Stay-at-home parents have a critical and gratifying job; raising their children to be responsible, caring, and empathetic adults. However, many stay-at-home moms may find themselves in need of extra cash to support their families, start a business, return to college, or become self-sufficient. While finding government benefits and grants specifically earmarked for homemakers can be challenging, there are various financial assistance programs available that can help.Government Money for Stay-at-Home Moms
Stay-at-home mothers can receive government money indirectly through a wide range of benefits, provided they complete the appropriate applications correctly. Cutting expenses can be just as beneficial as getting paid.
Free Money
Stay-at-home parents often qualify for free government money because their household has one wage earner rather than the typical two. The primary criterion for eligibility is income relative to family size. Various programs accept applicants near the 100% Federal Poverty Level (FPL), which calculates income based on household size.
Household Size Income Limit
1 $14,580
2 $19,720
3 $24,860
4 $30,000
Government Benefits
The most reliable way for stay-at-home parents to get free government money is by claiming benefits that reduce household expenses. By cutting costs, you can save money and effectively increase your income.
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Food Stamps
Stay-at-home mothers can often get food stamps to reduce their grocery bills. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a government benefit that helps low-income families buy food. To apply for food stamps, you can contact your local SNAP office. Single-earner families often meet the income and resource qualifications established by each state.
Unemployment Benefits
Some stay-at-home mothers may be eligible to collect unemployment benefits, while others may not. Unemployment insurance is a government benefit that pays you money if you lose your job through no fault of your own. You can apply for medical unemployment if you lost your job recently because you need to care for a sick child. Many states define a good cause reason to include caring for a family member with a severe health problem. However, eligibility is determined by whether you paid unemployment insurance premiums through payroll deduction.
Housing Assistance
The SAHM community often qualifies for housing assistance to reduce monthly apartment rental expenses. The Section 8 voucher program is a government benefit that helps low-income families afford a decent living place. To apply for housing assistance, you can contact your local public agency. Single-earner families often meet the low-income criteria established by each state.
Utility Bill Assistance
Homemakers frequently qualify for help paying utility bills. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a government benefit that reduces heating and cooling costs. To apply for LIHEAP, you can contact your local low-income energy office. Single-earner households frequently meet the criteria for assistance.
Appliance Replacement
The SAHM community is often eligible for financial help when replacing inefficient household appliances, such as refrigerators. The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a government benefit that reduces energy usage. Free appliances for low-income families are often available through WAP. Single-earner households qualify based on income and the expected savings-to-investment ratio calculated after an energy audit.
Social Security
Stay-at-home mothers can sometimes receive free government money through social security, which provides retirement income and benefits for younger adults dealing with a disability.
Disability Benefits
Stay-at-home moms have at least three different ways to collect social security disability benefits. If you meet the eligibility criteria, this government benefit program will provide you with a monthly check. You may be eligible if:
- You worked and paid FICA taxes before having children to raise (SSDI).
- You are the surviving (or divorced) spouse of a deceased worker.
- Your resources are less than specific dollar limits (SSI).
To apply for social security disability benefits, you can visit the Social Security Administration’s website and complete the application process.
Survivors’ Benefits
Stay-at-home mothers might also qualify to collect social security survivor benefits after their spouse dies, even if they never worked for an employer. The deceased person must have worked long enough to be eligible. To apply for social security survivor benefits, you can set an appointment at an office near your home. You cannot submit an online application. If you care for the deceased’s children under sixteen, you might be eligible for a lump sum payment and a monthly check.
Retirement Benefits
Stay-at-home parents can sometimes collect social security retirement benefits, even if they never worked outside the house. If qualified, this government benefit could supplement your monthly income. To apply for social security retirement benefits, you can visit the Social Security Administration’s website and complete the application process. The monthly benefit amount will be based on either one-third to one-half of your spouse’s retirement benefit or the benefit calculated based on FICA taxes paid, whichever is larger.
Tax Credits
Stay-at-home moms can get free money from the government by filing for refundable tax credits sponsored by the IRS. A refundable tax credit creates a negative tax liability, meaning you may receive a refund even if you don’t owe any taxes.
Child Tax Credit
Most stay-at-home mothers should qualify for the Child Tax Credit (CTC), which is worth up to $2,000 per dependent under seventeen. Single-earner households rarely reach the income limit for this credit. To claim the child tax credit, you need to complete Schedule 8812 and Form 1040 when filing your taxes.
Earned Income Tax Credit
A homemaker can claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) if their spouse works for an employer or runs a small business. The EITC gives low-income families a tax break, with an average refund of more than $3,000 for those with children. To claim the earned income tax credit, you need to complete Schedule EITC when filing your taxes. The amount of money you get back increases with each additional child (up to three) that you have.
Grants for Stay-at-Home Moms
Stay-at-home mothers can sometimes receive grants, although no federal agency provides free money to individuals that they do not have to repay. Instead, grant funding typically flows to universities, state departments, and non-profit organizations. Therefore, it is essential to apply at these endpoints for specific needs.
Home Repair Grants
Stay-at-home parents can often get grants to repair or improve their residences by applying for benefits at non-profit or state agency recipients. These grants are available for low-income families and fund projects that reduce energy consumption or address health and safety issues. Some government initiatives that support these efforts include the Weatherization Assistance Program, Section 504, and Inflation Reduction Act Rebates.
Education Grants
Stay-at-home mothers often receive grants to help them go back to school and further their education. This can improve their job prospects once their children become independent. There are various sources of education-related grants available, including federal grants and grants specifically focused on supporting women and minorities.
Pell Grant
The Pell Grant is available for those who are living with a financial need. If your family has an income of less than $30,000 annually, you may qualify for this grant. The amount awarded can reach a maximum of $5,400 per year, depending on your financial need and educational costs. This grant is available for both undergraduate and graduate learners.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
The FSEOG program is available for married women from low-income families. It is designed to support undergraduate learners who have been receiving the Pell Grant and can provide the lowest amount of contribution from their families. Students can apply for FSEOG directly through the post-secondary institutions they attend.
Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants
TEACH grants are offered by the U.S. Department of Education to support education in America. They are available for those completing undergraduate or graduate coursework and are willing to commit to serving as full-time teachers in high-needs fields. To be eligible, you must sign a service agreement agreeing to work with low-income students for four years within eight years of completing the coursework.
The National Science & Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) Grant
The SMART grant is available for third- and fourth-year students pursuing undergraduate work on a part-time basis. To be eligible, you must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be majoring in specific areas such as life sciences, computer sciences, mathematics, technology, engineering, or physical science. This grant is both need-based and merit-based, making it a valuable resource for married women pursuing higher education.
Business Grants
Stay-at-home moms may qualify for grants to start their own businesses and supplement their income. While obtaining business grants can be challenging, there are organizations and programs available to support women entrepreneurs. These include:
- The Small Business Administration: The SBA helps female entrepreneurs by connecting them with training and funding opportunities.
- The Girlboss Foundation: This foundation supports women in the fashion, design, music, and arts industries.
- IFundWomen: IFundWomen is a marketplace that facilitates access to capital, coaching, and connections for women entrepreneurs.
- Digital Undivided: Digital Undivided makes micro-investments in Black and Latin women entrepreneurs.
- Cartier Women’s Initiative: This initiative empowers entrepreneurs who aim to have a solid and sustainable social or environmental impact.
Other Sources of Grants
In addition to government grants and programs, there are various other sources of grants available for stay-at-home moms.
Local Organizations
Local organizations and institutions in your area may provide smaller grants and scholarships. Research organizations and colleges near you to explore potential opportunities for financial assistance.
Religious Organizations
Religious organizations not only provide spiritual support but also offer community services. Some religious institutions provide grants and scholarships to help their members continue their higher education. Examples include:
- Presbyterian Church (U.S.A): The General Assembly Mission Council of the Presbyterian Church offers scholarships for undergraduate learners.
- United Methodist Scholarship Program: The program provides scholarships to active members of the United Methodist Church who are enrolled in accredited institutions.
- Catholic United Financial: This organization provides scholarships to Catholic members for pursuing a degree.
- Jewish Foundation for the Education of Women: The foundation offers grants to women with financial need who are pursuing higher education.
Grants for Women and Minorities
Various grants and scholarships are available for women and minorities to support their educational and professional development. Some notable programs include:
- AAUW Grants and Fellowships: The American Association of University Women provides fellowships and grants for women completing post-doctoral and doctoral degrees.
- FFWA Scholarships: The Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting offers scholarships to support women pursuing studies in accounting.
- Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund: This fund provides scholarships to women aged 35 and over who are pursuing vocational or technical education.
Obtaining grants for stay-at-home moms requires research, determination, and thorough applications. It is essential to explore all possible sources of funding and carefully follow application procedures to increase your chances of success.
Remember, grants are not free money, and they often come with specific requirements and obligations. It is crucial to understand the terms and conditions associated with each grant before applying. With the right resources and support, stay-at-home moms can access financial assistance to pursue their educational and professional goals while continuing to care for their families.