Montana Job Training for Single Mothers (2025 No‑Fluff Guide)

Last updated: September 2025

This guide shows you exactly where to get job training in Montana, how to pay for it, and what to do when you hit roadblocks. Every section starts with the most important action first, includes real timelines, dollar amounts, and ends with a Plan B.

What this guide covers that other pages usually miss: direct phone numbers or “find-your-office” links, up‑to‑date 2025 income limits and benefit amounts, county coverage for SNAP E&T, Best Beginnings child care rules with the 2025 sliding fee scale, and realistic timelines and pitfalls. Sources are official Montana or federal sites and are cited throughout.

---

Quick Help Box (start here)

• Call the statewide Public Assistance Helpline for SNAP/TANF referrals or to check your case: 1‑888‑706‑1535. Ask for a SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) referral if you live in a participating county. Montana SNAP overview and county list. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Need child care so you can work or train? Apply for the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship (eligible up to 185% FPL; single parent hours rule = 60 hours/month). Apply online here: Best Beginnings—Parents & Families. Check the 2025 sliding‑fee scale to estimate your copay. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Want a paid, learn‑while‑you‑earn path (electrician, plumber, healthcare, IT and more)? Contact Montana Registered Apprenticeship: field reps and numbers are listed on the Apprenticeship Contact page. (apprenticeship.mt.gov)
• If your family needs cash help while you complete training, apply for TANF (Montana “TANF cash assistance”). A family of three can qualify for a monthly payment standard of $725 (effective 7/1/2023 and still current in 2025). Apply or ask questions via 1‑888‑706‑1535 or TANF page + online application. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Book a Job Service appointment to explore WIOA training funds and local hiring: use the MontanaWorks Job Seeker Portal to find your nearest Job Service office and request an appointment. If you need a main line, call the Workforce Services Division at (406) 444‑4100. (montanaworks.gov, wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• On Medicaid? Ask for HELP‑Link services (free career help and possible tuition support for in‑demand careers). Start at MontanaWorks—HELP‑Link. (montanaworks.gov)
• Have a disability or a child with a disability? Vocational Rehabilitation & Blind Services can fund training, tools, job coaching, and more. Statewide consumer line: 1‑877‑296‑1197. VRBS overview. (dphhs.mt.gov)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

---

How to get moving in the next 60 minutes

• Apply (or recertify) for SNAP online and request a SNAP E&T referral if you live in Big Horn, Cascade, Deer Lodge, Flathead, Gallatin, Lewis & Clark, Lincoln, Missoula, Silver Bow, Yellowstone—and, as of 6/1/2025, also Ravalli, Fergus, Petroleum, Musselshell, Golden Valley, Wheatland, and Judith Basin. Call 1‑888‑706‑1535 to ask for a referral. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• If child care is the barrier, apply for Best Beginnings now. Single parents must show 60 hours/month of work or combine part‑time work with training; full‑time students in training programs meet the rule without a work requirement. Apply here: Best Beginnings scholarship. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Book your Job Service appointment to discuss WIOA training funds and fast local options: choose your office at MontanaWorks—Find a Job Service location. (montanaworks.gov)
• If you’re on Medicaid, tell the Job Service staff you want HELP‑Link. It can add career services (and in practice has offered tuition help for in‑demand careers). (cbpp.org)
• If you or your child has a disability that affects work or school, call VRBS: 1‑877‑296‑1197 (they can fund training, tools, job coaching, and more). (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not in a SNAP E&T county, ask for WIOA Adult services via Job Service anyway and request supportive services (transportation, books, etc.) tied to approved training on the ETPL. (wsd.dli.mt.gov, montanaworks.gov)

---

The core programs that fund or deliver training

SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) in Montana

Most important action: If you get SNAP and live in a participating county, call 1‑888‑706‑1535 and ask for a SNAP E&T referral. You can also contact the contractor (Maximus) directly at 844‑680‑4700 or text 406‑430‑7007. (dphhs.mt.gov, mt-et.com)

What SNAP E&T can cover for you (per the FFY 2025 State Plan):

