Arizona Job Training for Single Mothers (2025 No‑BS Guide)

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, step‑by‑step hub to help you start training, cover child care and bills while you train, and move into a better‑paying job in Arizona. Every dollar amount and rule below is pulled from official state or federal sources and linked directly so you can verify fast.

Quick help (start here)

• Call or visit ARIZONA@WORK to ask for WIOA job training funds and supportive services. Use the statewide office finder at Find your nearest ARIZONA@WORK location (map + phone numbers). You’ll meet a career advisor, check eligibility, and pick a program from the state’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). Expect intake to take 1–2 appointments. (arizonaatwork.com, des.az.gov)
• Looking for “earn‑while‑you‑learn”? Check Arizona Registered Apprenticeships. Apprentices start at about 40–50% of a skilled worker’s wage and get regular raises while they train. (des.az.gov)
• Need child care so you can train? Apply for DES Child Care Assistance. As of September 5, 2025, DES reports a waiting list of 4,411 families / 7,376 children—plan ahead. See current income rules (initial eligibility up to 165% FPL) and the application portal at How to apply for Child Care Assistance. Check the official daily reimbursement rates below. (des.az.gov)
• On SNAP? Ask about SNAP CAN (education/training with small allowances every 4 weeks). Allowance amounts vary by provider; your SNAP CAN partner sets the amount and reimburses transportation/other costs required for participation. See SNAP CAN policy overview and reimbursements. (dbmefaapolicy.azdes.gov)
• On unemployment? Arizona’s weekly UI benefit is $200–$320, plus you can earn up to $160.50/week from part‑time work before your UI is reduced. Standard duration is up to 24 weeks when the statewide unemployment rate is under 5%. Start at Eligibility for Unemployment Insurance Benefits. (des.az.gov)
• Minimum wage checkpoint for planning: Arizona’s statewide minimum wage is $14.70/hour in 2025. Some cities are higher (e.g., Tucson and Flagstaff). State poster and details are at the Industrial Commission’s minimum wage page. (azica.gov)

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Quick reference cheat sheet

• ARIZONA@WORK WIOA training = tuition help + supportive services (transport, child care referrals, tools, exams). Must choose an approved training from the ETPL.
• Phoenix WIOA extras (example): Needs‑Related Payments up to $1,000/month\ast \ast (or\ast \ast$1,500/month if your family size is 2+) during training; total cap $3,000\ast \ast (or\ast \ast$4,500 for family of 2+). Auto purchase possible up to $5,000 when required for training/work (strict documentation). (arizonaatwork.com)
• Maricopa County WIOA ITA (tuition) cap: up to $4,000\ast \ast forAdults/DislocatedWorkersintargetedfields;Youthupto\ast \ast$6,000. (arizonaatwork.com)
• DES Child Care Assistance: initial eligibility up to 165% FPL, state pays the provider directly up to daily maximums (see detailed rate table below); family pays any copay or overage. Expect up to 30 days for processing. Waiting list currently in effect; DES releases families by income tier as funds allow. (des.az.gov)
• Apprenticeships: paid jobs with raises during training; apprentices typically start at 40–50% of a journeyman’s wage; 3–4 years common; many include college credit. Browse programs and apply directly to the sponsor. (des.az.gov)

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Why this guide is different (how we beat other results)

Most search results list programs but skip hard numbers, eligibility fine print, office phones, and realistic timelines. Below we include exact dollar caps from official WIOA policies, the current child‑care rate chart, and direct office‑finder links—plus plan‑B options when the “standard path” stalls. All stats are sourced and dated to August/September 2025 for Arizona.

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Arizona job‑training paths that actually move the needle

Table 1. Fast paths to training in Arizona (with dollars and where to apply)

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ARIZONA@WORK + WIOA training: the main door into funded programs

Start with ARIZONA@WORK. You’ll confirm eligibility, pick a training from the ETPL, and build an Individual Employment Plan with your career advisor.

• How to start fast
  • Use the official map to locate your nearest office and call ahead to ask for a “WIOA orientation” or “career advisor appointment”: Find ARIZONA@WORK locations (map + phones). (arizonaatwork.com)
  • Bring documents (see the checklist at the end of this guide) and a short list of ETPL programs you’re considering: ETPL for Arizona (what it is + search). (des.az.gov)
  • Ask on day one about supportive services (child care help, transportation, exam fees) and timelines.
• What WIOA can pay for
  • Tuition and required fees through an Individual Training Account (ITA), tools, uniforms, exams, background checks, immunizations, and more—if tied to your plan. Local caps vary. Maricopa’s current cap is $4,000\ast \ast forAdults/DislocatedWorkersand\ast \ast$6,000 for Youth (targeted fields). (arizonaatwork.com)
  • Supportive services during training. Phoenix’s policy (example for a large metro area) allows: child care, transportation (passes/fuel cards), work clothing, devices for online learning, rent/utility help when needed for participation, and more—plus Needs‑Related Payments (see numbers below). (arizonaatwork.com)
• Hard numbers you can use now (Phoenix WIOA policy — you can ask your local office for their exact limits)
  • Needs‑Related Payments (NRPs) during training: up to $1,000/month\ast \ast (Adult)or\ast \ast$1,500/month (family size 2+), with a total cap of $3,000\ast \ast (single)or\ast \ast$4,500 (family 2+). Must be unemployed and in eligible training; see the policy for details. (arizonaatwork.com)
  • Vehicle purchase (when no other transport will work): up to $5,000, case‑by‑case, with proof of license/insurance and that public transit can’t meet the need. Repairs also possible, limited to vehicle value. (arizonaatwork.com)
  • Child care paid per DES rules/provider rates (see the statewide rate chart below). (arizonaatwork.com)
• Eligibility basics
  • Adults (18+) with priority for low‑income, recipients of public assistance, or those who are basic‑skills‑deficient; dislocated workers; and eligible youth (16–24 out‑of‑school). You must pick an ETPL program aligned with in‑demand jobs. (des.az.gov)
• How to apply (typical steps)
  • Attend orientation → eligibility intake → assessments → choose ETPL program → ITA request → start training. Use the state ETPL search to compare programs by cost, length, completion, and outcomes: Search training providers on AZ Job Connection. (azjobconnection.gov)
• Timeline reality
  • Expect 1–2 weeks for intake/assessments, and another 1–3 weeks for ITA approval depending on the local area and how quickly you provide documents. Seats in popular programs can fill months ahead—apply early.
• Common mistakes to avoid
  • Starting (or paying) for school before you’re approved. WIOA generally won’t reimburse costs you already paid before enrollment.
  • Choosing a program not on the ETPL.
  • Not asking about supportive services on day one.
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • Ask about On‑the‑Job Training (OJT) or paid Work Experience (for youth/young adults). If tuition funds are fully obligated, you can still get hired with wage reimbursement to the employer.
  • Shift to a paid Registered Apprenticeship while you wait for an ITA.
  • If you’re on SNAP, ask your DES worker for a SNAP CAN referral for training/allowances while you plan your WIOA path. (dbmefaapolicy.azdes.gov)

Table 2. ARIZONA@WORK — how to reach your local office

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Supportive services you can actually use (example: Phoenix WIOA policy)

Phoenix’s WIOA policies are public and clear; other counties have similar options with different caps. Use these examples to know what to ask for.

Table 3. City of Phoenix WIOA supportive services that help single moms stay in training

Reality check: supportive dollars are limited and never guaranteed. They’re meant to remove specific barriers in your plan—not to cover every cost.

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your advisor for community referrals (211 Arizona), and apply for SNAP CAN (for allowances) or short‑term crisis services in your county while your WIOA case is pending. (dbmefaapolicy.azdes.gov)

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Registered Apprenticeships: earn while you learn

Action first: search live Arizona programs and call the sponsor to ask “Are you accepting applications? What do you require?” Start at Arizona Apprenticeship — Job Seekers. (des.az.gov)

• What you can expect
  • Paid employment from day one; wages usually start at 40–50% of a skilled wage and rise with each skill milestone. Average terms are 3–4 years. Many programs include college credit. (des.az.gov)
  • No upper age limit; most programs require a HS diploma/GED and may require algebra or other prerequisites depending on the trade. (des.az.gov)
• Timeline
  • Popular trades have application windows and waiting lists. Keep a “Plan A and Plan B” list (example: apply to an electrical apprenticeship and line up WIOA‑funded electrical technician training as a backup).
• Common mistakes to avoid
  • Waiting for one union hall to open. Apply to multiple sponsors and check again monthly.
  • Not preparing for the aptitude test/interview (ask the sponsor which study guide they recommend).
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • Start a short ETPL program (e.g., entry‑level healthcare or IT) to build experience and re‑apply next cycle.
  • Consider pre‑apprenticeship or related training on the ETPL to boost your chances (ask ARIZONA@WORK for local options). (des.az.gov)

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Training while receiving SNAP (SNAP CAN)

Action first: If you receive Nutrition Assistance (SNAP), ask your DES worker about a SNAP CAN referral. Participation is voluntary and doesn’t affect your SNAP eligibility.

• What SNAP CAN covers
  • Education/training, job‑search services, and allowances for costs that are “reasonable and necessary” to participate (e.g., transportation). Providers pay allowances every 4 weeks; amounts aren’t statewide—they’re set by the provider. (dbmefaapolicy.azdes.gov)
• Timeline
  • Referrals are usually quick (policy requires the referral be completed within one workday of request). Once enrolled, providers issue allowances by 4‑week participation periods. (dbmefaapolicy.azdes.gov)
• Common mistakes to avoid
  • Assuming there’s a fixed statewide dollar amount—there isn’t. Ask your provider what they reimburse and keep receipts.
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • Ask to switch to a different SNAP CAN provider if the component isn’t a good fit (providers can do a “provider determination” and the state will help re‑route you). (dbmefaapolicy.azdes.gov)

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Child care while you train or study (DES Child Care Assistance)

Action first: Apply now and get on the waiting list if needed: How to Apply for Child Care Assistance. As of Sept 5, 2025, 4,411 families / 7,376 children are waiting; DES is releasing families in tiers as new funds arrive. (des.az.gov)

• Eligibility snapshot
  • You must live in Arizona, have a child under 13, choose a DES‑approved provider, and meet activity/income rules. Initial eligibility income is up to 165% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Families referred by TANF Jobs, DCS, or Tribal child welfare don’t have income tests. (des.az.gov)
  • Processing can take up to 30 days; DES pays the provider directly up to your child’s daily rate cap, and you pay your copay/overage. (des.az.gov)
• Current official daily reimbursement rates (effective Aug 1, 2024)

  These are the maximums DES pays your contracted provider (you can owe the difference if your provider charges more). Quality‑rated providers can be paid at enhanced rates (see table). (des.az.gov)

Table 4. Arizona Child Care maximum reimbursement (selected lines; daily)

• Find a provider and check quality
  • Free referrals and help picking a DES‑approved provider: Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R). (arizonaatwork.com)
• Reality checks and tips
  • The waiting list is real. If you’re called for release and don’t respond promptly, you can lose your spot—watch your mail and the A‑to‑Z portal.
  • If you’re already on full‑time child care assistance and you enroll full‑time in education or job training, DES allows a work requirement waiver—ask your eligibility specialist for details. (des.az.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • Ask your ARIZONA@WORK advisor whether WIOA can help with child‑care costs during your training (some local areas can). (arizonaatwork.com)
  • Use CCR&R to find lower‑cost providers while you wait, and ask about Quality First scholarships at participating centers (availability varies).

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Unemployment Insurance (UI) while re‑skilling

Action first: If laid off, apply for UI right away and keep filing weekly claims while job‑seeking and lining up training: Eligibility for Unemployment Insurance Benefits. (des.az.gov)

• The numbers you need to plan
  • Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA) is 4% of wages in your highest quarter, up to $320/week for new claims (since 2022). (des.az.gov)
  • You can earn up to $160.50/week in part‑time pay without reducing your UI; above that, UI is reduced. Standard duration is up to 24 weeks when the statewide unemployment rate is below 5%. (des.az.gov)
  • Taxes: Federal tax withholding is 10% of your gross WBA by election; state withholding is currently 10% of the federal amount (i.e., 1% of WBA). (des.az.gov)
• Training + UI
  • Arizona expects active work search unless you receive specific instructions otherwise. Talk to the UI call center about how training affects your weekly work‑search. Keep good records and keep filing weekly claims. Start at 877‑766‑8477 or the portal on the UI page. (des.az.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • If UI runs out before you find work, ask your ARIZONA@WORK advisor about paid work experience, OJT, or short credentials to speed placement. If you receive SNAP, enroll in SNAP CAN for allowances while you job‑search. (dbmefaapolicy.azdes.gov)

Table 5. UI quick facts (Arizona 2025)

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Wages: set your target so training actually pencils out

• State minimum wage is **$14.70/hour\ast \ast in2025(tippedbaseupto$3 less, if tips bring pay to at least the state minimum). The Industrial Commission posts the current poster and FAQs: Minimum Wage Information. (azica.gov)
• Some Arizona cities set higher local minimums (e.g., Tucson and Flagstaff in 2025). Check your city’s official site when comparing job offers.

What to do if this doesn’t work: if you’re offered wages close to minimum wage, ask your advisor whether a slightly longer training (e.g., an added certification) can get you into a higher rung with better childcare affordability before you exit services.

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Diverse communities: specific doors to knock on

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • You have full access to ARIZONA@WORK, WIOA, and apprenticeships. If you need name‑change or ID updates for hiring, ask your career advisor for legal aid referrals and work authorization document support funded through supportive services (Phoenix policy allows paying for required work documents). (arizonaatwork.com)
• Single mothers with disabilities (or moms of children with disabilities)
  • Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) can fund training, devices, and job placement tied to your employment goal. Call 1‑800‑563‑1221 or contact your nearest RSA office (Phoenix, Tucson, and statewide). (des.az.gov)
• Veteran single mothers
  • Tell ARIZONA@WORK you’re a veteran for priority of service and ask for veteran reps. Apprenticeships often grant advanced standing for MOS‑aligned skills.
• Immigrant/refugee single moms
  • If you’re work‑authorized, you can use WIOA and apprenticeships. Ask for language access—state sites and ARIZONA@WORK provide Limited English Proficiency resources and interpreters on request. (des.az.gov)
• Tribal citizens
  • In addition to county ARIZONA@WORK, contact your tribal workforce office (examples: Gila River 480‑963‑0902, Pascua Yaqui 520‑879‑5840). See the full list: Arizona Tribal Workforce Locations. (arizonaatwork.com)
• Rural single moms
  • Use the statewide office finder and ask about distance learning on the ETPL and fuel‑card support. Phoenix policy also allows help with internet/device for training; ask your local area about similar supports. (arizonaatwork.com)
• Single fathers
  • All programs here are gender‑neutral. If you’re the custodial parent, you can access the same child care and training supports.
• Language access
  • DES provides LEP and ADA accommodations upon request; ask staff to note your preferred language and any accommodation you need. (des.az.gov)

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Local organizations and practical support (to pair with training)

• Community Action and emergency help (rent/utility/transport): check your county’s Community Action Agency (example: Pima County Community Assistance Division main lines 520‑724‑2460 / 520‑724‑2667). (pima.gov)
• 211 Arizona: call 2‑1‑1 (9 a.m.–7 p.m.) for local help with bills, transportation, child care, and job readiness. (pima.gov)
• ARIZONA@WORK events and hiring fairs: use your local page’s Events tab.

Tip: When your advisor asks for “community referrals used,” list exactly which agency you contacted and when—this can support emergency supportive‑service requests (like rent/utility help) under local WIOA policy. (arizonaatwork.com)

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Application checklist (bring this to your first appointment)

• Photo ID and proof you live in Arizona
• Social Security number (for you; kids’ SSNs for childcare case)
• Proof of income (last 30 days of pay stubs, or self‑employment records)
• Proof of benefits (SNAP, TANF/Cash Assistance), if any
• For WIOA: updated resume, list of ETPL programs you want, high school diploma/GED, any licenses/certifications
• For child care: proof of citizenship/qualified status for children, chosen DES‑approved provider info, and your work/training schedule (include class schedules)
• For SNAP CAN: your SNAP case info and any receipts you’ll need reimbursed (ask first)
• For UI: separation info, prior wages (you apply online), and keep weekly job‑search logs

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Starting school first and asking for WIOA funding later (retroactive payment is generally not allowed).
• Picking a program not on the ETPL.
• Skipping weekly UI filings or work‑search requirements.
• Not applying for child care early—there’s a waiting list.
• Not asking about supportive services (transport, tools, exam fees, devices) up front.
• Missing calls or letters from DES/ARIZONA@WORK—delays or closures often come from missed follow‑up.
• Assuming allowance amounts (SNAP CAN) are the same everywhere—they’re provider‑set in Arizona. (dbmefaapolicy.azdes.gov)

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Real‑world examples

• Maricopa mom in a one‑year healthcare certificate: WIOA ITA covers tuition up to $4,000\ast \ast ;PhoenixWIOAcoversbackgroundcheck,drugscreen,scrubs,andexamfees;childcarepaidtoaDES‑approvedcenteratthedailycap(e.g.,\ast \ast$42.00 for a 3–5 year‑old in a center; more if Quality‑rated). She also gets a monthly bus pass and one‑time NRP while classes start. (arizonaatwork.com, des.az.gov)
• Pima County job‑seeker on UI: chooses an ETPL IT program, coordinates class schedule with weekly UI filings, and uses 211 + Community Action for a one‑time utility payment while WIOA supportive services are processed. (pima.gov)

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Regional resources and contacts you can use today

Use the official map to get phone numbers, emails, and addresses nearest you. It lists City of Phoenix, Maricopa County, Pima County, Pinal County, Yuma, Yavapai, Coconino, Santa Cruz, Southeastern and Northeastern Arizona, Mohave/La Paz, and Tribal Workforce offices: ARIZONA@WORK locations (interactive map). (arizonaatwork.com)

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Frequently asked questions (Arizona‑specific)

• Can WIOA pay for laptops or internet so I can do online training?
  • Yes—local policies allow devices and internet when required for training or job search. Ask your advisor to document the need and the amount. (arizonaatwork.com)
• What’s the fastest way to get into a program?
  • Walk in or call your nearest ARIZONA@WORK and ask for a WIOA orientation this week. Bring your documents and a shortlist of ETPL programs.
• What if my program costs more than the local ITA cap?
  • Combine aid: Pell Grant (max $7,395 for 2024–25), scholarships, employer help, and WIOA funds. Check current Pell information at Federal Student Aid. (studentaid.gov)
• Can WIOA or SNAP CAN help with child care?
  • WIOA can in some areas (varies by policy). SNAP CAN does not directly pay child care but may help with other participation costs. Use DES Child Care Assistance for the main child care subsidy (see rate table). (arizonaatwork.com, dbmefaapolicy.azdes.gov, des.az.gov)
• How long does DES Child Care take?
  • Up to 30 days; there’s a waiting list. DES is releasing families by income tiers (starting with ≤100% FPL) as funding allows. (des.az.gov)
• Can I start an apprenticeship if I’m over 30 (or 40+)?
  • Yes. Arizona apprenticeships have no upper age limit; you need to meet the sponsor’s entrance requirements and be able to work. (des.az.gov)
• I’m on UI. Can I go to school?
  • You can, but UI requires weekly work‑search unless DES tells you otherwise. Call the UI line to discuss your situation and keep filing weekly claims. (des.az.gov)
• What’s the state minimum wage right now?
  • $14.70/hour statewide in 2025; some cities are higher. Industrial Commission has the current poster and FAQs. (azica.gov)
• Where can I see which training programs are approved?
  • The ETPL shows providers/programs you can use with WIOA funding: ETPL overview + search. (des.az.gov)
• I have a disability—who can I call first?
  • Vocational Rehabilitation statewide line 1‑800‑563‑1221 to get matched to your local office. (des.az.gov)

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Quick tables you can screenshot

Table 6. Minimum wage checkpoint (helps compare job offers)

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What to do next (no‑fluff action plan)

• Book your ARIZONA@WORK intake and bring the checklist.
• Shortlist 2–3 ETPL programs and email them to your advisor before the meeting.
• Apply for DES Child Care Assistance on the same day (waiting list in effect).
• If on SNAP, ask for SNAP CAN; if on UI, keep weekly filings while training starts.
• Ask about supportive services on day one (transport, tools, exam fees, devices).
• Put “Plan B” on paper (a second program or an apprenticeship) in case funding or seats run out.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Arizona Department of Economic Security, ARIZONA@WORK, USDA, the Industrial Commission of Arizona, 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 September 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 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

Information here is based on official rules and public policies current through August–September 2025. Program amounts and eligibility can change. Always verify details with the relevant agency before you apply or enroll. Links above go to the official agency pages wherever possible. We do not collect personal data; if you share information via email, we secure it and never ask for SSNs or case numbers.

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Sources (selected)

• ARIZONA@WORK locations, contacts, local areas (statewide map and phones). (arizonaatwork.com)
• Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) overview and access. (des.az.gov)
• City of Phoenix WIOA Supportive Services Policies: Eligibility (.501) and Categories/Cost Guidelines (.502). (arizonaatwork.com)
• Maricopa County WIOA Training Services Limits Policy (July 2025). (arizonaatwork.com)
• DES Child Care Assistance (eligibility, waiting list, processing time). (des.az.gov)
• Arizona Child Care Maximum Reimbursement Rates (CCA‑1227A, effective Aug 1, 2024). (des.az.gov)
• SNAP CAN overview and reimbursements (allowances every 4 weeks, provider‑set). (dbmefaapolicy.azdes.gov)
• Registered Apprenticeship basics in Arizona (job seekers). (des.az.gov)
• Unemployment Insurance: eligibility, WBA up to $320,earningsdisregard$160.50/week, 24‑week duration at low unemployment; UI contact info. (des.az.gov)
• Industrial Commission of Arizona Minimum Wage (2025 materials). (azica.gov)
• Arizona Tribal Workforce office phones/locations. (arizonaatwork.com)

Realities, difficulties, and timelines above are written for planning purposes. If you spot an outdated number or a broken link, tell us and we’ll fix it promptly.

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🏛️More Arizona Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arizona

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• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
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• ⚖️ Legal Help
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• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery