Job Loss Support and Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in Louisiana
Job Loss Support & Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in Louisiana
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, no‑fluff hub for single moms in Louisiana who lost a job or have been out of work for a while. You’ll find exact steps, phone numbers, deadlines, wait times, and Plan B options. Links are embedded right where you need them, in italics, so you can click and go.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call or apply online for unemployment now. File online through your HiRE account at the state’s portal via the Louisiana Workforce Commission in the website labeled as My HiRE Account and get on record for the soonest payable week. If you can’t get online, call LWC Unemployment Insurance at 1-866-783-5567. (laworks.net)
- Stop a utility shutoff today. Ask your electric or water company for a payment plan and call Louisiana 211 by dialing 2‑1‑1 for local bill‑pay help; you can also text your ZIP code to 898‑211 for fast referrals. If you can’t resolve it, contact the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) at 1‑800‑256‑2397 to open a consumer complaint. (louisiana211.org)
- Secure food and health coverage. Apply for SNAP (food help) and emergency processing with DCFS LAHelpU at 1‑888‑524‑3578 or online; for healthcare, apply through Louisiana Medicaid at 1‑888‑342‑6207 or explore a job‑loss Marketplace Special Enrollment on HealthCare.gov. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Handy (not duplicates of the 3 above)
- Unemployment appeals & hearings: Call the LWC Appeals Tribunal at 1‑800‑256‑8023 or email clerkappeal@lwc.la.gov; appeals are due in 15 days. (www2.laworks.net)
- Energy bill help (LIHEAP): See parish contacts at Louisiana Housing Corporation Energy Assistance and ask for crisis help if you have a shutoff notice; you can also call LHC at 225‑763‑8700. (lhc.la.gov)
- Child care while job‑hunting/training (CCAP): Apply with the Louisiana Department of Education CCAP; due to funding limits a waitlist is active, but some families are exempt. Call 1‑877‑453‑2721. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Legal help for benefits, housing, and debt: Contact Southeast Louisiana Legal Services (SLLS) or Acadiana Legal Service Corporation through the statewide list on LWC’s UI FAQ page, or start at LouisianaLawHelp.org. (www2.laworks.net)
- Domestic violence & safety planning: Call the statewide Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence Hotline at 1‑888‑411‑1333 for shelter, legal safety planning, and referrals statewide. (lcadv.org)
How Louisiana Unemployment Works Now (And What Just Changed)
The most important action: file your claim the moment you lose your job. File online through your HiRE dashboard and complete your weekly certifications every Sunday or Monday to stay paid; if you miss the window, you can still certify by Friday 4:00 p.m. The LWC phone line is 1‑866‑783‑5567 if you need help verifying your identity or unlocking your account. (www2.laworks.net)
As of January 2025, Louisiana shortened potential benefit duration for new claims. Your claim can run 12–20 weeks depending on the state unemployment rate when you file. Weekly benefit amounts still range from 35toa35 to a 275 maximum, based on your past earnings. Keep your work‑search records; you must be able, available, and actively seeking work to keep benefits. (laworks.net)
Reality check: lawmakers also tightened job‑search rules. Right now, LWC guidance generally requires three work‑search actions per week. A new law (Act 151) raises that to five actions a week starting December 31, 2025; watch for updated LWC rules on what counts. Build the habit now to avoid future denials. (bswllp.com)
Louisiana UI at a Glance (2025)
| Item | Current Rule (as of Sept 2025) | Where to Verify |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA) | 35minimumto35 minimum to 275 maximum | LWC Claimant Benefits FAQ (laworks.net) |
| Weeks of Benefits | 12–20 weeks for new claims filed on/after Jan 5, 2025 (prior claims may have had 26 weeks) | LWC Claimant Benefits FAQ (laworks.net) |
| Weekly Certification Window | Sun–Mon preferred; late window through Fri 4:00 p.m. CT | LWC Claimant Benefits FAQ (laworks.net) |
| Work‑Search Requirement | Generally 3 actions/week; increases to 5 actions/week 12/31/2025 by Act 151 | LWC & news on Act 151, LegiScan HB153 (wbrz.com) |
