TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Vermont
TANF (Reach Up) in Vermont: The Ultimate Real‑World Guide for Single Mothers
Last updated: August 2025
Quick help box
- Apply for Reach Up (Vermont’s TANF) online, by phone, mail, or in person: use the Vermont DCF application hub at Apply for Benefits — DCF Vermont. For help, call DCF Economic Services at 1-800-479-6151. Source: DCF — Apply for Benefits.
- Reach Up is run by the Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF), Economic Services Division. Program details, forms, and contacts are on the official page: Reach Up — Financial Assistance for Families.
- Need food now while your Reach Up case is pending? Apply for 3SquaresVT (SNAP) today. Max SNAP amounts for Oct 2024–Sep 2025 are: 1 person 291∗∗,2∗∗291**, 2 **535, 3 766∗∗,4∗∗766**, 4 **973, 5 1,155∗∗,6∗∗1,155**, 6 **1,386, 7 1,532∗∗,8∗∗1,532**, 8 **1,751; each additional person $219. Source: USDA FNS — SNAP FY 2025 COLA. VT program info: 3SquaresVT — DCF.
- If you can work soon and just need short‑term cash to get started, ask about Reach First and Reach Ahead. Details: Reach Up — DCF overview.
- If you’re denied or sanctioned, you can appeal. Learn how to request a fair hearing: Vermont Human Services Board — Fair Hearings. Deadlines apply — act quickly.
- Domestic violence safety exception: You can ask for “good cause” to pause child support cooperation and work rules if it risks your or your child’s safety. Talk to your case manager or call the Vermont Network for confidential help at 802-223-1302. Resource: Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.
What Reach Up (Vermont TANF) is and the fastest way to get it
Most important action: apply now.
- Apply online or by phone right away. Use the DCF application portal at Apply for Benefits — DCF. If you prefer phone or need help, call 1-800-479-6151 (DCF Economic Services). You can also visit or mail your application to your local DCF District Office: find yours at DCF District Offices — map and contacts.
- Reach Up gives monthly cash assistance plus case management to help you stabilize income, find work, or continue education. You’ll get a Family Services Plan and support like job search help, training referrals, and help with child care while you participate. Source: Reach Up — DCF.
- This guide focuses on: who qualifies, what documents to gather, what you might receive, how to avoid delays, and Plan B options if something doesn’t work. All links in this guide go to official pages.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you’re having trouble with the online application or can’t upload documents, call DCF at 1-800-479-6151 and ask for help submitting by phone, mail, fax, or in person. Source: DCF — Apply for Benefits.
- If you can’t reach DCF, dial 2-1-1 (United Ways of Vermont) for live help finding local assistance and warm handoffs to DCF and nonprofits: Vermont 2‑1‑1.
Who qualifies for Reach Up in Vermont
Most important action: check your basic eligibility with DCF and apply even if you’re unsure.
- Household: You must live in Vermont and have at least one dependent child in your household (or be pregnant and near due), with low household income and limited resources. Children are generally eligible if under 18 (or under 19 if still in high school). Source: Reach Up — DCF.
- Immigration/citizenship: At least one household member receiving assistance must be a U.S. citizen or a “qualified non‑citizen” under federal rules. Source: DCF — Apply for Benefits and federal TANF rules.
- Child support cooperation: You’re usually required to cooperate with the Vermont Office of Child Support (unless you have an approved “good cause” reason, such as safety risks). Learn about OCS at Vermont Office of Child Support.
- Work participation: Most parents/relatives who can work will need to engage in work activities a set number of hours weekly. The exact hours depend on your situation (age of your youngest child, health limits, school schedule, etc.). Your DCF case manager will set this in your Family Development Plan. Overview: Reach Up — DCF.
- Time limits: TANF has a lifetime limit in most cases of up to 60 months. Vermont allows extensions for specific hardships, disabilities, domestic violence, and other approved reasons. Confirm with your case manager. Overview: Reach Up — DCF.
