Job Training for Single Mothers in New Jersey
New Jersey Job Training for Single Mothers (2025 No‑Fluff Guide)
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built for single moms in New Jersey who need job training that actually leads to a paycheck. It gives you fast action steps, real dollar amounts, current eligibility rules, timelines, and direct links to official sources only.
Quick Help Box
- Call or walk into your nearest American Job Center (One‑Stop) to map out paid training and grants. Find addresses and hours on the official NJDOL directory: Find your local One‑Stop Career Center. For help by phone, NJ Labor’s One‑Stop line is 609‑292‑2246. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- If you’re on Unemployment, ask about “Additional Benefits During Training (ABT)” for up to 26 extra weeks of UI while in approved full‑time training. Start by speaking to a One‑Stop counselor before you enroll. Read the state rules: Training & Education Programs (UI/ABT). (nj.gov)
- If you get TANF cash (WorkFirst NJ), you must be in work/training about 35 hours/week (TANF). You can get help paying for transportation, child care, uniforms, books, and supplies while you participate. Start here: WorkFirst New Jersey (Apply/Participate). (nj.gov)
- Free online courses right now (5,000+ classes; certification tracks): SkillUp New Jersey. You can learn Microsoft Office, project management, healthcare basics, IT support, and more without leaving home. (nj.gov)
- Need child care while you train? New Jersey’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is temporarily closed to new applications as of August 1, 2025, but current families remain covered. See the official notice and income limits here: CCAP: Help Paying for Child Care. Plan B options are listed below. (childcarenj.gov)
What makes this guide different (and why it will save you time)
We reviewed the top search results for “New Jersey Job Training for Single Mothers” and found common gaps: few guides list exact ABT timelines, current minimum wage numbers, real TANF benefit levels, or the August 2025 CCAP pause. They also miss county-level contacts and Plan B paths when popular programs are full. This guide plugs those holes with verified, up‑to‑date rules, dollar amounts, and direct links to official sites, plus realistic timelines and mistakes to avoid. (nj.gov, nj.gov, wecare.essexcountynj.org, childcarenj.gov)
Quick program snapshots (what to target first)
Below is a plain‑English overview of the fastest routes into paid work or paid training, with real dollars and timelines.
| Program | Who it fits | What you get | Key $ / rules | Apply/Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Job Centers (One‑Stops) | Any NJ jobseeker (unemployed or low‑income) | Career counseling; WIOA training grants; apprenticeships; job search help | Must work with a counselor before enrolling to keep UI eligibility | One‑Stop directory (addresses/hours). General One‑Stop line 609‑292‑2246. (nj.gov, nj.gov) |
| ABT (Additional Benefits During Training) | UI claimants whose benefits end before training ends | Up to 26 extra weeks of UI while in full‑time, approved training | You must tell NJDOL you’re interested by the later of: within 60 days of last day worked, 30 days after ABT notice, or 30 days after your employability plan | UI Training & ABT rules. (nj.gov) |
| WIOA On‑the‑Job Training (OJT) | Jobseekers with a skills gap | Employer trains you on the job; employers get reimbursed for 50% of wages (up to $10,000 per contract) which makes them more likely to hire | Full‑time roles above minimum wage; training up to 26 weeks | Talk to your One‑Stop counselor; see employer program page: Business Programs (OJT). (nj.gov) |
| Registered Apprenticeships (GAINS grants) | Want to “earn while you learn” in healthcare, education, tech, etc. | Paid job + classroom training; NJ grants have required starting wages in many proposals (recent GAINS round required at least $17/hr starting wage) | Grants can reimburse up to 50% wages up to $12,000 per apprentice over 52 weeks (prior round) | Ask your One‑Stop; see NJDOL GAINS press details: Apprenticeship grants. (nj.gov) |
| Return & Earn (status) | Re‑entering workforce | $500 new‑hire bonus + OJT wage subsidy for employers (when funded) | As of 2025, program says “now out of funds” | Official status page: Return & Earn. (nj.gov) |
| WorkFirst NJ (TANF) | Very low‑income moms with kids | Monthly cash + required work/training hours + child care/transport help while you participate | Time‑limited to 60 months lifetime; TANF work activity 35 hrs/week | Start here: WorkFirst NJ. (nj.gov) |
| SkillUp New Jersey | Anyone (working or not) | 5,000+ free online courses; certification tracks | Self‑paced from home; can align with WIOA/ABT plan | SkillUp NJ. (nj.gov) |
Reality check: for UI/ABT, your training must be approved and full‑time. Enrolling in school on your own first can make you ineligible for UI and grants—always talk to a One‑Stop counselor before you sign any training contract. (nj.gov)
Start here: lock in your training plan with a One‑Stop counselor
Most job training money in NJ runs through the One‑Stop Career Centers. Meet a counselor first—ideally before you enroll anywhere—so you don’t lose eligibility for Unemployment or WIOA grants.
