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Postpartum Health Coverage and Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Montana

Postpartum Health Coverage & Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Montana

Last updated: September 2025

This guide focuses on fast, verified steps to keep your health coverage, get postpartum care, and find practical support in Montana. Every paragraph includes direct links so you can click and act right away.


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

Montana Postpartum Health Coverage — What You’re Entitled To

First action: Report your delivery or pregnancy change now so DPHHS can place you in Montana’s 12‑month postpartum coverage category. Use apply.mt.gov, call 1-888-706-1535, or go to your Office of Public Assistance. This update prevents gaps and ensures you keep coverage through the full postpartum year. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Montana provides 12 months of continuous postpartum coverage for women enrolled in Medicaid or HMK Plus who were eligible when pregnancy ended. Read the policy note under Member Services, then tell your caseworker about your delivery date, baby’s info, and any address changes on apply.mt.gov. If you need help, call the Public Assistance Helpline at 1-888-706-1535. (dphhs.mt.gov)

If your income has changed, don’t guess—apply anyway. Montana lists approximate monthly income thresholds for 2025 and encourages families to apply because not all income counts. See Do I Qualify?, explore the Plan First option for family planning if you’re not otherwise eligible, and call Cover Montana for free help. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a worker says you’re not eligible for a postpartum extension, cite the DPHHS announcement on Member Services, ask for a supervisor, and request a notice in writing. If coverage still ends, use your birth as a Special Enrollment Period on HealthCare.gov and call Cover Montana at 1-844-682-6837 for plan help. (dphhs.mt.gov)

2025 Medicaid Income Guide at a Glance

Use this table to see typical monthly income cutoffs. Apply even if you’re close.

Family size Adults 19–64 Children 0–18 Pregnant women
1 $1,735 $3,404 $2,048
2 $2,344 $4,600 $2,767
3 $2,954 $5,796 $3,487
4 $3,563 $6,993 $4,206
5 $4,173 $8,189 $4,926
6 $4,783 $9,385 $5,646

Source: see Apply for Health Coverage (DPHHS). (dphhs.mt.gov)

How to Apply (or Re‑Apply) Without Delays

First action: File or update online at apply.mt.gov and upload documents the same day. If you also need food or cash help, the same portal handles SNAP and TANF, and the helpline is 1-888-706-1535. Use Cover Montana for free assistance if you get stuck. (apply.mt.gov)

Montana reports most Marketplace‑routed Medicaid cases take about 15 business days to enroll after DPHHS receives them, though high‑volume periods can take up to 45 days. Federal rules require eligibility determinations within 45 days for most applicants, so set reminders and follow up if you hit day 30 or day 45. Keep proof of when you applied through apply.mt.gov, review DPHHS timelines, and know the federal timeliness rule at 42 CFR 435.912. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Prepare the basics before you start: ID and birthdates for everyone, Social Security numbers or immigration documents for applicants, recent paystubs or award letters, and any current insurance info. The full checklist lives on DPHHS Apply for Health Coverage, and you can phone Cover Montana or your local Office of Public Assistance for help scanning and sending documents. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your case stalls past 45 days, call the Helpline (1-888-706-1535), message through your apply.mt.gov account, and ask your clinic’s eligibility worker to check the state system. If you were denied and think it’s wrong, you can appeal using the notice instructions and cite the 45‑day rule at 42 CFR 435.912. (law.cornell.edu)

What Medicaid Covers After Delivery

First action: Book your postpartum visit and newborn checkups now. Use Member Services to find a primary care “Passport” provider, confirm your clinic is enrolled, and request a ride through the Medicaid Transportation Center at 1-800-292-7114. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Postpartum coverage includes primary and OB care, behavioral health, prescriptions, and more when medically necessary. Montana lists standard benefits, dental coverage, and transportation details under Member Services. For pumps, ask your provider to order through Medicaid or connect with Montana WIC breastfeeding support, and add a WIC peer counselor if available. (dphhs.mt.gov)

If you’re not eligible for full Medicaid after postpartum, Montana’s Plan First provides family planning coverage for eligible women, and 2025 thresholds are posted through March 31, 2026. Use apply.mt.gov and ask the Office of Public Assistance about Plan First if your full coverage ends. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a pharmacy or clinic can’t confirm coverage, call the Medicaid/HMK Member Help Line at 1-800-362-8312, ask your clinic to verify in the state portal, and get a temporary plan through HealthCare.gov if needed. Use Cover Montana for help comparing plans. (dphhs.mt.gov)

If You Lose Medicaid Postpartum — Switching to a Marketplace Plan

First action: Use your 60‑day Special Enrollment Period after birth to enroll on HealthCare.gov. Call Cover Montana at 1-844-682-6837 for free help, including phone or virtual enrollments. Coverage for your baby can start the day of birth. (healthcare.gov)

Because of major federal Navigator funding cuts, Cover Montana is scaling back direct enrollment help starting September 2025. The helpline will still provide guidance and referrals, so call early, prepare your documents, and ask for a certified assister near you. Check the Cover Montana locator for local help and read their Marketplace tips. (covermt.org)

If your income is above Medicaid limits, you may qualify for large premium tax credits on HealthCare.gov. Use their Special Enrollment tools and timelines to avoid a gap. If you prefer in‑person help, ask your nearest community health center about enrollment assistance at their clinic. (healthcare.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you miss your 60‑day window, report your change and ask for a “complex SEP” if an illness, disaster, or system error blocked you, then appeal. See SEP details and talk with Cover Montana about options. (healthcare.gov)

Food, Formula, and Breastfeeding Support

First action: Enroll in WIC today for eWIC food, lactation help, and peer counselors. Start at Montana WIC, check eligibility, and call 1-800-433-4298 if you prefer to enroll by phone. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Montana WIC is also rolling out electronic benefits for the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program in 2025—expect $30 per eligible person for the summer produce season in participating counties. Read the update, save the WIC State Office number, and ask your local clinic about eFMNP access. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Apply for SNAP online at apply.mt.gov or in person at your Office of Public Assistance. SNAP can be expedited in as little as 7 days if you meet emergency criteria, and DPHHS explains the rules on their SNAP page. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If WIC can’t book you soon, ask for a phone appointment, request temporary breastfeeding support, and ask your clinic if they stock pumps under Medicaid. Use USDA WIC Breastfeeding Support and Montana’s Breastfeeding Coalition while you wait. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Cash Help and Child Care While You Heal

First action: If you have zero income or are very low‑income, apply for TANF cash at apply.mt.gov, call the Helpline at 1-888-706-1535, and complete TANF “Pathways” with Maximus at 1-844-680-4700. Read Montana’s TANF page for who qualifies, resource limits, and the current payment standards. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Montana posts TANF payment standards by family size (e.g., $725 for a 3‑person household). Check the up‑to‑date table on DPHHS, confirm you meet work and cooperation requirements, and ask about good‑cause waivers if you’re recovering or have safety concerns. Find TANF rules on DPHHS TANF and talk with Child Support Services about orders. (dphhs.mt.gov)

The Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship helps with daycare if you’re working or in school. Families at or below 185% FPL may qualify. Apply through your local Child Care Resource & Referral agency, use the online option, and review the sliding fee and work‑hour rules. Start at Best Beginnings, and ask questions via your CCR&R. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If TANF is denied, request a fair hearing from the notice, ask for crisis one‑time help from local charities, and re‑apply with corrected documents. If child care is full, ask about waitlists and temporary “Family, Friend & Neighbor” care under Best Beginnings. (dphhs.mt.gov)

TANF Payment Example (Check the current table before applying)

Family size Approx. monthly payment standard
1 $425
2 $575
3 $725
4 $875

Source: See payment table on DPHHS TANF and confirm the current amounts when you apply. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Housing and Heat While You Recover

First action: Apply for energy help as soon as the heating season opens (typically Oct 1–Apr 30). Start with Montana LIHEAP, contact your local eligibility office (HRDC), and ask about crisis help and Weatherization. (dphhs.mt.gov)

LIHEAP reduces winter bills and can assist with furnace emergencies; Weatherization lowers drafts and costs long‑term. DPHHS lists local and tribal LIHEAP offices statewide, including District VII HRDC (Billings), District IX HRDC (Bozeman), and others—use the directory to find your county’s office and phone number. Learn more at Energy Assistance Eligibility Offices and Local Eligibility Offices. (dphhs.mt.gov)

If you have a shutoff notice or are low on propane, ask your HRDC about Energy Share of Montana—one‑time, emergency help not strictly tied to income. Many offices require a current or recent LIHEAP application, and you can also call Energy Share at 1-888-779-7589. See explanations from local partners and call 211 if you need a fast referral. (vp-mi.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a utility won’t work with you, call your provider to request a payment plan, contact the Montana Public Service Commission at 1-800-646-6150 for help with regulated utilities, and ask 211 for local charity funds. If it’s winter, read PSC guidance about disconnections and protected situations. (psc.mt.gov)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Montana Today

