Postpartum Health Coverage & Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Florida

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, Florida‑specific guide to postpartum medical coverage, newborn coverage, mental health support, food and nutrition help, and day‑to‑day benefits that single moms can actually use right now. Every program, agency, and helpline mentioned is linked so you can tap and act fast.

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If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

• Apply or report your change in MyACCESS now: Submit a brand‑new application or report your baby’s birth and any income changes in the modernized Florida portal at MyACCESS, call DCF’s benefits line at 1-850-300-4323, and read the agency’s timeline notes so you know what to expect next via Applying for Assistance. Expect up to 30 days for most non‑disability cases; opt into email/text alerts. (myflfamilies.com)
• Protect your 12‑month postpartum Medicaid: If you had pregnancy Medicaid at delivery, you should have a full 12 months of coverage after your pregnancy ends; if anything looks wrong, call the Medicaid Helpline at 1-877-254-1055 and confirm your managed care plan through SMMC Choice Counseling at 1-877-711-3662 or FLSMMC. (myflfamilies.com)
• Address urgent mental health needs today: Call or text the free National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262, dial 988 for any mental health crisis, and use county‑level Florida 211 to get local counseling, support groups, and transportation help for appointments. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

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Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

• Medicaid member help: AHCA Medicaid Helpline 1-877-254-1055; complaints/appeals info is on Recipient Resources and Medicaid Fair Hearings. (ahca.myflorida.com)
• Plan selection or change: SMMC Choice Counseling 1-877-711-3662; use FLSMMC for online changes and region details. (ahca.myflorida.com)
• MyACCESS application support: Apply or manage your case at MyACCESS, review steps at Applying for Assistance, and call 1-850-300-4323 for case information. (myflfamilies.com)
• WIC nutrition for you and baby: Eligibility and county contacts at Florida WIC (state line 1-800-342-3556); see updated 2025 income chart and local offices from DOH. (floridahealth.gov)
• Healthy Start postpartum & home visiting: Reach Florida Healthy Start (toll‑free 1-855-889-1090), find your coalition via the coalition map, and learn about Connect home visiting. (healthystartflorida.com)

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Who This Is For

You’re a Florida single mom who just delivered or had a pregnancy end. You need straight answers on what’s covered, what to do first, and where to call when the portal stalls, your plan changes, or a bill arrives. You’ll see official Florida and federal links in every section, with realistic wait times and Plan B options.

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Core Facts You Can Rely On

• Postpartum Medicaid lasts 12 months in Florida under an approved demonstration that provides full benefits for a year after pregnancy ends; this applies regardless of later income changes during that period. Start with CMS’s approval, Florida‑specific status via ACOG’s tracker, and statewide implementation updates from Florida DCF. (cms.gov)
• Pregnant women’s Medicaid income standards (effective April 2025) are posted by Florida DCF; these tables also include infants and children by age and household size and help you see where your newborn will land. (myflfamilies.com)
• Presumptive eligibility for prenatal care (PEPW) can cover you quickly for about 45 days at certain clinics while your full application is processed; see local DOH examples like Bay County DOH and ask at your county health department. (bay.floridahealth.gov)
• When postpartum coverage ends, many women qualify for up to 24 months of limited family planning under Florida’s Medicaid Family Planning Waiver, with passive enrollment for those coming off pregnancy Medicaid. (ahca.myflorida.com)
• Newborns born to a Medicaid‑covered mom are “deemed eligible” for Medicaid up to the end of the month of their first birthday; DCF explains how birth reporting works and continuous eligibility rules for kids. See DCF Medicaid Notice Information and the state statute recordkeeping on 12‑month child coverage. (nuance.myflfamilies.com)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Florida Postpartum Medicaid – How It Works and How to Keep It

The most important step: confirm your postpartum eligibility and plan assignment as soon as the baby is born. Use the MyACCESS portal to report the birth, read DCF’s “Applying for Assistance” section so you know the 30‑day processing window, and call the AHCA Medicaid Helpline at 1-877-254-1055 if your online status looks off. (myflfamilies.com)