- Use the state’s directory to find your nearest center and walk in during posted hours: One‑Stop Career Centers (addresses/hours). For general help, call 609‑292‑2246. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- Compare programs and outcomes before you decide: NJ Training Explorer (ETPL) and My Career NJ. These tools show provider performance, costs, and typical starting wages. (nj.gov)
- If you’re on UI, tell the truth on certifications: mark “Yes” if you’re in training so a claims examiner can review it for approval. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t get an appointment fast, walk in during posted hours; if you still can’t get seen, start SkillUp NJ free courses while you wait and keep a log for your counselor. (nj.gov)
Money while you train: Unemployment + ABT
If you’re on Unemployment and your approved full‑time training runs longer than your regular UI, ABT can add up to 26 extra weeks so you can finish.
- You must express interest in training by the latest of: within 60 days of last day worked; within 30 days of the agency telling you about ABT; or within 30 days after you and your counselor make an employability plan. Approval must be set up through your One‑Stop before you enroll. Read the ABT policy: UI Training & ABT. (nj.gov)
- Training must be full‑time and in a labor‑demand occupation, and you must be reasonably able to complete it. (nj.gov)
Timelines:
- Expect your ABT discussion during or shortly after your first counseling appointment. Many moms get decisions within 1–3 weeks if paperwork is complete.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If ABT is denied because you enrolled on your own, ask your counselor if a WIOA grant or employer OJT can fund the same training, or if switching to an approved provider keeps you eligible. (nj.gov)
Programs that pay while you learn (apprenticeships and OJT)
Apprenticeships, OJT, and employer incentives increase your chances of being hired and trained.
- On‑the‑Job Training (OJT): Employers who hire you full‑time can get 50% wage reimbursement up to $10,000 for up to 26 weeks, making them more willing to hire candidates with a skills gap. Bring this to interviews. Program details are on the state’s employer page: OJT program—employer reimbursement terms. (nj.gov)
- GAINS Apprenticeship grants: Recent rounds required proposals to pay at least 17/hr∗∗tonewapprenticesandallowreimbursementofupto∗∗5017/hr** to new apprentices and allow reimbursement of up to **50% of wages (max **12,000 per apprentice)** over 52 weeks. Ask your One‑Stop to search current GAINS‑funded openings in healthcare, education, IT, manufacturing, and more. (nj.gov)
- Return & Earn: Previously offered a 500∗∗workerbonusandhigheremployerwagecaps(upto∗∗500** worker bonus and higher employer wage caps (up to **20,000/worker). As of 2025, the official page states “This successful program is now out of funds.” Monitor the page for restarts: Return & Earn status. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If an employer says they’ve never heard of OJT, send them the official program page and have your One‑Stop business rep connect with their HR (keeps it simple for the employer). (nj.gov)
Fast healthcare pathways moms actually use (with hours and costs)
If you need a faster path into steady work with flexible hours, home health and allied‑health roles are realistic entry points.
Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA)
- State requirement: 76 hours total (60 classroom + 16 clinical), skills demo, written exam, and background check, per NJ Board of Nursing. Many programs run 3–6 weeks. Official training requirement: NJ Jobs that Care—CHHA training rules. (nj.gov)
- Training providers: community colleges, vocational schools, and home health agencies (approved by the Board of Nursing). (nj.gov)
- Real‑world example: A mom in Middlesex completed a 3‑week hybrid CHHA course while receiving UI. Her counselor aligned the training with ABT, and she moved into a $17/hour home care role with benefits, then added a med‑tech stackable credential via SkillUp NJ health tracks. (Wage examples vary by employer; use the One‑Stop to find higher‑wage agencies.)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If CHHA cohorts are full, ask your counselor about employer‑provided training (some agencies pay for your course if you commit to work after) and check WIOA‑approved providers on Training Explorer. (nj.gov)
Child care while you train (what’s open, what’s paused, and Plan B)
- CCAP status: Due to funding limits, the Child Care Assistance Program stopped accepting new applications as of August 1, 2025. Current families stay covered if they remain eligible; no new children can be added to existing cases after July 31, 2025. The state’s notice advises signing up for reopening alerts. Official page: CCAP—Help Paying for Child Care. (childcarenj.gov)
- Income limits (2025–2026): Families at or below 250% FPL remain eligible at redetermination; a one‑year “graduated phase‑out” applies up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI). Official chart (selected sizes shown below). (childcarenj.gov)
CCAP 2025–2026 income limits (selected family sizes)
| Family size | 250% FPL (stay eligible) | 85% SMI (phase‑out ceiling) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $52,875 | $84,962 |
| 3 | $66,625 | $108,303 |
| 4 | $80,375 | $134,671 |
| 5 | $94,125 | $143,086 |
| 6 | $107,875 | $151,501 |
Plan B while CCAP is paused:
- If you’re in SNAP Employment & Training or TANF (WorkFirst NJ), ask for participant allowances to cover transportation, child care, uniforms, and supplies tied to your training or job search; amounts vary by county and activity. Start with your county caseworker or One‑Stop. Read the state’s SNAP E&T note on participant allowances: SNAP E&T—allowable supports. (nj.gov)
- Check Head Start/Early Head Start and your school district’s free pre‑K seats (many districts have expanded 3‑ and 4‑year‑old programs). The state CCAP page explicitly directs families to Head Start and district pre‑K during the pause. (childcarenj.gov)
- If you’re in WorkFirst NJ activities, ask your case manager to authorize child care support tied to your work plan hours. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t secure care, ask your counselor for training with evening/weekend cohorts or self‑paced SkillUp NJ, and push for transportation vouchers so you can accept evening shifts once care is available. (nj.gov)
Cash assistance while training (WorkFirst NJ / TANF)
- Work requirement: TANF recipients must engage in approved work/training 35 hrs/week; GA (adults without dependents) 30 hrs/week. Supportive services include transportation, child care, and required books/supplies while you participate. (nj.gov)
- Timing: Most households get a decision within 30 days; “immediate need” help is available at application if you’re about to lose shelter, utilities, food, or clothing. (nj.gov)
- Payment levels (example): Current Essex County WFNJ/TANF chart (Jan 2025) shows maximum monthly benefit amounts such as 425∗∗forafamilyof2,∗∗425** for a family of 2, **559 for 3, $644 for 4 (Schedule I/II vary; your county will confirm). Use this as a benchmark and verify with your county agency. (wecare.essexcountynj.org)
Sample TANF maximum monthly cash amounts (reference: Essex County, Jan 2025)
| Assistance unit size | Max monthly benefit (Schedule I/II reference) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $214 |
| 2 | $425 |
| 3 | $559 |
| 4 | $644 |
| 5 | $728 |
| 6 | $814 |
