479 $41,730

How to apply:

  • Online: dcf.ks.gov
  • Phone: 1-888-369-4777
  • In person: Local DCF office

Emergency SNAP: If you have very low income and minimal resources, you may qualify for expedited service and receive benefits within 7 days.

LIHEAP (Energy Assistance)

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program helps with utility bills. According to the Kansas Department for Children and Families, LIEAP provides federally funded assistance to reduce costs associated with home energy bills.

When to apply: The 2025-2026 LIEAP application period runs from Monday, November 18, 2024 through March 31, 2025. Applications are processed first-come, first-served. Based on Evergy Kansas, you can apply online or at in-person application events.

Income requirements: Income limits are set at approximately 60% of state median income. According to the Disability Rights Center of Kansas, specific income guidelines vary by household size.

Benefit amounts: LIEAP provides a one-time annual benefit that can reach several hundred dollars, applied as credit to your utility bills. Priority is given to households with elderly members (60+), disabled individuals, or children under 6.

How to apply:

  • Online: dcf.ks.gov
  • Phone: 1-888-369-4777
  • In person: Local DCF office

Healthcare for You and Your Kids

KanCare (Kansas Medicaid)

According to KanCare, The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Division of Health Care Finance (DHCF) offers medical assistance to help cover health care costs. We have three major programs for individuals and families who qualify: KanCare under the Medicaid plan – Our largest program. It covers people with limited income, which may include pregnant women, children up to age 19, adult caretaker of children, persons aged out of foster care, persons with disabilities and senior citizens.

Important Note: Kansas has NOT expanded Medicaid. According to HealthInsurance.org, Parents with dependent children are eligible with household income up to 33% of FPL, which is extremely restrictive.

Income limits for families: Based on Kansas Medicaid eligibility information:

Category Income Limit (% of FPL) Family of 3 Monthly Limit
Children under 1 171% of FPL $4,397
Children 1-5 years 154% of FPL $3,961
Children 6-18 years 138% of FPL $3,551
Pregnant women 171% of FPL $4,397
Parents with children 38% of FPL $978

How to apply:

  • Online: kancare.ks.gov
  • Phone: Contact KanCare
  • In person: Local DCF office

Reality Check: Kansas has some of the most restrictive Medicaid eligibility in the nation. Most working single mothers don’t qualify for coverage themselves, though their children likely do.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, WIC serves Kansas residents who are: pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under 5 years of age.

Income eligibility: The gross income limit for WIC is 185% of the federal poverty level.

Family Size Monthly Income Limit Annual Income Limit
1 person $2,414 $28,970
2 people $3,260 $39,110
3 people $4,108 $49,300
4 people $4,956 $59,490

What WIC provides:

  • Monthly food packages (milk, eggs, cereal, peanut butter, baby formula)
  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Breastfeeding support and breast pump loans
  • Health screenings and referrals

Automatic qualification: Certain applicants can be determined income-eligible for WIC based on their participation in certain programs. These included individuals: eligible to receive SNAP benefits, Medicaid, for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

How to apply:

  • Find local WIC office: kdhe.ks.gov
  • Phone: Contact local WIC clinic
  • Must apply in person

Child Care Assistance

According to Child Care Aware of Kansas, The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) recently increased the initial eligibility income to 250% of the federal poverty level, which is much higher than many people realize.

Income limits (250% of Federal Poverty Level): For a family of three, the initial monthly gross income limit is $4,798. For a family of four, the initial monthly gross income limit is $5,783.

Family Size Monthly Income Limit Annual Income Limit
1 parent, 1 child $3,815 $45,780
1 parent, 2 children $4,798 $57,576
1 parent, 3 children $5,783 $69,396
1 parent, 4 children $6,768 $81,216

Requirements:

  • Working parents (minimum 20 hours/week)
  • Parents in approved education/training programs
  • Use DCF-enrolled providers or licensed providers willing to enroll

Co-payments: Based on the Kansas Action for Children, Families making more than 100 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL) must pay a copay.

How to apply:

Reality Check: To be initially eligible for Child Care Assistance, a family of four can make nearly $70,000 a year, making this one of the more accessible programs in Kansas.

Educational Grants and Scholarships

Unlike most other assistance, educational grants don’t have to be repaid and can truly change your life. Here are the real grant opportunities available:

Federal Pell Grant

The most common educational grant for single mothers. For 2025-26, according to the U.S. Department of Education, the maximum Pell Grant is $7,895. You must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at studentaid.gov.

Requirements:

  • Financial need (determined by FAFSA)
  • U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Enrolled in eligible program
  • Making satisfactory academic progress

Kansas Comprehensive Grant

According to the Kansas Board of Regents, Kansas residents enrolled full-time at eighteen private colleges and universities located in Kansas, the six state universities, and Washburn University can receive this state-funded grant. Award amounts range from $200-$10,000 at private institutions and $100-$4,000 at public institutions. According to the Kansas Board of Regents, “The funding level allows about 1 in 3 eligible students to be assisted.” This grant is based on financial need.

Requirements:

  • Kansas resident for at least one year
  • Enrolled at participating Kansas college
  • Complete FAFSA by priority deadline
  • Demonstrate financial need

How to apply: Complete FAFSA listing participating Kansas schools. Schools automatically consider you for this grant.

Adult Learner Grant

The Kansas Board of Regents offers the Adult Learner Grant for Kansas residents aged 24 or older who are returning to education. According to the Board of Regents, this grant can pay towards tuition, required fees, and books for students enrolled in at least 6 credit hours.

Requirements:

  • Kansas resident
  • Age 24 or older
  • Enrolled in eligible program at designated Kansas institutions
  • Meet income requirements (varies by program)
  • Enrolled in high-demand, high-wage, or critical need occupations

How to apply: Visit kansasregents.org for detailed information and application process.

Single Mother Specific Scholarships

While limited, some organizations offer scholarships specifically for single mothers:

KNEA Sherri Yourdon Memorial Scholarship: According to Kansas NEA, The KNEA Sherri Yourdon Memorial Scholarship is a $1,000.00 award designed for a KNEA member who is a single mother pursuing an advanced degree.

Local Foundation Scholarships: Many local community foundations offer scholarships. Check with:

  • Your local community foundation
  • Churches and faith-based organizations
  • Local businesses and service clubs
  • Your college’s financial aid office

Reality Check: Educational grants are competitive. Apply early, meet all deadlines, and apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances.

Tax Credits (Often Overlooked!)

Tax credits can provide thousands of dollars annually, even if you don’t owe taxes.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

For tax year 2025, according to the IRS, the maximum EITC varies by number of children:

  • 1 child: Up to $4,213
  • 2 children: Up to $6,960
  • 3+ children: Up to $8,046

How to claim: File tax return with Form 1040, even if you don’t owe taxes.

Child Tax Credit

According to the IRS, up to $2,000 per child under 17, with up to $1,700 refundable.

Child and Dependent Care Credit

20-35% of childcare costs, up to $3,000 for one child or $6,000 for two+ children.

Free tax help: IRS VITA Program at 1-800-906-9887

Child Support Services

Don’t overlook this important source of support. Kansas’s Division of Child Support Services helps establish and collect support from the other parent.

Services provided:

  • Locate absent parents
  • Establish paternity
  • Establish and modify support orders
  • Collect and distribute payments
  • Enforce support orders

Cost: $25 application fee (waived for TANF recipients)

Contact: 1-800-882-4151 or Kansas Child Support Services

Housing Assistance

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

Helps very low-income families afford decent housing. Income limits are typically 30% of Area Median Income.

How to apply:

  • Contact local Public Housing Authority
  • Most have waiting lists of 1-3 years
  • Apply to multiple authorities if eligible

Emergency Rental Assistance

Contact 2-1-1 for local emergency rental programs. Many nonprofits and churches provide one-time emergency assistance.

Support for Diverse Families

Single Fathers

All programs in this guide serve single fathers raising children alone with the same eligibility requirements and benefits.

LGBTQ+ Single Parents

All Kansas state programs serve LGBTQ+ parents without discrimination. Additional resources:

  • Equality Kansas: (877) 552-5542
  • Local PFLAG chapters for community support

Native American Families

Tribal TANF programs: Many Kansas tribes operate their own TANF programs:

  • Contact your tribal government for specific programs
  • You cannot receive both state and tribal TANF simultaneously

Additional resources:

  • Indian Health Service for healthcare
  • Tribal social services departments

Rural Kansas Families

Additional challenges:

  • Limited public transportation
  • Fewer service providers
  • Longer distances to offices

Rural-specific resources:

  • Mobile services when available
  • Telehealth options through KanCare
  • Transportation assistance through local programs
  • 2-1-1 especially important for finding local resources

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Special considerations:

  • May qualify for kinship care support
  • Income limits may be different when grandparent applies only for grandchild
  • Contact Kansas Department for Children and Families for kinship services

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Week 1: Emergency Needs

  1. Apply for Emergency SNAP – Online at dcf.ks.gov or call 1-888-369-4777
  2. Call 2-1-1 for immediate crisis resources
  3. Contact local food banks for emergency food

Week 2: Healthcare and Basic Needs

  1. Apply for KanCare (Medicaid) – Same application as SNAP
  2. Apply for WIC if you have children under 5
  3. Contact utility companies if behind on bills

Week 3: Cash and Support Programs

  1. Apply for TANF if income is extremely low
  2. Contact child support services at 1-800-882-4151
  3. Apply for childcare assistance if working or in school

Week 4: Long-term Planning

  1. Complete FAFSA for educational grants at studentaid.gov
  2. Research local scholarships and educational opportunities
  3. Apply for housing assistance with local housing authority

Documents You Need

Keep copies ready for all applications:

Personal identification:

  • Kansas driver’s license or state ID
  • Social Security cards for all family members
  • Birth certificates for all children

Income and employment:

  • Pay stubs from last 30 days
  • Unemployment benefits statement
  • Self-employment records
  • Child support payment records

Housing and expenses:

  • Current lease or mortgage statement
  • Rent receipts
  • Utility bills
  • Childcare payment receipts

Financial information:

  • Bank statements for last 3 months
  • Vehicle registration
  • Medical bills

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

Q: Can I get help if I’m working? A: Yes! Most programs allow working families:

  • SNAP: Up to 130% of poverty level ($2,885/month for family of 3)
  • KanCare for children: Up to 138-171% of poverty level depending on age
  • Childcare assistance: Up to 250% of poverty level ($4,798/month for family of 3)

Q: What if I have a criminal record? A: You can still qualify for most programs:

  • SNAP (food assistance) – available
  • KanCare (healthcare) – available
  • Housing assistance – may have restrictions depending on conviction
  • WIC – available TANF may be unavailable for certain drug-related felonies.

Q: How long do applications take? A: Processing times vary:

  • SNAP: 7-30 days (7 days if emergency)
  • TANF: Up to 45 days
  • KanCare: Usually 30 days
  • Childcare assistance: 30-45 days
  • Housing vouchers: Years due to waiting lists

Q: What if I get denied? A: You have rights! You can appeal any denial within 30 days. Common reasons include missing documents or income calculation errors. Contact local legal aid for help with appeals.

Q: Can I apply for multiple programs? A: Yes! You can apply for multiple programs simultaneously. Use the same online application for SNAP, TANF, and KanCare.

Q: What if my English is limited? A: All state programs provide free interpreters. Request interpretation when calling or scheduling appointments.

Q: How do I get help with applications? A: Free help available at:

  • Local DCF offices
  • Community Action Programs
  • 2-1-1 can connect you with local navigators
  • Legal aid organizations

What to Do When You’re Denied

Don’t give up! Many denials can be resolved.

Your Rights

  • 30-day appeal deadline from denial date
  • Right to fair hearing with impartial officer
  • Right to continued benefits during appeal (if already receiving)
  • Right to legal representation

Common Denial Reasons

  • Missing required documents
  • Income calculation errors
  • Failed to attend required interview
  • Application incomplete

Getting Help with Appeals

Free legal assistance:

  • Kansas Legal Services: 1-800-723-6953
  • Local Community Action Programs
  • 2-1-1 for advocacy referrals

Reapplying

If appeal deadline passes or you gathered missing information, you can always reapply. Improve your chances by:

  • Getting help with application completion
  • Double-checking all information
  • Following up regularly

Resources and Important Phone Numbers

Emergency Numbers

  • 2-1-1: Information and referral (24/7)
  • 988: Crisis and suicide prevention
  • 1-800-799-7233: Domestic violence hotline

State Services

  • Kansas DCF: 1-888-369-4777 (SNAP, TANF, childcare)
  • KanCare: Contact through DCF
  • Child Support Services: 1-800-882-4151
  • WIC: Contact local health department

Utility Assistance

  • LIEAP: 1-888-369-4777
  • Kansas 211: 2-1-1
  • Salvation Army: Local chapters

Educational Resources

  • Federal Student Aid: 1-800-433-3243
  • Kansas Board of Regents: kansasregents.gov
  • Free tax help (VITA): 1-800-906-9887

Legal Help

  • Kansas Legal Services: 1-800-723-6953
  • Legal Aid of Western Missouri (serves some Kansas areas)

Disclaimer

Important Notice About Information Currency

Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts change frequently due to federal and state policy updates, funding changes, and legislative action. All information in this guide was compiled using official government sources as of August 2025, but policies may have changed since publication.

Verification Requirements:

  • Always verify current information directly with the relevant agency before making decisions
  • Contact program offices for the most up-to-date eligibility requirements and benefit amounts
  • Check official websites for any recent policy changes or updates

Limitations:

  • This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or benefits counseling advice
  • Individual circumstances vary and may affect program eligibility
  • Processing times and benefit amounts may differ from those listed
  • Some programs may have waiting lists or limited funding not reflected in this guide

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Kansas guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Kansas Department for Children and Families, USDA, IRS, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Kansas Department for Children and Families, USDA, HHS, and Kansas Board of Regents sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

🏛️More Kansas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Kansas

Related Posts