Eligibility and duration: Florida provides 12 months of postpartum Medicaid coverage for those who had pregnancy Medicaid at delivery. This is a full‑benefit year, not “pregnancy‑only” care. Florida obtained approval effective May 2022 through June 2030 via a federal demonstration; coverage continues if you move counties, and you pick or change your health plan through SMMC Choice Counseling at 1-877-711-3662 or FLSMMC. (cms.gov)

Who qualifies by income: The 2025 DCF chart shows monthly limits by household and age group, including the pregnant women column; check your current household size at DCF’s income table, and remember your newborn is “deemed” eligible to age 1 if you had Medicaid on the delivery date (DCF explains this in Medicaid Notice Information). (myflfamilies.com)

What’s covered: You receive comprehensive services through your Medicaid health plan. If something is denied after you use your plan’s internal appeal, you can request a state fair hearing via AHCA’s Medicaid Fair Hearings or call 1-877-254-1055 for guidance on the process. (ahca.myflorida.com)

If postpartum coverage will end: Florida’s Medicaid Family Planning Waiver can extend limited family planning coverage for up to 24 months after you lose Medicaid; women coming off pregnancy Medicaid are passively enrolled in the first year, then must renew. Use MyACCESS to re‑check eligibility for other Medicaid categories (disability, very low income parent, a new pregnancy) or move to a marketplace plan (see the SEP section below). (ahca.myflorida.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your online case is stuck or terminated early, call the AHCA Medicaid Helpline (1-877-254-1055), request help from SMMC Choice Counseling (1-877-711-3662), and file an appeal or fair hearing using DCF’s Appeal Hearings instructions (90‑day deadline for Medicaid). (ahca.myflorida.com)

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What New Moms Should Know About Newborn Coverage

Act fast after delivery: Report your baby’s birth in MyACCESS and confirm your baby’s plan assignment with SMMC Choice Counseling at 1-877-711-3662. By statute and policy, infants born to mothers eligible for Medicaid on the delivery date are covered until the end of the month of their first birthday; DCF shows examples in Medicaid Notice Information. (nuance.myflfamilies.com)

Pick your child’s doctor: Use your plan’s provider directory; ask the Medicaid Helpline about well‑child visits under Florida’s EPSDT schedule, posted by AHCA as Child Health Check‑Up. Keep up with shots and screenings; missed checkups can trigger claim denials later. (ahca.myflorida.com)

Dental for kids and parents: As of early 2025, Florida’s Medicaid dental plans include DentaQuest and LIBERTY Dental; former plan MCNA exited the program on February 1, 2025. If you’re unsure which dental plan you have, call Choice Counseling at 1-877-711-3662 to confirm. (dentaquest.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your newborn didn’t auto‑appear on your case, upload the birth record in MyACCESS, then call the Medicaid Helpline (1-877-254-1055) to push through the “deemed newborn” status and plan assignment. If your plan disputes coverage, finish the plan appeal and then request an AHCA fair hearing via Medicaid Fair Hearings. (ahca.myflorida.com)

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Florida Income Rules, Fast

Where to check: Use DCF’s 2025 Medicaid income limits (effective April 2025), look at the “Pregnant Women” column, and remember the 5% disregard can affect final outcomes; apply if you’re close. County WIC eligibility (185% FPL) is posted at Florida WIC with an updated chart revised June 19, 2025. (myflfamilies.com)

Florida KidCare for your child after age 1: Subsidized KidCare has been moving toward higher income thresholds; statutes indicate up to 300% FPL, though implementation details and premium tiers have seen delays and litigation. Start with Florida KidCare (1-888-540-5437), confirm current premiums with a live rep, and see legal/advocacy updates via Florida Health Justice Project and statutory language in F.S. 409.814. Always call to confirm before you budget. (floridakidcare.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you don’t qualify based on income today, apply anyway if your situation changes, or use Healthcare.gov to evaluate a subsidized marketplace plan after your postpartum year. Get free navigator help through Covering Florida for in‑person guidance. (healthcare.gov)

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Step‑by‑Step: Apply, Verify, and Keep Coverage

• Create or log into MyACCESS: Use MyACCESS, read Applying for Assistance for mailing/fax options (P.O. Box 1770, Ocala, FL 34478‑1770), and expect up to 30 days for processing, longer with disability reviews. (myflfamilies.com)
• Pick your Medicaid health plan: Call SMMC Choice Counseling at 1-877-711-3662 or change online at FLSMMC; the newborn is enrolled in the mother’s plan at birth with a 90‑day change window. (ahca.myflorida.com)
• Know your rights if denied: Read DCF Appeal Hearings (90‑day deadline) and AHCA Medicaid Fair Hearings (complete plan appeal first). You can send a hearing request by email, fax, or mail to the addresses listed. (myflfamilies.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a Healthy Start navigator to call with you, use 211 Florida to find a local benefits partner, and consider a legal consult via Florida Law Help if a denial sticks. (healthystartflorida.com)

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Florida WIC – Postpartum Nutrition, Breastfeeding Help, and Pumps

Why apply: WIC provides healthy foods, breastfeeding support, and referrals for you and your baby. Florida DOH posts eligibility and the 2025 income chart; call the statewide line 1-800-342-3556 or find your county office from Florida WIC (revised 6/19/2025). (floridahealth.gov)

Breastfeeding and pumps: Marketplace plans must cover breast pumps and lactation support; details are explained at HealthCare.gov and HHS FAQs. Most Florida Medicaid plans cover lactation visits and breast pumps—ask your plan’s member services or your WIC office for specifics and timing. (healthcare.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your plan denies a pump or lactation visit, ask for plan policies in writing, then appeal in‑plan; if still denied, follow AHCA Medicaid Fair Hearings steps. Also ask WIC for a loaner pump and lactation consult options. (ahca.myflorida.com)

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Postpartum Mental Health – Real Help, 24/7

Call now if needed: The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is 1-833-852-6262 (1-833-TLC‑MAMA), available by call or text with interpreters in 60+ languages. You can also dial 988 any time, and Florida DOH mental health page lists 988, veterans support, and the Crisis Text Line. (aha.org)

If LGBTQ+‑focused support matters: While federal 988 LGBTQ‑specific routing has changed, specialized lines like The Trevor Project remain open at 1-866-488-7386 (24/7), with text and chat options. Always confirm availability and keep 988 as back‑up. (thetrevorproject.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Medicaid plan for urgent tele‑behavioral care, use 211 Florida for local counselors and mobile response teams, and if you feel unsafe, go to the nearest ER or dial 911 immediately. (fl211.org)

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Family Planning After Birth – Birth Control, Spacing, and Consent Rules

Coverage while you still have postpartum Medicaid: Your plan should cover contraception (including LARC), STI testing, and routine follow‑up; you can also use Title X clinics via the HHS Clinic Locator and Florida DOH Family Planning. If your postpartum Medicaid ends, you may qualify for Florida’s Family Planning Waiver for up to 24 months. (floridahealth.gov)

If you’re considering sterilization: Federal rules require a specific consent form and a 30‑day waiting period before sterilization (with limited exceptions for preterm delivery/emergency surgery); read the regulation text via 42 CFR 50.205 and Florida’s incorporation of the HHS consent form. If hospital staff say “we can’t do it now,” confirm whether the federal timing window is the issue and reschedule covered care. (law.cornell.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t secure the method you want, use a Title X clinic via the OPA locator, ask your plan for another network OB‑GYN, or call the Medicaid Helpline to file a complaint. (ahca.myflorida.com)

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Your Rights at Work After Baby

Break time and a space to pump: The PUMP Act and FLSA require most employers to give reasonable break time and a private, non‑bathroom space to pump for up to one year after birth. See U.S. DOL “Pump at Work”, the March 2025 Fact Sheet #73A, and EEOC’s PWFA pumping guidance on accommodations. (dol.gov)

Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA): You’re entitled to reasonable accommodations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions (like pumping) unless it causes undue hardship. Read EEOC’s final regulation summary and use their contact tools for help with complaints. (eeoc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer refuses, share DOL pumping rights with HR, keep notes, and file a complaint with DOL WHD or the EEOC using the EEOC pumping rights page. (dol.gov)

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Tables You Can Use Right Now

Table 1 — Florida Postpartum & Infant Coverage Snapshot

(myflfamilies.com)

Table 2 — 2025 Monthly Medicaid Income Limits (Selected)

Source: DCF “Determining your Income Limit” (effective April 2025). Always apply if you’re close; rules and disregards can change. (myflfamilies.com)

Table 3 — Applications & Expected Timelines

(myflfamilies.com)

Table 4 — Dental and Plan Contacts (2025)

(ahca.myflorida.com)

Table 5 — Hotlines & Crisis Numbers

(mchb.hrsa.gov)

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Food, Rent, Utilities — Stabilize the Basics While You Heal

Food: Apply for or renew SNAP in MyACCESS, ask your hospital social worker about emergency EBT resources, and search local food pantries through Florida 211. If you’re postpartum or breastfeeding, enroll in WIC for vouchers and lactation support. (myflfamilies.com)

How to stop a utility shutoff in Florida today:

• Call your electric provider and ask for a payment extension or hardship plan; for example, FPL payment extensions are possible if you request before the due date.
• Apply for LIHEAP energy bill help immediately; the Clearinghouse lists local agencies and current ranges (e.g., crisis benefits up to $2,000 in FY2025, varies by agency/funds).
• If you hit a wall, call the Florida Public Service Commission consumer line at 1-800-342-3552 and your local 211 for additional county funds and payment pledges. (source.fpl.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic to fax any medical documentation if a household member uses life‑sustaining equipment, keep applying through multiple LIHEAP agencies on FPL’s county list, and file a PSC complaint if you believe rules weren’t followed. (fpl.com)

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Marketplace Plans After Postpartum Medicaid

Use a Special Enrollment Period (SEP): Having a baby opens a SEP; you have 60 days after birth to enroll your baby—and potentially you—through Healthcare.gov. Coverage can start the day of birth if you enroll within the window. Use SEP rules and consider local help from Covering Florida. (healthcare.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your SEP is denied due to a system or assister error, use the Complex SEP page to request review. If postpartum Medicaid ends, run the marketplace application anyway; many single moms qualify for a $0 or low‑premium silver plan with cost‑sharing reductions. (healthcare.gov)

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Local Organizations, Charities, and Support Groups

Healthy Start: Call Florida Healthy Start (1-855-889-1090) to get connected to postpartum doulas, home visiting, safe sleep supplies, and depression screenings. Use the coalition finder to reach your local team and Connect home visiting for Nurse‑Family Partnership and more. (healthystartflorida.com)

County Health Departments: Find your county via Florida DOH, ask for Family Planning/Title X sites from the program page, and use the WIC locator to book benefits. (floridahealth.gov)

Domestic violence safety planning: Call Florida’s 24/7 hotline at 1-800-500-1119, find shelters through DCF Get Help, or search centers with FPEDV. If you’re in immediate danger, dial 911. (prod.myflfamilies.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use Florida 211 to locate faith‑based pantries, diaper banks, and emergency assistance; ask your OB or pediatrician to send a “high‑risk postpartum” referral to Healthy Start to expedite contact. (fl211.org)

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Resources by Region

• Miami‑Dade & Broward: Find 24/7 DV shelter lines via 11th Judicial DV numbers, get county services through DOH Women’s Health, and contact your WIC office from Florida WIC. For 211, dial 1-954-537-0211 in Broward per FL 211. (jud11.flcourts.org)
• Orlando & Central Florida: Use Children’s Medical Services for the CMS Plan info, contact the Orlando Early Steps office via CMS Kids Orlando page, and find 211 support at FL 211. (floridahealth.gov)
• Tampa Bay & West Central: West Central Early Steps (Johns Hopkins All Children’s) can be reached at 1-727-767-4403 via All Children’s Early Steps; county family planning at DOH Family Planning; LIHEAP agencies listed on FPL Assistance by County. (hopkinsmedicine.org)
• Jacksonville & Northeast: Children’s clinics and WIC are listed by DOH Duval; newborn coverage issues go to AHCA Medicaid Helpline, and utility help routes through FL 211. (duval.floridahealth.gov)
• Panhandle & Big Bend: Contact Big Bend Early Steps at 1-850-921-0330 using CMS Kids Tallahassee page, check PEPW at your county DOH like Bay DOH PEPW, and use Florida 211. (cms-kids.com)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Notes and Where to Turn

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Call or text the Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262, use 988 for crisis, and reach The Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 for LGBTQ+‑affirming support. Ask SMMC Choice Counseling to help pick a plan with inclusive providers, and use Title X locator for confidential contraception. (aha.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child: Call your plan’s care management team through AHCA Recipient Resources, explore CMS specialty care via Children’s Medical Services, and use Early Steps (birth‑36 months) through state Early Steps info (state help line 1-800-218-0001 per DOH directory). Ask for TTY/relay or large‑print forms when you call. (ahca.myflorida.com)

Veteran single mothers: Your TRICARE coverage includes pumps and lactation support; review TRICARE breastfeeding benefits, determine VA maternity care coordination locally, and still use Florida WIC regardless of military status. Use Healthcare.gov for family marketplace options if you need them. (newsroom.tricare.mil)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: If you didn’t meet Medicaid citizenship rules, childbirth may still be covered through Emergency Medicaid; read DCF’s pregnancy and postpartum notes at DCF Medicaid page and learn your local hospital’s financial assistance rules. For lawfully present immigrants, review Florida’s options tracking from Florida Health Justice Project, and use Healthcare.gov for SEPs. Language access is available—ask DCF or AHCA for interpreter services and translated notices. (myflfamilies.com)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re a member of a federally recognized tribe, you may have additional marketplace flexibilities and Indian Health Service options. Use Healthcare.gov SEP rules, search IHS facilities, and contact your tribe’s health department for postpartum and infant services coordination.

Rural single moms with limited access: Ask your plan for non‑emergency medical transportation (NEMT); AHCA lists phone numbers by region for Modivcare/MTM on their resource pages (see NEMT info section). Use Florida 211 to find rides, mobile clinics, and telehealth options, and request mailed large‑print forms or TTY services when calling agencies. (ahca.myflorida.com)

Single fathers raising newborns: Many of the same postpartum coverage rules apply for the newborn and parent coverage; apply in MyACCESS, get WIC for the infant through Florida WIC, and use Child Health Check‑Up for well‑child schedules. (ahca.myflorida.com)

Language access and accessibility: DCF notes free language assistance and TTY at 1-800-955-8771; ask for large‑print mailers or translated notices through Applying for Assistance, and use relay as needed when calling AHCA. (myflfamilies.com)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the plan selection window: Call SMMC Choice Counseling early; newborns default to your plan, but you have 90 days to change. (flsenate.gov)
• Not reporting the birth/income change: Report within MyACCESS and keep upload receipts; see DCF’s steps and call 1-850-300-4323 if your documents don’t show “received” after a few days. (myflfamilies.com)
• Letting a denial stand: Always appeal; read DCF Appeal Hearings (90 days) and AHCA Fair Hearings (after plan appeal). (myflfamilies.com)
• Skipping WIC because you “might be over”: WIC has its own rules and auto‑qualifies many who have Medicaid; check Florida WIC and call your county. (floridahealth.gov)
• Assuming your dental plan didn’t change: Confirm your dental plan since MCNA left FL Medicaid in 2025; call Choice Counseling at 1-877-711-3662. (mcnafl.net)

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Reality Check

About timelines and backlogs: DCF says processing can take up to 30 days; set reminders to check your MyACCESS inbox every 48–72 hours, and keep the DCF benefits line handy at 1-850-300-4323. If your notice seems wrong, appeal on time—appeals keep you in the process. (myflfamilies.com)

About kid’s coverage: Florida’s KidCare expansion mechanics have been evolving; statutes reference up to 300% FPL, but premium tiers and implementation have shifted. Always confirm current premium brackets by calling Florida KidCare and watch Florida Health Justice Project updates. (floridakidcare.org)

About mental health: You deserve help even if coverage is unsettled. The Maternal Mental Health Hotline and 988 don’t check your insurance—call anytime. (aha.org)

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Application Checklist You Can Screenshot

• Photo ID for you (driver license, state ID) — upload in MyACCESS
• Proof of birth/pregnancy outcome (hospital record or birth certificate) — confirm newborn added per DCF guidance
• Income proof (last 4 weeks of pay, benefits letters) — see examples in Applying for Assistance
• Address and contact (lease or mail) — ask for large‑print if needed via DCF
• Plan choice list — compare plans and dental at SMMC Choice Counseling
• WIC appointment — call Florida WIC 1-800-342-3556
• Mental health numbers — Maternal MH Hotline 1-833-852-6262; 988

(myflfamilies.com)

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Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

First: Read the notice carefully in MyACCESS, note the date, and save it. Denied for income, missing documents, or “not eligible postpartum”? Fix the missing piece and re‑submit immediately.

Then: File an appeal. Medicaid appeals must be requested within 90 days; use DCF’s Appeal Hearings page (mail, phone 1-850-488-1429, or online form). If it’s a plan denial, complete the plan appeal first and then request an AHCA Medicaid Fair Hearing by phone or email. (myflfamilies.com)

Finally: Get a navigator. Ask Healthy Start to assign a staffer, call Florida 211 to find an application partner, and, if needed, speak with Florida Law Help for legal guidance. (healthystartflorida.com)

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Regional “How To” Mini‑Guides

Miami Utility Help: Try FPL payment options online first, then apply with the county LIHEAP provider on FPL’s listing and ask 211 for emergency pledges. If disconnection is pending, call the Florida PSC line at 1-800-342-3552. (source.fpl.com)

Orlando Transportation to Appointments: Ask your plan for NEMT rides (Modivcare/MTM per AHCA listing on NEMT info), use Florida 211 for nonprofit transport, and ask your OB for same‑day telehealth if symptoms are mild. (ahca.myflorida.com)

Tampa Breastfeeding & Early Steps: Call Maternal MH Hotline 1-833-852-6262 if you’re overwhelmed, book WIC lactation consult via Florida WIC, and contact West Central Early Steps at 1-727-767-4403 if you have developmental concerns. (aha.org)

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FAQs — Florida, Postpartum, and Single‑Parent Realities

1. How long does postpartum Medicaid last and what’s covered: You get 12 months of full‑benefit coverage after your pregnancy ends if you had pregnancy Medicaid at delivery; AHCA and CMS confirm the extension and full scope of services. Call the Medicaid Helpline (1-877-254-1055) if your case shows an earlier end date. (cms.gov)
2. Do I have to pick a health plan for my baby: Newborns are placed into the mother’s plan at birth; you can choose a different plan within 90 days by contacting SMMC Choice Counseling at 1-877-711-3662. (flsenate.gov)
3. What if I’m over income now but was on pregnancy Medicaid: Your postpartum year should still remain active. When it ends, Florida’s Family Planning Waiver may cover contraception for up to 24 months; or evaluate marketplace plans via Healthcare.gov SEP. (ahca.myflorida.com)
4. How fast will DCF decide: DCF says up to 30 days for most applications (longer with disability). Read Applying for Assistance for steps and timelines and opt into electronic notices. (myflfamilies.com)
5. Can I get WIC even if I’m breastfeeding and not on Medicaid: Yes. WIC is income‑based and auto‑qualifies many on Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF. Check Florida WIC for the 2025 income chart and call your county. (floridahealth.gov)
6. Do marketplace plans cover breast pumps: Yes—pumps, supplies, and lactation support are required preventive benefits in most plans; confirm timing and type with your plan. See HealthCare.gov breastfeeding benefits. (healthcare.gov)
7. What if my managed care plan denies a service: Complete the plan appeal. If still denied, request an AHCA fair hearing using Medicaid Fair Hearings. Keep copies of notices and medical letters. (ahca.myflorida.com)
8. Is there fast prenatal coverage if I get pregnant again: Ask for Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (PEPW) at a qualified DOH clinic; examples and rules are posted by Bay County DOH PEPW. Apply fully in MyACCESS immediately after. (bay.floridahealth.gov)
9. How do I get help if I’m not safe at home: Call the Florida DV hotline 1-800-500-1119 via DCF Get Help, text/call 988 if you’re in crisis, and ask a hospital social worker to call a shelter on your behalf. (prod.myflfamilies.com)
10. Can I keep coverage if I move counties: Yes, but call SMMC Choice Counseling to ensure your plan has providers near your new address or to switch plans within the allowed timeframe; update address in MyACCESS. (ahca.myflorida.com)

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Quick Tips for Faster Results

• Upload clean PDFs to MyACCESS and write your case number on each page. If you mailed/faxed, call 1-850-300-4323 after three days to confirm receipt per Applying for Assistance. (myflfamilies.com)
• Use fair hearings when needed: Learn the 90‑day deadline on DCF Appeals and the AHCA process on Medicaid Fair Hearings, including keeping services during appeal when allowed. (myflfamilies.com)
• Schedule postpartum and pediatric visits today: Plans cover well‑child care per AHCA’s check‑up schedule, and WIC can help with breastfeeding challenges via Florida WIC. (ahca.myflorida.com)

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

• Cobertura posparto de Medicaid (12 meses): Si tuvo Medicaid de embarazo al dar a luz, tiene 12 meses de cobertura completa. Revise su caso en MyACCESS y llame a AHCA Medicaid Helpline 1-877-254-1055 si algo está mal. (myflfamilies.com)
• Plan de salud y dentista: Cambie de plan o confirme su plan con SMMC Choice Counseling (1-877-711-3662). Para dentista, ver DentaQuest y LIBERTY Dental. (ahca.myflorida.com)
• WIC: Beneficios de alimentos y apoyo de lactancia con Florida WIC (1-800-342-3556). (floridahealth.gov)
• Salud mental: Llame o envíe un texto a la Línea Nacional de Salud Mental Materna 1-833-852-6262 o marque 988 para crisis. (aha.org)
• Ayuda local: Use 211 Florida para recursos de su condado y Healthy Start para visitas al hogar. (fl211.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF)
• Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA)
• Florida Department of Health — WIC
• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) tracker
• Healthcare.gov SEP guidance
• Florida Healthy Start
• Florida 211
• LIHEAP Clearinghouse – Florida

Last verified: September 2025, next review April January 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

This guide is informational and not legal advice. Program rules and funding change. Always confirm with the official agency or plan before you apply, enroll, or pay a bill. When in doubt, call the number on your Medicaid card, your AHCA Medicaid Helpline, or a navigator listed in Covering Florida. (ahca.myflorida.com)

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What to do if something you read here doesn’t match what an agency told you

• Verify the latest notice in MyACCESS, ask the rep to cite the rule or memo, and request it in writing.
• Escalate to your plan’s grievance unit, then file for a state fair hearing using DCF Appeals or AHCA Medicaid Fair Hearings.
• Get outside help from Healthy Start or Florida 211 for a local navigator to sit on the call with you. (myflfamilies.com)

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Final Safety Note

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For confidential help any time, call the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119, use 988 for a mental health crisis, or go to the nearest emergency room. (prod.myflfamilies.com)

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🏛️More Florida Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Florida

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• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
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• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery