West Virginia Job Training for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for single mothers in West Virginia who need clear steps, real timelines, and verified links to programs that pay for short‑term training, certificates, apprenticeships, and two‑year degrees. All amounts and rules below come from official state and federal sources and were verified for the dates shown in the citations.

Quick Help (start here)

• Call WorkForce West Virginia to get a training appointment at your nearest American Job Center: 1‑800‑252‑JOBS (5627). Use the office locator if you prefer to visit in person. Find your local WorkForce WV office. (workforcewv.org)
• If you already get SNAP and want free job training, ask for a referral to SNAP Employment & Training: 1‑877‑716‑1212 (DoHS Customer Service). SNAP E&T program details. (bfa.wv.gov)
• Need tuition covered for a certificate or associate degree at a WV community or technical college? Apply for the last‑dollar WV Invests Grant. Complete FAFSA and the Invests application. WV Invests: Apply now. Award letters begin in March (summer), June (fall), and November (spring). (cfwv.com)
• Training but need child care? WV’s child care subsidy is available up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI) with monthly income examples like $6,422 for a family of 4 (85% SMI, 2024 chart now in use). Contact your local CCR&R. Eligibility and CCR&R map. 2024 85% SMI chart (official). (bfa.wv.gov)
• GED prep and testing are free if you enroll with WVAdultEd. Hotline: 1‑800‑642‑2670. WVDE: GED and Adult Education info and Free WV High School Equivalency testing info. (wvde.us)
• Recovering from substance use or justice‑involved? Jobs & Hope WV can pay for training and help with rides. Call 833‑784‑1385 or 304‑583‑4008. Jobs & Hope WV. (jobsandhope.wv.gov)
• Moms with a disability (or a child with a disability): Vocational Rehabilitation can fund training and placement. Call 1‑800‑642‑8207. WV Division of Rehabilitation Services. (wvdrs.org)

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What training path gets you working fastest?

• If you need a quick, paid path
  • Try a paid apprenticeship (earn while you learn), short‑term certificate (3–12 months), or on‑the‑job training through WIOA. See current apprenticeship openings and partners. WorkForce WV Apprenticeships and Apprenticeship.gov job finder. (workforcewv.org, apprenticeship.gov)
• If you want tuition covered at a community college
  • WV Invests is a last‑dollar grant that covers tuition (and certain fees) after other aid for approved in‑demand programs at WV community and technical colleges. It requires a FAFSA, a short community‑service requirement, and a drug screen. How WV Invests works. (cfwv.com)
• If you’re training while on SNAP or WV WORKS (TANF)
  • SNAP E&T and WV WORKS will connect you to training, help with needed items, and sometimes transportation. Start by calling DoHS or your county office to get an E&T referral or TANF orientation. SNAP E&T program and WV WORKS info. (bfa.wv.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (scan this table first)

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Section A — WorkForce West Virginia (WIOA) training: your first stop for most tuition help

Most important action first:

• Call 1‑800‑252‑JOBS (5627) and ask for a “WIOA training intake.” If you can, walk into a local office and say you want to explore training, ITAs (Individual Training Accounts), apprenticeships, or on‑the‑job training. Local Office Locations. (workforcewv.org)

What WIOA can pay for

• Tuition and required fees for programs on the state’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). WV ETPL info for jobseekers. (workforcewv.org)
• On‑the‑Job Training (OJT) payments to an employer while you learn on payroll.
• Supportive services (transportation, test fees, tools, etc.). Amounts are set by each local Workforce Development Board.
• Example cap (Northern Panhandle region): up to $5,500perprogramyear\ast \ast ,\ast \ast$11,000 max over 2 years. Your region may be different—ask your local office. Northern Panhandle WDB ITA policy. (npworkforcewv.org)

Eligibility (quick read)

• Priority is given to low‑income adults (including SNAP/WV WORKS recipients), unemployed workers, and certain other groups. You’ll verify income and residency and complete assessments. See WIOA resources and policies. WIOA resources page. (workforcewv.org)

Required documents (bring copies)

• Photo ID
• Social Security card (or acceptable proof)
• Proof of WV residency (lease, utility bill)
• Proof of income/benefits for last 6 months (pay stubs, SNAP/TANF notices)
• Selective Service (if applicable)
• High school diploma/GED or transcripts
• If you already picked a school, bring the program cost sheet and ETPL listing

Timeline

• First appointment usually within 1–2 weeks, eligibility review can take another 1–2 weeks depending on documents and class start dates. Classes may start on fixed dates.

