• SingleMom.org’s Housing Resources for Single Mothers

General Single Mother Financial Help Info

Be Involved in the Child’s Life

Judges and courts do not favor parents who are not involved in their child’s or children’s lives. A single mom who is seeking custody needs to be involved in the children’s lives. This includes –

• their schooling,
• their extra-curricular activities,
• taking them to the doctor or dentist,
• attending parents-teachers meetings,
• knowing their friends and acquaintances,
• knowing the professionals involved in their lives, etc.

Ensure a Healthy Environment

When the children are in your care, make sure they are safe and enjoying a healthy environment. The children should be happy and protected. They should not lack attention because they are competing for the mother’s. This has implications for the mother entering into another relationship or relationships. Exposing children to other relationships and companions too early is frowned upon by judges and courts, as well as other parents.

Be Careful About What is Said

It is not a good idea, neither is it fair, to say unkind things about the other parent in the hearing of the children. This can be done consciously or unconsciously, but it does not score points with judges. Judges like to know that regardless of whom the child lives with, he or she maintains a healthy relationship with his other parent.

Remember Important Details

It is important to be able to recall details when it is time to go to court. These include –

• when the children were with you,
• what events were attended,
• the times when your spouse did not pick up the kids on time,
• the times when your spouse did not drop off the kids on time,
• keeping a calendar or journal of important events.

Be on Time

Make sure you are on time every time you need to be. This applies to when it is your turn to pick up or drop off the children. Being late has the effect of –

• irking the judges,
• creating arguments with spouses, and
• distressing the children.

Be Flexible

This involves single moms accommodating the other parent who would like to switch weekends or weekdays, as long as she is able to manage her schedule. This information given to the judge could make the difference in a close custody case.

Keep Court Details from Children

The children should not be told the details of what is happening in the court. Courts are opposed to children being exposed to such details. Children should, instead, be reassured of the love of both parents, who both want to be with them.

Do not Coach the Children

The most important thing to consider in any custody battle is where the children want to live. They should not be coached or brow-beaten on this matter, but it is good to have an idea of the children’s preference. If they want to be with the other parent, it is pointless to waste time and money on a custody battle. This should only be done if there is a belief that living with the other parent would be unsafe or inappropriate for the children.

Have Proof

Because it is a battle, the single mother has to be prepared to cast the other parent in a bad light. To this end, she should be able to expose the other parent’s –

• untimeliness in pick-ups or drop-offs,
• lack of involvement,
• inflexibility with the schedule,
• history of mental health issues which may impact his caring ability,
• alcohol or drug addictions,
• number and frequency of parent’s romantic relationships and the children’s exposure to them,
• ability to properly supervise the children,
• ability to ensure that the children attend school,
• ability to ensure that the children see professionals like doctors, dentists, etc, when necessary.

Listen to Your Attorney

Most importantly, find and hire a good attorney, and be honest and open with him or her. He is being paid for good advice, so that advice should be taken, regardless of what a good friend or relative might think.

Know Who Can Decide Custody

In order for a court to make a ruling in a custody case, it must have jurisdiction over that case. Jurisdiction means that the court has the power or the right to decide the case. The child or children have to be living in a state for at least six months, for that state to be considered the children’s home state. The court in that state can then decide the case. This prevents one parent from kidnapping the children and fleeing to another state to seek custody in that state.

Don’t Level False Accusations

It has been found that when protective parents allege physical or sexual abuse during a custody case, they usually become victims rather than victors. This is because the protective parents are usually mothers, and there is a Fathers Rights Movement which, naturally, sides with the fathers. This Movement supports the myth that mothers who are evil have made false allegations about physical or sexual abuse, or domestic violence, against them. The purpose of the allegations, it is alleged, is the deprivation and alienation of fathers from their children.

If those abuses are really happening, Child Protective Services (CPS) should be informed, but this needs to be done before a child custody case is in progress. This is because during a custody case, CPS tends to be very skeptical of such allegations, not desiring to become pawns in such instances. The end result tends to be that the protective parent is regarded unfavorably, and custody is given to the abuser instead.

Tax Help for Moms Who Work at Home

If the work at home mother has the knowledge, and her taxes are straightforward enough, she could file her taxes on her own.

Help is available from the The Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

The IRS provides free booklets, charts, forms, and other tools aimed at helping nationals to complete their tax returns. Moms have the option of doing this activity on their own, for free, and the IRS has some suggestions:

1. Be Prepared.

A copy of last year’s tax return should be handy (assuming this one is not the first), along with relevant forms like W-2s, 1099s, etc. Last year’s adjusted gross income (AGI) should be quickly estimated, and free information about the program should be obtained.

2. Select a Free File Option.

The option could be for using either a free file tax software, or free file fillable forms. The tax software may be used if AGI is at or below $58,000. On the other hand, if only basic calculations are required, the fillable forms are a good choice.

3. E-file Your Return for Free. This service facilitates electronic transmission of returns using the secure IRS e-file.
It also allows the tracking of tax refunds, and the safe and quick receipt of them. This can be ready in 72 hours after acknowledgement of an electronic receipt, or three to four weeks if the return was mailed. A weekly check on Wednesdays should be made in that instance.
Also facilitated are electronic payment options. These include electronic funds withdrawal, use of a debit or credit card, or enrollment into the US Treasury’s Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS).

Other Tax Tips

Tax Software

If the tax issues are fairly straightforward and therefore not too complicated, automated software are available to pick up anything that may have been missed by individuals. They are fairly inexpensive, and can be obtained at several retail stores, as well as online. The software include –

TurboTax – this tool guarantees

• Maximum refunds,
• 100% accurate calculations, and offers a
• Free Audit Support Center.TaxCut – this tool offers

• Five free Federal e-files and expertise in every version,
• Extra assistance and money-saving advice for maximum deductions,
• Facility for turning donations into tax savings,
• Live tax advice from tax professionals,
• Importation of last year’s tax and financial data, and
• In the event of an audit, personal assistance from an IRS-licensed Enrolled Agent who has audit representation expertise.

Professional Services

If a human touch is preferred, some recommended professional tax services include:

• H&R Block – this entity has several office locations. They offer to decipher all the required tax codes, so that taxpayers will receive the refunds they deserve.
• Jackson-Hewitt – this entity also has several office locations (seemingly in every State). They offer to review any return, regardless of who prepared it. If they find errors or additional deductions and credits, which would mean more funds available for receipt (free of charge), they are prepared to correct or amend the return, for a fee, at participating offices.

Tax Attorney or CPA

Certified Public Accounts (CPAs) or tax attorneys, offer the best option where tax preparation is concerned. This may not be an option for work at home moms, but other moms who may have more complex or unique tax needs, could be best served by these professionals. This is of significance since work at home and other professionals are more likely to be audited.

Realize Savings

There are ways that have been put forward for mothers to realize further savings –

Wait for the Tax Refund

Advertisements tend to encourage taxpayers to request instant refunds. It has been found, however, that a faster refund does not exist. It is felt that the average refund takes 10 days to be received, if filed electronically, and waiting, rather than rushing the refund, may result in savings of $100 or more.

File Returns Early

It is also a common practice for taxpayers to file late returns. However, although it is allowed, paying late returns attract fees which may add up to more than $100.

