Single mothers in the U.S. can receive up to $2,200 per child through the 2025 Child Tax Credit, with up to $1,700 of that being refundable if little to no federal tax is owed. Other potential financial assistance includes Temporary Cash Assistance (ranging from $242–$298/child monthly in some states) and social safety net programs like WIC or SNAP, which vary based on income.
As of September 2024, the maximum fortnightly payment for a single parent is $987.70, which includes a pension supplement. This gross amount is subject to income and assets tests. Single parents may also be eligible for additional support, such as Family Tax Benefit and Energy Supplement.
The Child Tax Credit is worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child. If you have little or no federal income tax liability, you may qualify for the Additional Child Tax Credit, up to $1,700 per qualifying child depending on your income. You must have earned income of at least $2,500 to be eligible for the ACTC.
The amount of money you are entitled to for the Parenting Payment will depend on your circumstances, income and assets. Singles can receive up to $987.70 per fortnight. This includes a Pension Supplement (if eligible) of $28.30. Couples receive a lower amount.
Claiming Dependents: If you're a single parent with one dependent, you can claim the [Child Tax Credit](https://brightadvisers.com/7-personal-tax-return-services-for-young-families). This credit can significantly lower your taxable income.
Californians need to earn at least $97k to support a child and stay-at-home parent. Californians have the second-highest income needed to keep a parent at home at $97,656.
Smart budgeting tips for single parents
Federal and state programs like TANF, SNAP, WIC, and HUD housing vouchers provide financial, food, and housing assistance for single parents. Child care and job training support are available through programs such as CCAP, Head Start, and Community Action Agencies.
Finding Local Resources
Each state and municipality offers unique programs, and contacting your local Department of Social Services is a good place to start. It's also helpful to search terms like “hardship grants near me” or check with local charities for additional resources.
Centrelink Advice
Single parents may qualify for the Child Tax Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), and Child and Dependent Care Credit, all of which can reduce your tax bill or increase your tax refund.
The $3,600 Child Tax Credit (CTC) was a temporary expansion for the 2021 tax year only, under the American Rescue Plan, for children under age 6, with $3,000 for ages 6-17, and was fully refundable, allowing low-income families to get the full benefit even with no income, requiring a valid SSN for both parents and kids. For current tax years (like 2025), the credit reverts to the pre-2021 rules (up to $2,000 per child, partially refundable) unless Congress acts, but you still need an SSN and must meet income and relationship tests, even if low-income families can get a portion.
The Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) provides up to $1,189 per eligible tax return for tax year 2025. YCTC may provide you with cash back or reduce any tax you owe. California families qualify with earned income of $32,900 or less.
The bill increased the existing benefit for the 2021 tax year to a maximum of $3,600 per child under the age of six, or $3,000 for those up to the age of 17. Under the expanded scheme, half of the credit will be paid directly to parents in monthly instalments of up to $300 per child.
Taxpayers can claim a child tax credit (CTC) of up to $2,200 for each child under age 17 who is a U.S. citizen, national, or resident and has a Social Security number (SSN). The credit is reduced by 5 percent of adjusted gross income over $200,000 for single parents ($400,000 for married couples).
From 1 January 2013, transitional arrangements were abolished, and all parents could only receive PP until their youngest child turned 6 years (PPP), or 8 years (PPS). From 20 September 2023, the age of the youngest child to qualify for PPS was changed from under 8 years to under 14 years.
Grants for Single Mothers