Reality checks, tips, and warnings

• Make sure your program is on the ETPL before you sign anything. If it’s not listed, WIOA won’t pay.
• If a class is “full,” ask for OJT or Paid Work Experience while you wait.
• Keep every receipt; supportive services require documentation. Use your case manager’s preferred upload method.

Real world example

• A mom in Wheeling used an ITA for a 10‑month medical coding certificate. WIOA covered tuition up to the regional cap; the board also reimbursed exam fees as supportive services. She used evening classes and the child care subsidy (see Section E).

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask for a referral to a nearby region’s provider on the ETPL or look at apprenticeships (earn‑while‑you‑learn) through Apprenticeship.gov and WV Building & Construction Trades. (apprenticeship.gov, wvtrades.org)

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Section B — WV Invests: tuition‑free community and technical college for in‑demand fields

Most important action first:

• File your FAFSA and then submit the WV Invests application by the priority date. Award notices go out: March (summer), June (fall), November (spring). WV Invests — Apply Now. (cfwv.com)

What WV Invests covers

• Last‑dollar tuition (and certain fees) for approved programs at 10 participating institutions once other grants/scholarships are applied. Find eligible programs and colleges and Find a College. (cfwv.com)

Key requirements you must plan for

• Drug screening window. Only use approved labs and follow the timing in your award letter. You pay the screening cost. Drug screening rules and cutoff levels. (cfwv.com)
• Community service. Complete 2 hours per term through approved activities, and submit the form to your financial aid office. Community service requirement and school contacts. (cfwv.com)
• In‑state residency obligation. You must live in WV for 2 years after dropping below half‑time or graduating, or the grant converts to a loan. Residency requirement details. (cfwv.com)

Helpful add‑ons while enrolled

• “Learn & Earn” internships pay at least $15/hour, with wages split 50/50 by employer and college workforce funds—great for paid experience during school. Ask your college’s workforce office. WVCTCS Learn & Earn (state program) and Mountwest CTC Learn & Earn example. (wvctcs.edu, mctc.edu)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Scheduling your drug screen before receiving your award letter (results won’t count).
• Missing the community‑service form at the end of term (award can be pulled).
• Not completing the FAFSA early—your Invests amount depends on how other aid applies first.

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Use the HEAPS Workforce grant for non‑credit or industry credentials (up to $2,000 toward tuition/testing/supplies; first‑come, first‑served). HEAPS Workforce — How it works. (cfwv.com)

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Section C — Apprenticeships (earn while you learn)

Most important action first:

• Search and apply to open registered apprenticeship jobs. Apprenticeship.gov Job Finder. For construction trades, see union apprenticeship entry points statewide. WV Building & Construction Trades. (apprenticeship.gov, wvtrades.org)

Why apprenticeships work for single moms

• Paychecks while you train, portable credentials, and no tuition bills. WV also coordinates apprenticeship efforts through the AIM (Apprenticeship in Motion) initiative. AIM — WV Division of Economic Development. (westvirginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask WorkForce WV for WIOA‑funded OJT with a local employer while you take short, stackable classes at your CTC. WorkForce WV Apprenticeship and WIOA pages and WIOA resources. (workforcewv.org)

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Section D — SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) if you get SNAP

Most important action first:

• Call DoHS 1‑877‑716‑1212 and say “I want a referral to SNAP E&T.” You’ll get an orientation date by mail. SNAP E&T program page. (bfa.wv.gov)

What SNAP E&T can pay for or arrange

• Adult basic education, GED prep, ESL; short‑term training (CDL, trades, CNA/LPN pipelines), work experience, and support services like transportation or required gear while you complete your activity. Official list of services and partners. (bfa.wv.gov)

Why this matters for your food budget

• While training, your household’s SNAP max is based on the federal table. For FY 2025 (Oct. 1, 2024–Sept. 30, 2025), the maximum for a family of 4 in WV is $975/month\ast \ast ;minimumbenefitis\ast \ast$23. USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask to be connected to WIOA at your WorkForce office, or to Jobs & Hope WV if you need barrier removal support like treatment, transportation, or court‑related help. Local WorkForce WV offices and Jobs & Hope WV. (workforcewv.org, jobsandhope.wv.gov)

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Section E — Child care while you train or work

Most important action first:

• Contact your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency to start child care subsidy. They manage applications and provider lists. CCR&R map. (bfa.wv.gov)