Realize State Sales Taxes

It is agreed that the sales tax paid for purchasing a motor vehicle, or materials for building a home, can be deducted so that a bigger refund can be realized.

Remember Reinvested Dividends

Although these funds are not tax deductions, they are important subtractions that can save a lot of money, and many persons miss that opportunity. Forgotten reinvested dividends cause a double taxation of the dividends, first when they are received, and later when they are included in the sales proceeds.

Include out-of-pocket Charitable Contributions

It is not necessary to be a big corporation to benefit from deductions for charitable contributions. Mothers, who drive their cars for charity, are allowed to deduct 14 cents per mile. Deductions can also be made for ingredients purchased for casseroles, cakes, or anything else for a nonprofit organization’s soup kitchen, for example. Receipts for all these transactions should be safely kept.

Job-Hunting Costs

This facility does not apply to a first job. Job search expenses for a position in the same type of work in which the mom was previously employed, include:

• Food, transportation, and lodging if staying overnight is necessary,
• Taxi fares,
• Employment agency fees,
• Printing costs for resumes, business cards, advertising, and postage.

Moving Expenses for First Job

Although the expenses incurred while hunting for the first job are not deductible, moving expenses to get to the job are. However, the job needs to be at least 50 miles away from the old home.

It is an established fact that bullies lack self-esteem. Bullying is therefore just an attempt to build-up the bully, hence the reason for them attacking persons who appear to be weaker than themselves. They stay clear of persons who fight back.

Types of Bullying

There are two different types of bullying:

Physical Bullying

Physical bullying is equated with assault. This means that the person being bullied can show signs of physical abuse, such as –

• scratches,
• bruises,
• wheals,
• breaks, and others.

The matter, when discovered, should be reported to the authorities, including the police, even if it occurs in school. The activity should not be, and is not being taken lightly anymore.

Emotional Bullying

Emotional bullying is more subtle. This type involves –

• Ignoring
• Name-calling
• Exclusion
• The silent treatment
• Manipulation
• Having possessions removed or stolen
• Not being picked for teams
• Arguing into submission, etc.

This type of bullying can severely damage a person’s self-confidence, which can have tragic consequences. The activity is not usually easily detected, as the perpetrators tend to be careful to not have witnesses around. If it is happening to a child in school, reporting it to the authorities might not yield any positive results, for that reason.

Telltale Signs of Bullying

There are telltale signs of bullying. A child who is bullied at school may demonstrate a few of the following signs:

• Becoming uncharacteristically short-tempered or moody
• Bedwetting
• Anxiety, insecurity, or insomnia
• Stealing money from a purse at home
• Becoming quiet, withdrawn and uncommunicative
• Showing lack of respect for others
• Trying to stay with a teacher or adult during breaks
• Expressions of violence in writings or drawings
• Physical signs like bruises, cuts, or torn clothing, etc.

Protection Strategies

Thankfully, it is possible to protect children from bullies. The first strategy is:

Build-up the child’s self-confidence.

This will keep him from the bully’s line of sight, since bullies are cowards themselves, and only attack persons who appear to be weaker than they are. Bullies tend to avoid persons with a strong sense of character. A child who has a high self-esteem is better able to manage the ups and downs of life, at school, at home, and later at work, and in other relationships. An early start is very beneficial for success. Children who are self-confident, are –

• Able to accept and learn from their own mistakes,
• Confident without being arrogant or conceited,
• Not demoralized by criticism or mild teasing,
• Able to deal with their own feelings,
• Not easily upset by setbacks or obstacles,
• Unlikely to feel a need to belittle others,
• Assertive, but not aggressive in communicating their needs,
• More likely to resist peer pressure,
• Not too worried about failing or looking foolish,
• Able to bounce back from disappointments and failures,
• Able to cope with change,
• Able to say ‘No’, without offending the other person.

Encourage the child to speak up

If the child is being bullied it is important that he knows that he has his parents’ support and help to solve the problem. The child should never be blamed for being weak or a coward, as this only makes matters worse.

Teach the child to deal with bullying in non-violent ways. The child should be taught to –

1. Be firm and tell the bully that he is not intimidated by him.
2. Walk away from the bully, as some of them may carry weapons.
3. Practice self-defense moves, as these can help build self-confidence. The child can be enrolled in classes at recreation centers or community centers without charge or for a small fee.

Encourage the child to make and walk with many good friends

Bullies tend to attack people who are alone. Walking together in groups tends to minimize the chance of being attacked.

Protection from Cyberbullies

Children of varying ages are also being bullied on the World Wide Web. Some of them have been severely emotionally and psychologically traumatized, and a few of them have committed suicide as a result. Bullies in this scenario are helped by the anonymity that the social media on the Internet provides. Again, thankfully, there are steps that can be taken to protect children from online dangers:

• Talk to children about their online activities, and expose them to the dangers of cyber bullying. Put them on notice that their Internet and Smartphone usage will be monitored.
• Set up Google alerts to monitor when your children’s names are mentioned on the web.
• Be your children’s ‘Friend’ on Facebook, and monitor their privacy settings so that you will be able to view their profiles and activities.
• Join other social networks, like Twitter, so you will be able to search and know what is being said about your children.
• Inform teachers if there is a suspicion that your child is being cyberbullied. Teachers are in a position to notice changes in children’s behaviour, and the perpetrator may be a classmate.
• Set up parental monitoring software on home computers and children’s smart phones.
• Check with school authorities to find out whether computer monitoring software is installed on the classroom computers.
• Prohibit your children from having many e-mail addresses, screen names, and social networking accounts.
• Prohibit your children from using geolocation tools and applications on Facebook and Smartphone.
• Carefully observe your children’s use of electronic communications tools. Subtle changes may be an indication that all is not well.

Common Work From Home Scams

Scammers are smart enough to set up websites claiming to reveal job scams and direct persons to ‘legitimate’ jobs which are not legitimate at all. A good thing to bear in mind is the old adage that suggests that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true. Some of the scams include –

Processing rebates

This is a type of data entry scam which pays money for just completing online forms. The program software has to be purchased for a tidy sum, but all that is received is information which could have been had for free somewhere else. Also, rebates could be processed with victims’ funds, but those funds are never reimbursed.

Google work at home scams

These scams may ask for payment of a nominal fee of $2, for example, but end up charging victims’ credit cards huge sums. Some of them even promise earning large sums with little effort using Google Adsense, but in reality Adsense business building is time consuming.

Home assembly or envelope stuffing

These are outright work at home scams. Usually a fee has to be paid for the inventory of envelopes which then have to be stuffed or assembled as directed. When the work is returned with the expectation of payment, the company declares that the work was not up to their ‘standards’ which are never given.

Directories of business opportunities or business software

Legitimate directories, books, and software for starting online businesses can be obtained at libraries, booksellers and software companies. Those that are only advertised on Google ads, websites, or in search engines, usually do not deliver what they promise, and neither can they be physically contacted for assistance.

Anything involving wiring money or cashing checks

In this scam, companies send checks to persons who must retain some of it and wire the remainder back to them under some guise. These checks are usually phony, however, and so they bounce in the accounts, leaving a debt which the victim has to absorb.

Direct selling or multilevel marketing (MLM)

While there are reputable companies which do use multilevel marketing to sell their high quality products, there are some which either sell questionable products or overemphasize recruitment. This is what makes them pyramid schemes or work at home scams.

Pyramid schemes

These focus more on building down lines than on selling products, since the basis for payment is hinged on recruiting others. Some of them involve posting ads online or distributing flyers.

Online surveys

While these may not be outright scams, they are not as glamorous as they appear to be, and do not earn the required bucks fast enough to receive a payment. There are a few legit programs out there, but just keep in mind you need to be realistic about the potential earnings. You won’t be earning 300 dollars a day filling out surveys, but more like a fraction of that. For some, the extra money might be something to consider, but don’t think you are going to get a full time wage.

Medical billing

These scams require payment for the software, training, and technical support needed to help prospects build a medical billing business. They propose to find clients for their prospects, since doctors will hire their services even if they are inexperienced. The reality is that the competition is hot among large companies that are already well established.

Mystery shopping

Again there are legitimate mystery shopper jobs. Those, however, that require payment for inclusion on lists, should be carefully scrutinized. More elaborate mystery shopper jobs require cashing checks and wiring the money. That activity should be avoided.

Data entry or call centers

These can be legitimate, but some of them are scams. So-called recruiters, who require payment for sourcing one of these jobs, are suspect. Some data entry scams are affiliate marketing opportunities that are full of misleading advertising and promises of huge earnings. It should be borne in mind that it is difficult for a turnkey operation to build a website and attract traffic that results in sales, as they propose to do. http://workathomemoms.about.com/od/workathomescams/a/Data-Entry-Scams.htm.

Other typical work at home scams involve –

1. Business start-up kits,
2. Becoming product re-sellers or wholesalers, and
3. Stock trading systems.

Telling the Difference Between Legit Jobs and Scams

Here are some tips in learning to tell the difference between the legitimate jobs and the scams:

Use common sense

Don’t trust companies that offer a lot of returns for very little work effort. Everybody goes into business to make a profit, and paying out a lot cuts into their profits. Beware, also, of companies which promote themselves as ‘legitimate jobs’. Chances are they are not.

Make careful checks

Do not send funds to companies without first checking them out with a ‘fine tooth comb’. Make sure they are legitimate and do not have complaints lodged against them.

Check out the Job Listings

Find out if there is a salary or if payment is made on commission. Enquire, also, about how and how often payment is made. Find out what kind of equipment and materials are required for the job.

Getting rich quickly will not happen

Do not fall for listings that promise or even guarantee financial success, wealth, or the opportunity to become rich quickly. Offers of high income for doing only part time work should be avoided. It is not likely to happen.

Avoid job opportunities on search engines and some websites

It should be borne in mind that companies hiring for genuine work at home jobs are seeking qualified, reliable persons, and screening job applicants takes a lot of time. The ones advertised on Google or other search engines are not likely to be for real.

Don’t pay for job opportunities

In reality, employers don’t charge employees to work for them – they pay them instead. The scammers ask for money, since the businesses are expected to have costs for starting up. However, a real home business is carefully planned and researched, not bought online and unseen. Do not pay for kits to start a business or for a work at home directory.

Check references

When in doubt about the legitimacy of a company, request references. These could be other employees or contractors who have done work for the company. They should be contacted and interviewed about the profit potential of the job.

Think about it!

As mentioned before, usually if it sounds too good to be true, chances are it is. Job offers should be read very carefully, because there could be traps hidden in them, such as requests for applicants’ bank account information.

Report scams

If scamming has occurred, it should be reported promptly. Victims’ banks and other relevant authorities should be notified. These authorities include:

The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) – This Center works in partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C), and the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA). The IC3 accepts complaints about online Internet crimes. When filing a complaint, the following information needs to be submitted:

• Complainant’s name, mailing address, and telephone number.
• Name, address, telephone number, web address – if available – of the defrauding organization.
• Specific details about the occurrence of the defrauding.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – This organization is the consumer protection agency of the United States, and it is responsible for collecting complaints about identity theft, companies, and business practices.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) – This organization receives complaints online. A company’s name or web site may be entered into the Bureau’s search box, and information should be received as to whether complaints have been filed against a company. Also, if the company has a record with the Bureau that is not satisfactory, that information will be revealed.

Final Word on Work From home Job Scams

Work at home job scams are prevalent today, and scammers very cleverly find ways to camouflage the illegitimacy of their offers. Any legitimate job can be scammed. The difference is detected when what is promised is not delivered, or payment is requested for information or entry into the job. Scammers fraudulently try to make victims wire money to them, sometimes from bogus checks sent to the victims. Perhaps in situations like those, the persons required to lodge those checks should wait and ensure that the check is bona fide, before wiring their personal funds to any destination.

Examples of job scams, including offers for payroll assistants and personal assistants, are reported on this site http://jobsearch.about.com/u/ua/jobsearchscams/jobscams.htm. They should be carefully read and noted.

Note, you might want to check out our Job Resources for Moms section for jobs for mom info. Also take a good look at singlemoms.org’s work at home jobs for single mothers section — it’s got a HUGE number of job ideas for moms looking to work from home.

Note, you might want to check out our Canadian Federal Assistance page and our Canadian Provincial Assistance for Single Mothers page for more related information on Canadian Assistance Programs.

Raising a family can be a challenge when there doesn’t seem to be enough money to go around. But there are a number of government Canada grants available in a number of important areas that will help you live better right now, or prepare for a better future.

TRAINING

Apprenticeship Grants

Apprenticeship grants are designed to make a career in the trades more attractive and to reward those who persevere in and complete an apprenticeship. The money is intended to cover costs related to training, such as tuition, tools and travel.

Skilled tradespeople have an advantage in the job market, and, even better, as a journeyman in one of the Red Seal trades your skills are recognized and transportable throughout Canada.

More than 50 trades are included in the Red Seal program, from automotive painter or baker to glaziers, plumbers, roofers and welders. To see a complete list of recognized trades, see the program’s website.

Just remember that not all trades carry the Red Seal in all provinces—those in your province may be different from those in other parts of Canada. So before deciding on a trade, consider where you may end up practicing it.

Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG)

This grant encourages you to “stick with” the apprenticeship you’ve chosen and embarked upon. Once you’ve successfully completed your second year or level of apprenticeship program in one of the Red Seal trades, you will receive a taxable grant of $1000 per year (for a maximum of $2000).

You are eligible for this grant if:

• You are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or protected person
• You are not a high school student
• Your apprenticeship is registered (with an employer, a training trust fund, union training centre, or similar recognized apprenticeship sponsor)
• The program you are following is designated as Red Seal in the same province where your apprenticeship is registered
• You have supporting documentation that proves you have completed the first and second years and/or levels (or equivalent) of the program in which you are registered
• You are applying for the grant within the deadline: June 30 of the calendar year following your completion of required apprenticeship term

It’s easiest to apply online—if you meet the eligibility guidelines above, apply here. You can expect your grant within about a month after your application is complete.

Apprenticeship Completion Grant (ACG)

Once you have completed your apprenticeship and become a certified journeyperson, you can apply for this $2000 taxable grant as well.