  • Call your utility and get a payment arrangement: Ask about hardship plans, LIHEAP credits on the account, or medical certification holds; for NorthWestern Energy, call 1-888-467-2669 and review their Payment Assistance page. Follow up with your HRDC. (northwesternenergy.com)
  • File with the PSC if needed: If you believe you’re being disconnected unfairly, call 1-800-646-6150, submit a PSC assistance request, and reference winter protections. See PSC consumer FAQs to understand moratorium timing and medical protections. (psc.mt.gov)
  • Add crisis help: Ask your HRDC about Energy Share and LIHEAP crisis, and dial 211 to locate church and charity funds. Use the DPHHS LIHEAP and Energy Share contacts already listed above. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic to fax a medical certification to the utility, try a smaller, same‑day down payment, and call the PSC again if you’re still at risk. Re‑apply for LIHEAP and weatherization through DPHHS, and keep 211 updated on your situation. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Billings Water Bill Help

If you’re in Yellowstone County, start with District VII HRDC for LIHEAP and Energy Share screening, then contact the city utility to request a payment plan and due‑date extension. Use the DPHHS LIHEAP directory for Billings HRDC, keep PSC info handy, and call Montana 211 for any local water bill charity lists. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Transportation, Supplies, and Home Visiting

First action: Schedule rides for medical visits through the Medicaid Transportation Center at 1-800-292-7114 when you book your appointment. Confirm ride policies on Member Services and ask your clinic about car seat resources. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Home visiting can help with newborn care, safe sleep, feeding, and postpartum depression screenings. DPHHS funds multiple models across the state through Healthy Montana Families and MOMS; ask your county health department and check DPHHS updates and HRSA notices about expanded support. Start with MOMS program and your county public health page; check the HRSA funding notice for expansion context. (dphhs.mt.gov)

For breastfeeding and supplies, coordinate between Medicaid Member Services, your OB/pediatrician, and Montana WIC Breastfeeding. Many clinics and WIC offices can issue pumps or connect you with peer counselors quickly. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If transportation keeps falling through, ask the clinic’s social worker about gas cards, volunteer drivers, or telehealth. If home visiting is full, ask to be waitlisted and request a weekly nurse call. Use Montana 211 for backup supplies and diaper banks. (montana211.org)

Child Support, Vital Records, and Legal Basics

First action: If you want child support, enroll with the Child Support Services Division online, call 1-800-346-5437, and read the regional office contact page so you can email the right worker for your county. Start at DPHHS CSSD, and save the CSSD contact list. (dphhs.mt.gov)

If you need a birth certificate for your baby or a certified copy for benefits, order through Montana’s Office of Vital Records, which uses VitalChek as the only approved vendor. Read fees and office hours, avoid third‑party sites, and call 406-444-2685 for status. See Vital Records and the Contacts. (dphhs.mt.gov)

For workplace rights and discrimination concerns, the federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act requires reasonable accommodations for pregnancy and postpartum needs. Read the EEOC’s guidance, use their helpline at 1-800-669-4000 if needed, and contact the Montana Human Rights Bureau at 1-800-542-0807 (or 406-444-2884) to file a state complaint. See EEOC PWFA explainer, the PWFA statute, and Montana HRB. (eeoc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied a reasonable accommodation, document everything, ask for the decision in writing, and contact the EEOC and Montana HRB to discuss filing a charge. If child support stalls, call CSSD again, ask for a supervisor, and request help with service if the other parent is hard to locate. (erd.dli.mt.gov)

New for 2026 — Medicaid Doula Coverage (What to Watch)

First action: If you want a doula for future pregnancies, ask your clinic about local doula programs and watch Montana’s new doula licensure law and planned Medicaid coverage. The new law (SB 319) was signed May 2025 and takes effect January 1, 2026; licensure requirements begin January 1, 2027. Read the enrolled bill for effective dates and coverage language, and ask your clinic how to document doula services once coverage begins. See SB 319 enrolled text. (legiscan.com)

Groups like Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies–MT and local birthworker networks may list doulas and Indigenous birth support. Ask your clinic’s social worker for referrals and to flag your chart so coverage steps are clear when you’re pregnant again. For Medicaid policy updates, follow DPHHS Medicaid Notices. (hmhb-mt.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If reimbursement isn’t live yet, ask your hospital about in‑house doulas, sliding‑scale doulas, or home visiting nurses through the MOMS program. Keep receipts in case retroactive coverage becomes available. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Diverse Communities — Tailored Pointers

