Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection for Single Mothers in Indiana

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives practical steps you can use today. It links you straight to officials and organizations that can help. Every section starts with the most urgent action item first.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Stop a shutoff or eviction now: Call your utility and ask for a payment plan under Indiana rules, then contact the state’s consumer line and apply for Energy Assistance (LIHEAP/EAP) if in season. Use OUCC winter moratorium steps, reach IURC Consumer Affairs at 1-800-851-4268, and apply for EAP via IHCDA. (in.gov)
• Get immediate workplace protection for pregnancy: Ask—in writing—for a “reasonable accommodation” under the federal PWFA. Use EEOC’s request guidance, schedule an intake with EEOC Indianapolis, and review sample accommodations in EEOC’s final rule summary. (eeoc.gov)
• Secure income/health coverage: Apply for Medicaid for pregnant individuals, SNAP food benefits, and TANF cash aid through FSSA’s Benefits Portal or call 1-800-403-0864. (in.gov)

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Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

• EEOC Indianapolis: File or schedule an intake, office info, Phone: 1-800-669-4000. (eeoc.gov)
• U.S. DOL Wage & Hour (PUMP/FMLA/PWFA): File a wage/hour complaint, PUMP Act rights, Phone: 1-866-487-9243. (dol.gov)
• Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC): How to file, Employment info, Phone: 1-800-628-2909. (in.gov)
• Indiana 211: Find local help 24/7, Phone: 1-866-211-9966, or text ZIP to 898-211. (in.gov)
• Unemployment (DWD): File for benefits, Claimant Handbook, Phone: 1-800-891-6499. (in.gov)

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What This Guide Covers

• Indiana and federal workplace rights during pregnancy and postpartum
• How to request accommodations and time to pump
• Job-protected leave, wage and hour basics, and who enforces what
• Healthcare and income supports you can apply for right now
• Local organizations by region that actually pick up the phone
• Step-by-step plans for denials, delays, and emergencies

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Key Workplace Protections in Plain Language

Start here: if you’re pregnant, recently gave birth, or nursing, you have specific rights at work. Use the table below to see what applies, then follow the step-by-steps that follow.

Reality check: parts of the EEOC’s PWFA regulation about abortion accommodations were limited by courts for some employers; the core of the law still stands nationwide. When in doubt, ask EEOC or a lawyer about your situation. See AP coverage and Reuters reporting and keep records. (apnews.com)

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How to Ask for Pregnancy Accommodations (PWFA): A 10‑Minute Plan

Your first move is to make a clear, simple request in writing. You don’t need fancy forms. Use direct words and focus on what you need to keep working safely.

• Put it in writing: “I have a limitation related to pregnancy and I need a reasonable accommodation: extra restroom breaks and a stool.” Use EEOC’s PWFA explainer, browse examples in the final rule summary, and save a PDF of your email request. (eeoc.gov)
• Ask for an “interactive process” meeting: That’s a two-way talk to match your needs with job changes. Share medical limits if you wish, but no doctor’s note is required just to take lactation breaks. See EEOC pump-at-work rights and DOL PUMP FAQ. (eeoc.gov)
• Request common options: extra water/restroom breaks, a chair, light duty, more lifting help, schedule tweaks, time off for prenatal care, and lactation space. Use EEOC guidance, PWFA key provisions, and state lactation law if you hit resistance. (eeoc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Document everything, then contact EEOC Indianapolis to start a charge (deadline generally 300 days in Indiana) and consider dual‑filing at ICRC if your employer is small. Call Indiana Legal Services for free legal help if you qualify. (eeoc.gov)

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Pumping Milk at Work (PUMP Act + Indiana Law): Get a Space and Time

Under federal law, you get reasonable break time and a private space that’s not a bathroom for one year after birth. Indiana law also says employers must, “to the extent reasonably possible,” provide a private location and allow cold storage.

• Tell your manager you’re pumping: You don’t need a doctor’s note. Use EEOC’s pumping rights page, read DOL’s PUMP page, and save Fact Sheet #73A on space requirements. (eeoc.gov)
• What counts as a legal space: Not a bathroom; shielded from view; free from intrusion; available when you need it; functional (seat, flat surface, outlet). Use DOL’s employer responsibilities and Q&A to check compliance. If needed, show Indiana Code 22‑2‑14‑2. (dol.gov)
• If your employer stalls: Call the U.S. DOL helpline at 1-866-487-9243, file confidentially through WHD complaints, and keep your log. For state workers, see Indiana SPD lactation policy. (dol.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask HR to escalate; then contact WHD Indianapolis office and EEOC. For breastfeeding help, Indiana WIC can connect you to peer counselors and pumps. (dol.gov)

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Job‑Protected Leave and Pay While You’re Off

• FMLA basics: If eligible, you can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job‑protected leave for birth/bonding or your own serious health condition. Use DOL Fact Sheet #28, see counting rules in #28I, and track your employer’s 12‑month method via #28H. (dol.gov)
• Paid leave in Indiana: Indiana has no statewide paid family leave program for private employers. State employees have paid parental and childbirth recovery leave under a March 3, 2025 order; check Governor’s release, read WISH-TV coverage, and talk to your agency HR. (events.in.gov)
• Income while off: Ask HR about short‑term disability, PTO banks, or donated leave. If you’re laid off, apply for unemployment through DWD Uplink; decisions often come within 21 business days when there are no issues, per After Filing and UI FAQ. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer denies FMLA or retaliates, call WHD and ask about a complaint. For private disability denials, talk to a lawyer or Indiana Legal Services. (dol.gov)

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Indiana Wage, Hour, and Safety — Where to Complain

• Unpaid wages or overtime: File a wage claim with the Indiana Department of Labor, call WHD helpline, and check state wage/overtime FAQs. (in.gov)
• Unsafe conditions: File an IOSHA complaint; you can stay anonymous. Learn appeal rights in IOSHA FAQs and ask about whistleblower protections at IDOL WPU. (in.gov)
• Language access: Request no‑cost interpreters from WHD, ask EEOC for language help, and ask FSSA/DFR to note your preferred language. (dol.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to locate a legal clinic, then try Indiana Legal Services or the EEOC Public Portal to escalate. (indianalegalservices.org)

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Healthcare and Money Supports While You Work or Heal

Your time matters. Apply online, upload photos of documents from your phone, and keep confirmation numbers.

• Medicaid for pregnant individuals (often “Hoosier Healthwise” or “HIP Maternity”): Income limits updated March 1, 2025; 12‑month postpartum coverage applies. See FSSA eligibility guide, HIP Maternity steps, and Presumptive Eligibility PEPW for immediate coverage. (in.gov)
• WIC (nutrition + pumps + peer counselors): Call 1-800-522-0874, find clinics on the WIC client page, and use breastfeeding support hub. (in.gov)
• SNAP (food) and TANF (cash): Apply through FSSA Benefits Portal, review SNAP max amounts at SNAP income page, and check current TANF benefit chart at About TANF. (in.gov)

Expected timelines: Medicaid PEPW is same-day at approved clinics; standard Medicaid decisions vary by case. SNAP timelines vary, but expedited cases may be faster. TANF decisions generally within 60 days; call to confirm current processing in your county. Use DFR office finder or call 1-800-403-0864 to check status. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor call-back and an appeal/hearing date. Keep screenshots of your portal and call logs. Contact 211 and Indiana Legal Services if deadlines pass with no decision. (in.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Indiana Today

• Call the utility, then claim protections: Ask for a payment arrangement under state rules and note medical hardship if any. Use OUCC disconnection FAQ, keep the 14‑day notice, and write down each call. (in.gov)
• Use the winter moratorium if you qualify: From Dec 1–Mar 15, gas/electric utilities cannot disconnect if you’ve applied for (or receive) EAP and notify the utility. See OUCC winter moratorium and the law at IC 8‑1‑2‑121 (LIHEAP Clearinghouse). (in.gov)
• Apply for EAP (LIHEAP): For PY2025, applications ran Oct 1, 2024–Apr 14, 2025; decisions took up to 55 days plus vendor processing time. Watch IHCDA for the next cycle and contact your local provider. See IHCDA EAP page for dates. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with IURC Consumer Affairs at 1-800-851-4268 and call Indiana 211 for emergency funds near you. (in.gov)

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Filing a Discrimination Charge in Indiana — Deadlines and Where to File

Tip: Dual filing means if you file in one, it’s usually cross‑filed with the other. Schedule interviews online and keep every receipt.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 1‑800‑669‑4000 for EEOC or 1‑800‑628‑2909 for ICRC and ask for escalation. Consider Indiana Legal Services for advice. (eeoc.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Accommodation request: Ask in writing under PWFA; employer must engage promptly. Back it up with EEOC PWFA rule summary and ADA if medical condition applies. (eeoc.gov)
• Pumping: Space not a bathroom; time as needed; up to one year. See PUMP basics, space rules #73A, and Indiana Code 22‑2‑14‑2. (dol.gov)
• Leave: FMLA eligibility: 12 months, 1,250 hours, 50+ within 75 miles. Use DOL Fact Sheet #28, check counting with #28I, and confirm your employer’s 12‑month method in #28H. (dol.gov)

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Application Checklist (screenshot-friendly)

• Written accommodation request: include date, your limitation, and the change you need. Keep copies. Use EEOC PWFA tips, PWFA key provisions, and EEOC portal for backup. (eeoc.gov)
• PUMP plan: where you’ll pump, how often, and storage plan. Show DOL PUMP page, Fact Sheet #73A, and Indiana Code 22‑2‑14‑2 if needed. (dol.gov)
• Benefits: screenshots or PDFs of applications for Medicaid, SNAP, and TANF, and if it’s winter, EAP. (in.gov)
• Evidence kit: pay stubs, schedules, doctor notes (if you choose), write‑ups, emails, text messages. If filing, bring to EEOC or ICRC. (eeoc.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not asking in writing: Always email or text your accommodation request. Use EEOC PWFA guidance, reference PWFA rule summary, and keep records. (eeoc.gov)
• Missing deadlines: Mark 300 days for EEOC and 180 days for ICRC on your calendar. Check EEOC time limits and ICRC how to file. (eeoc.gov)
• Assuming HR knows the law: Bring PUMP Act basics, Fact Sheet #73A, and Indiana lactation code to meetings. (dol.gov)

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Reality Check

• Accommodations can take a few days to set up: Be ready to suggest practical options (chair, schedule tweak, closer parking). If your employer claims “undue hardship,” ask for the reason in writing and contact EEOC for guidance. Review PWFA Q&A. (eeoc.gov)
• Not every benefit is fast: EAP decisions took up to 55 days plus utility processing in PY2025; TANF decisions can take up to 60 days; unemployment eligibility usually within 21 business days if no issues. Plan for that gap and confirm timelines with IHCDA, DFR, and DWD. (in.gov)
• Courts are still sorting parts of the PWFA: This can affect abortion‑related accommodations for some employers. Track reliable updates at EEOC PWFA page and recent AP/Reuters reports and confirm with an attorney. (eeoc.gov)

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Local Organizations, Charities, and Support

• Legal help: Apply with Indiana Legal Services (1‑844‑243‑8570), check Indiana Legal Help for forms, and see the Indiana Civil Rights Commission for state complaints. (indianalegalservices.org)
• Domestic violence & safety: Call Indiana DV Hotline 1‑800‑332‑7385, reach the National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233, and contact Coburn Place (Indy housing for survivors). (in.gov)
• Child support: Use DCS Child Support, pay online/phone with payment options, and call KIDSLINE 1‑800‑840‑8757 for case info. (in.gov)
• Child care: Apply for CCDF/On My Way Pre‑K at Carefinder, search providers with Child Care Finder, and view current OMW Pre‑K info at program page. (in.gov)
• Community Action Agencies: Find your county’s agency for energy help, weatherization, and more at IN-CAA member list, and call Indiana 211 for referrals. (incap.org)

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Resources by Region (examples)

• Indianapolis / Marion County: Get legal aid at Indiana Legal Services, survivor housing at Coburn Place, and immigrant support at Exodus Refugee (317‑921‑0836). (indianalegalservices.org)
• Fort Wayne / NE Indiana: Apply for energy and family supports through your local CAA (e.g., Brightpoint) via IN‑CAA finder, ask DFR about SNAP/TANF, and use WHD local office list if your pumping/FMLA rights are denied. (incap.org)
• Evansville / SW Indiana: Contact your CAA (CAPE/TRI‑CAP) via IN‑CAA list, get WIC at IDOH WIC, and call IURC Consumer Affairs at 1‑800‑851‑4268 if you can’t resolve a utility dispute. (incap.org)
• South Bend / Elkhart: Use Child Care Finder for CCDF providers, call WHD for PUMP/FMLA help, and check WIC clinic map for local breastfeeding support. (in.gov)
• Northwest Indiana / Gary: Connect with your local CAA through IN‑CAA, apply for EAP during the season, and contact EEOC if you face pregnancy bias. (incap.org)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Help and Access

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for safe, inclusive care and language access. Use EEOC language support to request interpreters, call DOL WHD for free translation about PUMP/FMLA, and ask DFR to note your preferred name/language on your case file. Accessibility tip: Call for large‑print notices and ask for interpreter codes to be added. (eeoc.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for ADA accommodations at work via EEOC ADA info, request Vocational Rehabilitation through FSSA VR (800‑545‑7763), and contact Indiana Disability Rights for advocacy. TTY users can use relay 7‑1‑1. (eeoc.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: VA covers maternity care coordinated by a Maternity Care Coordinator; call the Women Veterans Call Center 1‑855‑829‑6636, connect with IDVA (317‑232‑3910), and ask about work protections through EEOC if you face job bias. (womenshealth.va.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: You have labor rights regardless of status. Ask for language help via WHD, use Exodus Refugee for public benefits navigation, and ask ICHLA for statewide connections. Accessibility tip: Request translated notices and phone interpreters when calling agencies. (dol.gov)
• Tribal members/Native families: Pokagon Band health services serve members of any federally recognized tribe in Northern Indiana/SW Michigan; call Pokagon Health Services (269‑782‑4141) and ask the IN Native American Indian Affairs Commission for resources in employment/education/civil rights. (pokagonband-nsn.gov)
• Rural single moms: If travel is hard, ask for phone/video appointments with EEOC Public Portal, call DWD UI for unemployment by phone, and find local benefits offices via DFR locator. Accessibility tip: TTY services available through relay 7‑1‑1 for most agencies. (eeoc.gov)
• Single fathers: Many of these protections apply to you too (PUMP Act excludes non‑lactating parents, but FMLA birth/bonding applies where eligible). Use DOL FMLA facts, get child support help through DCS, and use Carefinder for child care aid. (dol.gov)
• Language access: Tell every agency your preferred language up front. Use EEOC Languages, WHD publications by language, and ask DFR to add your language to your case. (eeoc.gov)

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County‑Specific Variations You Should Expect

• Energy aid: Your Community Action Agency runs EAP locally, and wait times vary by county. Find your agency on IN‑CAA’s map/list, confirm EAP dates on IHCDA’s page, and call your utility to note your application. (incap.org)
• Child care: CCDF waitlists are county‑managed. Apply on Carefinder/Early Ed Connect, find providers at Child Care Finder, and ask your CCR&R about local openings. (in.gov)
• Child support: County prosecutor offices handle enforcement. Use DCS Child Support to find your office and payment options (KIDSLINE 1‑800‑840‑8757). (in.gov)

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If Your Application Gets Denied (Appeals & Fixes)

• Workplace complaint denied: Ask for the determination letter and deadlines. Upload more evidence in the EEOC portal, or request state review at ICRC if you filed there. Free consults: Indiana Legal Services. (eeoc.gov)
• Benefits denied: Request a fair hearing with DFR, keep your benefit vouchers going while you appeal, and contact Indiana 211 for stop‑gap food/utility help. (in.gov)
• Unemployment denied: File an appeal in Uplink; see DWD Uplink FAQ and How to File an Appeal links on the same page. Call 1‑800‑891‑6499 if the portal glitches. (in.gov)

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Practical Timelines and Wait Times

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Tables You Can Use

Indiana Workplace & Pregnancy Rights — Snapshot

Health & Income Programs — Where to Apply

Utility Shutoff — Fast Steps

Filing a Workplace Complaint — Who Handles What

Child Support & Child Care

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Real‑World Examples (Indiana)

• Retail associate, 24 weeks pregnant: She requested a stool and extra restroom breaks. HR hesitated. She emailed a one‑page request citing PWFA and attached EEOC’s rule summary. Within 48 hours, the store let her sit during slow periods and take more breaks. (eeoc.gov)
• Warehouse worker needing to pump: The company offered a bathroom. She printed DOL’s PUMP page and Fact Sheet #73A. The employer set up a lockable room with a chair and outlet. (dol.gov)
• Hotel housekeeper facing winter shutoff: She applied for EAP and gave proof to her utility, which paused disconnection during the Dec 1–Mar 15 moratorium. She also called IURC Consumer Affairs to confirm her rights. (in.gov)

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FAQs (Indiana‑specific)

1. How do I ask for an accommodation without making my boss mad?
   Use calm, simple language and focus on the work change you need. Put it in writing, cite PWFA, and propose easy fixes (e.g., stool, break timings). If pushed back, share EEOC’s examples and ask for an interactive process meeting. If denied, contact EEOC Indianapolis. (eeoc.gov)
2. Is pumping time paid?
   Under federal law, pumping breaks may be unpaid unless you’re not fully relieved from duty or your employer provides paid breaks and you use them to pump. Confirm details at PUMP Act page, read DOL FAQs, and save Fact Sheet #73A. (dol.gov)
3. Does Indiana have paid family leave?
   Indiana has no statewide paid family leave for private workers. State employees have paid parental/childbirth recovery leave per the Governor’s executive order—check your agency HR and review the Governor’s release. FMLA may still protect your job. FMLA Fact Sheet #28. (events.in.gov)
4. How fast can I get health coverage while pregnant?
   Ask a PEPW provider for Presumptive Eligibility so you can get care right away. Start at PEPW page and see income standards at FSSA eligibility guide. After birth, postpartum coverage lasts 12 months. (in.gov)
5. I was fired after telling my boss I’m pregnant. What now?
   That may violate Title VII and the PWFA. Save texts/emails, ask for your file, and file with EEOC. If your employer has fewer than 15 employees, call ICRC for state options. (eeoc.gov)
6. What if HR says there’s no private space to pump?
   The law requires a space not a bathroom. Share DOL’s space guide #73A, and note Indiana’s IC 22‑2‑14‑2. If they still refuse, contact WHD. (dol.gov)
7. Can I get unemployment while pregnant?
   Pregnancy alone doesn’t disqualify you. You must be able and available for suitable work. File quickly via DWD Uplink, and read the UI FAQ to keep weekly vouchers going. (in.gov)
8. How do I find child care I can afford while I work?
   Apply for a CCDF voucher via Carefinder, and search providers at Child Care Finder. If your 4‑year‑old is eligible, check On My Way Pre‑K. (in.gov)
9. Who helps me if English isn’t my first language?
   Ask for interpreters at every step. EEOC, WHD, and DFR will arrange language access. (eeoc.gov)
10. Is there support for Native families in Northern Indiana?
    Yes. Pokagon Health Services serves members of federally recognized tribes; call PHS. Also reach INAIAC for resources in employment and civil rights. (pokagonband-nsn.gov)

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Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)

Esta guía ofrece pasos rápidos para proteger sus derechos laborales durante el embarazo en Indiana. Para pedir adaptaciones, haga una solicitud por escrito bajo la Ley Federal PWFA, programe una cita con EEOC Indianápolis y guarde copias. Para extraer leche en el trabajo, use PUMP Act y solicite un espacio privado (no un baño) y pausas razonables. Para cobertura médica y ayuda de alimentos/efectivo, aplique a Medicaid, SNAP y TANF por el Portal de FSSA o llame al 1‑800‑403‑0864. Si recibe una notificación de desconexión de servicios, pida un plan de pago y solicite EAP/LIHEAP; durante el 1 de dic.–15 de mar., hay una moratoria para clientes de EAP. Para ayuda legal gratuita, visite Indiana Legal Services.
Nota: Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; confirme detalles con las páginas oficiales enlazadas. (eeoc.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
• U.S. Department of Labor Wage & Hour Division
• Indiana Civil Rights Commission
• Indiana Family & Social Services Administration
• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (EAP/LIHEAP)
• Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor
• Indiana Department of Workforce Development

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.

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Disclaimer

This information is for general education. Laws and program rules change. Confirm all deadlines, amounts, office locations, and benefits with the linked agencies before you act. If you have a legal emergency or a court date, contact a licensed attorney or Indiana Legal Services immediately, and for immediate safety risks call 9‑1‑1 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1‑800‑799‑7233. (indianalegalservices.org)

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What to do if you need more help right now

• Call: 211 or 1‑866‑211‑9966 for local resources (Indiana 211), and 1‑800‑669‑4000 for EEOC questions (Contact EEOC). (in.gov)
• Click: EEOC Public Portal to file, DOL WHD complaints for PUMP/FMLA/pay issues, and Benefits Portal for SNAP/TANF/Medicaid. (eeoc.gov)
• Save: Every email, letter, and notice. If someone says “No,” ask them to explain why in writing. This simple habit wins cases.

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🏛️More Indiana Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Indiana

• 📋 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
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery