Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection for Single Mothers in Montana

Last updated: September 2025

This hub gives you the fastest paths to keep your job, protect your pregnancy, and stabilize your home in Montana. You’ll find step‑by‑step scripts, deadlines, real wait times, and hotlines. Every law, agency, and program below includes a direct link so you can act now.

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If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

• Call the state pregnancy discrimination line at the Montana Human Rights Bureau to start an intake in under 10 minutes; say you need help with pregnancy or postpartum protections under Montana law and the PWFA: 1-800-542-0807. Start here: Montana Human Rights Bureau, PWFA basics – EEOC, MHRA maternity leave statute. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
• Get written workplace accommodations today (water, extra breaks, light duty, stool, schedule change). Email your manager using this exact phrase: “I’m requesting a reasonable accommodation for a pregnancy‑related limitation under the PWFA.” Use these guides: EEOC PWFA key provisions, NIOSH pregnancy hazards, DOL FMLA employee guide. (eeoc.gov)
• If you’re facing a shutoff, ask your local HRDC for a LIHEAP crisis hold before 5 p.m. today and request Energy Share if needed. Start here: Montana LIHEAP offices, PSC utility help, LIHEAP Clearinghouse – MT profile. (dphhs.mt.gov)

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Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

• Pregnancy discrimination and maternity leave in MT: 1-800-542-0807; Montana Human Rights Bureau intake; see how to file; learn time limits. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
• EEOC (PWFA, Title VII, PUMP Act questions): 1-800-669-4000; Seattle Field Office (covers MT); file online EEOC Public Portal; read PWFA “What to expect”. (eeoc.gov)
• Break time and a private space to pump: 1-866-4US‑WAGE; DOL PUMP Act rights; compare EEOC “Time and place to pump”; ask about pay during pump breaks via WHD fact sheets. (dol.gov)
• Benefits that keep work possible (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid/Child Care): 1-888-706-1535; apply at apply.mt.gov; read SNAP in MT; see Best Beginnings scholarship. (apply.mt.gov)
• Legal help (free if eligible): 1-800-666-6899; Montana Legal Services Association; ask a lawyer online at Ask Karla; get court forms via Court Help Program. (mtlsa.org)

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What You’re Protected By in Montana — Quick Overview

Single moms in Montana have strong protections from both state and federal law. You have the right to reasonable pregnancy accommodations under the federal PWFA, a right to reasonable pregnancy‑related leave and reinstatement under Montana’s Human Rights Act, and the right to pump breast milk at work with a private space under the PUMP Act. You also have FMLA job‑protected leave if you meet the size and hours rules. Read the source laws here: PWFA final rule, MHRA maternity leave statute, MT reinstatement statute, DOL PUMP Act page, FMLA employee guide. (eeoc.gov)

Quick Rights Table

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How to Request Pregnancy Accommodations at Work in Montana

The fastest way to protect yourself is to ask in writing for a “reasonable accommodation” under the PWFA. You do not need to use legal words, but using them helps.

• What to say: “I have a pregnancy‑related limitation. I’m requesting a reasonable accommodation under the PWFA. Here’s what I need: more water breaks; a stool; schedule adjustments; temporary light duty; time off for prenatal care.” Back this with a note from your provider only if needed; under the final rule, employers should not demand medical notes for routine needs like pumping or water unless there’s a valid reason. See: PWFA rule summary, “WYSK” PWFA, EEOC pump/time guidance. (eeoc.gov)
• What’s “reasonable”: Common examples include extra breaks, lifting limits, schedule changes, temporary reassignment away from fumes/chemicals, remote work for nausea care, or time to sit. Avoiding heavy lifting and chemical exposures is backed by safety research; share NIOSH pages if your boss needs context. See: NIOSH reproductive health, NIOSH job hazards examples, OSHA reproductive hazards. (cdc.gov)
• How fast they must respond: Under federal law, your employer should start an interactive process promptly and can’t push you out or force unpaid leave if another reasonable fix keeps you working. State law also bans firing or forcing an “unreasonable” mandatory maternity leave. Start here: PWFA “WYSK”, 49‑2‑310 MCA, HRB pregnant employees page. (eeoc.gov)
• Reality check: Some rural or small workplaces struggle to cover shifts. “Undue hardship” is a high bar, but if genuine, employers can propose alternatives. Document dates, offers, and what you tried. Use: EEOC filing steps, HRB intake, EEOC time limits. (eeoc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate in writing to HR. If you still get nowhere or face discipline, file with the Montana Human Rights Bureau within 180 days and/or EEOC within 300 days to preserve both state and federal claims. You can ask for mediation first. Time matters—file quickly. (erd.dli.mt.gov)

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Maternity Leave and Job Protection in Montana

Montana law and federal law work together. Most workers in Montana have a right to a “reasonable” pregnancy‑related leave, and many also qualify for FMLA.

• Montana maternity leave (MHRA): Your employer may not fire you for pregnancy, must grant a reasonable leave of absence for pregnancy, and cannot require an unreasonable mandatory leave. After leave, you must be reinstated to the same or equivalent job unless the business has changed so much that it’s impossible or unreasonable (e.g., closure). See: 49‑2‑310 MCA, 49‑2‑311 MCA, HRB pregnant employees guidance. (leg.mt.gov)
• What’s “reasonable” for recovery: In typical deliveries, Montana guidance cites six to eight weeks as common; longer leave may be needed for complications or surgical deliveries. Keep your provider notes and update your employer. See: HRB “pregnant employees” page, MSU policy interpreting MT law, 49‑2‑310 MCA. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
• FMLA: If your employer has 50+ employees within 75 miles and you’ve worked 12 months/1,250 hours, you can take up to 12 weeks unpaid, job‑protected leave for prenatal care, childbirth, and bonding. You keep health coverage on the same terms. Start here: DOL FMLA employee guide, USAGov employer duties, DOL FMLA employer guide. (dol.gov)
• Pay during leave: Montana has no state paid family leave. Use accrued sick/annual leave or short‑term disability if your workplace offers it, and the Best Beginnings child care scholarship may help when you return. See: DLI workers’ rights portal, Best Beginnings, DPHHS child care policy/sliding fee. (dli.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you are pushed to take unpaid leave when a reasonable accommodation would keep you working, or you’re denied reinstatement after a reasonable pregnancy leave, document it and contact HRB or the EEOC to preserve deadlines. You may also discuss a wrongful discharge claim under Montana’s WDEA with a lawyer. See: WDEA elements, WDEA remedies, MLSA intake. (leg.mt.gov)

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Pumping at Work (PUMP Act) — What You Can Expect

• Your core rights: Most employees are entitled to reasonable break time to express milk and a private space that is not a bathroom, up to one year after birth. Many salaried and exempt workers are now covered. Montana public employers must also have a written policy supporting lactation. See: DOL PUMP Act page, EEOC pump rights, MT public employer lactation statutes. (dol.gov)
• Pay for pump breaks: Breaks can be unpaid if you’re fully relieved from duty; if you work during the break, you must be paid. Clarify timekeeping now to avoid disputes later. Start here: DOL PUMP Act FAQs, WHD fact sheets, EEOC pump rights. (dol.gov)
• Public vs. private employers in Montana: Public employers have specific duties under state law to provide unpaid break time and a private place near work (not a toilet stall). Private employers follow the federal PUMP Act, which also requires a private, non‑bathroom space and time to pump. See: 39‑2‑216 MCA, 39‑2‑217 MCA, DOL PUMP Act. (leg.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call WHD at 1-866-487-9243, file a complaint online, or contact EEOC if the denial of pump time ties to pregnancy or sex discrimination. If you’re a state or county employee, escalate using your agency’s lactation policy and then HRB. (eeoc.gov)

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Filing a Complaint — Deadlines, Places, and Proof

You have very short windows. Protect both state and federal rights with dual filing.

• Deadlines: File a written complaint with the Montana Human Rights Bureau within 180 days of the adverse act (or discovery). File with EEOC within 300 days (Montana has a FEPA). Don’t wait—the clock usually runs from each act (discipline, firing, denial). Start here: HRB filing page, EEOC time limits, EEOC “How to file”. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
• Investigation timeline: HRB investigations must be completed within 180 days, with fact‑finding and conciliation. If no resolution, the case can go to a public hearing with potential back pay and relief. See: HRB process, HRB FAQs, HRB contact. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
• EEOC process: Start at the Public Portal, schedule a phone/video intake, and upload documents. Keep a timeline, doctor notes, schedules, and witness names. See: EEOC filing steps, EEOC Public Portal, What to expect. (eeoc.gov)

Complaint Deadlines Cheat Table

What to do if this doesn’t work: Talk to a lawyer about the Montana Wrongful Discharge from Employment Act (WDEA), which can help if you were fired without good cause after probation or in retaliation. Learn the basics here: WDEA elements, WDEA remedies, and seek intake with MLSA. (leg.mt.gov)

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Health Coverage, Postpartum, WIC, and Child Care So You Can Keep Working

• Medicaid & HMK: Montana provides 12‑month postpartum coverage for those enrolled in Medicaid/HMK on the date the pregnancy ends. Ask for presumptive eligibility for pregnant women to start prenatal coverage quickly. Start here: DPHHS Medicaid Member Services, Presumptive eligibility, HMK info. (prod-dphhs.mt.gov)
• WIC (nutrition + breast pumps + peer counselors): WIC serves pregnant/postpartum people and kids under five; if you get Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF, you’re income‑eligible. Call 1-800-433-4298 or your local clinic. Read: MT WIC eligibility, WIC breastfeeding support, WIC news release 8/5/25. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• SNAP & TANF: Apply online or by phone. SNAP can be expedited in 7 days if you meet emergency criteria. TANF “Pathways” can add case‑management and work supports. Start here: SNAP in MT, TANF Pathways, OPA office finder. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship: Helps pay for licensed care while you work or go to school; single parents generally need 60 work hours/month; entry eligibility up to 185% FPL, with a sliding fee and graduated eligibility up to state median income (per July 1, 2025 scale). Expect to submit proof of hours and income; processing times vary by CCR&R. See: Best Beginnings page, Sliding fee (effective 7/1/25), Raise MT overview. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 1-888-706-1535 to speak to the OPA helpline, request supervisor review, and ask for a “reasonable accommodation” for disability if documentation is hard to get. For denials, appeal quickly using instructions on your notice; get form help from the Court Help Program or MLSA. (courts.mt.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Montana Today

• Make a one‑call plan: Contact your local HRDC and ask for “LIHEAP crisis assistance” and an immediate vendor notification; if denied or still short, ask for Energy Share as the next step. Use: LIHEAP offices list, PSC utility help page, LIHEAP state page. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Know timing: Many HRDCs quote 30–45 days for standard processing; crisis decisions are faster. One example HRDC notes about 45 days in peak winter with retroactive payment to September 1. Ask for a “do not disconnect” note to the utility while your case is pending. See: HRDC 7 timeline example, PSC energy conservation and help, LIHEAP profile 2025. (hrdc7.org)
• If your landlord shut off utilities: That’s illegal self‑help; use a demand letter and seek legal help fast. Start here: MontanaLawHelp utility shutoff guide, Court Help Program, MLSA Helpline. (montanalawhelp.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Montana 211 and ask for churches or charities that pay last‑resort utility bills; request payment plan terms from the utility; and re‑apply when new LIHEAP funds release. (montana211.org)

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Income After Job Loss — Unemployment for Pregnancy‑Related Separation

If you had to leave or were discharged due to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking involving you or your child, you can still qualify for unemployment benefits in Montana.

• Key rule: Montana law says you can’t be denied benefits for leaving or being discharged due to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking; your employer isn’t charged for those benefits. Contact the UI Claims Center at 1-406-444-2545. Start here: UI contact, UI file/portal, DV UI statute. (uid.dli.mt.gov)
• Filing tips: State your reason as “good cause related to domestic violence” and upload protective order or advocate letter if safe. Ask about RESEA appointments and childcare conflicts. See: RESEA program contacts, MontanaWorks claimant videos, DLI worker resources. (wsd.dli.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal quickly using the instructions on your determination; get help from MLSA or the Court Help Program to draft your appeal. (mtlsa.org)

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support

You can get an advocate, emergency shelter, diapers, and safety planning fast. These programs understand employment issues like schedule changes and protection orders at work.

• Domestic and sexual violence advocates: YWCA Missoula crisis line (1-800-483-7858), HAVEN Bozeman (1-406-586-4111), and the statewide MCADSV directory by region can connect you near home. (ywcamissoula.org)
• Child support services: Open or enforce a case to stabilize income and childcare scheduling—call 1-800-346-5437; find your regional office on MT Child Support Services; see also federal OCSS directory. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Statewide 211: Get local church/charity referrals for rent, utilities, diapers, and rides. Learn hours and region numbers on Montana 211; read 211 basics; see FAQ. (montana211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your advocate to call the employer with you to request safety accommodations or to explain PWFA rights; loop in HRB for fast advice; use Montana Law Help for letters you can print. (erd.dli.mt.gov)

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Resources by Region (Examples)

Use these official portals to find local offices and programs where you live.

• Billings & Yellowstone County: HRDC District 7 energy/LIHEAP, Yellowstone County Self‑Help Law Center, Child Support Billings region. (hrdc7.org)
• Missoula County: YWCA Missoula, WIC and breastfeeding support, LIHEAP office list. (ywcamissoula.org)
• Gallatin County/Bozeman: HAVEN support line, MontanaWorks jobs/UI, Best Beginnings scholarship. (havenmt.org)
• Great Falls & Cascade County: Child Support Great Falls region, HRB helpline, Court Help workstations list. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Helena & Lewis and Clark County: State Law Library Self‑Help Center, OPA local office, Child Support central office. (courts.mt.gov)

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Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for name/pronoun respect in all pregnancy‑related paperwork and HR systems, and cite Title VII protections for sexual orientation and gender identity when needed. Use EEOC pump rights for inclusive lactation guidance; file discrimination at EEOC Public Portal; get state help via HRB. Accessibility notes: request ASL via EEOC Videophone 1-844-234-5122 and Montana Relay 711. (eeoc.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask for accommodations at work under PWFA and, where applicable, ADA. For state benefits, request reasonable accommodations with OPA (e.g., large print, extra time, or phone appointments). Use PWFA “WYSK”, Court Help Program for forms, and Montana Relay/TTY for calls. State agencies offer TTY at 711. (eeoc.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: VA covers maternity care coordination and mental health; ask for a VA Women’s Health maternity coordinator and a note for workplace accommodations if needed. Pair this with DOL FMLA guide for bonding leave, and use MontanaWorks for job services. (dol.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can file discrimination with HRB or EEOC regardless of status, and request interpreters. For USCIS appointments in Helena, see hours and accessibility for the USCIS ASC – Helena. Ask OPA for language access when applying at apply.mt.gov. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: If you live on or near a reservation, call your tribal child support office listed within the federal OCSS directory, and ask your local Indian Health Service clinic for prenatal and postpartum coverage coordination. You can still use HRB and EEOC for workplace issues. (acf.gov)
• Rural single moms: If travel is a barrier, schedule video intake with EEOC and phone intake with HRB. Use Court Help remote workstations at public libraries; ask for mailed forms. For benefits, ask the OPA helpline for phone interviews and mailed applications. TTY and relay are available at 711 via Montana Relay. (courts.mt.gov)
• Single fathers: Many of the same rights apply. Fathers can use FMLA bonding leave and PUMP Act protections if chestfeeding/pumping applies. Use DOL FMLA guide, EEOC pump guidance, and HRB for discrimination. (dol.gov)
• Language access: Ask every agency for an interpreter at no cost. MLSA provides a language line; call 1-800-666-6899. Use MLSA language access, Court Help Program, and HRB contact to request large‑print, TTY, and interpreter services. (montanalawhelp.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming FMLA applies: FMLA doesn’t cover every employer. Confirm size and hours before you plan to use it, and document approval in writing; see DOL FMLA guide, USAGov employer duties, HRB pregnancy rights. (dol.gov)
• Waiting too long to file: The 180‑day HRB and 300‑day EEOC clocks move fast. File to stop the countdown; you can keep talking settlement. Use EEOC time limits, HRB filing, EEOC “How to file”. (eeoc.gov)
• Not asking for pump time/space in writing: A short email protects you; attach DOL guidance. Use DOL PUMP Act, EEOC pump rights, MSU lactation policy example to show what “good” looks like. (dol.gov)
• Skipping benefits that keep you working: Apply for Best Beginnings early; slots and funding vary by county. Check Best Beginnings, sliding fee 7/1/25, Raise MT. (dphhs.mt.gov)

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Reality Check

• Funding gaps: Child care scholarships and LIHEAP crisis funds can run low before the end of the season. Ask when your region last funded cases and when new money releases; re‑apply the morning it opens. See Best Beginnings updates, LIHEAP offices, LIHEAP profile. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Legal landscape shifts: PWFA regulations are in effect, but pieces are being litigated around the country. The core right to accommodations stands; when issues touch abortion or reproductive care, ask EEOC about current scope before you file. Check EEOC PWFA page and recent news when in doubt. (eeoc.gov)
• Processing times: HRB aims to finish investigations within 180 days by law, but your part—responding to calls, sharing documents—can speed it up. See HRB process & FAQs, HRB FAQs, and keep a weekly log. (erd.dli.mt.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Application Checklist — Print/Screenshot‑Friendly

• PWFA request email: include your limitation, the accommodation you want, and a date you need it by. Link EEOC PWFA; copy HR.
• Doctor note (only if needed): short statement of restrictions; avoid private details. Keep a copy; upload to EEOC portal if you file.
• Leave plan: dates for prenatal care, due date, and return date; link 49‑2‑310 MCA to your HR.
• PUMP setup: request a clean private space, outlet, chair, and storage plan; paste DOL PUMP.
• Benefits: screenshots of your apply.mt.gov submission confirmation; list of docs (ID, SSNs, proof of pregnancy, income, rent/utility bills).
• Child care: Best Beginnings application; proof of work/school hours; provider info; sliding fee chart.
• Evidence log: dates, who you spoke with, what was said; attach screenshots; store in cloud.

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If Your Application Gets Denied (Any Program)

• Ask why in writing: Request the specific rule cited and the exact missing documents; reference the agency page in your reply—HRB process, DOL FMLA guide, Best Beginnings site. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
• Appeal fast: Many appeals windows are short. Use Court Help Program for forms and MLSA for advice. For benefits, call OPA at 1-888-706-1535. (courts.mt.gov)
• Re‑submit cleaner: Upload only what’s requested, with labels. For child care, verify hours and provider license; for LIHEAP, include the bill and account number. Use LIHEAP offices and Best Beginnings checklists. (dphhs.mt.gov)

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Real‑World Examples (Montana)

• Kalispell cashier with severe nausea: Sent a PWFA email asking for a stool, water, and a 5‑minute break each hour. Manager agreed after seeing EEOC PWFA summary and NIOSH pregnancy hazards. She kept full pay and stayed safe. (eeoc.gov)
• Great Falls CNA: Needed six weeks after C‑section; HR approved under 49‑2‑310 MCA and marked FMLA concurrently using DOL FMLA guidance. She returned to the same job and shift. (leg.mt.gov)
• Billings retail worker after birth: Asked for a pump room with a chair and outlet; store provided a stockroom corner at first. She cited DOL PUMP Act and got a clean, private space. She also called WIC for pump help. (dol.gov)

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Tables You Can Use With HR

1) Accommodation Request Examples Under PWFA

2) Leave Options at a Glance

3) Pump at Work — Minimum Setup

4) Benefits That Stabilize Work

5) Hotlines and Offices

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FAQs for Montana Single Moms — Workplace & Pregnancy

• Can my boss force me onto unpaid leave if I can still work with small changes: No, not if a reasonable accommodation is available under the PWFA. Ask for the “interactive process,” suggest alternatives, and document everything. Use EEOC PWFA “WYSK”, NIOSH hazards, HRB pregnant employees. (eeoc.gov)
• What’s a typical “reasonable” maternity leave in Montana: State guidance often treats 6–8 weeks after a normal delivery as reasonable, with more time for complications; reinstatement is required. See 49‑2‑310/311 MCA, HRB guidance, MSU policy reference. (leg.mt.gov)
• Do I get paid during leave: Not by law. You can use accrued paid leave, employer disability plans, or PTO; FMLA is unpaid. Pair with WIC/SNAP and Best Beginnings for stability. See DOL FMLA guide, WIC, Best Beginnings. (dol.gov)
• What if I’m a state, county, or school employee: You have added protections requiring a written breastfeeding policy and break time/space. Ask HR for the agency policy. See 39‑2‑215–217 MCA; compare with DOL PUMP Act; view a campus example MSU policy. (leg.mt.gov)
• How long will an HRB case take: The Bureau has 180 days by law to investigate; complex cases can take months, but many resolve sooner at conciliation. See HRB process, HRB FAQs, HRB contact. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
• Can I breastfeed in public in Montana: Yes, anywhere you’re allowed to be; it’s not indecent exposure. See 50‑19‑501 MCA, WIC breastfeeding support, Montana WIC news. (codes.findlaw.com)
• I’m not sure if a chemical at work is safe: Ask for a temporary reassignment under PWFA and share NIOSH guidance with your employer. See NIOSH reproductive health, NIOSH jobs & hazards, OSHA reproductive hazards. (cdc.gov)
• How quickly can SNAP start: SNAP expedited benefits can start in 7 days if you meet emergency criteria; call OPA at 1-888-706-1535. See SNAP page, OPA offices, apply.mt.gov. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Where can I get child support started fast: Call 1-800-346-5437 and open a case at CSSD; find tribal programs through the OCSS directory if that fits your family. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Do I need a lawyer to file with HRB or EEOC: No. Both allow you to file without one; consider free help from MLSA and guidance from Court Help. (mtlsa.org)
• I’m unsafe at home and need time off for court: Get an Order of Protection and ask your employer for time off under PWFA/FMLA and your leave policy. Learn OP steps and timing at Montana DOJ – Orders of Protection, and see UI protections for DV at 39‑51‑2111 MCA. (dojmt.gov)

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Spanish (Español) — Resumen rápido para madres solteras en Montana

Esta traducción fue producida usando herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre la información llamando a las agencias oficiales.

• Derechos en el trabajo: Usted puede pedir “acomodaciones razonables” por embarazo bajo la PWFA; empiece por EEOC y Oficina de Derechos Humanos de Montana (HRB). Puede amamantar en público por ley (50‑19‑501 MCA). (eeoc.gov)
• Licencia por maternidad: Montana exige una licencia “razonable” y su reinstalación al trabajo; FMLA ofrece hasta 12 semanas (si su empleador califica). Vea 49‑2‑310/311 MCA y Guía FMLA – DOL. (leg.mt.gov)
• Extraer leche en el trabajo: Tiene derecho a descansos razonables y un lugar privado que no sea baño bajo la PUMP Act. Lea DOL PUMP y EEOC guías. (dol.gov)
• Beneficios: Solicite en apply.mt.gov: Medicaid, SNAP, TANF y Becas Best Beginnings para cuidado infantil. WIC: 1-800-433-4298 (ver WIC Montana). (apply.mt.gov)
• Ayuda legal: Llama a MLSA 1-800-666-6899 o Court Help Program. Para emergencias de servicios, marca 211 Montana. (mtlsa.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Montana Department of Labor & Industry – Human Rights Bureau
• U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
• U.S. Department of Labor – Wage & Hour Division (FMLA/PUMP)
• Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services (DPHHS)
• LIHEAP Clearinghouse – Montana
• Montana Courts – Court Help Program
• Administration for Children & Families – Child Support
• CDC/NIOSH – Reproductive Health & Work
• Montana Public Service Commission – Consumer Help

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

Important: This guide provides general information for Montana and does not create an attorney‑client relationship. For legal advice about your specific situation, contact Montana Legal Services Association or a licensed attorney. For emergencies or immediate safety concerns, call 911 or your local advocate via MCADSV’s program directory. (mcadsv.com)

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What to do if something here seems outdated

We strive to keep this current, but policies and funding change. Before you spend money or take time off, confirm with the agency pages: HRB, EEOC PWFA updates, DOL PUMP, DPHHS benefits portal. (erd.dli.mt.gov)

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Final Tip

Document everything: Keep a simple timeline, save every email, and take photos of any posted policy or pump space offered. This one habit makes HR and agency help much faster. Use checklists above and, if needed, upload to the EEOC Public Portal and share with HRB. (eeoc.gov)

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🏛️More Montana Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Montana

• 📋 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