The eligibility criteria for this grant are the same as for the Incentive Grant, except that, of course, your documentation will include proof that you have successfully completed an apprenticeship program in one of the Red Seal trades.

Apply here for the Apprenticeship Completion Grant.

It is not necessary to have received the AIG in order to apply for the ACG. Similarly, you may apply for both if your apprenticeship was completed after 2 years of training.

EDUCATION

One of the richest sources of grants is money made available for continuing education and lifelong learning. People who are better educated qualify for better-paying jobs. The government recognizes this simple fact in the clearest way possible: by providing lots of financial help for people who want to improve their prospects for rewarding and productive employment.

Whether you’re looking for financial aid so that you may find a better job, or need help financing a good education for your children, there is likely a grant that fits your circumstances in the list below.

For each of the following grants, eligibility starts with an application for a Canada Student Loan.  All applications for loans and grants are processed at the provincial level, so make sure you inquire about procedures and send all paperwork to the appropriate student financial assistance office for your area. Most provinces will provide an online application process for the Canada Student Loan.

At the time your loan application is processed, your case will be evaluated for any available grants, which are awards that do not have to be repaid. Familiarize yourself with the list of grants below and, if a grant amount you were expecting is not included in your Certificate of Eligibility, you will be able to make inquiries as to why.

Remember that any student loans you receive—as opposed to a grant—must be repaid with interest. Make sure you understand your entire Certificate of Eligibility and its implications before signing it. Signing this document means you agree to pay back any loan amount plus interest.

Grant for Students from Low Income Families

Available for undergraduate studies only

Eligibility for this grant hinges on your family income related to family size. These figures are unique for each province—you can see what qualifies as low income on Table A of  this chart.

The grant is for full-time students in a program of at least two years at a designated post-secondary institution (contact your provincial/territorial student financial assistance office to find out if the school you want to attend qualifies).

Up to $3000 per academic year is available under this grant ($250 per month of study), disbursed at the beginning and middle of the school year. Since grant amounts are fixed, it is possible that you will receive a grant that meets or exceeds your assessed need amount, in which case you will not need a student loan.

For example, if your application for a Canada Student Loan assesses your need at $1400,  and you qualify for this Low Income grant, the grant amount of $2000 makes any loan unnecessary. You do not have to pay back the difference.

Grant for Students from Middle Income Families

Available for undergraduate studies only.

This grant is also based on family size and income, as determined by Table B in this matrix. It is also for full-time students engaged in at least two years of study at an eligible post-secondary institution (you will have to contact your student financial assistance office to make sure your institution qualifies).

The award is $100 per month of study, up to $1200 per academic year, and is also disbursed twice per academic year. Similar to the grant for Low Income Families, if your assessed need is lower than the grant amount, you will not have to contract for a student loan to finance your education.

Grant for Students with Dependants

Available for studies beyond the undergraduate level.

With this grant, the type of program you are enrolled in expands. It can be a degree, certificate or diploma program of at least 12 weeks within a period of 15 consecutive weeks. You are eligible if your family qualifies as low income and you have at least one dependant under age 12 at the beginning of the study period.

If you have a dependant child over age 12 who is disabled, you may also qualify for this program.

The grant amount is $200 per month of study for each dependant child. This grant program builds on the Grant for Students from Low Income families—the amount for your dependant children is added to the $250 per month you already qualify for under that program.

Grant for Part-Time Studies

Available for studies beyond the undergraduate level.

Students from low-income families enrolled in a part-time program of at least 12 weeks within 15 consecutive weeks qualify for this grant, which provides up to $1200 per academic year.

This grant is different from those listed earlier in that it will not exceed your assessed need: if your need is evaluated at $800, you will receive that amount, not a fixed amount of $1200.

Grant for Part-Time Students with Dependants

Available for studies beyond the undergraduate level.

Eligibility for this grant is the same as for the Grant for Part-Time Studies, except that:

• You have a dependant younger than age 12 at the beginning of the study period (exceptions for older children who are disabled)
• Your assessed needs exceeds the Grant for Part-Time Studies (maximum of $1200)
• You have borrowed at least $4000 in Canada Student Loans

If those criteria are met, you will receive a maximum of $1920 per academic year, depending on the number of dependants you claim. The grant is calculated on a per-week basis ( up to $40 per week of study for one or two dependants; up to $60 for three or more). The grant amount will not exceed your assessed need.

Grant for Students with Permanent Disabilities

Available for studies beyond the undergraduate level.

This grant offers $2000 per academic year for disabled students enrolled in a part-time or full-time program of 32 weeks or more.

Proof of your permanent disability is supplied with any of:

• A medical certificate
• A psycho-educational assessment
• Documentation that you receive federal or provincial disability assistance

As with all the other grants, your course of study must be taken at a designated post-secondary educational institution.

Find the student financial assistance office for your area to verify your eligibility for this grant and to apply.

Grant for Services and Equipment for Students with Permanent Disabilities

Available for studies beyond the undergraduate level.

If you qualify for the Grant for Students with Permanent Disabilities, and in addition can provide written confirmation and the exact cost of necessary education-related services and/or equipment, you may be eligible for a grant of up to $8000 per academic year to fund those exceptional expenses.

Saving for Education

Planning ahead for your child’s education costs can save you big money down the road. The first, and easiest, step is to make use of the programs the Federal government has in place to help.

Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)

Having an RESP in place makes your child eligible for various grants that can then be deposited into the RESP. Income generated from the contributions is not taxable as long as it remains in the RESP. Parents, relatives, and friends of a beneficiary may also contribute, up to a lifetime limit of $50,000 per child.

Funds from the RESP are disbursed for qualified educational purposes: full- or part-time studies in an apprenticeship program, a CEGEP, trade school, college or university. Students will pay taxes on income disbursed from the fund, but not on contribution amounts.

The RESP account remains open for 36 years from inception, so there’s no pressure on you or your child to start or finish school on a tight schedule. If for some reason the funds are not used for your child’s education, the contributions are returned to you as tax-free income.

Eligibility:

Both the subscriber and the beneficiary(ies) must have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

How To Apply:

You (the subscriber) need to choose a promoter (the entity that will administer the savings plan and disburse funds). Information on RESP application procedures is available from most financial institutions.

• Important: research your options first. Some promoters may not offer all the programs for which you are eligible. This can mean giving up free money for your child, or embarking on a longish process of changing promoters and transferring your account. Visit this website to see what you need to know before choosing a promoter.

Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG)

This federal grant makes a payment of 20% on RESP contributions for an eligible beneficiary, up until the age of 17.

For families with low to middle-income, there is also an Additional CESG (A-CESG) over and above the basic CESG described above. This grant will add either 10% or 20%, depending on family income, to the first $500 contributed to the beneficiary’s RESP each calendar year, up until the end of the year in which the child turns 17. Year 2010 income limits are $41,544.00 (for the 20% grant) and $83,088 (for the 10% grant).

Eligibility:

All children up to age 17 are eligible for the basic CESG, as long as they are Canadian residents and have an RESP. There are special rules for children age 15-17. These rules and other information can be found at the link above.

How To Apply:

Your RESP provider should automatically ensure that the basic CESG grant is being deposited in your child’s RESP.

One of the considerations when choosing a provider (also known as a promoter) is to ensure they offer the A-CESG if you qualify by income. If you’ve already opened an RESP and your provider does not offer this grant, you will have to transfer the RESP to one who does, in order to apply.

Canada Learning Bond (CLB)

Another incentive program from the federal government to help make starting an RESP an easy choice for families on a limited budget.

This program will deposit $500 into your child’s RESP regardless of any contributions you do or do not make. Each year thereafter until your child reaches age 15, $100 will be deposited into the RESP. (An extra $25 will be provided to help offset any costs associated with setting up the RESP.) That’s up to $2000 plus interest provided for your child’s education after high school.

Eligibility

To qualify for this bond program:

• · Your child must have been born after December 31, 2003
• · You receive the National Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS) as part of the Canada Child Tax Benefit (also known as “family allowance” or “baby bonus”).

How To Apply

Just open an RESP for your child (a SIN will be required). When selecting an RESP provider/promoter, remember to verify that they offer this bond first. If you anticipate contributing to your child’s RESP at any point in the future, make sure the RESP provider also offers the A-CESG if you believe your income will qualify you for that additional grant amount.

HOUSING

Emergency Repair Program

This program funds emergency housing repairs to homeowners and tenants in rural areas.  Your application for aid must be approved before any repairs are carried out.

There are two types of eligibility to be considered:

• Your income must be below the ceiling established for the area in which you live
• The repairs must be necessary for safety reasons, such as to chimneys, heating systems, doors and windows, foundation, plumbing or electrical systems.

Grant amounts vary based on geographic location and type of repair; maximum amounts available are:

• Southern Canada: $6000
• Northern Canada: $9000
• Far Northern Canada: $11,000

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation administers this grant, and has other similar programs for home modification or renovation for the disabled and elderly. A pre-qualification tool can be found at their website to see more details on these programs and their requirements.

Energy efficiency grants and incentives

You may qualify for federal grants for home improvements that lower energy costs, improve comfort and reduce environmental impacts.

You will need to procure an energy advisor to conduct an audit of your home or multi-unit residential building first. Their evaluation of the buildings energy use will highlight retrofits to improve efficiency, which are used as a basis for determining grant amounts.

The maximum grant amount for a home is $5000 (for a multi-unit residential building, $5000 per unit).

Some of the retrofits provided under this program are replacing heating system units, cooling system units, insulation for walls, floors, attics and more, air sealing, doors, windows and skylights, and water conservation improvements.

A complete list of eligible retrofits, as well as application and eligibility information, is available at the link above.

From child care assistance to University savings plans, there is likely some program that can help you manage more easily the expenses associated with raising your children and keeping your family strong. There are even programs to ensure your retirement or disability payments make provisions for your children.

Note that  these are CANADIAN FEDERAL ASSISTANCE programs and NOT PROVINCIAL ASSISTANCE. If you are looking for provincial assistance, take a look at the Canadian Provincial Assistance page.

Take a look through the list below and see what programs can benefit you.

(This listing focuses on family-related services. For a full listing of benefits, programs and services, see the websites of Benefits Canada or Service Canada.)

Education Savings

Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)

Toll-Free: 1-800-267-3100 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-267-3100 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

An RESP is a great way to start saving early for your child’s education. For one thing, having an RESP in place makes your child eligible for various grants that can then be deposited into the RESP; for another, income generated from the contributions is not taxable as long as it remains in the RESP. Parents, relatives, and friends of a beneficiary may also contribute, up to a lifetime limit of $50,000 per child.

Funds from the RESP are disbursed for qualified educational purposes: full- or part-time studies in an apprenticeship program, a CEGEP, trade school, college or university. Students will pay taxes on income disbursed from the fund, but not on contribution amounts.

The RESP account remains open for 36 years from inception, so there’s no pressure on you or your child to start or finish school on a tight schedule. If for some reason the funds are not used for your child’s education, the contributions are returned to you as tax-free income.

Eligibility:

Both the subscriber and the beneficiary(ies) must have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

How To Apply:

You (the subscriber) need to choose a promoter (the entity that will administer the savings plan and disburse funds). Information on RESP application procedures is available from most financial institutions.

• Important: research your options first. Some promoters may not offer all the programs for which you are eligible. This can mean giving up free money for your child, or embarking on a longish process of changing promoters and transferring your account. Visit this website to see what you need to know before choosing a promoter.

Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG)

Toll-Free:1- 800-622-6232 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1- 800-622-6232 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

This federal grant makes a payment of 20% on RESP contributions for an eligible beneficiary, up until the age of 17.

For families with low to middle-income, there is also an Additional CESG (A-CESG) over and above the basic CESG described above. This grant will add either 10% or 20%, depending on family income, to the first $500 contributed to the beneficiary’s RESP each calendar year, up until the end of the year in which the child turns 17. Year 2010 income limits are $41,544.00 (for the 20% grant) and $83,088 (for the 10% grant).

Eligibility:

All children up to age 17 are eligible for the basic CESG, as long as they are Canadian residents and have an RESP. There are special rules for children age 15-17. These rules and other information can be found at the link above.

How To Apply:

Your RESP provider should automatically ensure that the basic CESG grant is being deposited in your child’s RESP.

One of the considerations when choosing a provider (also known as a promoter) is to ensure they offer the A-CESG if you qualify by income. If you’ve already opened an RESP and your provider does not offer this grant, you will have to transfer the RESP to one who does, in order to apply.

Canada Learning Bond (CLB)

Toll-Free:1- 800-622-6232 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1- 800-622-6232 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Another incentive program from the federal government to help make starting an RESP an easy choice for families on a limited budget.

This program will deposit $500 into your child’s RESP regardless of any contributions you do or do not make. Each year thereafter until your child reaches age 15, $100 will be deposited into the RESP. (An extra $25 will be provided to help offset any costs associated with setting up the RESP.) That’s up to $2000 plus interest provided for your child’s education after high school.

Eligibility

To qualify for this bond program:

• · Your child must have been born after December 31, 2003
• · You receive the National Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS) as part of the Canada Child Tax Benefit (also known as “family allowance” or “baby bonus”).

How To Apply

Just open an RESP for your child (a SIN will be required). When selecting an RESP provider/promoter, remember to verify that they offer this bond first. If you anticipate contributing to your child’s RESP at any point in the future, make sure the RESP provider also offers the A-CESG if you believe your income will qualify you for that additional grant amount.

Pension and Employment

Child Rearing Drop-Out Provision (CRDP)

Toll-Free: 1-800-277-9114 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-277-9114 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

When you retire or become disabled, you become eligible to receive basic benefits from the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). In the event of your death, these benefits transfer to your partner and/or children. Naturally, you will want this monthly benefit to be calculated to your advantage wherever possible.

The benefit amount is calculated on how much and how long you paid into the pension plan; however, certain life events cause people to “drop out” of earning at their full potential for some period of time. One of these events is child rearing. The CRDP is a provision to exclude such a period from your earnings calculations, so that your ultimate CPP benefit is not reduced

Eligibility

The CRDP can only be used for months where:

• Your family received National Child Benefit Supplement (also known as “family allowance” or “baby bonus”) payments or were eligible for the Canada Child Tax Benefit (even if you did not receive the benefit)

And

• Your earnings were lower because you either stopped working, or worked fewer hours to be the primary caregiver of a dependent child under the age of seven

And

• That child was born after December 31, 1958

How To Apply

Apply for the CRDP at the same time you apply for any CPP benefit. You should apply at least six months before you would like to start receiving the benefit.