| 7 | $894 |
| 8 | $961 |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your county payment looks different, ask for the current benefit chart by “Schedule” and living arrangement, and request supportive services for training (transport, child care, fees) be added to your work plan. (nj.gov)
Minimum wage benchmarks to use in your planning (2025)
As of January 1, 2025, New Jersey’s minimum wage is 15.49/hr∗∗formostworkers.Small/seasonalemployers:∗∗15.49/hr** for most workers. Small/seasonal employers: **14.53/hr; farmworkers: 13.40/hr∗∗;tippedworkers:∗∗13.40/hr**; tipped workers: **5.62/hr cash wage with 9.87∗∗tipcreditcap;long‑termcaredirectcarestaff:∗∗9.87** tip credit cap; long‑term care direct care staff: **18.49/hr. Use these numbers to evaluate offers during or after training. Source: NJDOL press release. (nj.gov)
2025 minimum wage rates (quick look)
| Worker category | Minimum hourly rate |
|---|---|
| Most employees | $15.49 |
| Seasonal/small employers (≤5 employees) | $14.53 |
| Farmworkers | $13.40 |
| Tipped (cash wage) | 5.62∗∗(tipcreditupto∗∗5.62** (tip credit up to **9.87) |
| LTC direct care staff | $18.49 |
Short, real examples (what this looks like in real life)
- Newark mom with two kids (ages 3 and 6): She opened a TANF case, got child care covered under her work plan, and started a CHHA course (76 hours) scheduled around school pick‑ups. Her One‑Stop then connected her to a GAINS‑funded home care employer starting at $17/hr with an apprenticeship bridge to medical assistant. Timeline: intake to training start ~3 weeks; job offer 2 weeks after clinicals. (nj.gov)
- Toms River mom laid off from retail: While on UI, she met a counselor before enrolling and qualified for ABT. She used SkillUp NJ for Microsoft Excel and Customer Service tracks, then an OJT‑backed office coordinator hire where the employer got 50% wage reimbursement for 12 weeks. She kept her ABT benefits until the job started. (nj.gov)
Local organizations that actually help
- Dress for Success (suiting, job training and retention support)
Central NJ (Lawrenceville): 609‑896‑4112 — Contact & programs
Northern NJ (Madison): 973‑822‑3188 — Programs and location. (centralnj.dressforsuccess.org, northernnj.dressforsuccess.org) - Goodwill Industries of Southern NJ & Philadelphia (GED/Helms Academy, digital skills, forklift, CDL‑B, job placement; multiple NJ sites)
Stratford Center: 856‑566‑5375; Maple Shade: 856‑888‑4507; Hamilton: (see site); Ocean County Achievement Center (at OCC): 732‑255‑0400 ext. 2354 — Job training and locations. (goodwillnj.org) - YWCA Princeton (ESL, digital skills “YW Strive,” early childhood education aide certificate with practicum)
Main line: 609‑497‑2100 — ESL & workforce offerings. (ywcaprinceton.org) - Project Self‑Sufficiency (Sussex region; young parents 18–24 with stipends, childcare, transit) — 973‑940‑3500 — Bridges to Employing Youth. (projectselfsufficiency.org)
- Catholic Charities (Welfare‑to‑Work in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester; referral through Board of Social Services) — 856‑342‑4064 — Program info. (catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org)
- Eva’s Village (Paterson; workforce development with child care support for residential moms) — 973‑523‑6220 — Women with Children overview. (evasvillage.org)
- NJ 211 (fast local referrals for job fairs, displaced homemaker programs, and more) — dial 2‑1‑1 or use Job Search Resources. (nj211.org)
Diverse Communities: tailored help
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
Use One‑Stops like everyone else, and add legal rights support if you face discrimination. If you need sign language or language interpretation at the One‑Stop or DVRS, request it—state services provide interpreters as needed. DVRS Bilingual & Deaf/Hard of Hearing services. (nj.gov) - Single mothers with disabilities or moms of children with disabilities
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) can fund training, job coaching, internships, and more. Refer yourself online or call 1‑866‑871‑7867 (toll‑free)/609‑292‑5987; county DVRS office phones include: Hudson 201‑217‑7180, Middlesex 732‑937‑6300, Ocean 732‑505‑2310, Passaic 973‑742‑9226. Start here: DVRS—Vocational Rehabilitation. (nj.gov) - Veteran single mothers