• Transportation: fuel‑only cards or bus passes purchased by the contractor and given to you; also Wi‑Fi hotspot if needed for training or job search. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Tuition/fees for short courses up to 6 months, student activity fees (if required), books/manuals. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Licensing and test costs: driver’s license/REAL ID, CDL fees, background checks, TB/drug tests if the employer requires them. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Tools/equipment, personal safety gear, union dues if required for your job. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• A pre‑paid phone if you have no other way for employers to reach you. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Limited car repair up to $100\ast \ast (approvalneeded),andlegalcostslikedriver’slicensereinstatementupto\ast \ast$100. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Counties served in 2025: Big Horn, Cascade, Deer Lodge, Flathead, Gallatin, Lewis & Clark, Lincoln, Missoula, Silver Bow, Yellowstone; expanded 6/1/2025 to Ravalli, Fergus, Petroleum, Musselshell, Golden Valley, Wheatland, Judith Basin. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Eligibility and referral: You must be on SNAP; ABAWDs are priority but other SNAP recipients may join if slots are open. Call 1‑888‑706‑1535 for a referral or ask at your Office of Public Assistance. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Timeline: Orientation often scheduled within 1–2 weeks of referral; supports can start after your plan is set.

Common pitfalls:

• Missing receipts or proof can delay reimbursements. Keep every receipt and text/email confirmation.
• Not reporting work hours or class attendance—your supports may pause. Stay in weekly contact with your case manager (per state plan case‑management cadence). (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not in a covered county or there’s no E&T slot, ask Job Service about WIOA Adult training and supports. Also ask about HELP‑Link (if on Medicaid). (wsd.dli.mt.gov, montanaworks.gov)

---

Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship (so you can train and work)

Most important action: Apply online here: Best Beginnings—Parents & Families. Single parents must work at least 60 hours/month unless in full‑time education/training. Eligible up to 185% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). (dphhs.mt.gov)

2025 sliding‑fee scale and limits (official):

• Standard eligibility is ≤ 185% FPL; the state publishes a monthly income grid and copay percentage. Example of 185% FPL (gross monthly income): family of 2: $3,261\ast \ast ;familyof3:\ast \ast$4,109; family of 4: $4,956. Copays are a percent of your gross monthly income. Effective 07‑01‑2025. See the official 2025 sliding‑fee PDF. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Key rules:

• Single parents: 60 hours/month work requirement (waived if you’re in full‑time training/school). Teen parents must be in high school or HiSET. Non‑TANF households must cooperate with Child Support unless exempt. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re over income for standard eligibility but already on the program, you may qualify for “graduated eligibility” at renewal; ask your Child Care Resource & Referral about it (noted in the sliding‑fee document). (dphhs.mt.gov)

---

TANF cash assistance (with work/training activities)

Most important action: If your household is very low income, apply for TANF now. A family of three has a monthly payment standard of $725\ast \ast ;largerfamiliesscaleup(e.g.,familyoffour\ast \ast$875). TANF time limit is 60 months lifetime. Apply at TANF page or call 1‑888‑706‑1535. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Why this matters for training:

• TANF participants engage in work/training activities (managed by the state contractor) and can access supportive services and child care via Best Beginnings while in approved activities. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Reality check:

• You must meet participation hours and report changes on time, or sanctions can reduce or stop your grant. If something changes (illness, transport, child care gap), tell your TANF case manager immediately to seek “good cause.”

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If TANF isn’t a fit, ask about WIOA Adult supports (which don’t have a 60‑month clock) at your Job Service office. (wsd.dli.mt.gov)

---

WIOA Adult & Dislocated Worker training (through Job Service Montana)

Most important action: Request a Job Service appointment on MontanaWorks and ask about WIOA training and the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). (montanaworks.gov)

What WIOA can do:

• Pay tuition and required costs for approved certificate/diploma programs on the ETPL, plus supportive services (transportation, testing fees, tools) if needed for completion. You must be eligible (priority for public‑assistance recipients, low‑income adults, basic‑skills deficient; dislocated worker category available, too). (wsd.dli.mt.gov)

Notes on amounts:

• Montana does not publish a single statewide “ITA” dollar cap online; funding levels and caps are set by service providers and available funds. Your Job Service counselor will confirm the current cap in your area and whether other sources (HELP‑Link, SNAP E&T, VRBS) can stack.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the school you want is not on the ETPL, ask the provider to apply—or pick a similar ETPL‑listed program. You can search ETPL programs by school or program here: ETPL—Training search. (montanaworks.gov)

---

Registered Apprenticeship (paid training)

Most important action: Call or email the Apprenticeship Specialist for your region from the official contact map and start applying to sponsoring employers. Apprenticeship contacts & map. (apprenticeship.mt.gov)

Fast facts:

• Apprentices earn a paycheck while training with at least 2,000 hours/year of on‑the‑job learning plus related classroom instruction (144+ hours per 2,000 OJT). Programs typically run 1–5 years with wage increases as you progress. (apprenticeship.mt.gov)
• Employers that hire apprentices may claim a Montana tax credit of $750\ast \ast pernewapprentice,or\ast \ast$1,500 if the apprentice is a veteran (current guidance notes effective for recent tax years; confirm with DLI/Revenue). (revenue.mt.gov, apprenticeship.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not hired right away, use WIOA or SNAP E&T to get short‑term training (e.g., OSHA 10, flagging, CNA, CDL permit) to be more competitive, then re‑apply to apprenticeship sponsors. (montanaworks.gov, dphhs.mt.gov)

---

HELP‑Link for Medicaid enrollees

Most important action: If you’re covered by Medicaid (HELP Plan), tell your Job Service rep you want HELP‑Link services. The state has used HELP‑Link to offer individualized career planning and has supported tuition for in‑demand fields. (montanaworks.gov, cbpp.org)

Proof that it’s active and real:

• The program surveyed new enrollees, made outreach calls (reported 14,000 outreach calls), and connected people to training and jobs; partners include hospitals and navigators. Details here: CBPP overview of HELP‑Link. (cbpp.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not on Medicaid, you can still access similar services through Job Service (WIOA) or SNAP E&T if you’re on SNAP. (wsd.dli.mt.gov, dphhs.mt.gov)

---

Vocational Rehabilitation & Blind Services (VRBS)

Most important action: If you have a disability that affects employment—or your child does—call 1‑877‑296‑1197 to start with VRBS. They can help fund training, tools, job coaching, and workplace accommodations. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Blind & Low Vision Services regional teams (examples):

• Billings: 1‑888‑279‑7532 or (406) 248‑4801
• Great Falls: 1‑888‑279‑7527 or (406) 454‑6060
• Missoula: 1‑888‑279‑7528 or (406) 329‑5400
• Butte: 1‑888‑279‑7531 or (406) 496‑4925
  BLVS regional contacts. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your Job Service counselor to co‑enroll you in WIOA; VRBS can often “braid” funds with WIOA for training and supports. (wsd.dli.mt.gov)

---

Job Corps (ages 16–24) – free training with housing

Most important action: If you’re 16–24 and can live on campus, call either Montana center for admission:

• Anaconda Job Corps CCC (Anaconda): (406) 563‑8700
• Trapper Creek Job Corps CCC (Darby): (406) 821‑3286
  Anaconda center listing and Trapper Creek center listing. (mapquest.com)

Reality check:

• Job Corps is residential. Ask admissions up front about parenting and child care considerations; on‑site child care is generally not provided, so you may need family support or Best Beginnings for off‑site care while you’re enrolled.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you need to remain in your community, look at WIOA Youth (16–24), SNAP E&T short courses, or VRBS (if you have a disability). (wsd.dli.mt.gov, dphhs.mt.gov)

---

Your budget while training: food, cash, and child care

SNAP (food help)

• Income limits (gross for expanded categorical eligibility) October 1, 2024–September 30, 2025: e.g., household of 2: $3,408\ast \ast ,householdof3:\ast \ast$4,304, household of 4: $5,200. Expedited SNAP can arrive within 7 days if you qualify. See the official table and expedited rules. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• If you’re in the SNAP E&T program, you may get transportation and training supports (see earlier). (dphhs.mt.gov)

TANF (cash help)

• Payment standards (effective 7/1/2023): family of 2: $575\ast \ast ;familyof3:\ast \ast$725; family of 4: $875\ast \ast ;familyof5:\ast \ast$1,025, etc. TANF now ties benefits to current FPL methodology; see DPHHS TANF page for the full table. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Child care (Best Beginnings)

• 2025 sliding‑fee scale sets copays as a percent of gross monthly income; eligibility up to 185% FPL (e.g., family of 3: $4,109). Effective 7/1/2025. (dphhs.mt.gov)

---

Tables you can scan fast

Table 1 — 2025 Best Beginnings income thresholds (selected sizes)

Source: Montana DPHHS Best Beginnings Sliding Fee Scale, effective 07/01/2025. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Table 2 — SNAP gross and net income limits (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025)

Source: Montana DPHHS SNAP income limits. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Table 3 — TANF payment standards (effective 7/1/2023)

Source: Montana DPHHS TANF page (Payment Standards table). (dphhs.mt.gov)

Table 4 — What SNAP E&T can reimburse (FFY 2025)

Source: Montana SNAP E&T State Plan FFY 2025 (Tables E.I–E.II). (dphhs.mt.gov)

Table 5 — In‑demand jobs and local wages (BLS May 2024)

Tip: use BLS regional pages to check your city’s pay. Data are May 2024, published July 2025. (bls.gov)

---

Choosing the fastest realistic training path

• Check the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) for short programs with strong placement: CNA, CDL, welding, HVAC, IT support, medical assisting, dental assisting, bookkeeping, phlebotomy. Browse here: Montana ETPL. (montanaworks.gov)
• If you’re on SNAP in an E&T county, ask your case manager to cover short courses (≤ 6 months) and the costs listed in Table 4. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• If you prefer paid training, ask an Apprenticeship Specialist for openings near you and how to become a competitive candidate (OSHA 10, pre‑apprenticeship, math refreshers). Apprenticeship contacts. (apprenticeship.mt.gov)
• On Medicaid? Ask Job Service to connect you to HELP‑Link and any current tuition support for in‑demand careers. (cbpp.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the school isn’t on the ETPL, request they apply—or pick an approved alternative. If transportation is the issue, SNAP E&T (in participating counties) can provide fuel cards or bus passes. (montanaworks.gov, dphhs.mt.gov)

---

Local contacts you’ll actually use

• Find your nearest Job Service office and book online: Find a Job Service location. If you need a central number, call the Workforce Services Division at (406) 444‑4100. (montanaworks.gov, wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• Public Assistance Helpline (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid questions and SNAP E&T referrals): 1‑888‑706‑1535. SNAP overview page. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• SNAP EBT card help (PIN, balance, issues): 1‑866‑850‑1556 (IVR helpline). (dphhs.mt.gov)
• SNAP E&T contractor (Maximus/MT E&T): (844) 680‑4700, text 406‑430‑7007, email MT‑ET@maximus.com. (mt-et.com)
• Vocational Rehabilitation & Blind Services statewide: 1‑877‑296‑1197. VRBS page. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Registered Apprenticeship field reps (by county): Apprenticeship Contact map. (apprenticeship.mt.gov)

---

Diverse Communities: getting the right door, fast

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask Job Service to connect you with inclusive employers and training providers. If you face discrimination in a WIOA‑funded setting, you can file a complaint with the state EEO officer, (406) 444‑4093, or DOL’s Civil Rights Center (details on the WSD site). (wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or moms of children with disabilities: Start with VRBS 1‑877‑296‑1197 (they can pay for training, assistive tech, job coaching; BLVS has regional teams). Co‑enroll with WIOA for added supports. (dphhs.mt.gov, wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask Job Service for priority of service as a veteran and explore GI Bill®‑approved training (including apprenticeships). Montana’s State Approving Agency can answer GI Bill program questions: (406) 444‑4122 / SAA@mt.gov. (wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms (eligible for services): SNAP E&T, Best Beginnings, WIOA, and VRBS are open to eligible non‑citizens; bring immigration documents to help staff verify eligibility. See each program’s official page for documentation requirements. (dphhs.mt.gov, wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Ask your local Job Service for referrals to WIOA Section 166 (Indian and Native American Programs) operated by your Tribe or tribal college, and check if your Tribe has a TANF program. Co‑enroll with state programs where allowed (SNAP E&T, WIOA Adult). (wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Use phone appointments and online portals (MontanaWorks). SNAP E&T can provide pre‑paid phones and Wi‑Fi hotspots when needed for participation, and can cover fuel cards/bus passes. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs above are open to single fathers as well; Best Beginnings applies the same 60 hours/month rule for single parents. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Language access: Ask for interpreter services when you call DPHHS or Job Service; state pages note access and nondiscrimination policies. (dphhs.mt.gov)

---

Real‑world examples

• You have SNAP in Missoula and need a CDL: Ask your OPA for a SNAP E&T referral, attend orientation, and request coverage for your CDL permit, DOT drug test, and partial tuition for a ≤ 6‑month CDL course; E&T can also provide fuel cards during training. Pair with Best Beginnings if you need child care to attend classes. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• You’re on Medicaid in Billings, working retail part‑time, and want a medical assistant certificate: At Job Service, ask to enroll in HELP‑Link and WIOA Adult; use HELP‑Link career services plus WIOA funding for an ETPL‑listed MA program; apply for Best Beginnings to cover child care during clinicals. (cbpp.org, montanaworks.gov, dphhs.mt.gov)

---

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting to apply for child care until after classes start. Apply for Best Beginnings as soon as you pick a provider; child care is the #1 training killer. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Not asking for transportation help. SNAP E&T can cover fuel or bus passes; WIOA may cover travel tied to training. (dphhs.mt.gov, wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• Assuming you don’t qualify for WIOA because you’re working. WIOA prioritizes low‑income or basic‑skills‑deficient adults; part‑time workers often qualify. (wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• Starting a program not on the ETPL (and then finding out it’s not fundable). Always check the ETPL first or ask your counselor to vet the program. (montanaworks.gov)
• Missing weekly check‑ins or documentation for SNAP E&T/TANF. This can pause support or reduce TANF benefits. Communicate early if something changes. (dphhs.mt.gov)

---

Application Checklist

Use this short list to move fast (print and keep):

• Photo ID, Social Security cards (or numbers) for household members
• Proof of Montana residency (lease, mail, utility bill)
• Proof of income (last 30 days of paystubs, child support, etc.)
• Class schedule/enrollment info or training plan (if you have it)
• Child care provider info (for Best Beginnings), kids’ birth certificates
• Transportation needs (miles, bus routes), quotes for tests/fees/tools (for SNAP E&T/WIOA)
• If claiming a disability, bring medical documentation for VRBS

---

Timelines you can expect

• SNAP E&T: orientation usually set within 1–2 weeks after referral; supports begin once your plan is approved. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• SNAP expedited benefits: as fast as 7 days if you meet the emergency criteria. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Best Beginnings: varies by provider/agency workload; start early so your coverage aligns with class start. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• WIOA: intake/case management within ~2 weeks; funding timing depends on program start dates and available funds. (wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• Apprenticeship: depends on employer hiring; plan several weeks to months. Field reps can point you to active sponsors. (apprenticeship.mt.gov)

---

If you’re between jobs: UI + training

If you’re unemployed and on (or applying for) Unemployment Insurance, you can still pursue approved training; the state UI site and Job Service can explain “approved training” implications on work‑search. Start at MontanaWorks—File for Unemployment or call DLI UI main line (406) 444‑2545 (see DLI directory). (montanaworks.gov, directory.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask a Job Service counselor to coordinate with UI on approved training status and WIOA funding timelines. (montanaworks.gov)

---

Regional/community add‑ons

• Young mothers (Missoula area): Mountain Home Montana offers supported employment & education services along with housing and child care supports. Call (406) 541‑4663. (mountainhomemt.org)
• Apprenticeship help statewide: contact the regional Apprenticeship Specialist from the official DLI list (phone numbers on the contact page). (apprenticeship.mt.gov)

---

10 Montana‑specific FAQs

1. Where do I request SNAP E&T if I’m on SNAP?
   Call 1‑888‑706‑1535 or ask at your Office of Public Assistance; E&T is active in specific counties with expansion in 2025. (dphhs.mt.gov)
2. I need gas to attend training—does any program help?
   Yes. SNAP E&T can provide fuel cards or bus passes; WIOA may help with travel tied to approved training. (dphhs.mt.gov, wsd.dli.mt.gov)
3. What are the 2025 Best Beginnings income limits?
   Up to 185% FPL (e.g., family of 3: $4,109 monthly). Copays are a percentage of income; see the 7/1/2025 sliding‑fee scale. (dphhs.mt.gov)
4. How much is TANF cash for a family of three in Montana?
   The monthly payment standard is $725 (effective 7/1/2023 and current in 2025). (dphhs.mt.gov)
5. Does SNAP E&T pay for CDL?
   It can pay CDL‑related fees (including tests) and short‑term tuition (≤ 6 months) if it’s part of your plan. Ask your E&T case manager. (dphhs.mt.gov)
6. I’m on Medicaid—what’s HELP‑Link?
   A workforce program linked to Medicaid enrollees, offering case management and connections to training; the state has supported tuition for high‑demand careers. Ask at Job Service. (montanaworks.gov, cbpp.org)
7. How do I find approved training schools?
   Search the ETPL here: MontanaWorks—Training. (montanaworks.gov)
8. Can I get paid while training?
   Yes—Registered Apprenticeship pays wages while you learn; contact an Apprenticeship Specialist to find sponsors. (apprenticeship.mt.gov)
9. I have a disability—who funds my training?
   VRBS can pay for training, tools, and job supports; co‑enroll with WIOA to braid funds. Call 1‑877‑296‑1197. (dphhs.mt.gov)
10. I’m overwhelmed. Can someone help me coordinate all this?
    Yes. Book a Job Service appointment for a one‑on‑one plan (WIOA), and if you’re on SNAP/Medicaid, ask for SNAP E&T/HELP‑Link referrals. Start at MontanaWorks. (montanaworks.gov)

---

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Funding isn’t unlimited. WIOA and SNAP E&T budgets can run tight late in the year. Apply early and ask about “co‑enrollment” (e.g., WIOA + SNAP E&T + HELP‑Link). (montanaworks.gov, dphhs.mt.gov)
• Keep receipts and attendance. SNAP E&T and WIOA reimbursements require proof; late paperwork delays help. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Choose training that leads to a job. Use the BLS local wage pages to verify pay in your city (Billings/Great Falls/Missoula pages updated July 2025 for May 2024 data). (bls.gov)
• Child care first, then classes. Get Best Beginnings lined up before day one to avoid dropping from a program you worked hard to enter. (dphhs.mt.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Montana DPHHS, Montana Department of Labor & Industry, the U.S. Department of Labor/BLS, USDA/FNS documents, 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.

Key sources cited (selected):

• SNAP overview, income limits, expedited rules; SNAP E&T counties and FFY 2025 State Plan; TANF payment standards; Best Beginnings rules and 7/1/2025 sliding‑fee scale. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• MontanaWorks (Job Service, ETPL, HELP‑Link); WIOA program pages. (montanaworks.gov, wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• Registered Apprenticeship (contacts and process) and tax credit. (apprenticeship.mt.gov, revenue.mt.gov)
• BLS local wage data (Billings/Great Falls/Missoula) as of May 2024. (bls.gov)
• VRBS and BLVS contact information. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• HELP‑Link program background (CBPP). (cbpp.org)

---

Disclaimer

Program rules, dollar amounts, counties served, and timelines can change. Always verify details with the relevant agency before making decisions:

• DPHHS Public Assistance Helpline: 1‑888‑706‑1535 (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid; referrals to SNAP E&T, Best Beginnings)
• Workforce Services Division (Job Service/WIOA): (406) 444‑4100
• Registered Apprenticeship: see Apprenticeship contacts
• VRBS statewide: 1‑877‑296‑1197

Security notice: For your privacy, don’t post or email full SSNs or full case numbers. Use official .mt.gov portals (MontanaWorks, apply.mt.gov) whenever possible and avoid entering personal information on non‑government forms unless instructed by agency staff.

Stay safe online: Double‑check URLs end in .mt.gov, .gov, or clearly identified official program sites before entering personal data.

---

🏛️More Montana Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Montana

You may also need: Education Grants Business Grants & Assistance

• 📋 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
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ 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