Public Assistance for Pregnant or Parenting Minors
© 1997-2006 by Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc.
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1. Parent, or
2. Legal guardian (adult-relative), or
3. Living in an adult-supervised living arrangement.

Are there exceptions?

    Yes.

1. If you are a minor who is married, or has been married; or

2. No living parent or legal guardian; or

3. No parent or guardian who will allow you to live in their home; or their whereabouts are unknown; or

4. You have lived on your own for 1 year prior to the birth of your child, or prior to your application for assistance; or

5. Your parental or legal guardian's home is not a safe or good environment to reside in;

6. The parent or guardian who offers you a home does not extend the offer  to your child.

Can the Department of Social Services (DSS) sue my parents for support if I am given public assistance?

    Yes. Because your parents are financially responsible for you until age 21, DSS can sue them in Family Court for support if you are given assistance. DSS does not file a suit in every case.

    If DSS decides to sue my parents, you must cooperate unless you fear for your safety. If you fear for your safety, you must tell DSS why. You cannot be denied assistance while DSS sues your parents.

Do I have to take part in an employment or education program if I am given assistance?

    Yes, unless you are exempt. The list of exemptions is quite long. If you have questions about whether you are exempt, call us. For example, if you have a child under three, you may be exempt. Or if you have a child over three and less than six, you may have to take part in a program for up to 20 hours per week if DSS provides child care.

What if I am between the age of 16-20, unmarried and have not graduated from high school?

    You will have to return to school or enter a GED (General Equivalency Diploma) program in order to receive public assistance.

Can I be denied welfare because I refuse to return home?

    It depends. If you are 18 or older and have a child, or are pregnant, you cannot be denied welfare because you refuse to return home. If you are 18 or younger and have a child, or are pregnant, you must live with a parent, legal guardian or other responsible adult.

    If you are under 21 and have no children, the Department of Social Services (DSS) can deny you assistance if your parent(s) agree(s) that you can return home to a good environment.

    If your home environment is not good, DSS cannot force you to return home. If there is overcrowding, or your parents have been abusive, or there is another good reason for not returning, you should not be denied assistance because you refuse to return home.

As a minor, what public assistance will I receive?

    You will receive the same benefits an adult receives. Depending on your circumstances, this could include a shelter allowance, a cash grant, Medicaid, and Food Stamps. For more information see our Public Benefits Manual displayed on our website at http://www.nls.org

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