Help for Single Mothers in Utah

Last Updated on January 30, 2024 by Lori Pace

Over the years, single mothers have increasingly accepted their position as sole breadwinners. It is not a good thing that these mothers are forced to work multiple jobs to support their children. Most of the time, they have to work multiple jobs in order to provide for their children, which can include healthcare, education, heating utilities, etc. The government of Utah, as a result, has provided some essential assistance programs to help its residents and especially single mothers afford their own needs, as well as those of their children. They also allow them to become independent. 

Family Enforcement Program (FEP)

This program helps families who do not have enough income to cover their needs. The FEP, which is funded by TANF, is designed to help families that don’t have a steady source of income by offering some monetary assistance and helping them get a sustainable one. The Utah FEP was designed to benefit both single mothers as well as couples with two children younger than 18 years old. According to the guideline, all FEP recipients must participate in activities related to work that last 30 hours per week for singles and 20 hours per week for parents with children under 6 years old. This program does not pay monthly but rather once every twelve months for those who qualify. Click the FEP Utah website to find out more and apply.

Food Stamp Program

The program nicknamed the “first line of defense against food insecurity”, is designed to give a monthly payment to families who are eligible. Beneficiaries can use the benefits to purchase food and nutritional supplements to improve their diet. Utah EBT cards, also known as Utah Horizon cards, will be provided to participants who qualify. They can use these cards to purchase food and food items in any store. Those who need help with food, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, and low-income families, are eligible. Applicants should also note that those households with a monthly gross income of less than $50 and a cash account of $100 are eligible for the expedited SNAP within seven days of submitting an application. Check out the Utah Food Stamp online portal to apply.

Assisted Child Care Program

The state and federal governments have teamed up to sponsor this childcare program. Financial assistance is available for families with two kids and single mothers. Families earning less than 85% of the average income are eligible. Childcare assistance is dependent on a few factors and does not always cover the total cost of childcare. Currently, the Utah state government covers 75% of average childcare costs while the family is responsible for the remainder. Learn more about the program and submit an application to Childrens Health Insurance Program.

Medicaid

The program is designed to provide healthcare coverage for Utah residents who earn low incomes and meet the requirements of the program. This program offers medical assistance to children under 18 years old, disabled people, pregnant women, and elderly people. It also helps women with cervical or breast cancer. For pregnant women to qualify, you need to meet the guideline of 42% FPL. Individuals interested in applying can do so online or by calling 1-866-435-7414.

Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

The insurance program is designed to assist parents in paying for medical expenses once the application has been approved. Utah CHIP is designed to help children with these medical services: eye examinations, hearing tests, dental care, and immunizations, as well as child-health exams. The program pays a significant portion of the bill, even though most people are required to pay a co-payment due to the cost-sharing agreement which is currently set at 5% of yearly family income. Call 1-866-435-7414 (toll-free) or visit the CHIP Utah website if you are interested.

Utah Unemployment Insurance

Utah Unemployment Insurance pays compensation for unemployed workers who are eligible and meet the state’s requirements. The purpose of this insurance is to provide temporary benefits for eligible claimants in times of unemployment when suitable employment is not available. This can last up to 26 weeks.

You must earn at least $3300 over the past four quarters to qualify for UI benefits. Additionally, you need to make at least four new contacts with employers each week you submit a claim. File online for Unemployment Benefits in Utah, or by phone if you prefer to submit your claim for UI benefits.

Higher Education Success Stipend Program (HESSP)

HESSP is Utah’s Supplemental Grant and Work-Study Assistance Award available to Utah residents with financial needs, as demonstrated by Federal Pell Grants.

The amount of any HESSP grants and/or work-study awards given to eligible students in a particular award year can range from $300 to $5,000, depending on the available funds. You should check with the financial aid office of your school to see if this grant is available.

Bottom Line: Help For Single Mothers In Utah

There is a big variety to choose from when it comes to asking for assistance. The federal government and nonprofits work hard to support the community they are in, the best that they can. To learn more about other assistance offered to help single mothers in the state of Utah, visit these articles:

Lori Pace
Lori Pace

Lori Pace is a single mother of three daughters ages 7 and under. As a working mom from home, she balances kids, work and two crazy dogs with humor and love. Follow Lori as she honestly gives tips and advice based on her own experiences as a single mom!