Eligibility and amounts

• WV now uses 85% of State Median Income (SMI) at application for eligibility. 2024 85% SMI monthly amounts used by DoHS include: $4,367(familyof2)\ast \ast ,\ast \ast$5,394 (family of 3), $6,422(familyof4)\ast \ast ,\ast \ast$7,555 (family of 5), $8,477 (family of 6). DoHS Program Instruction with 2024 85% SMI chart. DoHS confirms the 85% SMI policy in its public update. DoHS child care data update noting 85% SMI. (bfa.wv.gov, dhhr.wv.gov)

What documents to gather

• Photo ID; proof of WV residency; proof of activity (work/training/school schedule); proofs of income; child’s citizenship/identity documents; any child support info. See policy appendices (fee scale and rates). Child Care policy & appendices. (bfa.wv.gov)

Reality checks and tips

• Start CCR&R early—many providers have waitlists.
• Ask about temporary eligibility while job searching (policy allows short coverage during active job search). DoHS 2024 update mentions temporary eligibility up to 90 days for job search. (dhhr.wv.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask WIOA or SNAP E&T about short‑term support to bridge gaps (e.g., supplies/transport), and call WV 2‑1‑1 for local scholarships or church‑based care funds. Policy links: WIOA resources. (workforcewv.org)

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Section F — Adult Education & free GED testing

Most important action first:

• Call 1‑800‑642‑2670 and enroll with WVAdultEd for free prep and a free GED test (after passing official practice tests). GED exam steps. Free testing confirmed by WVDE. WV High School Equivalency (free with AdultEd). (wvde.us)

Find a classroom near you

• Use the statewide list to enroll fast (many sites let you register online). AdultEd locations list. (wvde.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask WorkForce WV for basic‑skills classes tied to training (integrated education & training) or a referral to community college bridge courses. WorkForce WV resources. (workforcewv.org)

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Section G — Specialized supports many single moms use

• Jobs & Hope WV (recovery or justice‑involved)
  • Training, GED/HSE help, transportation (including rides to hiring events), and connections to paid training (e.g., heavy equipment with WV Guard). Contact 833‑784‑1385 or 304‑583‑4008; online chat available. Jobs & Hope WV and program info pages. (jobsandhope.wv.gov)
• Vocational Rehabilitation (for moms or teens with disabilities)
  • Can fund tuition, books, supplies up to your unmet need (after FAFSA aid), not to exceed in‑state baccalaureate tuition rates at the highest public institution; also placement and job retention services. Toll‑free 1‑800‑642‑8207. DRS services and FAQ and Student FAQ (tuition policy). (wvdrs.org)
• Transportation to work or training
  • If you’re in WV WORKS or Jobs & Hope, ask about help with rides or even a donated car match through Good News Mountaineer Garage (GNMG). GNMG’s WV WORKS and Jobs & Hope partnerships provide vehicles to eligible families. Phone 1‑866‑GIVE‑CAR (448‑3227) and general info: GNMG – programs and donate a car. Governor’s office also highlighted a ride program with Modivcare under Jobs & Hope. Governor press release on Jobs & Hope transportation. (goodnewsmountaineergarage.org, governor.wv.gov)

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West Virginia programs that pair well with training

• WV WORKS (TANF) cash assistance while you train
  • Two‑step eligibility (income test + orientation/plan). Education and vocational training can count toward your plan, and you may qualify for support services. Bonuses include $100\ast \ast (HSdiploma/TASC),\ast \ast$250 (self‑sufficiency after closure), $250 (vocational ed + job within 90 days). Learn more and apply via WV PATH portal. WV WORKS overview and detailed page (bonuses/support services). (bfa.wv.gov, dhhr.wv.gov)
• LIEAP (heating help) to stabilize your budget during training
  • Income guidelines for FY 2025 start at $2,357/mo\ast \ast (1person)and\ast \ast$4,533/mo (4 people). Apply at county DoHS offices or online WV PATH during the winter window. LIEAP page with FY 2025 income table. (bfa.wv.gov)

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Tables you can screenshot

Table 1 — Child Care Subsidy: 85% SMI monthly amounts (used for eligibility)

Source: WV DoHS Program Instruction CC‑PI‑2024‑1 (use 2024 SMI chart). Official SMI chart PDF. (bfa.wv.gov)

Table 2 — SNAP maximum monthly benefits (FY 2025, WV)

Source: USDA FNS FY 2025 COLA notice. Official FY 2025 table. (fns.usda.gov)

Table 3 — Short‑term tuition and training money (stack these when eligible)

Table 4 — Where to go (and call) by goal

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Application Checklist (print and clip)