| Appeals Deadline | 15 days from date mailed on determination | LAC 40:IV‑109 (law.cornell.edu) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your claim stalls, send a concise email to HiRE@lwc.la.gov with your full name, phone, and last four of SSN; then call LWC UI at 1‑866‑783‑5567 and ask for a ticket number. If you still can’t resolve it, contact your legislative office for constituent help and keep certifying weekly so you don’t miss payable weeks. (www2.laworks.net)
Step‑by‑Step: File Correctly the First Time
- Gather what you need: SSN; last 18 months of employer names/addresses; union hall info; DD‑214 (if military) or SF‑8/SF‑50 (if federal) — don’t delay filing if documents will take time. Start your claim in HiRE and complete work registration in the same session. (www2.laworks.net)
- Certify weekly: Log back into HiRE each Sunday/Monday to answer eligibility questions and enter your work‑search log. If the system asks for employer name/phone and you applied online, list the company and note “applied online.” Keep real proof in case you’re audited. (laworks.net)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your online certification fails, immediately call 1‑866‑783‑5567 to certify by phone and document the call. If you’re locked out, ask LWC to reset your HiRE credentials, then try again the next day. (laworks.net)
Extend or Pair Your Benefits While You Train
If you enroll in approved training before your claim ends, you may qualify for up to eight extra weeks under “Additional Benefits.” Pair UI with short‑term courses through your local American Job Center using WIOA training funds from the state’s eligible training list, and ask about apprenticeships that pay while you learn. (www2.laworks.net)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If class start dates are delayed, keep certifying and doing job‑search until you receive “approved training” confirmation. If you’re denied Additional Benefits, appeal within 15 days and attach proof you were enrolled before exhausting regular benefits. (law.cornell.edu)
How to Appeal an Unemployment Denial (and Win)
File your appeal fast. You have 15 days from the mailing date on the decision to submit your appeal online through HiRE, by email to clerkappeal@lwc.la.gov, by fax to 225‑346‑6077, or by mail to the LWC Appeals Tribunal P.O. Box 94094, Baton Rouge, LA 70804‑9094. Keep proof of transmission or a postmark. (laworks.net)
Expect a phone hearing in about 3–4 weeks. The tribunal mails a notice at least seven days in advance, and the Administrative Law Judge will call the number on file. Update your number at least one business day before the hearing by calling 1‑800‑256‑8023 or emailing clerkappeal@lwc.la.gov. Decisions usually arrive by mail within a few days. (laworks.net)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you lose at the tribunal, appeal to the Board of Review within 15 days of the decision. If you lose again, you can seek judicial review — get help from SLLS or ALSC if you’re low‑income; the LWC site lists free legal aid offices by parish. Keep certifying every week during appeals. (law.justia.com)
Child Care So You Can Job‑Hunt or Train
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) can help pay for care while you work, go to school, train, or actively seek work. Apply with the Louisiana Department of Education online via the CCAP portal or call 1‑877‑453‑2721. Due to funding limits, a statewide waitlist applies, but some children — like those in foster care or specific partnerships — are exempt; eligibility decisions often take 60–90 days once your application is complete. (doe.louisiana.gov)
If you’re placed on the waitlist, ask about interim options like Head Start and Early Head Start through local providers, and request a letter confirming your CCAP application for any job‑training program. Keep checking the CCAP waitlist FAQs and your online portal messages for movement. (doe.louisiana.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial Louisiana 211 to ask for faith‑based and nonprofit child‑care scholarships in your parish, and ask your American Job Center if WIOA can cover short‑term child care during approved training. Keep receipts for care so you can apply for tax credits later. (louisiana211.org)
Food, Cash, and Kinship Support While You’re Unemployed
Apply for food help (SNAP) immediately — you can apply online, by phone at 1‑888‑524‑3578, or by mail through DCFS. After you apply, you’ll do a short interview; expedited SNAP can come faster if you qualify. For cash aid, review FITAP (Louisiana’s TANF) and the Kinship Care Subsidy Program (KCSP) if your child lives with a relative caregiver. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
Know the amounts: FITAP uses a flat grant; current amounts run from 244foraone‑personunitupto244 for a one‑person unit up to 954 for nine family members, with work participation through the STEP/SET for Success workforce program. KCSP pays $450 per child per month to qualifying kinship caregivers to help you stabilize custody without entering foster care. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Second Harvest Food Bank for navigation help with SNAP, FITAP, and emergency food; their helpline is 1‑855‑392‑9338 and they also refer to nearby pantries. You can also reach community resources through Louisiana 211 24/7 for rapid local referrals. (no-hunger.org)
Health Coverage Between Jobs
If your income dropped, apply for Louisiana Medicaid online or by phone at 1‑888‑342‑6207; they’ll check all categories, including parent coverage and children’s LaCHIP. If you don’t qualify, you likely have a Special Enrollment Period on HealthCare.gov due to loss of job‑based insurance, so you can get a subsidized plan now instead of waiting for Open Enrollment. (ldh.la.gov)
For low‑ or no‑cost care while your application processes, visit a federally qualified community health center using the HRSA Health Center locator, and ask about sliding‑scale visits and pharmacy discounts. If you’re a Medicaid enrollee offered or keeping job‑based coverage, check LaHIPP to see if the state can pay your employee premiums to keep your plan. (hrsa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the HRSA locator to find maternal mental health, Healthy Start, and Ryan White clinics if you need specialty support, and ask about same‑day telehealth. If claims or bills pile up during a gap, request charity‑care/financial‑assistance forms from the hospital’s billing office. (hrsa.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Louisiana Today
Call your utility first and ask for a payment arrangement, then immediately seek outside help:
- Electricity: Entergy Louisiana offers payment assistance and fee waivers at Entergy Bill Help and partners with United Way for short‑term credits; Cleco offers CARE discounts and extensions; SWEPCO runs Neighbor to Neighbor hardship grants through Dollar Energy agencies. (entergy.com)
- Water (New Orleans): The Sewerage & Water Board’s Water Help Program (through Total Community Action) can credit up to $200/year and offers PromisePay plans; call 504‑52‑WATER and apply at TCA. Late‑fee forgiveness and longer payment plans are also available for low‑income customers. (swbno.org)
- Statewide, apply for LIHEAP: Contact your parish Community Action Agency via the LHC Energy Assistance map. 2025 income limits use 60% of State Median Income; crisis seasons run year‑round for disconnect notices. Benefits commonly run 200–200–800 for regular help and up to $1,000 for crisis, depending on funding. (lhc.la.gov)
If your utility refuses a reasonable plan, call the Louisiana Public Service Commission at 1‑800‑256‑2397 and ask to log a consumer complaint for disconnection or billing dispute; LPSC regulates most non‑municipal utilities and can escalate urgent issues. (lpsc.louisiana.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 2‑1‑1 for churches that offer one‑time bill‑pay aid in your ZIP code, and check your city/parish government site for ARPA‑funded utility programs that may still accept applications. If you have a doctor’s letter documenting life‑threatening equipment, request a medical certification hold. (louisiana211.org)
Rent, Eviction Defense, and Homelessness Resources
Start with a HUD‑approved housing counselor to map options, including payment plans and eviction defense referrals, and contact your local housing authority about waiting lists. In Louisiana, the Louisiana Housing Corporation can guide you to local rental resources, and Louisiana 211 can point you to shelters and prevention funds. (hud.gov)
If you’re in New Orleans, call Second Harvest Client Services for benefits navigation and ask about coordinated entry for homelessness; if you’re outside Orleans, 2‑1‑1 will route you to local intake partners. For legal help stopping an eviction, reach SLLS (southeast), ALSC (Acadiana), or Legal Services of North Louisiana (north) for advice and possible representation. (no-hunger.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the court’s self‑help desk about forms to request more time, and document all payments and receipts. If you experience landlord lockout or utility cut‑offs without a court order, call local law enforcement and seek emergency legal help the same day. (www2.laworks.net)
Know Your Child Support Options After Job Loss
If your income dropped, request a review for modification. DCFS Child Support Enforcement will consider changes like decreased income or job loss; you can message your worker in CAFÉ, or call 1‑888‑524‑3578 and ask about a review. Be ready to submit proof of income change and job search. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
A modification review can proceed if it’s been three years since the last order, there’s a 25% change by the state guidelines, or there’s a material change in circumstances (like unemployment). Keep paying what you can to avoid enforcement while the review is pending. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a legal aid office for help responding to contempt notices and for guidance on setting realistic temporary payment plans. You can track and message your worker in the CAFÉ portal and request a status update if you haven’t heard back. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups
- Food and benefits navigation: Second Harvest Food Bank (helpline 1‑855‑392‑9338) serves Greater New Orleans & Acadiana and connects families to SNAP, FITAP, and kinship supports; call or visit their contacts page for the site nearest you. Louisiana 211 is available 24/7 for food pantries and shelter. (no-hunger.org)
- Faith‑based emergency aid: Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans offers emergency help and case management and can be reached via their “Need Help” contact; in North Louisiana, Catholic Charities of North Louisiana provides rent/utility aid and budget coaching (Shreveport 318‑865‑0200). (ccano.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul (Baton Rouge): Request assistance through SVdP Baton Rouge; they coordinate parish‑based financial help and shelter. United Way regions (like United Way of Southeast Louisiana) reinforce 211 information and disaster help. (svdpbr.net)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your American Job Center about gas cards or transit passes tied to job interviews, and ask your child’s school social worker about school‑based pantry and uniform vouchers in your parish. (dol.gov)
Resources by Region (Parish Focus)
- Greater New Orleans (Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, Plaquemines): File claims online through HiRE and visit the Sewerage & Water Board assistance page if behind on water; food and benefits navigation through Second Harvest. For in‑person workforce help, use the DOL AJC finder to locate the nearest Business & Career Solutions Center. (swbno.org)
- Baton Rouge Area (East/West Baton Rouge, Ascension, Livingston): For LIHEAP, check Baton Rouge Office of Social Services seasonal schedules; legal help via SLLS Baton Rouge. Find an AJC using the federal American Job Center locator. (brla.gov)
- Lake Charles/Southwest (Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, Vernon): The local AJC (Region V) often posts job fairs — call 337‑721‑4010; for LIHEAP, use the LHC Energy Assistance map and ask about crisis slots. (americanpress.com)
- North Louisiana (Caddo, Bossier, Ouachita, and nearby parishes): Emergency aid through Catholic Charities of North Louisiana and local Community Action Agencies (e.g., Caddo CAA). For free legal help, contact Legal Services of North Louisiana. (ccnla.org)
- River Parishes (St. Charles, St. John, St. James): The local Business & Career Solutions Center in Luling supports job‑seekers and can guide UI basics; unemployment claim changes must still go through LWC directly. (stcharlesparish.gov)
- Bayou Region (Terrebonne, Lafourche, Assumption): Contact your local BCSC/Work Connection offices; they can link you to training and WIOA funds. Use the DOL AJC locator to confirm hours and locations before you go. (latworkforceboard.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Louisiana 211 and ask specifically for “job loss help” plus parish name; they can filter by location and language, and text you the links and addresses. (louisiana211.org)
Diverse Communities and Inclusive Resources
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask LGBTQ‑affirming clinics and case managers about job‑friendly mental health and HIV services. Use the HRSA Health Center locator to find inclusive providers, and call Louisiana 211 to be linked with local LGBTQ support groups and crisis lines with translation. (hrsa.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Apply with Louisiana Rehabilitation Services (LRS) for vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology, and job placement; contact the LRS State Office at 1‑800‑737‑2958 or your LRS Regional Office to start services. Request large‑print or TTY (800‑737‑2958) when needed. (laworks.net)
Veteran single mothers: Reach the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA) for claims help and the Military Family Assistance Fund (up to $10,000 for hardship). Find your parish Veterans Service Office or call 225‑219‑5000; in crisis, dial 988 then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. (vetaffairs.la.gov)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: Health centers serve all residents regardless of status; search via HRSA Health Centers and ask for language access. For domestic violence support, the LCADV Hotline connects to bilingual advocates and can safety‑plan around immigration‑related abuse. (hrsa.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources: Native families can find IHS/tribal clinics using the IHS Find Health Care map, and Native veterans can use IHS‑VA coordinated resources; ask 2‑1‑1 for tribal social services in your parish. (ihs.gov)
Rural single moms with limited access: If you’re far from an office, call LA 211 and ask for mobile or virtual intake options (legal, SNAP, Medicaid). Use the HRSA locator for clinics offering telehealth and pharmacy delivery. (louisiana211.org)
Single fathers: All programs above apply; DCFS Child Support can assist with establishing or modifying orders for custodial dads. Use the Child Support page for CAFÉ messaging and appointment options. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
Language access: Louisiana 211 offers immediate phone interpretation in 160+ languages; Medicaid and DCFS also provide interpreter services by phone; request written notices in your preferred language. (louisiana211.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask any agency to connect you to its ADA or language‑access coordinator. If services aren’t accessible, request a reasonable accommodation or a translated notice by email. (laworks.net)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First Call/Click | Backup Option |
|---|---|---|
| File/maintain unemployment | My HiRE Account (LWC) | Call LWC UI 1‑866‑783‑5567; email HiRE@lwc.la.gov (laworks.net) |
| Appeal a denial | UI Appeals FAQ | Call Appeals 1‑800‑256‑8023; email clerkappeal@lwc.la.gov (laworks.net) |
| Child care so you can work/train | CCAP apply | CCAP phone 1‑877‑453‑2721; 211 for local scholarships (doe.louisiana.gov) |
| Food or cash aid | SNAP & FITAP (DCFS) | LAHelpU 1‑888‑524‑3578; Second Harvest helpline 1‑855‑392‑9338 (dcfs.la.gov) |
| Health coverage | Medicaid | Marketplace SEP at HealthCare.gov (ldh.la.gov) |
| Utility shutoff | LHC—LIHEAP | LPSC complaint 1‑800‑256‑2397; 211 for parish help (lhc.la.gov) |
| Domestic violence | LCADV Hotline | National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233 |
“Reality Check” — What Trips People Up
- Shorter benefit weeks: New claims can end in as few as 12 weeks depending on statewide unemployment; map your job search and training quickly to avoid gaps. Use the LWC estimator and ask about Additional Benefits if you’re in approved training. (laworks.net)
- Work‑search increase to five per week on 12/31/2025: Start documenting five now — applications, interviews, job fairs, and résumé workshops at an American Job Center all count when rules update. (bswllp.com)
- Child care waitlist: CCAP has a waitlist; submit a complete application anyway and ask if you’re exempt due to homelessness or certain programs. Keep proof you applied to show training programs and employers. (doe.louisiana.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying late for UI or skipping weekly certifications. File immediately in HiRE and set Sunday reminders so you don’t miss payments. (www2.laworks.net)
- Not keeping a work‑search log. Record employer name, date, method, and result for at least three actions weekly (five after 12/31/2025). Save screenshots and emails in one folder. (bswllp.com)
- Ignoring child‑care support. Apply for CCAP even with a waitlist; combine with school‑age programs and relative care to cover interviews/training. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Waiting to seek utility help. Apply for LIHEAP early in the season; ask your utility about special hardship or medical protections and payment plans. (lhc.la.gov)
Application Checklist (print/screenshot‑friendly)
- Photo ID and Social Security numbers for you and children (UI, SNAP, CCAP). Use the DCFS “What must be verified” list for SNAP/benefits. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Past 18 months of employers and wages (UI). Keep W‑2s and last check stubs handy for LWC. (www2.laworks.net)
- Proof of income (last 30 days) and utility bills (last 30 days) for LIHEAP; bring disconnect notice for crisis slots. (lhc.la.gov)
- Child care documents (work/school/training schedule, child’s proof of citizenship/eligible status) for CCAP. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Medical and coverage letters for Medicaid or Marketplace SEP. Keep EOBs and premiums if applying for LaHIPP. (ldh.la.gov)
Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied
- Unemployment: Appeal within 15 days and keep certifying weekly. Call LWC Appeals (1‑800‑256‑8023) to confirm your hearing date and submit exhibits before the deadline. Ask legal aid for help framing your separation story. (laworks.net)
- SNAP or FITAP: Call LAHelpU (1‑888‑524‑3578) and use the CAFÉ portal to upload missing documents; ask for an expedited review if you have no food or a utility shutoff. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- CCAP: If denied or “not certified,” review the Case Not Certified guidance on LDE’s site, fix paperwork gaps, and reapply; ask to be considered for any exemptions. (doe.louisiana.gov)
Tables You Can Use Now
Table — Providers’ Utility Help Quick‑Look
| Provider | Program | How to Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Entergy Louisiana | Bill Help + United Way credits; energy efficiency | Entergy Bill Help (entergy.com) |
| Cleco | CARE discount; credit extensions; critical care | Cleco Assistance (cleco.com) |
| SWEPCO | Neighbor to Neighbor hardship grants | SWEPCO Assistance (swepco.com) |
| SWBNO (N.O. water) | Water Help Program; PromisePay; fee forgiveness | SWBNO Payment Assistance (swbno.org) |
Table — Child Care for Job Seekers & Students
| Resource | Who It Helps | Action |
|---|---|---|
| CCAP (LDE) | Working, training, in school, or actively seeking work | Apply/Check Waitlist (doe.louisiana.gov) |
| CCAP Waitlist FAQs | Families after Oct 1 waitlist activation; some exemptions | Waitlist Details (doe.louisiana.gov) |
| 211 Child Care | Local scholarships, church programs | Dial 2‑1‑1 or text ZIP to 898‑211 (louisiana211.org) |
Table — Health Coverage Options After Job Loss
| Path | When to Use | Where to Start |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid | Income now fits; coverage for kids is broader | LDH Medicaid (ldh.la.gov) |
| Marketplace SEP | Lost job‑based plan in the last 60 days | Special Enrollment (healthcare.gov) |
| Low‑cost clinics | For care now regardless of status | HRSA Health Centers (hrsa.gov) |
Table — Unemployment Appeal Timeline (Typical)
| Step | What Happens | Typical Timing |
|---|---|---|
| File appeal | Online/email/fax/mail within 15 days | 15‑day deadline strictly enforced |
| Hearing notice | Mailed with call‑in details | 3–4 weeks after filing |
| Decision | Mailed after hearing | A few days after the hearing |
Source: LWC Appeals FAQ. (laworks.net)
Table — Quick Contacts
| Program | Phone/Link |
|---|---|
| LWC Unemployment Insurance | 1‑866‑783‑5567; My HiRE Account (www2.laworks.net) |
| DCFS LAHelpU (SNAP/FITAP/KCSP) | 1‑888‑524‑3578; SNAP Apply (dcfs.louisiana.gov) |
| Medicaid | 1‑888‑342‑6207; LDH Medicaid (ldh.la.gov) |
| LIHEAP | LHC Energy Assistance Map |
| Louisiana 211 | Dial 2‑1‑1; text ZIP to 898‑211; LA 211 (louisiana211.org) |
County‑Specific Variations? In Louisiana, It’s Parish‑Specific
Agencies and rules can vary by parish. For example, East Baton Rouge schedules LIHEAP by season through the Office of Social Services, while some rural parishes take rolling applications at Community Action offices. Always check the parish LIHEAP directory at LHC and call to confirm hours and required documents before you go. (brla.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your parish shows “funds exhausted,” ask when the next cooling/heating cycle opens (often April 1 or Nov 15) and whether crisis funds are still available for shutoff notices; ask 2‑1‑1 for stop‑gap aid. (lhc.la.gov)
FAQs (Louisiana‑specific)
How much will I get on unemployment, and for how long? Benefits range from 35to35 to 275 per week, and for new claims filed on/after Jan 5, 2025, duration runs 12–20 weeks based on state unemployment rates. Your “Monetary Determination” letter tells you the exact amount and duration. (laworks.net)
How many job‑search actions do I need weekly? Generally three actions per week now; state law increases that to five actions per week starting December 31, 2025. Acceptable actions will be set by LWC rules — plan for applications, interviews, job fairs, and résumé workshops. (bswllp.com)
Can training extend my benefits? Yes. If you’re in approved training before you exhaust benefits, you may get up to eight extra weeks (Additional Benefits). Coordinate with your American Job Center and keep filing weekly certifications. (www2.laworks.net)
What if my UI is denied for “misconduct” or “quit”? Appeal within 15 days. In your hearing, explain conditions (e.g., unsafe work, harassment, reduction in hours) and provide proof. Contact legal aid via the LWC legal services list if you need representation. (law.cornell.edu)
Is there disaster unemployment if a hurricane hits? When federally declared, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) may open with a minimum weekly benefit set by USDOL; check LWC notices and file within the DUA deadlines. (dol.gov)
How do I get affordable child care to attend interviews? Apply for CCAP and ask about exemptions; check 211 for short‑term scholarships; and ask your training provider if WIOA can assist with short‑term care during class. (doe.louisiana.gov)
I lost my job‑based health insurance. Do I have to wait? No. You likely qualify for a Special Enrollment Period on HealthCare.gov and may get subsidies; if income is low, apply for Medicaid. Community health centers can see you now on a sliding scale. (healthcare.gov)
My electric bill is huge. What help exists today? Apply for LIHEAP through LHC; ask your utility for a payment plan or hardship funds (e.g., Entergy Bill Help, Cleco CARE, SWEPCO Neighbor to Neighbor). If you can’t resolve it, call the LPSC to log a complaint. (lhc.la.gov)
How fast can I get SNAP? DCFS can expedite SNAP for households with very low income and few resources; apply online or call LAHelpU at 1‑888‑524‑3578, then complete your interview. Local partners like Second Harvest can help you apply. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
I’m a veteran and a mom — any extra help? Yes. LDVA can help you file VA claims, and the Military Family Assistance Fund may provide up to $10,000 for emergencies. Locate your parish Veterans Service Office or call 225‑219‑5000; in crisis, dial 988 then press 1. (vetaffairs.la.gov)
Spanish Summary (Resumen en español)
Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre los detalles con las agencias oficiales.
- Solicite desempleo por My HiRE Account y certifique cada semana para recibir pagos. Llame a LWC al 1‑866‑783‑5567 si necesita ayuda. (laworks.net)
- Para luz y agua, hable con su compañía y solicite LIHEAP en LHC Energy Assistance; marque 2‑1‑1 para más ayuda local. (lhc.la.gov)
- Para comida y efectivo, solicite SNAP y FITAP con DCFS LAHelpU (1‑888‑524‑3578). Para cobertura médica, solicite Medicaid o use HealthCare.gov por un período especial de inscripción. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Para guardería, aplique a CCAP (lista de espera activa) y pida alternativas llamando al 2‑1‑1. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Violencia doméstica: llame a la línea estatal LCADV al 1‑888‑411‑1333 (24/7). (lcadv.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Louisiana Workforce Commission (Unemployment & Appeals) (laworks.net)
- Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (SNAP, FITAP, KCSP, Child Support) (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Louisiana Department of Education (CCAP) (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Louisiana Housing Corporation (LIHEAP) and the LIHEAP Clearinghouse (ACF) (lhc.la.gov)
- Louisiana Department of Health (Medicaid) and HRSA Health Centers (ldh.la.gov)
- Louisiana 211 Statewide Network (louisiana211.org)
- Louisiana Public Service Commission (consumer complaints) (lpsc.louisiana.gov)
- HUD Louisiana page for housing counseling and resources (hud.gov)
- Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence (lcadv.org)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general information. It is not legal advice or a substitute for agency instructions. Program rules and funding can change quickly, especially for unemployment, child care, and utility aid. Always confirm details with the official agency linked in this guide, call to verify current availability, and save all receipts and notices.
🏛️More Louisiana Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Louisiana
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