Pair One‑Stop services with VA/NJ Women Veterans programs for health and work supports. Connect with Women Veterans Program staff via VA NJ; events and navigation happen year‑round: Women Veteran care—VA NJ. State resources and contacts for women veterans: DMAVA Women Veterans page. (va.gov, nj.gov) - Immigrant/refugee single moms (including Dreamers)
You can still access One‑Stops, WIOA training, and many community programs. For college financial aid without FAFSA eligibility, NJ has the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application for Dreamers via HESAA. Details and deadlines: HESAA—NJ Alternative Application. (hesaa.org) - Tribal citizens in NJ
NJ does not operate Tribal TANF; you’ll use WorkFirst NJ and One‑Stops for training. For cultural community connections, the Nanticoke Lenni‑Lenape Tribal Nation office (Millville) can be reached at 856‑455‑6910. (nlltribalnation.org) - Rural single moms (long drives, limited routes)
Ask your counselor for online training via SkillUp NJ and for travel/transportation allowances under SNAP E&T or TANF while you participate. If car issues are a barrier, ask about local OJT placements with shorter commutes. (nj.gov) - Single fathers
All programs above are gender‑neutral; dads can use One‑Stops, ABT, WIOA, and WorkFirst NJ the same way. - Language access
One‑Stops and DVRS provide interpretation. Many ESL classes are free or low‑cost through YWCA Princeton and WIOA Title II Adult Education providers by county: Adult Education & Literacy Directory. (nj.gov, ywcaprinceton.org)
Regional quick contacts (how to reach someone today)
- American Job Centers: Find addresses and hours statewide: One‑Stop Career Centers (official directory). If you need a phone, use the NJ Labor One‑Stop line 609‑292‑2246 or ask NJDOL to route you. Selected programs list direct One‑Stop phones (e.g., SCSEP page lists Jersey City 201‑217‑7007, East Orange 973‑395‑3249, Neptune 732‑683‑8850). (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- DVRS county offices (examples):
Jersey City 201‑217‑7180; New Brunswick 732‑937‑6300; Toms River 732‑505‑2310; Paterson 973‑742‑9226. Full list and VP numbers here: DVRS offices. (nj.gov)
Cheat Sheet: fastest steps in the next 48 hours
- Walk into your nearest One‑Stop with ID and a short resume. Ask for a training/career counseling appointment and ABT/WIOA review. Find your One‑Stop. (nj.gov)
- If you’re on UI, tell your counselor you want ABT. Don’t enroll in school first. Read ABT rules and timelines before your meeting. UI training page. (nj.gov)
- Create a free SkillUp NJ account and start a course that matches your target job. Screenshot completions for your counselor. SkillUp NJ. (nj.gov)
- If you’re very low‑income with kids, apply for WorkFirst NJ to bridge cash and get transportation/child care tied to your work plan. WFNJ application info. (nj.gov)
- If child care is the barrier, ask your SNAP/TANF worker for participant allowances (transport/child care) during training or until your first paycheck. SNAP E&T supports. (nj.gov)
Application checklists (cut/paste and take with you)
- One‑Stop/Training Grants (WIOA/OJT/Apprenticeship)
- Photo ID; resume; layoff letter (if applicable)
- UI claim info (if on Unemployment)
- Proof of address; proof of income (recent pay stubs or UI award)
- Goal job/occupation you’re aiming for and any certificates you already have
Ask for: WIOA eligibility screening, ABT review (if on UI), and apprenticeship openings. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- Unemployment (ABT)
- Training program name, start/end dates, hours/week, and provider name from ETPL
- Your counselor’s employability plan details
Remember the ABT notification deadlines (60/30/30 rule) and that training must be full‑time and in demand. (nj.gov)
- WorkFirst NJ (TANF)
- ID for everyone applying; proof of residence; SSNs (or proof applied)
- Proof of income/resources (pay stubs, bank statements)
- Child birth certificates; school enrollment for teens
- Any immediate‑need documents (eviction/shutoff notice)
Ask to include training, child care, transportation, and work clothing/books in your work plan. (nj.gov)
- CHHA programs
- ID, background check consent, tuition payment or funding approval
- Class schedule that fits your child care window (if applicable)
Training is 76 hours total; confirm the provider is approved. (nj.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)
- Enrolling in school before you see a One‑Stop counselor
Fix: Pause, meet a counselor, and get the training pre‑approved so you don’t lose UI/ABT or grant eligibility. (nj.gov) - Not telling UI you’re in training
Fix: Answer “Yes” on certifications and complete the training questionnaire or call‑in interview. (nj.gov) - Missing ABT deadlines (60/30/30)
Fix: Email or message your interest in training to UI/One‑Stop now to lock in your date. Keep proof. (nj.gov) - Counting on CCAP if you’re a new applicant
Fix: It’s paused for new apps after July 31, 2025. Use SNAP E&T/TANF allowances, Head Start, and district pre‑K as bridge options. (childcarenj.gov) - Accepting a lowball job offer without checking current wage floors
Fix: Know 2025 minimums—most workers: 15.49/hr∗∗;small/seasonal:∗∗15.49/hr**; small/seasonal: **14.53/hr; farm: 13.40/hr∗∗;tippedcashwage∗∗13.40/hr**; tipped cash wage **5.62 + tip credit cap 9.87∗∗;LTCdirectcare∗∗9.87**; LTC direct care **18.49. Use this in negotiations. (nj.gov)
Timelines you can expect
| Step | Typical timeline |
|---|---|
| One‑Stop intake to first counseling session | Same‑day walk‑in or within 1–2 weeks (varies by county) (nj.gov) |
| ABT decision window (once training details are submitted) | Often 1–3 weeks; faster when aligned with counselor’s plan (nj.gov) |
| WIOA/OJT approval | 2–4 weeks depending on employer/provider readiness (nj.gov) |
| CHHA training cohort start | 1–4 weeks to next cohort; length 3–6 weeks typical (nj.gov) |
| WFNJ (TANF) decision | Most households within 30 days; immediate‑need possible sooner (nj.gov) |
Extra tools worth bookmarking
- Find and compare training with outcomes: NJ Training Explorer / COEI. (nj.gov)
- Free online courses now: SkillUp NJ. (nj.gov)
- Adult Education/ESL/HSE by county: WIOA Title II Directory. (nj.gov)
- DVRS referral and local offices: Vocational Rehabilitation Services. (nj.gov)
10 New Jersey‑specific FAQs
- Can I get Unemployment and go to school?
Yes—but only if the training is approved. Meet a One‑Stop counselor first; ABT can add up to 26 weeks once your regular UI ends. (nj.gov) - Does NJ help pay for training if I’m laid off?
Yes. WIOA grants and the Opportunity Partnership Program can cover approved training; employers can also use OJT so you earn while learning. Start at your One‑Stop. (nj.gov) - What if I need child care to attend training?
CCAP is closed to new apps as of Aug 1, 2025, but TANF/SNAP E&T can cover child care related to your approved activities. Ask your caseworker. (childcarenj.gov, nj.gov) - What are current TANF cash amounts?
Amounts vary by schedule/county; as a reference, Essex shows 425∗∗(familyof2),∗∗425** (family of 2), **559 (3), $644 (4). Verify with your county. (wecare.essexcountynj.org) - How fast will I get a TANF decision?
Most households within 30 days; immediate‑need decisions may be faster if you’re at risk of homelessness or utility shutoff. (nj.gov) - What wages should I expect after training?
Use the 2025 minimum wage floors: most workers 15.49/hr∗∗;small/seasonal∗∗15.49/hr**; small/seasonal **14.53; farm 13.40∗∗;tippedcash∗∗13.40**; tipped cash **5.62; LTC direct care $18.49. Many apprenticeships start higher. (nj.gov) - I have a disability. Can I get job coaching or internship support?
Yes. DVRS funds job coaching, internships, and training. Call 1‑866‑871‑7867 or your county DVRS office. (nj.gov) - I’m a veteran mom. Any special help?
Yes. Use One‑Stops plus VA/NJ Women Veterans resources for care and navigation. See the VA NJ women’s page for contacts. (va.gov) - Can I become a CHHA quickly?
Yes—state requires 76 hours (60 classroom + 16 clinical). Many cohorts run 3–6 weeks. Check Training Explorer for approved providers. (nj.gov) - Where do I get live help today?
Walk into your local One‑Stop during posted hours or call NJ Labor’s One‑Stop line 609‑292‑2246 for routing. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
About wages and offers during training
Know your rights and wages. In 2025, most NJ jobs must pay at least 15.49/hr∗∗.Ifyou’reofferedatippedrole,confirmtheemployerpaysthe∗∗15.49/hr**. If you’re offered a tipped role, confirm the employer pays the **5.62 cash wage and make‑up pay if tips don’t reach 15.49∗∗.Long‑termcaredirectcarestaffmustget∗∗15.49**. Long‑term care direct care staff must get **18.49/hr. Use these in negotiations. (nj.gov)
Quick tables you can screenshot
Table: Where to go depending on your situation
| Situation | Go here first | Why |
|---|---|---|
| On UI and want school/training | One‑Stop + ABT review | Possible 26 extra weeks of UI while in approved full‑time training. (nj.gov) |
| Low income with kids, need cash + training | WorkFirst NJ (TANF) | Cash aid, required training hours, plus child care/transport support during activities. (nj.gov) |
| Want paid training on day one | Apprenticeship/OJT | Earn while you learn; strong employer demand with wage reimbursements and GAINS funding. (nj.gov, nj.gov) |
| Need skills now from home | SkillUp NJ | 5,000+ free self‑paced courses; stack with WIOA plan. (nj.gov) |
Table: CHHA at a glance
| Requirement | NJ rule |
|---|---|
| Minimum hours | 76 (60 classroom + 16 clinical) |
| Background check | Required |
| Exam | Written + skills demonstration |
| Typical program length | 3–6 weeks (varies by provider) |
| Where to find programs | Training Explorer or provider sites |
Table: 2025 minimum wage reference
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Most workers | $15.49/hr |
| Small/seasonal | $14.53/hr |
| Farmworkers | $13.40/hr |
| Tipped cash wage | 5.62/hr∗∗(tipcreditcap∗∗5.62/hr** (tip credit cap **9.87) |
| LTC direct care | $18.49/hr |
Table: CCAP status & income limits (selected sizes)
| Family size | New apps? | 250% FPL | 85% SMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Closed after 7/31/2025 | $52,875 | $84,962 |
| 3 | Closed | $66,625 | $108,303 |
| 4 | Closed | $80,375 | $134,671 |
Table: TANF sample cash amounts (verify with your county)
| Unit size | Max monthly |
|---|---|
| 2 | $425 |
| 3 | $559 |
| 4 | $644 |
Reality checks, tips, and warnings
- Training approvals take paperwork. Keep copies of everything—class schedules, provider approval letters, attendance, and receipts.
- Transportation and child care support are not automatic. You must ask for them in your TANF/SNAP work plan or with your One‑Stop case notes. (nj.gov)
- Don’t gamble on unapproved online “GED” or “certificate mills.” NJDOE warns about misleading diploma claims; use approved GED testing centers only. (nj.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development, New Jersey Department of Human Services, NJ Board of Nursing, NJ Office of the Secretary of Higher Education/HESAA, USDA‑related SNAP resources, and established nonprofits listed above. We produce our guides under our Editorial Standards with a primary‑sources research approach, link testing, change tracking, and regular reviews. We cite only official agencies or reputable statewide organizations. We’re independent researchers, not government employees, and individual outcomes can vary. Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. (childcarenj.gov)
Disclaimer
- Programs, dollar amounts, and eligibility rules change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency or your county caseworker before you decide.
- This guide is informational and not legal advice.
- Security note: We don’t request personal data. To keep your device and information safe, apply only via official .gov and known nonprofit sites linked here, and avoid sharing SSNs or bank details over public Wi‑Fi.
If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org. We aim to correct verified errors within 48 hours under our editorial policy.
Sources (selected)
- One‑Stop directory and services; My Career NJ/Training Explorer; OJT employer terms; GAINS grants; Return & Earn status; UI training & ABT; Minimum wage 2025 press release; WorkFirst NJ rules and timelines; CCAP notice and 2025–26 income charts; SNAP E&T participant allowances; CHHA 76‑hour requirement; Adult Ed/ESL directories; DVRS contacts and services. (nj.gov, nj.gov, childcarenj.gov)
Helpful county and nonprofit contacts cited above: Dress for Success (Central/Northern NJ), Goodwill training centers, YWCA Princeton, Project Self‑Sufficiency, Catholic Charities Welfare‑to‑Work, Eva’s Village, NJ 211. (centralnj.dressforsuccess.org, northernnj.dressforsuccess.org, goodwillnj.org, ywcaprinceton.org, projectselfsufficiency.org, catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org, evasvillage.org, nj211.org)
Keep going—you don’t need perfect conditions to start. Pick one concrete step from the Cheat Sheet, and take it today.
🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey
- 📋 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
