As a single mother or father, you’re working hard to get by on one income. Use the following resources to help you find sources of financial help, save money, and more.
How to plan a Staycation as a single parent
You can turn school holidays into a fun-filled family vacation without traveling. Here’s how to plan adventures exploring your local area with your kids.
Restaurants where kids eat there
Eating out with your kids can be a treat or a necessity in your busy lives. One way to keep the cost lower is to take advantage of the growing number of “Kid Eat Free” deals. Here are restaurant chains that offer these deals. You’ll need to read the fine print to see age ranges, days of the week, meal limitations, dine-in or takeout, and how many adult meals would need to be purchased. Also, some of these offers do not include free drink.
What changes do I need to make in my life as I prepare for the birth of my baby?
Most likely, this will include paring down financially to accommodate for the cost of caring for your child. In addition, you may also be thinking of relocating to a more affordable or desirable neighborhood. At the same time, there are health-conscious decisions to consider, such as giving up smoking or making an effort to eat better during your pregnancy.
Will I file for child support?
This is an intensely decision. Realize that even though you may be thinking about this issue right from the beginning, you can file for child support at any time. If you do file, that state will take steps to confirm paternity and establish a rate of child support that corresponds with the father’s income. Know as well that the state will require you to file for child support before allowing you to file for government assistance.
Can I support the baby on my own?
As a single, pregnant woman, you need to take a good look at your finances. Raising a baby is costly. That certainly doesn’t mean it’s not doable, but you’ll want to have a realistic impression of your financial status from the beginning. Knowing how much you need to earn each moth will help you determine whether you need to change jobs, relocate, or reduce your monthly expenses.
Will my baby’s father’s name be listed on the birth certificate?
Consider whether you will take the steps necessary to have the father’s name listed on your baby’s birth certificate. In most states, the process for including his name is made easier if he can be present at the baby’s birth and sign an Acknowledgment of Paternity form right there at the hospital. If this is not possible, he can sign the form later and a new birth certificate with his name on it can be issued at a later date.
What last name will I give my child?
In most states, you can give your child your last name or the baby’s father’s last name. Some moms prefer the consistency of giving their children their own last name. Others prefer a more traditional system of giving the child the father’s last name. Keep in mind that the last name you choose is not a factor for the courts in determining custody, should there ever be a dispute.
If he does want to be involved, what will our parenting plan look like?
Now is the time to begin thinking about custody and visitation. In most states, if you are unmarried at the time of your child’s birth, you will have what is known as “presumed custody.” However, if your child’s father is to be truly included, you will both need to think about setting up a regular visitation schedule. Drafting a formal parenting plan will help you address these issues ahead of time.
Does my baby’s father want to be involved ?
Make sure that you don’t answer this question for your child’s father. Let him decide whether he’d like to have an active role in your child’s life. If you have concerns about what that might look like, consider taking a parenting class together (or separately) at a local community center.