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use inclusive providers at community health centers via the Montana Primary Care Association finder, confirm nondiscrimination rights with the EEOC PWFA resource, and call Montana 211 for local support groups. Ask clinics about chosen‑name records and language access notes. (mtpca.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Coordinate Medicaid benefits through Member Services, ask if your child qualifies for Children’s Special Health Services, and connect with your local Aging & Disability Resource Center. Ask for large‑print applications and TTY/Relay 711 if needed. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Ask Veterans Health about maternity care coordination and postpartum mental health, use the 24/7 maternal hotline at 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA, and enroll children who may qualify for HMK coverage at HMK (CHIP). Your local community health center from the MTPCA finder can also help with coverage and primary care. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: Check eligibility for Medicaid/HMK through DPHHS Apply, use HealthCare.gov for Marketplace coverage, and ask your clinic about certified interpreters. Keep copies of immigration documents and request language access; TTY 711 is available on most state lines. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: Call your tribe’s health department and your service unit through the IHS Billings Area and ask about newborn coverage and postpartum services. For nearby contacts, see IHS listings for Crow Service Unit and Fort Peck Service Unit. Ask your tribal WIC office too. (ihs.gov)

Rural single moms: Use phone support from Cover Montana for plan choices, schedule rides via 1‑800‑292‑7114 through Member Services, and ask your county public health nurse about home visiting and telehealth postpartum checks. Emergency referrals go through Montana 211. (covermt.org)

Single fathers: Fathers can apply for SNAP, TANF child‑only grants, and child care help. Check SNAP, TANF, and Best Beginnings for eligibility. Ask WIC if you are caring for a child under five—you may qualify on the child’s behalf. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Language access: Tell staff your preferred language, request an interpreter, and ask for written notices in your language. For hearing support, use TTY 711 when calling DPHHS or Montana HRB. Clinics and Medicaid must provide interpretation at no cost. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not reporting your delivery: You must report your delivery or pregnancy status change to be placed in the 12‑month postpartum category through Member Services or apply.mt.gov. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  • Waiting for a call that never comes: If you’re near 30–45 days after applying, follow up using your apply.mt.gov account messaging or call 1-888-706-1535. Federal timelines cap most cases at 45 days. See 42 CFR 435.912. (law.cornell.edu)
  • Missing the Marketplace window: You have 60 days after birth to enroll on HealthCare.gov if Medicaid ends. Ask Cover Montana for a checklist before you start. (healthcare.gov)

Reality Check — Processing Times, Funding Limits, and Delays

  • Medicaid processing: DPHHS says Marketplace‑routed cases typically enroll in about 15 business days, but can take up to 45 days; federal rules set a 45‑day limit. Plan appointments and refills with a buffer. See DPHHS Healthcare FAQ and 42 CFR 435.912. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  • Assister capacity: Cover Montana warns Navigator funding cuts reduced direct application help starting September 2025. Call early, keep your documents, and ask for referrals to other local assisters. (covermt.org)
  • Energy help windows: LIHEAP season is Oct 1–Apr 30 for most standard applications; crisis help can run year‑round based on need. Always confirm office hours with your county HRDC listed on DPHHS LIHEAP. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Resources by Region (Selected)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Application Checklist (Save/Print)

Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

First action: Read the denial notice fully and note the appeal deadline. Message your worker via apply.mt.gov, ask for a list of missing documents, and request an appeal and “aid‑pending” if available. Use the 45‑day rule as a reference if processing ran long. See DPHHS Healthcare FAQ and 42 CFR 435.912. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Ask your clinic’s billing staff to verify eligibility in the Medicaid provider portal, and call the Medicaid/HMK Member Help Line (1‑800‑362‑8312) for benefit questions. For Marketplace plan denials or system issues, call Cover Montana and HealthCare.gov. (dphhs.mt.gov)

If you need prescriptions while waiting, ask your provider about samples or low‑cost generics, and contact your community health center via the MTPCA finder. Keep notes of every call and upload new documents quickly. (mtpca.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File the appeal anyway, re‑apply with corrected info, and request help from a legal services hotline (ask 211 for referrals). If you lost Medicaid, use your SEP on HealthCare.gov to avoid a coverage gap. (healthcare.gov)

FAQs (Montana‑Specific)

  1. How long does DPHHS take to process postpartum Medicaid?
    Most cases finish in about 15 business days after DPHHS receives them from the Marketplace, but it can take up to 45 days. Track your case in apply.mt.gov, and call 1‑888‑706‑1535 at day 30 or 45. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  2. I had my baby—do I really get 12 months of postpartum coverage?
    Yes, if you were eligible on the day pregnancy ended and you report the delivery, Montana extends postpartum coverage for 12 months. Update your case and confirm the postpartum category through Member Services. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  3. I’m over Medicaid income—what are my options?
    Use your birth SEP on HealthCare.gov, check plan savings, and get free help from Cover Montana at 1‑844‑682‑6837. (healthcare.gov)
  4. Can I get a breast pump?
    Yes—coordinate with your provider and Medicaid, and ask WIC for breastfeeding support and pump options. See Member Services and WIC Breastfeeding. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  5. What if I get a shutoff notice for power or gas?
    Call your utility for a payment plan, apply at DPHHS LIHEAP, ask your HRDC about Energy Share, and contact the PSC if needed. In winter, PSC rules limit disconnections for certain households. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  6. How much TANF cash help could I get?
    Amounts vary by family size (for example, $725/month for a family of three). Check the current DPHHS table and apply at apply.mt.gov. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  7. Can I get child care help?
    Yes, if you meet work/school and income rules (≤185% FPL). See Best Beginnings and ask your CCR&R how to apply online. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  8. How do I get child support started?
    Enroll with DPHHS Child Support Services, call 1‑800‑346‑5437, and use their regional contacts page to reach the right office. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  9. Who can help if I’m struggling with postpartum depression?
    Call 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA for 24/7 support, text PSI at 800‑944‑4773, and ask your Medicaid clinic for immediate screening and therapy. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  10. Is doula care covered?
    Montana passed SB 319 in May 2025, allowing Medicaid to cover licensed doula services starting January 1, 2026; licensing begins January 1, 2027. Check with your provider as policies roll out. See SB 319 enrolled text. (legiscan.com)

Tables You Can Screenshot

Postpartum Action Map

Task Where to do it Tip
Report delivery apply.mt.gov or Helpline 1‑888‑706‑1535 Ask to confirm “postpartum 12‑month” category.
Book postpartum visit Your clinic; see Member Services Ask clinic to verify coverage in state portal.
Start WIC WIC eligibility You’re income‑eligible if you have Medicaid.
New Marketplace plan HealthCare.gov 60‑day SEP after birth.
Energy help DPHHS LIHEAP Ask HRDC about emergency funds.

(dphhs.mt.gov)

Montana Energy Help — Key Contacts

Program How to reach Notes
LIHEAP DPHHS Energy Assistance Season Oct 1–Apr 30; crisis options available.
HRDC (by county) LIHEAP offices list Call your county office first.
PSC (regulated utilities) Montana PSC Consumer line 1‑800‑646‑6150.

(dphhs.mt.gov)

Child Care — Best Beginnings Snapshot

Who qualifies Where to start What to know
≤185% FPL, work/school rules Best Beginnings Sliding‑fee co‑pay; CCR&R can help apply.
Infant/toddler care Your CCR&R Ask about “Family, Friend & Neighbor” care if centers are full.
TANF families DPHHS TANF Tell TANF Pathways you need child care hours.

(dphhs.mt.gov)

Coverage Timelines

Step Typical time Source
Marketplace to Medicaid enrollment ~15 business days, up to 45 days DPHHS Healthcare FAQ
Medicaid determination (most cases) ≤45 days 42 CFR 435.912
SNAP expedited ≤7 days DPHHS SNAP

(dphhs.mt.gov)

Postpartum Benefits Quick View

Need Where to check Tip
Primary care & OB Member Services Choose/confirm Passport provider.
Behavioral health Member Services Ask clinic about therapy options.
Breastfeeding & pumps WIC breastfeeding Request peer counselor support.

(dphhs.mt.gov)

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Este resumen fue creado con herramientas de traducción por IA: Para cobertura posparto por 12 meses, reporte su parto en apply.mt.gov o llame al 1‑888‑706‑1535 y pida la categoría “posparto”. Para ayuda con alimentos y lactancia, inscríbase en WIC Montana o llame al 1‑800‑433‑4298. Si termina Medicaid después del parto, use su periodo especial de inscripción de 60 días en HealthCare.gov y pida ayuda gratuita con Cover Montana al 1‑844‑682‑6837. Para calefacción (LIHEAP), comienzo típico: 1 de octubre; vea DPHHS LIHEAP. Para la línea 24/7 de salud mental materna, llame al 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA. (dphhs.mt.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

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. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

Important: This guide provides general information for Montana. Program rules, amounts, and timelines change. Always confirm details with the official sources linked here, call to confirm current availability, and save written notices. If you are in immediate danger, call 911; for mental health emergencies, call or text 988; for domestic violence help, call 1‑800‑799‑7233 and review options with your care team and local resources. For personalized legal advice, contact a licensed attorney or legal aid.

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