Job Loss Support & Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in Massachusetts (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for single moms in Massachusetts who recently lost work or have been out of work a while. It gives fast actions, realistic timelines, and direct paths to file, appeal, and keep your home and health covered. You’ll see plain‑English steps with direct, italic, descriptive links to state offices and trusted nonprofits throughout.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• File your unemployment claim today: Use your phone to file with Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) and then start certifying every week, even if your claim is “pending.” You can also call DUA’s Call Center at 1-877-626-6800 for live help. (mass.gov)
• Stop a housing crisis: If you’re behind on rent or moving to avoid homelessness, apply for RAFT emergency housing help and ask about HomeBASE if you’re in or approved for EA family shelter. Call Mass 211 at 1-877-211-6277 for live assistance. (mass.gov)
• Protect your health coverage: If you lost job‑based insurance, apply for MassHealth or a low‑cost ConnectorCare plan through the MA Health Connector (1-877-623-6765, TTY 711). If you need care right now, ask your clinic about Health Safety Net. (betterhealthconnector.com)

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Quick Help Box — Keep These Handy

• DUA phone and weekly certification: Call TeleCert (weekly request line) at 1-617-626-6338 (6 a.m.–10 p.m. daily). For status, use Payment Status Line at 1-617-626-6563. (mass.gov)
• Career Centers for job search and training: Find your local MassHire Career Center and set up MassHire JobQuest to track applications. (mass.gov)
• SNAP food help and outreach: Apply on DTA Connect or call DTA Assistance Line 1-877-382-2363; for quick pantry referrals call Project Bread FoodSource Hotline 1-800-645-8333. (mass.gov)
• Shutoff protection and energy help: Call the Cold Relief Heatline at 1-800-632-8175 and ask your utility about DPU hardship protections; you can file a complaint with the Department of Public Utilities if needed. (mass.gov)
• Behavioral health support 24/7: Call or text the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line at 1-833-773-2445, or dial 988 Lifeline for immediate crisis support. (mass.gov)

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How Massachusetts Unemployment Works in 2025 — Start Here

Start the claim now. If you qualify, Massachusetts pays about 50% of your average weekly wage, up to a current maximum of $1,051 per week (through at least September 30, 2025). Apply online with DUA or call the DUA Call Center at 1-877-626-6800 to get your claim started. (mass.gov)

Most eligible filers can receive up to 30 weeks of benefits in 2025 (Massachusetts sometimes reduces to 26 weeks in low‑unemployment periods). The exact weeks in your claim depend on your wages and when you filed; check your online portal after you submit. See DUA’s “How your benefits are determined” and UI FAQs for your specific duration. (mass.gov)

You must do at least three work‑search activities every week and certify for benefits weekly. Keep a simple job‑search log in Unemployment Services for Workers or on paper if you TeleCert. Missing the three activities means no payment for that week. (mass.gov)

UI at a glance (benefit year beginning in 2025)

According to DUA, the maximum WBA is $1,051throughSeptember30,2025unlessupdatedonOctober1,andyoucanclaima$25 per dependent weekly allowance for eligible children. File weekly and do three work‑search actions or your week won’t pay. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call DUA at 1-877-626-6800 during business hours, ask for a callback, and keep certifying weekly while they review. If your determination is wrong or late, appeal and keep certifying; see the Hearings Department numbers and Board of Review appeal steps. (mass.gov)

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File Fast, Get Paid Faster — Simple Steps

• Prepare before you start: Create your MyMassGov login, gather pay stubs, last employer address, and bank info for direct deposit. Plan 20–30 minutes. (mass.gov)
• File online the same day you lose hours: Open your claim with Unemployment Services for Workers or call DUA if you need language help. (mass.gov)
• Certify weekly + log your work search: Starting the first Sunday after you file, request benefits via TeleCert or online. Enter your three job search actions in your weekly request. (mass.gov)

Reality check: First payment often takes 3–4 weeks if verification is needed or if you filed during a system changeover. Keep certifying weekly and answer any DUA “fact‑finding” messages quickly in your portal to avoid delays. Use MassHire Career Centers to document job search workshops and job fairs as part of your three activities. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a week is unpaid and you did everything, call DUA, ask for a callback, and send documents via the portal. Contact legal aid for help with identity or separation disputes via Massachusetts Legal Help. (mass.gov)

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Training Opportunities Program (Section 30): Extend UI up to 26 Extra Weeks While in Approved School

If DUA approves your full‑time training under Section 30, you don’t have to job search while in school, and you can get up to 26 additional weeks if your training outlasts your regular claim. Apply before the 20th payable week of your current claim to be considered. You can use MassHire Career Centers to find eligible programs and get your forms done. (mass.gov)

Reality check: DUA only approves full‑time programs (generally 20+ supervised hours per week) that lead to real jobs in demand; part‑time or hobby classes don’t qualify. Sit with a MassHire counselor to map funding and deadlines before you enroll so you don’t miss your 20th payable week cutoff. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the training provider to help you fix your Section 30 packet and re‑submit, or pick a different approved program. Keep doing your three weekly work‑searches while waiting unless your training is already approved. Use the DUA Call Center to check your approval status. (mass.gov)

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Part‑Time Work While on UI: Keep Some Benefits

You can work part‑time and still get UI if your gross pay is less than your WBA. Massachusetts ignores the first one‑third of your WBA each week; earnings above that reduce your payment dollar‑for‑dollar. Report any work when you certify. Read Working while on UI and the law in M.G.L. c.151A §29. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If DUA mis‑applies your earnings, call the DUA Call Center and upload pay stubs. If needed, get help from Massachusetts Legal Services for appeals. (mass.gov)

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Taxes, Overpayments, Severance, and Child Support — What to Expect

UI is taxable for federal and Massachusetts income tax. You can withhold 10% federal and 5% state right in your UI account or via TeleCert. Massachusetts DOR explains tax treatment in plain English on this page. (mass.gov)

If DUA says you were overpaid, you can ask for a waiver if the overpayment wasn’t your fault and payback would cause hardship. Use the guidance from Massachusetts Legal Help and keep certifying during appeals. Child support orders can be deducted from weekly benefits per DUA’s tax/withholding page. (masslegalhelp.org)

Severance, vacation, or other separation pay can delay when UI starts. The safest path is to file right away and let DUA decide your start week; Massachusetts case law and policy often treat severance and vacation payouts as “remuneration” that can postpone benefits for the number of weeks covered. If your decision seems wrong, appeal. Start with DUA’s appeal page and see legal notes at MLRI’s severance overview. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal within the deadline and keep requesting weekly benefits so you can be paid retroactively if you win. If you lose at hearing, appeal to the Board of Review within 30 days; the Board aims to act within about 45 days, though complex cases can take longer. (mass.gov)

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Ran Out of UI or Don’t Qualify? Use These Supports Built for Families

Rent, Mortgage, and Move‑In Help: RAFT, EA Shelter, and HomeBASE

Apply for RAFT rental help if you’re at risk of homelessness. FY25 caps are currently up to $7,000per12months;amountsdependonneedandavailablefunding,andcapscanchangeduringthefiscalyear,socalltoconfirmbeforeapplying.IfyourfamilyisinorapprovedforEAfamilyshelter,\ast [HomeBASE](https://www.mass.gov/info-details/homebase)\ast canprovideupto$30,000 over two years to stabilize housing, including move‑in costs and monthly rent help. (mass.gov)

Massachusetts’ EA shelter system is operating under a capacity declaration and contact list; families are prioritized by clinical and safety risk while the declaration is in effect (extended to November 9, 2025). Review the latest EA guidance and contact list process and call the EA phone line at 1-866-584-0653 if you need shelter now. (mass.gov)

Reality check: HomeBASE and RAFT funds can run short mid‑year. EA has strict documentation rules and, under current policy, shelter stays are time‑limited; read the length‑of‑stay policy and ask about hardship extensions. Always submit a complete packet to avoid denials. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial Mass 211 (press for housing), ask your Housing Consumer Education Center (HCEC) for other funds, and get legal help for notices to quit. Keep copies of every page you upload and send through portals. (mass211.org)

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Food and Cash While Unemployed: SNAP, HIP, and TAFDC

Apply for SNAP on DTA Connect or call 1-877-382-2363 (press 7). DTA must decide within 30 days; some families qualify for expedited SNAP in 7 days. Call Project Bread (1-800-645-8333) for help filling the form and finding pantries near you. (mass.gov)

The Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) adds $40–$80/month in extra fruits and veggies for SNAP purchases at participating farms. On September 1, 2025, HIP returned to tiered caps: $40(1–2people),$60 (3–5), $80 (6+). Ask Project Bread where to use HIP near you. (mass.gov)

If you have a minor child, check TAFDC cash benefits; a family of two can receive around $713–$753/month depending on housing type, with a $40 rent allowance for non‑subsidized housing and periodic clothing grants for children. Amounts can change mid‑year under the budget—confirm your amount with DTA when you apply. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If DTA denies SNAP or cash, appeal within 90 days using DTA’s appeals process. Keep benefits going while you appeal by requesting “Aid Pending.” For food now, use DTA’s food bank finder. (mass.gov)

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Health Coverage After Job Loss: MassHealth, ConnectorCare, Health Safety Net

If your income dropped, apply for MassHealth. Many unemployed adults qualify at low or no cost, and kids/teens usually qualify at higher incomes. If your income’s a bit higher, the Health Connector sells subsidized ConnectorCare plans; customer service is 1-877-623-6765 (TTY 711). Ask a free Navigator for one‑on‑one help. (mass.gov)

Use the Health Safety Net for hospital or community health center care if you’re uninsured or underinsured; bring ID and proof of income to the billing office to apply. If you recently lost employer coverage, ask the Connector about a Special Enrollment Period tied to loss of coverage. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach the Connector, try during weekday mornings and use the Ombuds Office online form if your issue stalls. For kids’ nutrition while budgets are tight, call Mass WIC at 1-800-942-1007. (betterhealthconnector.com)

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Child Care So You Can Job‑Hunt or Train: EEC Financial Assistance

You can get subsidized child care while looking for work, in training, or starting a new job through Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA). EEC recognizes “service need” like job search, school/training, homelessness, or domestic violence; families can sometimes get temporary 12‑week approval while paperwork is finalized. Start via Mass 211 (1-877-211-6277 ext. 23) or your local CCR&R agency. (mass.gov)

Income limits vary by household size and are higher if a child has a disability or a parent works in child care. Keep records of your job search or class schedule for re‑determination. Read EEC’s parent hub and eligibility charts on Child Care Financial Assistance. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If waitlisted, ask your CCR&R for priority pathways (homelessness, DV, DTA or DCF referral) and set text/email updates with EEC. For infants, call WIC and your pediatric clinic’s social worker for emergency formula resources. (mass.gov)

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Child Support Changed After You Lost Work? Modify Your Order

If your income fell, ask to modify your court order with the Mass. Dept. of Revenue Child Support Services (call 1-800-332-2733). You’ll need proof like unemployment benefits, pay stubs, or a layoff letter. If both parents agree, you can file a joint change with the Probate and Family Court. (mass.gov)

Check your case online, use the Virtual Counter to speak with a specialist, and ask about payment plans if you’re behind. Keep DOR updated so your UI payments don’t get over‑withheld. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach DOR, contact your local court’s help desk (see Probate & Family Court locations) and bring a recent UI statement. If there’s immediate safety risk, call SafeLink at 1-877-785-2020 for DV‑informed child support options. (mass.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Massachusetts Today

If you have a shutoff notice, call your utility first and ask for “financial hardship” protection. During November 15–March 15, the winter moratorium limits gas/electric heat shutoffs for eligible low‑income households; year‑round protections exist for serious illness, infants, and certain seniors. Read the Attorney General’s shutoff protections. (mass.gov)

If your utility won’t restore service, call the Department of Public Utilities Consumer Division at 1-877-886-5066 and file a complaint. Also apply for LIHEAP/Home Energy Assistance—the Cold Relief Heatline is 1-800-632-8175—with 60% state‑median‑income limits and set benefits each season. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about your utility’s low‑income “discount rate” and arrearage management plan; if denied, get help from Massachusetts Legal Help and your LIHEAP agency. Households heating with oil/propane/wood should still call providers to request plans and contact LIHEAP for emergency assistance. (masslegalhelp.org)

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Save on Transportation While You Job‑Hunt

If you ride MBTA, apply for the Income‑Eligible Reduced Fare program (about 50% off bus, subway, Commuter Rail, and The RIDE). You can qualify using SNAP, TAFDC, MassHealth, and similar programs; apply online at mbta.com/income‑eligible. (mbta.com)

If you have a disability, check the TAP CharlieCard and ask your provider about ADA eligibility for The RIDE. If you live outside MBTA service, ask your regional transit authority about reduced fares and look into MassHealth PT‑1 for medical rides. (mticket.mbtace.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your reduced‑fare card is delayed, keep your approval email handy and ask MBTA Customer Support about interim options. For job interviews, ask MassHire if they can help with transportation vouchers. (mass.gov)

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Get Back to Work Faster: MassHire + RESEA

Some UI claimants are assigned to RESEA; you must complete a Career Center Seminar and two one‑on‑one appointments. Missing RESEA deadlines can stop your payments, so check your mail and portal often. You can watch the on‑demand CCS video in your JobQuest account and then schedule your meeting. (mass.gov)

Ask about training, apprenticeships, and interview coaches. Section 30 training can extend benefits; use MassHire Career Centers to pick a program that DUA will approve. If you need language help to schedule RESEA, call 1-888-822-3422. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you missed a RESEA step, call your center and reschedule; then ask DUA to lift the hold once you complete it. If you can’t log into JobQuest, email JobQuest Help Desk at JobQuest@Mass.gov. (mass.gov)

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Use Mass 211 to locate emergency funds, diapers, and car‑repair help near you. For food, the state lists regional food banks and the hotline at Project Bread (1-800-645-8333). (mass211.org)

For domestic violence, call SafeLink 1-877-785-2020 or chat via Casa Myrna; for mental health, call BHHL 1-833-773-2445. Many shelters and advocacy groups list services on the state’s DV programs directory. (mass.gov)

Faith‑based charities like Catholic Charities, the Salvation Army, and YWCA/YMCA often help with utility bills, clothing for interviews, or short‑term rent—ask Mass 211 to filter by your ZIP code and need, and check your local food bank page for partner pantries. (mass211.org)

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Diverse Communities — Targeted Help and Access

LGBTQ+ single mothers: If you face discrimination or safety issues, use SafeLink and ask for LGBTQ+‑competent shelters; BHHL can triage behavioral health at 1-833-773-2445. For state benefits, you can request a language and communications preference in MyMassGov/DUA and ask for accommodations at in‑person offices. (mass.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: You can request reasonable accommodations with DUA and your MassHire Career Center; ask for large‑print notices or help uploading documents. For transit, consider the TAP CharlieCard and PT‑1 rides through MassHealth. (mticket.mbtace.com)

Veteran single mothers: Connect with the Executive Office of Veterans’ Services (EOVS) and the Women Veterans Network for peer support, jobs, and benefits. Local VSOs can help with Chapter 115 benefits and VA claims—use the EOVS VSO finder and email EOVSWomenVets@mass.gov if you can’t reach your VSO. (mass.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: The Office for Refugees and Immigrants (ORI) funds ESOL and job placement, and some TAFDC recipients can access ORI‑run employment services. Ask about interpreter services when calling DTA or DUA. (mass.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you are a citizen or descendant of a Massachusetts tribe, contact the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe – Child & Family Services (main 1-508-477-0208; hotline 1-508-562-9975) or the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) – Family/Social Services for culturally rooted support and emergency help. Both tribes can connect you with LIHEAP and family stabilization services. (mashpeewampanoagtribe-nsn.gov)

Rural single moms (limited transit or broadband): Call Mass 211 and your LIHEAP agency to ask about in‑person document drop‑offs and paper forms. Use library computers for MyMassGov and your MassHire Career Center can print and scan verification documents. (mass.gov)

Single fathers: These programs serve parents regardless of gender. Apply for UI, SNAP, and child care based on your situation. For mental health, call BHHL at 1-833-773-2445. (mass.gov)

Language access: DUA’s new system supports English and Spanish, and you can choose preferred mail languages (Chinese, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Vietnamese, and more). Ask each agency for interpreter services: DUA and DTA both provide them. (mass.gov)

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Resources by Region (examples you can try first)

• Greater Boston: Use MassHire Career Centers for workshops and recruitments; Project Bread gives pantry lists; for shelter diversion and benefits navigation, call Mass 211. (mass.gov)
• Central MA (Worcester County): Check MassHire Central for job fairs; pair with LIHEAP if you heat with gas or oil; call DTA for expedited SNAP if you have very low cash on hand. (masshirecentralcc.com)
• Western MA (Pioneer Valley/Berkshires): Use MassHire service map to find training and resume labs; ask DTA for the closest food bank partners; for renter help, see RAFT.
• Merrimack Valley/North Shore: Find a CCR&R for child care so you can attend interviews; use JobQuest to track your weekly work search.
• South Coast, Cape & Islands: If you’re Wampanoag, contact Mashpee Wampanoag – Child & Family Services for culturally grounded support; all families can apply for HomeBASE when EA‑eligible.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to file UI: File with DUA right away; waiting can reduce your benefit weeks. Always start weekly certifications on the first Sunday after you apply.
• Skipping work‑search entries: You must enter three activities weekly in Unemployment Services (applications, interviews, workshops). No entries = no payment.
• Incomplete housing packets: RAFT/EA/HomeBASE denials often happen for missing documents. Use the upload checklist on RAFT and keep confirmations.
• Forgetting tax withholding: Set 10% federal and 5% MA withholding in your UI settings or TeleCert to avoid a tax bill later.

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Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

• Unemployment denial: Appeal within 10 days to the Hearings Department and keep certifying weekly. If needed, appeal to the Board of Review within 30 days of the hearing decision.
• SNAP/TAFDC denial: File a DTA appeal within 90 days; ask for “Aid Pending” if your benefits were cut. See How to contact DTA for hearing scheduling.
• Housing denial: Re‑apply with missing documents and attach proof of crisis (notice to quit, arrears statement). Ask your HCEC through RAFT about emergency slots.

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

• Photo ID (license, state ID, or passport) for DUA, DTA, and housing.
• Social Security cards (self and kids) or immigration docs for DTA and MassHealth.
• Proof of income (layoff letter, UI screen, pay stubs) for RAFT and DTA.
• Lease/mortgage + arrears (ledger, notices) for RAFT/HomeBASE applications.
• Child documents (birth certificates, school letters) for dependency allowance, TAFDC, and child care.
• Utility documents (shutoff notice) for LIHEAP and DPU complaints.

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County/Regional Variations That Matter

• RAFT is delivered by regional agencies; your intake speed and document list can vary. Use the HCEC/agency list inside Apply for RAFT to find your region. Processing times depend on volume and funding; call to confirm current timelines.
• Transit savings are best in MBTA areas. Outside the MBTA, ask your regional transit authority and MassHire about interview ride vouchers.
• Fuel assistance is run by local agencies; income limits are statewide, but appointment availability and drop‑off options differ. Start at the Cold Relief Heatline.

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FAQs (Massachusetts 2025)

• How much will UI pay me in 2025? DUA pays about 50% of your average weekly wage up to $1,051/week(untilatleastSept.30,2025).Youmayadd$25/week for each dependent child (capped at 50% of WBA). See “How benefits are determined”.
• How long can I receive UI now? As of April 2025, up to 30 weeks (sometimes reduced to 26 in low‑unemployment periods). If you filed when 30 weeks were available, your weeks won’t be cut later. See UI FAQs.
• What are the weekly requirements? Complete at least three work‑search activities and certify weekly via TeleCert or online. Keep your log for a year.
• Can I train while on UI? Yes—if Section 30 approves your full‑time training, your job‑search is waived and you may get up to 26 extra weeks. Apply before your 20th payable week.
• Can I get PFML if I’m unemployed? If you contributed while working and your separation was within 26 weeks, you may qualify for PFML wage replacement for a covered medical or family reason. Call DFML at 1-833-344-7365 and see how to apply if unemployed. The 2025 max PFML weekly benefit is $1,170.64.
• I lost job‑based health insurance—what now? Apply for MassHealth or ConnectorCare via the Health Connector (1-877-623-6765). Use Health Safety Net for hospital/CHC care.
• Can I get help with child care to look for work? Yes, EEC recognizes “service need” for job search/training. Start with CCFA or your CCR&R.
• How can I stop a shutoff today? Call your utility and claim DPU hardship protection if eligible; if not restored, call DPU Consumer Division (1-877-886-5066). Apply for LIHEAP right away.
• What does partial work do to my UI? One‑third of your WBA is ignored; the rest reduces benefits dollar‑for‑dollar. See Working while on UI.
• I got a denial—how fast can I appeal? For UI, appeal within 10 days to the Hearings Department; if needed, appeal to the Board of Review within 30 days. For DTA (SNAP/cash), you typically have 90 days to appeal.

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Tables You Can Use Quickly

Unemployment vs. PFML — what pays when

Housing help for families (2025 snapshot)

Energy help and protections

Food benefits

Child care and work search

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción con herramientas de IA)

• Seguro de desempleo (UI): Solicite hoy con DUA y certifique cada semana; haga 3 actividades de búsqueda de trabajo. Beneficio máximo actual: $1,051/semana; hasta 30 semanas.
• Vivienda: Aplique a RAFT para ayuda de alquiler (límite típico $7,000/12 meses) y pregunte por HomeBASE si está en el programa de refugios para familias (EA).
• Comida y efectivo: Solicite SNAP; llame a Project Bread 1-800-645-8333 para despensas. HIP (desde 1 de septiembre de 2025) otorga $40–$80/mes extra para frutas/verduras.
• Salud: Aplique a MassHealth o Health Connector (1-877-623-6765). Si necesita atención inmediata, pregunte por Health Safety Net.
• Luz y calefacción: Llame a su empresa y pida protección por “dificultad económica.” Si no restauran, llame a DPU 1-877-886-5066 y aplique a LIHEAP (1-800-632-8175).

Nota: Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA. Revise los enlaces oficiales para detalles y actualizaciones.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA)
• Massachusetts Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML)
• Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities — RAFT/HomeBASE/EA
• Department of Transitional Assistance (SNAP/TAFDC)
• Massachusetts Health Connector & MassHealth
• MassHire Department of Career Services
• Department of Public Utilities (consumer protections)
• Project Bread (FoodSource Hotline)
• Office for Refugees and Immigrants (ORI)
• Executive Office of Veterans’ Services & Women Veterans Network

Last verified September 2025, next review January 2026.

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. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance in Massachusetts as of September 2025. Program rules, dollar amounts, and timelines change. Always confirm current availability and requirements with the relevant agency by using the official links in this guide or calling the listed numbers. If you have an urgent safety, medical, or housing emergency, call 911 or the appropriate 24/7 hotlines listed above.

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What to do next (quick recap)

• Unemployment: File with DUA today and certify weekly; do three work‑search activities. Ask MassHire about Section 30 training.
• Housing & utilities: Apply for RAFT; call your utility and the DPU Consumer Division if shutoff is pending; submit LIHEAP.
• Food & health: Apply SNAP and ask about HIP; apply MassHealth/ConnectorCare; contact BHHL if you’re overwhelmed.

Stay persistent, keep your paperwork tight, and use the agencies and hotlines linked throughout—every one is here to help you land on your feet.

🏛️More Massachusetts Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Massachusetts

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• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
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• ⚡ Utility Assistance
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• 🤝 Community Support
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• 🏡 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