Table: Key eligibility points at a glance
| Topic | What Vermont Requires | Where to Confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Residency | Live in Vermont | Reach Up — DCF |
| Family | Dependent child in home; pregnancy may qualify | Reach Up — DCF |
| Income/resources | Must be within program limits | Reach Up — DCF |
| Work activities | Required unless exempt/deferral | Reach Up — DCF |
| Child support cooperation | Required unless good cause | Office of Child Support |
| Time limit | Up to 60 months, with exceptions | Reach Up — DCF |
Reality checks
- DCF counts income from all sources (wages, unemployment, child support you receive, etc.). Some deductions and “disregards” may apply. The exact calculation is case‑by‑case. Source: Reach Up — DCF.
- Resources (cash in bank, vehicles, property) may affect eligibility. If you’re unsure, apply and let DCF determine it.
- If someone in your home is disabled or you have safety issues, tell DCF upfront. You may qualify for deferrals from work rules or special supports.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your case is closed for a compliance reason while you’re facing family violence, illness, or a new baby, ask your case manager to review for “good cause” or a deferral. If needed, call the DCF main line 1-800-479-6151 to escalate.
- If you think a decision is wrong, request a fair hearing with the Human Services Board: How to request a fair hearing — HSB.
How much cash Reach Up pays and how it’s decided
Most important action: ask DCF for your family’s payment standard and calculation.
- Vermont uses a payment standard that considers your family size and your shelter/housing costs, then subtracts countable income. The result is your monthly Reach Up grant. DCF sets and updates these standards by rule. Confirm the current standards with your case manager. Program overview: Reach Up — DCF.
- Because the formula uses your actual bills and earnings, two families of the same size may get different amounts. This is normal.
- Vermont issues benefits on an EBT card along with other DCF benefits. Learn about the card, replacing a lost card, and ATM/cash access here: Vermont EBT — DCF.
Table: What affects your Reach Up grant
| Factor | How it affects your cash | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Family size | Larger families have higher need standard | Tell DCF about new household members promptly |
| Housing costs | Actual rent or mortgage up to a cap may be considered | Keep your lease, landlord letter, or mortgage statement handy |
| Utilities | Heating and utility costs may be counted | Save recent bills and fuel delivery receipts |
| Earned income | Some income may be “disregarded;” the rest reduces the grant | Report changes quickly to avoid overpayments |
| Unearned income | Child support you receive, UI, etc. may count | Cooperate with OCS; good‑cause exceptions exist |
| Sanctions | Non‑compliance can reduce payments or close the case | Communicate early if you hit a barrier |
Real‑world examples (how to think about it)
- Example 1: You, a toddler, and a school‑age child rent a 2‑bedroom. You work part‑time and get 3SquaresVT. DCF looks at family size (3), rent and utilities, and your earnings, subtracts allowed disregards, and sets a grant amount. If your hours go up, your Reach Up grant goes down, but you might still qualify for several months until your earnings are high enough.
- Example 2: You have no income, live in a shared apartment with a relative, and need help fast. Even with low housing costs, Reach Up may still provide a grant plus job search help and referrals for child care so you can start working.
- Example 3: You start a new full‑time job. You may transition to Reach Ahead (short‑term help) rather than losing support on day one. Ask your case manager early. Overview: Reach Up — DCF.
Important: exact dollar amounts
- Vermont does not publish a single flat-dollar “maximum” for every situation because housing and other factors vary. For the latest payment standards and a calculation for your family, contact DCF at 1-800-479-6151 or apply so a worker can run your exact numbers. Official program page: Reach Up — DCF.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you need immediate food, apply for 3SquaresVT now: 3SquaresVT — DCF. For Oct 2024–Sep 2025, SNAP maximum allotments are: 1 person 291∗∗,2∗∗291**, 2 **535, 3 766∗∗,4∗∗766**, 4 **973, 5 1,155∗∗,6∗∗1,155**, 6 **1,386, 7 1,532∗∗,8∗∗1,532**, 8 **1,751; each additional $219. Source: USDA FNS — SNAP FY 2025 COLA.
- Ask your case manager about one‑time help for a work start (transportation, tools) if you’re newly employed or close to employment. Program overview mentions these supports: Reach Up — DCF.
- If your cash is reduced due to a misunderstanding, request an appointment to review the budget. Bring leases, paystubs, and bills. If you still disagree, see appeals info: HSB — Fair Hearings.
Work requirements, time limits, and how to get support services
Most important action: build a plan with your case manager that you can actually complete.
- Work activities and hours are set in your Family Development Plan. Federal TANF standards generally require about 20 hours/week when your youngest child is under 6, and about 30 hours/week when your youngest is 6+; Vermont applies its own rules within federal law and can approve deferrals, accommodations, or alternative activities (like GED classes or treatment) where appropriate. Confirm your exact requirement with DCF. Overview: Reach Up — DCF.
- Time limit: TANF has a lifetime limit up to 60 months with possible Vermont exceptions for hardship, disability, or domestic violence. Keep track of your months; ask how many months you have used. Source: Reach Up — DCF.
- Support services you can ask for: child care help (through the Child Care Financial Assistance Program), transportation help to get to a job program, work clothes or supplies, and referrals to training or adult education. Learn about child care help at Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFAP) — DCF.
Table: Time limits, activities, and help
| Topic | Key point | Where to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly hours | Typically around 20–30 hours/week, depending on youngest child and circumstances | Reach Up — DCF |
| Lifetime limit | Up to 60 months; exceptions possible | Reach Up — DCF |
| Child care help | Apply via CCFAP to cover care while you work/attend activities | CCFAP — DCF |
| Transportation | Mileage, bus passes, or gas cards may be available (ask) | Reach Up — DCF |
| Education/training | GED, ESL, short trainings, sometimes college via PSE | Reach Up — DCF |
Reality checks
- If child care is not lined up, it will be very hard to meet hours. Talk to your case manager first; ask to adjust your plan until care starts.
- Tell DCF if you have a disability, learning difference, or untreated health condition. You have the right to reasonable program adjustments.
- If work rules would put you or your child at risk due to domestic violence, ask for “good cause” and safety planning. Source: Vermont Network.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask for a case conference to rewrite your plan into smaller, real steps and request specific supports (child care, bus pass, etc.).
- If sanctions are threatened, document your barriers (doctor’s notes, daycare waitlist emails) and request reconsideration. If needed, appeal: HSB — Fair Hearings.
The TANF family of programs in Vermont (Reach Up, Reach First, Reach Ahead, PSE)
Most important action: pick the program that matches your situation right now.
| Program | What it does | Typical duration | Best for | Where to learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reach Up | Ongoing cash assistance + case management and work supports | Ongoing while eligible, within time limits | Parents needing steady help while looking for work, stabilizing, or in training | Reach Up — DCF |
| Reach First | Short‑term cash/supports to help you take a job quickly | Short term (weeks/months) | You can start work fast if you get help with a barrier (car repair, tools, etc.) | Reach Up — DCF |
| Reach Ahead | Transitional help after you get a job | Short term | You started work; you need help staying stable | Reach Up — DCF |
| Post‑Secondary Education (PSE) | Cash assistance tied to an approved college program + supports | Program length as approved | You’re enrolled/accepted and school aligns with job goals | Reach Up — DCF |
Reality checks
- These programs are not automatic; you must qualify and be placed based on your situation. The mix of cash and supports differs.
- Ask about transitions: if you get a job, can you move from Reach Up to Reach Ahead instead of leaving with no support?
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you’re told you’re on the “wrong” program, ask for a supervisor review. Bring proof (job offer letters, class schedule, barrier proof).
- If you need short‑term help urgently (today), call 2‑1‑1 and check DCF Emergency/General Assistance: Emergency Assistance — DCF.
How to apply (step‑by‑step) and what to submit
Most important action: submit a complete application and verify documents quickly.
- Start the application at DCF — Apply for Benefits. This page shows how to apply online, by phone, mail, or in person. For help, call 1-800-479-6151.
- Complete an interview/orientation if scheduled. Be ready to discuss your work history, health, child care needs, and goals.
- Submit verification documents quickly to avoid delays. See table below for the most common items.
Table: Documents you’ll likely need
| Item | Examples and tips |
|---|---|
| Identity | Driver’s license, state ID, or other government ID. If you don’t have one, ask DCF what else they will accept. |
| Social Security numbers | For adults and children applying. If you lack an SSN for a child, ask how to proceed. |
| Vermont residency | Lease, landlord letter, shelter letter, or piece of mail with your name and address. |
| Housing costs | Lease or landlord letter with monthly rent; mortgage statement; utility bills; fuel delivery receipts. |
| Income | Last 4–6 weeks of paystubs; letter from employer; unemployment award letters; child support received. |
| Child relationship | Birth certificates, custody orders. |
| Child care costs | Provider invoice or note (helps with child care assistance planning). |
| Good‑cause/safety | Protection order, police report, letter from a DV advocate or counselor (if applicable). |
Reality checks
- If you can’t get a document quickly, tell DCF which one and why. Ask if they’ll accept a written statement or contact your employer/landlord directly.
- Keep copies of everything you submit. Write dates on your copies.
- If you move or change phone numbers, call 1-800-479-6151 right away so you don’t miss interview calls or mail.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you missed an interview, call 1-800-479-6151 and ask to reschedule. Explain any barrier (car trouble, illness, childcare).
- If you receive a denial for “failure to verify,” submit the missing item and ask to reopen your application as soon as possible. If needed, appeal: HSB — Fair Hearings.
While your Reach Up case is pending: stack other help
Most important action: apply for 3SquaresVT and child care assistance ASAP.
- Food: Apply for 3SquaresVT now: 3SquaresVT — DCF. Maximum SNAP amounts for Oct 2024–Sep 2025 are: 1 person 291∗∗,2∗∗291**, 2 **535, 3 766∗∗,4∗∗766**, 4 **973, 5 1,155∗∗,6∗∗1,155**, 6 **1,386, 7 1,532∗∗,8∗∗1,532**, 8 **1,751, each additional $219. Source: USDA FNS — FY 2025 COLA.
- Child care: Ask your case manager to help you apply for the Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) if you need care to meet work or school hours. Official info: CCFAP — DCF.
- Heat and utilities: If bills are high, check Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP): Fuel Assistance — DCF.
- One‑time emergencies: For eviction prevention, car repair, or similar, look at DCF Emergency/General Assistance: Emergency Assistance — DCF.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call 2‑1‑1 to find local food shelves, fuel help, and rent assistance near you: Vermont 2‑1‑1.
- Contact your local Community Action Agency (see Resources by Region below) for help with applications and emergency funds when available.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not reporting changes within 10 days (typical DCF reporting window). If your hours, childcare, or address changes, report it quickly to avoid overpayments and sanctions. Confirm with DCF what your exact reporting timeframe is.
- Missing your interview or orientation. If you can’t make it, call 1-800-479-6151 right away to reschedule.
- Not telling DCF about barriers. If you have untreated health issues, no childcare, or safety concerns, say it early. You may qualify for deferrals or special supports.
- Submitting unclear documents. If your landlord letter doesn’t show the monthly amount or your name, ask them to update it before submitting.
- Assuming you’re over income without applying. Vermont’s calculation includes disregards and caps; you may still qualify for a partial grant or for Reach First/Reach Ahead.
If you’re denied or sanctioned: how to fix it or appeal
Most important action: read the notice and act before the deadline.
- Read your DCF notice carefully. It will state the reason and include instructions on how to fix it or appeal.
- If it’s a simple fix (missing paperwork), turn it in right away and ask DCF to reopen your case.
- If you disagree with a decision, you have the right to a fair hearing with the Human Services Board. Learn how to request one here: Vermont Human Services Board — Fair Hearings. Follow the deadline on your notice.
Table: Quick fixes for common denials
| Reason on the notice | What to try first | Who to contact |
|---|---|---|
| Missing verification | Submit the missing item; ask to reopen | DCF Economic Services: 1-800-479-6151 |
| Missed interview/orientation | Call to reschedule; explain barrier | DCF Economic Services: 1-800-479-6151 |
| Non‑compliance sanction | Ask for a case conference; provide barrier proof; request good cause/deferral if appropriate | Your case manager; then DCF supervisor |
| Over income | Ask for a budget review; submit updated paystubs/child care costs | DCF; consider Reach Ahead if working |
| Safety concerns | Request “good cause” to pause child support/work rules | Your case manager; DV advocate via 802-223-1302 |
What to do if this doesn’t work
- File the fair hearing request with the Human Services Board: HSB — Fair Hearings.
- Get free help from legal aid. Vermont Legal Aid can assist with benefits appeals: Vermont Legal Aid — Get Help.
Real‑world timelines and what to expect
Most important action: keep your phone on, check mail daily, and respond fast.
- Application to decision: TANF programs generally aim to process cases within about a month of a complete application. Interviews and document checks can speed this up or delay it. Check your DCF notices and messages often. Program overview: Reach Up — DCF.
- EBT card: If approved, you’ll receive an EBT card by mail if you don’t already have one. Manage it here: Vermont EBT — DCF.
- Reviews/recertifications: Expect periodic reviews to verify continued eligibility. Respond by the date on your notice to avoid closure.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you haven’t heard anything within what feels like too long, call 1-800-479-6151 to check status and confirm if anything is missing.
- If your situation is urgent (eviction, no heat), ask DCF about Emergency/General Assistance: Emergency Assistance — DCF and call 2‑1‑1.
Local organizations that can help you apply or bridge gaps
Most important action: call 2‑1‑1 for an immediate referral near you.
- Vermont 2‑1‑1 (United Ways of Vermont): dial 2-1-1 or visit vermont211.org for food shelves, fuel help, rental assistance, and help applying for benefits.
- Community Action Agencies (by region):
- Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVOEO): Programs and assistance — CVOEO.
- Capstone Community Action (central VT): Capstone Community Action — Services.
- BROC Community Action (Rutland/Bennington): BROC Community Action.
- Southeastern Vermont Community Action (SEVCA): SEVCA — Programs.
- Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA): NEKCA — Support Services.
- Domestic and sexual violence support: Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence — statewide hotline routing and local member programs.
- Disability services: Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL): VCIL — Services.
- Veterans: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — White River Junction VA Medical Center: White River Junction VA.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If phones are jammed at DCF, ask a Community Action Agency for help escalating or submitting documents.
- If you need an advocate in an appeal, contact Vermont Legal Aid.
Diverse communities: tailored tips and official resources
Most important action: tell DCF what you need so they can adjust your plan.
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- You’re eligible for the same benefits and protections as anyone else. If you face discrimination or need affirming care referrals, reach out to the Pride Center of Vermont and let your case manager know you need providers that fit.
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children
- Ask for reasonable accommodations to meetings, work activities, and paperwork format. Case plans can include treatment, therapies, or caregiving demands. Support and advocacy: Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL).
- Veteran single mothers
- Coordinate DCF benefits with VA programs (health care, caregiver supports, employment). Start at White River Junction VA. Tell DCF about any VA income/benefits during budgeting.
- Immigrant and refugee single moms
- Eligibility depends on immigration status. If your child is a U.S. citizen, the child may qualify even if you don’t. Ask about interpreter services (free) when you call 1-800-479-6151. Community support: Association of Africans Living in Vermont (AALV): AALV — Programs.
- Tribal‑specific resources
- Vermont recognizes several Abenaki tribes. If you’re enrolled or seeking help through tribal services, bring any documentation that could support your case plan (housing, childcare). Reach Up rules apply statewide; use your case manager to coordinate services.
- Rural single moms with limited access
- If transportation is a barrier, ask for phone/virtual meetings and transportation help. Consider regional Community Action Agencies for local solutions (fuel, vehicle repair).
- Single fathers
- Reach Up is for parents and relatives with children, regardless of gender. All the rules and supports above apply.
- Language access
- Free interpreters are available through DCF. When you call 1-800-479-6151, say your language; they will connect an interpreter. Source: DCF — Apply for Benefits.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you are refused an accommodation or interpreter, ask for a supervisor or file a complaint. You can also get help from Vermont Legal Aid.
Resources by region (where to get in‑person help)
Most important action: find your DCF District Office and a nearby Community Action Agency.
- Find your DCF District Office (addresses, faxes, hours): DCF District Offices — map and contact list. For general help or to apply by phone, call 1-800-479-6151.
- Community Action by area:
- Burlington/Chittenden (CVOEO): CVOEO — Services in Chittenden County.
- Barre/Washington County (Capstone): Capstone Community Action — Contact.
- Rutland & Bennington (BROC): BROC Community Action.
- Brattleboro/Windham (SEVCA): SEVCA — Contact.
- St. Johnsbury/NEK (NEKCA): NEKCA — Contact.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you can’t get to an office, ask DCF for phone/online appointments and mail‑back or e‑signature options.
- If you’re between towns, call 2‑1‑1 and ask which agency serves your ZIP code.
City‑specific FAQs (Vermont)
- Burlington, VT — Where do I apply for Reach Up in Burlington?
- You can apply online at DCF — Apply for Benefits or by calling 1-800-479-6151. To find the Chittenden District Office location and hours, use DCF District Offices. For local help with forms, contact CVOEO.
- Rutland, VT — Can I get help with car repair to start a job?
- Ask DCF about Reach First or supportive services under Reach Up. You’ll need to show how the repair gets you to work. Apply via 1-800-479-6151. Local assistance: BROC Community Action. Program overview: Reach Up — DCF.
- Brattleboro, VT — What if I can’t find child care to meet my hours?
- Barre/Montpelier, VT — I missed my interview. How do I fix it?
- Call 1-800-479-6151 and ask to reschedule. Explain the reason (illness, lack of transport). If you get a denial, submit the missing info and ask to reopen. Appeals info: HSB — Fair Hearings. Local help: Capstone Community Action.
- St. Albans, VT — How fast can I get food help while Reach Up is pending?
- Apply for 3SquaresVT now: 3SquaresVT — DCF. For Oct 2024–Sep 2025, max SNAP is 291–291–1,751 depending on household size (see table above). USDA source: SNAP FY 2025 COLA. Find your DCF office: District Offices.
Side‑by‑side tables you can scan fast
Table: Where to apply and get updates
| Need | Best first step | Official link | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reach Up cash | Apply and upload docs | Apply for Benefits — DCF | 1-800-479-6151 |
| 3SquaresVT (SNAP) | Apply now (can be expedited) | 3SquaresVT — DCF | 1-800-479-6151 |
| Child care help | Ask about CCFAP | CCFAP — DCF | 1-800-479-6151 |
| Fuel/heat | Apply for Fuel Assistance | Fuel Assistance — DCF | 1-800-479-6151 |
| Emergency/one‑time help | See General Assistance | Emergency Assistance — DCF | 1-800-479-6151 |
| EBT card help | Replace card, PIN, balances | Vermont EBT — DCF | See EBT page |
Table: SNAP maximum allotments (Oct 2024–Sep 2025, Lower 48 incl. VT)
| Household size | Maximum monthly SNAP |
|---|---|
| 1 | $291 |
| 2 | $535 |
| 3 | $766 |
| 4 | $973 |
| 5 | $1,155 |
| 6 | $1,386 |
| 7 | $1,532 |
| 8 | $1,751 |
| Each additional | $219 |
Source: USDA FNS — SNAP FY 2025 COLA
Table: Quick comparison of TANF tracks in Vermont
| Track | Cash provided? | Case management | Work/education focus | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reach Up | Yes | Yes | Yes | Main TANF program |
| Reach First | Short‑term | Yes | Fast job start | Barrier‑busting |
| Reach Ahead | Transitional | Yes | Job retention | After employment |
| PSE | Yes (while in approved program) | Yes | College/credential | Must meet PSE criteria |
Source: Reach Up — DCF
Practical tips that speed up approval
- Put your name, case number (if you have one), and the date on every page you submit.
- Ask your landlord for a signed letter showing your address, monthly rent, who lives there, and their phone number.
- If you’re paid weekly, submit at least the last 4 paystubs; if biweekly, submit the last 2–3.
- Keep a simple folder with: IDs, birth certificates, Social Security cards, paystubs, leases, and utility bills.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If documents are hard to get, ask DCF to help contact your employer or landlord directly. You can sign a release.
- If you don’t have safe access to mail, ask about picking up notices at the district office or confirming by email.
Real‑world examples (Vermont‑specific scenarios)
- Burlington retail schedule rollercoaster
- You work fluctuating hours at Church Street Marketplace. One week you get 35 hours; the next, 15. Keep sending paystubs as they come. Ask your case manager to average income when possible and to adjust your plan during school breaks when child care costs spike. Use CVOEO for budgeting and utility assistance if Green Mountain Power bills jump.
- Rutland job start with a car repair barrier
- You have a job offer at $17/hour, but your car won’t pass inspection. Ask DCF if Reach First or a supportive service can help with the repair because it directly enables work. Contact BROC Community Action as a backup for limited car repair funds when available.
- Brattleboro housing share to cut costs
- Sharing a 3‑bedroom cut your rent by $500/month. Report the new lease. Your grant may change because your shelter costs changed, but your overall budget might improve when paired with SNAP. For energy bills, ask SEVCA about weatherization and fuel help.
- Barre PSE student parent
- You’re in a two‑year licensed nursing program. Ask DCF about the PSE track and how your class schedule counts toward work activities. Use Capstone Community Action for supplemental food shelves and a used laptop if available.
- St. Johnsbury winter utility crunch
- When temperatures drop, submit fuel bills and delivery slips promptly. Apply for LIHEAP at Fuel Assistance — DCF. If a disconnect notice arrives, call DCF and the utility same‑day; ask for crisis help and a payment plan.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If local funds are tapped out, ask DCF about General Assistance (rent arrears, deposits, emergency housing) and call 2‑1‑1 to get neighboring‑county referrals.
What to expect after approval
Most important action: keep your case active and avoid overpayments.
- Your EBT cash will load monthly. Track your balance and withdrawals: Vermont EBT — DCF.
- Keep all receipts and notices. If you’re working, submit paystubs on time, every time.
- Recertifications: Watch for mail with due dates. Missing a review can stop benefits.
- Child support: If you receive support, tell DCF. Ongoing cooperation with the Office of Child Support is usually required unless you have good cause. Learn more: Vermont OCS.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you get an overpayment letter, request a budget review. If the overpayment is not your fault, ask about compromise/repayment options. Consider legal advice from Vermont Legal Aid.
Plan B: If Reach Up isn’t the right fit right now
Most important action: secure food, heat, and stable housing first.
- Food: Apply for 3SquaresVT: 3SquaresVT — DCF. Max SNAP amounts for Oct 2024–Sep 2025: see table above. Source: USDA FNS — FY 2025 COLA.
- Heat: Fuel Assistance — DCF.
- Emergency/General Assistance: Emergency Assistance — DCF.
- Child care: CCFAP — DCF.
- Dial 2‑1‑1 for local rent help, food shelves, and other programs.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Vermont Department for Children and Families, USDA, 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 October 2024 for program structure and SNAP amounts current through September 2025; next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors can still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
Program rules, payment standards, and procedures can change at any time. Benefit amounts for Reach Up depend on your family size, shelter costs, and countable income, and may change with policy updates. Always confirm the latest information with the Vermont Department for Children and Families: Reach Up — DCF, Apply for Benefits, or call 1-800-479-6151. For appeals, see the Vermont Human Services Board.
🏛️More Vermont Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Vermont
- 📋 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
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏠 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