Applications are available online here.

You may also stop at any Service Canada Centre for a kit. Find the Centre nearest you.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Children’s Benefits

Toll-Free: 1-800-277-9914 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-277-9914 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

CPP Children’s Benefits provide a monthly benefit to the dependent children of disabled or deceased contributors. Your rates will vary based on your parent’s contributions, but averages and maximums can be investigated at this link.

Eligibility:

For you to be eligible for Children’s Benefits, your parent must have made sufficient contributions to the CPP. Also, if you are between 18 and 25, you must be attending school full time at a recognized institution. Children under 18 do not have to be in school to be eligible.

How To Apply

You should apply when you first become aware that your parent has applied for a disability benefit, or should your parent die.

Information and links to application forms can be found here.

Employment Insurance (EI)

Toll-Free: 1-800-206-7218 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-206-7218 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Employment Insurance provides regular benefits to individuals who lose their jobs through no fault of their own (for example, due to shortage of work, seasonal or mass lay-offs) and are available for and able to work, but can’t find a job. There’s no way to tell in advance of application what your benefit will be, but the basic rate is 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings. At present, the maximum amount is $468 per week (based on the maximum yearly insurable amount of $44, 200).

Benefits are provided for a period of from 14 to 45 weeks, depending on unemployment rates in your region and the number of insurable work hours you accumulated during the 52 weeks preceding your claim. If you should find work before exhausting your benefit, the remainder can be “reactivated” for you to use again should another layoff occur.

While you are receiving benefits, you must be actively looking for work and keeping a written record of employer contacts.

Eligibility

You may be eligible for this benefit if you:

• Have paid EI premiums (through paycheck deductions during periods of employment)
• Lost your employment through no fault of your own
• Have been without work and pay for at least seven consecutive days in the last 52 weeks
• Have worked for the required number of insurance hours in the last 52 weeks or since the start of your last EI claim (whichever is shorter)

How To Apply

The application for EI regular benefits is completed online (whether you do it from home, from a Service Canada Centre, or from some public internet access point) and could take up to an hour. Review the instructions beforehand to make sure you have all required information and documentation.

Employment Insurance Family Supplement

Toll-Free: 1-800-206-7218 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-206-7218 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

The Family Supplement is a feature of Employment Insurance (EI) that provides additional benefits to low-income families with children when a caregiver loses his or her job.

The maximum Family Supplement will reach as high as 80% of your average insurable earnings.

As your income level rises, the Family Supplement gradually decreases, so that when the maximum income of $25,921 is reached no supplement is payable.

Eligibility

If your family receives the Canada Child Tax Benefit, then you are eligible to receive the supplement on qualifying income levels.

How To Apply

No application is necessary—if you are eligible, the Family Supplement will automatically be added to your EI benefit.

Child Care

Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB)

Toll-Free: 1-800-387-1193 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-387-1193 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

The Canada Child Tax Benefit is a tax‑free, monthly payment made to eligible families to help them with the cost of raising children under age 18. The amount of this benefit is calculated using the information you provide on your income tax returns. The benefit comprises two parts:

1. The National Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS), the federal government’s contribution to the National Child Benefit.
2. The CCTB may also include the Child Disability Benefit (CDB), a monthly benefit for qualified families caring for children with severe and prolonged mental or physical impairments.

Eligibility:

• Child must be under age 18
• Child must live with you and you are the child’s caregiver (there are provisions for shared and temporary custodianship)
• You must be a resident of Canada
• You (or your partner) must be a Canadian citizen or a recognized legal resident with a period of established residency (more information at the program website).

How To Apply:

You should apply for the CCTB as soon as possible after any of these events:

• Your child is born
• A child begins to live with you
• You become a resident of Canada

Don’t assume you are ineligible because your family income seems too high. The eligibility calculations can be complex and you might be missing a detail that qualifies you. Apply regardless and see what the agency comes up with.

There are three ways to apply for the CCTB:

1. If you consented to use the Automated Benefits Application Service (ABA) on the birth registration form when your child was born, you should have all the information you need to apply using this service. It is important to verify whether or not you provided this consent—if you apply for benefits using one of the next two methods, and you are already a registered ABA user, your benefits may be delayed. See how to use the ABA here.
2. You can fill out a form and mail it in. For the form and address, see here.
3. You can apply online here.

For the CDB (the benefit for families having a disabled child), see more information below.

Child Disability Benefit (CDB)

Toll Free: 1-800-387-1193 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-387-1193 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

The Child Disability Benefit (CDB) is a tax-free benefit, paid monthly, of up to $2470 per year ($205.83 per month) for families who care for a child under age 18 with a major disability. This could be a physical or mental impairment that can be classified as “severe and prolonged” (lasting, or expected to last, at least 12 months).

Eligibility

Families who are eligible for the Canada Child Tax Benefit will receive the CDB only if the child is also eligible for the disability amount, also known as the Disability Tax Credit. Determining eligibility for the disability amount is the first step, and requires a doctor’s certification that the child’s impairment meets certain conditions.

How To Apply

A special form must be completed by both you and a qualified practitioner attesting to the child’s disability. If Canada Revenue Agency approves that form, then the CDP payments will begin.

The special form to complete is called T2201 Disability Tax Credit Certificate, and can be found here.

Send the completed form to your tax centre after you have filed your taxes for the year, to avoid a delay in assessment.

Universal Child Care Benefit

Toll-Free: 1-800-622-6232 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-622-6232 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

This taxable benefit is paid to parents in monthly instalments of $100 per month per child under the age of six. The benefit is available to any Canadian family with young children, no matter where you live or what your financial situation. You can use the payment for any child care-related expense, whether it be out-of-home care, to help pay for pre-school programs or educational materials, or even apply it toward an education fund (RESP or RDSP).

Payment is made monthly directly to the lower-earning parent. The “taxability” of the benefit has recently been improved so that single-parent families receive tax treatment comparable to two-parent families. Joint custody provisions will soon be added to make it easier for parents to share the amount received.

Eligibility:

• You must be the primary caregiver of a child under 6 years of age on or after July 1, 2006
• You must be a resident of Canada

How to Apply:

If your family is already receiving/has qualified for the Canada Child Tax Benefit then you will automatically receive the UCCB. There is no need to apply separately.

There are three ways to apply:

1. Through the Canada Revenue Agency website.
2. At a Service Canada Centre. Find the centre closest to you.
3. By phoning 1-800-387-1193 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-387-1193 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Health, Wellness, Educational Access

Nobody’s Perfect

General Inquiries: 1-613-952-1220 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-613-952-1220 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Nobody’s Perfect is a parenting education and support program for parents of young children. Parents who are young, single, isolated geographically or socially, or who have low income and education levels may not have had access to the kind of parenting information that will help their child thrive. This program, offered as a series of six to eight weekly group sessions, is designed for just such parents.

Materials are free, and trained facilitators (community workers, other parents and public health nurses) help participants work together to discover positive parenting techniques. The program is based on the principles of adult education—building on what these capable adults already know and do, then involving them in the learning process to expand on those capabilities. The network formed by this learning process provides a source of advice and support that can carry well beyond the weekly meetings.

Eligibility

Parents of children age birth to 5 years

How To Apply

Contact a provincial coordinator at this website.

Aboriginal Head Start in Urban and Northern Communities

General Inquiries: 613-952-1220 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 613-952-1220 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

The Aboriginal Head Start in Urban and Northern Communities Program is a community-based children’s program delivered by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). It focuses on early childhood development for First Nation, Inuit and Métis children and their families living off-reserve.

The program is individually developed for each community where it exists, but typically will include the following components in a structured half-day preschool format:

• Aboriginal culture and language
• Education and school readiness
• Health promotion
• Nutrition
• Social support
• Parental involvement

The program is free.

Eligibility

Any family from one of the populations mentioned who lives off-reserve is eligible to apply. There is a similar program in place for on-reserve families, the Aboriginal Head Start On-Reserve.

How To Apply

To see if programs exist in your area, and to inquire about registration and transportation, contact the PHAC regional office nearest you.

Undesirables

It is said that it takes all kinds to make a world. This means that the world is full of different kinds of people. That is no less true about men. There are some undesirables among the male population who should be avoided as dating partners. According to eharmony.com which exposes them at http://singlemoms.eharmony.com/5-types-of-men-to-avoid.html , these less favorable candidates, to name a few, include:

• The immature man:

This man basically lives in a fantasy world of boyhood, where he had little or no responsibility and so was quite carefree. He still idolizes pizza and chases every party in town. This type is also likely to be a seasonal employee due to lack of commitment, which could also feature in the relationship and so does not offer much promise of success.

• The man who looks at every woman:

Some say he is ‘gazing’ as he notices every woman except his date. Although admiration of the opposite sex is healthy, disrespecting his date by ignoring her and commenting on every other woman in sight is not acceptable.

• The mean man:

This type is mean to the point of being cheap. He counts every cent that needs to be spent, and looks for the cheapest places to go on dates, as well as the cheapest foods to buy. As long as there is the slightest suspicion that this date is a miser, the warning should be heeded as this has implications for the future.

Consider These

But there are good men available who make the dating experience more enjoyable. If the aim of dating is to gain a husband, then men made from husband material should be sought. One website, http://www.holsterss.com/2007/01/7-qualities-of-good-husband.html, suggests some qualities of a good husband. Here are a few:

Attentive:

Attentiveness is demonstrated by a person who is a good listener, and everybody likes to be listened to. Single moms are no different. They like the security of having someone with whom they can converse and be assured of having their undivided attention. Even if they can’t solve them, single moms need to know that their mates will listen to their problems, and this is demonstrated during the dating period.

Faithful:

Someone who is faithful is loyal and committed. A potential husband needs to demonstrate that he is serious about the relationship and so is likely to remain true to his partner. He shows that he is a man of his word by keeping his commitments and promises during the dating period.

Sensitive:

A sensitive date is likely to pay close attention to his partner’s feelings and needs, which involves communicating at a high level. This characteristic will be exhibited in his behaviour towards the children, as well, which should be a measuring stick for a single mom.

Do’s and Don’ts

As long as the decision to have companionship is settled, the single mother is advised to fill that need to avoid ending up as a lonely woman and blaming and resenting her children for her state. There are some considerations that are helpful during the process, as suggested by another website http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/10923505/ns/today-parenting/. For example:

Don’t be in a hurry to introduce the children

The last thing children need is unnecessary pain which can be caused if a man they become attached to goes out of their lives because their mom’s relationship with him has ended. It is best to ensure that there is some degree of permanence to a relationship before the children are brought into the picture.

Control the sexual urges

A single mom should not be too eager to sleep with her date, because that is all some dates want and once they have gotten it they leave, which can be painful for the mother. Instead, the single mother should regard herself as a prize worth waiting for, and so should give the relationship time to develop. If the man is serious he will wait for sex.

Keep the sex life private

If sex is involved in the single mother’s relationship, there should be boundaries and barriers to displays of affection, as these need to be kept totally private. Children need to know that there are appropriate places for and methods of displaying serious affection.

Don’t burden the children

Parents don’t need to talk about everything happening in their relationships with their children, especially if they’re not going too well. Even if they seem mature enough to handle it the children could feel burdened and confused, which could lead to insecurity. Children need to be parented, not befriended, so they should not be treated as confidants.

Be a good example

As the saying goes, children live what they learn and learn what they live, and the rules that apply to children should also apply to parents. For example, abuse of whatever kind should neither be given nor tolerated. Single parents should show their children how to behave in public with their dates, demonstrating respect and accountability.

Everyone needs the company of someone else at some point in their lives, some on a more permanent basis than others. Single mothers are no different where that is concerned, but because of their status, that is, the fact that children are a part of the equation, they have additional issues to be concerned about. For this reason, dating do’s and don’ts for single moms are useful guidelines which can help to expose bad prospects and highlight some better ones so that informed and intelligent choices and behavior can make the dating experience for a single mother a pleasurable one.

Tip 1: Activities and Recreation Savings

When you are considering your budget, it is important to consider not only basic items such as food, shelter and medical expenses, but also consider the needs of each child individually. There are many school and community programs available for single parents, providing extra-curricular activities to those families at little to no out of pocket expenses. Some childcare services for instance are actually a doubled martial arts school, allowing your child to participate in a sport activity without the additional cost.

Tip 2:  Grocery and Food Savings

Many retailers offer double or triple stack coupon days, equally substantial savings for a single mom. There are many websites offering free coupons for both print and in-store savings. These savings may not amount to much at first, but as you continue to collect the various coupons, you can start putting multiple coupons towards the same items, creating some very low cost or free items off your grocery tab. Always browse the current week’s flyers to see which items will be going on sale, before going shopping.

Tip 3:  Meal plans and Menu Savings

Before going shopping it is essential to not only check the flyers to see which items are on sale, but also write down a hard copy of the groceries you plan to buy. Involve the children in the list making process, having them look at the flyers for great snack foods or even (if they are old enough) to help plan a meal or two with you. Involving them in the meal plans allow them spend quality time with you, and also helps teach them the value of a dollar, plus the added bonus of learning about nutrition and value.

Tip 4: In Home Savings

Of the 5 tips for Raising Kids on a Shoestring Budget, the easiest place to cut back, is in your own home. Start by looking at the number of electronics wasting power (for those families that pay for utilities.) Although the items on their own may not cost a lot, adding three or four appliances (think hair dryers, computers, cell phone chargers, kitchen appliances) can save a substantial amount of money every year off of your utility bill. Also, look into your area’s prime rates for electricity to stretch your dollar further as well. Instead of running your dryer during peak hours, hold off until the rate drops.

Tip 5: Transportation

For a single parent, transportation may eventually wear you down. The cost of running a car is more expensive now than ever before, with gas at an all-time premium. The problem unfortunately, is that more children are relying on their parents to haul them to and from events – instead of taking public transportation, or more environmentally friendly alternatives such as roller-blades, bike or two feet and a heartbeat.

Following these 5 tips for Raising Kids on a Shoestring Budget may not seem like a large amount of savings, but applying them all together will not only help you stretch your dollar further, but also encourage your children to be more physically active as they enter adulthood.

The problem seems to be finding the funding that will enable moms to continue the onward progress of their dreams. The ability to pay for an education will, for most people, determine whether they can get education in the first place! Now as a single mom, it’s TOUGH to make ends meet. Something like college can seem quite impossible. But if you are willing to work hard, there are some ways to make ends meet that will allow single moms (and single dads) to attend college or some sort of training program to better their career prospects.

The best hope is to get scholarships funding. Now there are numerous scholarships and grants available to aid in such moms and dads who want to head back to school. The trick seems to be knowing where and when to look for them. This article is dedicated to the plight of women who are trying to make a decision to continue their education. Many colleges offer scholarships and grants that have been specifically designed to help with post secondary education. The powers that be has seen the needs of single moms and responded in kind.

Single mothers are shouldering the full responsibility of their households are not looking for a hand out they want, need a helping hand. Scholarships and grants offer these mothers the advantage of being able to get the funds for college without the burden of having to repay a loan at exorbitant interest rates. The grants are for any woman of low income their backgrounds and ages are not a factor for most of them.

Scholarships are harder to get because of the numerous applicants for each single one. Like grants once it is awarded there is no need to worry about repayment. It is important that you get organized and have all the necessary information gathered before starting your application process. Most scholarships and grants have application deadlines, so when you are considering one you must adhere to these deadlines in order to be considered.

So lets look at the scholarship options out there.

Online Scholarship Giveaways

There are a number of online “sweepstake scholarships” as you might call them. You fill out a quick application and get entered into a 10k Scholarships for Moms. If you manage to win the scholarship, the money can be used towards any education expense. There are a number of these programs out there that are worth applying for, since it’s free to do so. For another such program, look at 10k Scholarships for Working Adults for another scholarship sweepstake you can apply for.

Listings of Some Available Scholarships

Now that you know what to look for in a scam here are a few programs that are above board. They will each contain a link to provide you with detailed information.

• If you live in the State of Arkansas you could apply at http://www.aspsf.org/, for the Single Parent Scholarship Fund awards a scholarship to residents of over 70 counties in the state of Arkansas. Once you go to the website you can look up your county on the locator map.

• In 1978, the Jeannette Rankin Foundation has been awarding scholarship to eligible women. You may apply from November thru February. Only 500 women will be granted awards so the earlier you apply the better. http://www.rankinfoundation.org/, click on this link for more information.

• Congresswoman Patsy Mink made a huge step to see the realization of one of the causes she was most passionate about. She started the Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation to aid low income, especially single mothers to further their education. Click for more information.

• It is a horrible commentary on society but the fact is that a lot of single mothers are also a domestic abuse survivor. The R.O.S.E scholarship is for women who have already completed one full year of undergraduate classes in the New England area. For more information go here.

Government Sponsored Grants

The government also has several grants that you can apply for. The Pell grant is open to all residents but you have to apply for it by starting with the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which can be applied for here. This one application will open other doors of possible funding.

Government Financial Aid Requirements (FAFSA requirements)

• Be a U.S Citizen or an eligible non citizen
• A social Security Card
• Registered with the selective service program
• Have a high school diploma, GED or pass an entrance examination
• Be enrolled in a school that participates in the program
• Not have any drug convictions while you were receiving federal grant monies
• Not be in default on a student loan
• You must be able to show that you have financial need

Most of the single mothers in America can show financial need easily. If you are living at or below the poverty level your need is apparent. Even if for some reason you are denied Federal Aid you may still be accepted for some of the State and Local grant programs.

As a single parent you should also be aware that there are some local churches and civic organizations that also offer grants at various times during the year. These are a little harder to find and will require that you be diligent in your search. Start calling local groups or Googling them to see if they have a information about grants on their websites.

Another overlooked source of funding is the colleges themselves. Some have scholarships and grants for various groups and degree programs. Women going into typically male dominated fields qualify for a wide range of scholarships. With the high need for teachers in the United States there are several Grants that are aimed at getting more people to enter that field. They come with a few strings attached but hey what doesn’t. The TEACH grant for example requires that you contract to teach in an elementary or high school in a low income high need area for a number of years post graduation. If you do not then the grant is treated as a loan and interest will be attached. You will have to pay it all back. The following link takes you directly to the website for more information. It is worth at least reading the offer.

Child Care Assistance

Going back to school or continuing your education brings with it all new set of concerns including that of childcare. Even if your kids are older and spending a full day in school there is the after school care that is needed sometimes while you are in transit. Childcare cost have skyrocketed in the past few years and single mothers are having it harder than most. There is also funding available for that if you know where to look. One source of funding can be through the Department of Children and Families. If you follow this link, it will take you directly to the landing page for their childcare program. You will find all the information you need to know to apply in your state.

How to Avoid Scholarship Scams

There are a number of phony scholarship programs out there that rip people off. Don’t fall victim to these programs. Here are a few things to look for to avoid getting scammed:

1. Scholarships are not won or are a part of some type of drawing. You apply for all of the legitimate scholarships. So if you get something by email, snail mail or a phone call saying you won a scholarship, do not believe it.

2. If you get a correspondence of any kind and its from a company or other concern offering to apply for scholarships on your behalf do not give out your personal information. These are usually identity theft scams.

3. Any offer of a scholarship that claims everyone is eligible cannot be legit as most scholarships set applicant criteria.

4. If the program is asking for any type of up front fee you can bet it’s a scam. Oh, they may have given out a thousand or two to some people, but this was only to make them look legitimate. They make more on the ones who get bamboozled into sending them the fee than they ever give away.

5. Never pay a consulting or matching service. Any information they would give you can be found by you, if you only take the time to do a few Internet searches.

These are just a few of the most popular scams to look out for. The main thing is to be vigilant and to research any organization before giving them your personal information.

The Final Word on Scholarships for Single Moms

It does not matter if you are returning to finish a long put off career choice, enhancing a degree you already possess or are looking for vocational training on a short term basis, there are grants and scholarships available to help with all of these. Knowing that you are not alone in this struggle can give you comfort and courage you need to proceed in the face of adversity. There are several websites that provide a place for mothers to chat with others, not unlike themselves to share their knowledge, strength and hope. Websites like singlemoms.org are valuable Internet resource that was started in an effort to consolidate the information out there into a easy format and provide assistance to single mothers who are in need of help in all areas. Not only do they provide valuable links to other sites they have pages that cover everything from parenting to finance and housing. It is worth it to bookmark this site for your personal use in the future. They have also started their own scholarship program. It is advisable for you to take the time and give the site the once over, as a single mom you are sure to find topics that interest you. They offer an extensive list of links to various grant and scholarship applications as well.

Another font of valuable site to bookmark for future reference is the government student website. This link will take you directly to a page listing various scholarships and grants with information about where and how to apply. It is important that you check for reputable sites such as the ones listed here. A sad but true fact is that there are scholarship scams on the web. In order to help you recognize these scams here are a few tips describing what you should be on the look out for.