• Government photo ID and Social Security card
• Proof of WV residency (lease/utility)
• Income proofs for last 30–60 days (pay stubs, SNAP/TANF notices)
• Dependent children’s birth certificates and citizenship docs (for child care, TANF, SNAP)
• FAFSA confirmation (for college aid, WV Invests, HEAPS)
• School acceptance or class schedule (if you’ve chosen a program)
• ETPL printout of your program (for WIOA)
• Transportation and child care plan (names, provider quotes)
• A single folder (paper or digital) with scans of every letter/receipt

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the FAFSA. Even for short programs, some state grants require it. File early each year.
• Choosing a school/program that is NOT on the WIOA ETPL—WIOA can’t pay.
• Missing the WV Invests drug‑screen window or community‑service form—both are required each term. Drug screen rules and community service requirement. (cfwv.com)
• Not asking about Learn & Earn or OJT—leaving paid experience on the table. Learn & Earn info. (wvctcs.edu)
• Waiting to arrange child care—CCR&Rs and popular centers have waitlists. Start the application now. CCR&R map. (bfa.wv.gov)

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Steps: get from “I need a better job” to “I’m hired”

• Book your WorkForce WV intake (call 1‑800‑252‑JOBS (5627)). Bring ID, income proof, and a short list of jobs you want. Local office locator. (workforcewv.org)
• Lock child care early. Call CCR&R and ask to start an application and get referrals. CCR&R map. (bfa.wv.gov)
• Pick a path:
  • Apprenticeship (paid) — apply through Apprenticeship.gov. (apprenticeship.gov)
  • Certificate/associate at a CTC — file FAFSA + WV Invests app; ask your college workforce office about Learn & Earn (≥$15/hr). Invests apply and Learn & Earn. (cfwv.com, wvctcs.edu)
  • Non‑credit industry credential (fast) — apply for HEAPS Workforce up to $2,000 (rolling from July 1). HEAPS Workforce. (cfwv.com)
• If you get SNAP, add SNAP E&T services to your plan. Call 1‑877‑716‑1212 and request a referral. SNAP E&T. (bfa.wv.gov)
• If you or your child has a disability, call DRS 1‑800‑642‑8207 to see if they can help pay for training, equipment, and job placement. WV DRS. (wvdrs.org)

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Diverse Communities: targeted help that actually exists

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • WorkForce WV follows federal non‑discrimination rules and has language access and LEP guidance. If you face bias, ask for the Equal Opportunity (EO) officer at your AJC. See WFWV guidance on LEP and accessibility. LEP & Accessibility guidance in WIOA resources. (workforcewv.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children
  • DRS can fund training, adaptive equipment, and placement support; it coordinates with schools and colleges (services can begin at age 14 for students). Toll‑free 1‑800‑642‑8207. WV DRS. (wvdrs.org)
• Veteran single mothers
  • Veterans receive priority of service at WorkForce WV. Tell the front desk you are a veteran or spouse and request priority for workshops, job referrals, and training slots. WorkForce WV homepage (priority statement). (workforcewv.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms
  • Refugees and certain immigrants qualify for services; ask about interpreters and translated forms through DoHS and WorkForce WV (LEP policy available). LEP guidance. (workforcewv.org)
• Tribal‑citizen moms
  • You can use the same state programs; if you receive federal tribal education or workforce funds, bring that letter to coordinate “last‑dollar” awards like Invests.
• Rural moms with limited internet/transport
  • Ask about remote orientations (WorkForce WV hosts virtual job fairs) and request mileage/transport help through your program. WorkForce WV job fairs page. Jobs & Hope can arrange rides to fairs. Jobs & Hope transportation post. (workforcewv.org, jobsandhope.wv.gov)
• Single fathers raising children
  • All programs above apply; CCR&R, Invests, SNAP E&T, WIOA are gender‑neutral. Identify as a custodial parent on forms.
• Language access
  • You have the right to meaningful access. If you need an interpreter, ask your case manager; WFWV has LEP and accessibility policies posted. LEP/Accessibility guidance. (workforcewv.org)

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Local organizations you’ll actually use

• West Virginia Women Work — Step Up Pre‑Apprenticeship (Construction & Advanced Manufacturing). Free 10–12 week programs in Charleston and Morgantown; includes OSHA‑10 and other credentials; mileage reimbursements and job placement assistance noted on official pages. Program overview and locations and Step Up Construction (DOL‑recognized pre‑apprenticeship). (westvirginiawomenwork.org)
• Good News Mountaineer Garage — Cars for WV WORKS and Jobs & Hope participants; statewide donor program. Phone 1‑866‑GIVE‑CAR (448‑3227). GNMG. (goodnewsmountaineergarage.org)
• WorkForce Development Boards by region — if you need to escalate or learn local training caps/policies. The state page lists all regions with phone numbers. WFWV: Workforce Development Board listing. (workforcewv.org)

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Regional contacts (Workforce Development Boards)

• The state lists the 7 board regions with addresses and numbers. For example: Region 2 (Huntington) 304‑429‑5900; Region 3 (Kanawha) 304‑344‑5760; Region 5 (Northern Panhandle) 304‑231‑1170. See full list to find yours. Workforce Development Board page. (workforcewv.org)

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What to do if you hit a wall

• Ask for a supervisor or the Equal Opportunity Officer at your WorkForce office and restate your goal (e.g., “I want WIOA training funds for the [program], here’s the ETPL listing”).
• Pivot to a paid apprenticeship or an OJT slot to get income quickly.
• Use HEAPS Workforce while waiting for Invests or WIOA.
• If childcare is the bottleneck, apply to CCR&R and ask your case manager to schedule training start dates around available slots.

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10 West Virginia‑specific FAQs

• Can I get training help if I’m on SNAP?
  • Yes. Ask for SNAP E&T. It funds training tracks and support services, and you keep your SNAP benefits while in your approved activity. SNAP E&T. (bfa.wv.gov)
• What are 2025 SNAP maximum benefits in WV?
  • A household of 4 can receive up to $975/month (FY 2025). USDA FNS FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
• Does WV Invests require drug testing and service?
  • Yes. You must pass an approved drug screen within the window in your award letter and complete 2 hours of community service each term. Drug screening; Community service. (cfwv.com)
• Will WV Invests make me stay in the state?
  • Yes. A 2‑year WV residency obligation applies after you leave school; otherwise the grant converts to a loan. Residency details. (cfwv.com)
• Is there paid work while I go to school?
  • Yes. “Learn & Earn” internships pay ≥$15/hour (employer and college split cost). Ask your CTC workforce team. Learn & Earn (WVCTCS). (wvctcs.edu)
• What if I don’t have a GED?
  • Enroll with WVAdultEd; GED testing is free after you pass the official practice tests with your instructor. WVDE HSE info. (wvde.us)
• How much can WIOA pay toward tuition?
  • It depends on your region. Example: Northern Panhandle caps at $5,500/year\ast \ast and\ast \ast$11,000/2 years. Ask your local board for its current cap. Regional ITA policy example. (npworkforcewv.org)
• Can education count for WV WORKS (TANF)?
  • Yes. WV WORKS includes vocational training and education among approved activities, and offers bonuses like $100\ast \ast (HS/TASC)and\ast \ast$250 (employment after closure). WV WORKS detailed page. (dhhr.wv.gov)
• What if I need a car to keep a job?
  • If you’re in WV WORKS or Jobs & Hope, ask about referral to Good News Mountaineer Garage. Phone 1‑866‑448‑3227. GNMG. (goodnewsmountaineergarage.org)
• Where do I see all WIOA policies?
  • WorkForce WV hosts guidance and policies (supportive services, priority of service, etc.) on one page. WIOA Resources. (workforcewv.org)

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What to expect: realistic timelines

• WorkForce WV intake and eligibility: usually 2–4 weeks from first call to training approval if documents are ready (varies by region and program start dates).
• WV Invests awards: electronic notices begin in March (summer), June (fall), and November (spring). Invests application page. (cfwv.com)
• Child care subsidy: processing times vary; start early with CCR&R and ask what documentation gets you decided fastest. CCR&R map. (bfa.wv.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from West Virginia Department of Human Services, WorkForce West Virginia (Department of Commerce), West Virginia Department of Education, USDA FNS, U.S. Department of Education, 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

• Program rules, dollar amounts, and timelines can change. Always confirm details with the agency or college before you enroll or spend money.
• Health, benefits, and legal topics carry added risk. Nothing here is medical, legal, tax, or case‑specific advice. Talk to a qualified professional for your situation.
• Security note for our readers: We keep this site updated and use standard security practices, but you should never email full SSNs, bank info, or medical records to any site. Use official state portals (like WV PATH, StudentAid.gov, and CFWV/WVSAM) for applications and document uploads.
• We prioritize linking to .gov and official program pages; if you find a broken link, contact info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it within 48 hours per our editorial policy. (bfa.wv.gov)

— End of guide —

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