It depends on why you are living apart from your parents (or a legal guardian). You can get cash assistance directly from the Louisiana Department of Social Services, Office of Family Support if:
1. You have no living parent or guardian.
2. Your parent(s) or guardian will not let you live with them.
3. You lived alone for 1 year before your baby was born, or before you applied for assistance.
4. You feel your health or safety will be in danger if you live with your parent(s) or guardian.
To find the Office of Family Support location nearest you, visit the state agency's website at www.dss.state.la.us or look in the government listings (blue pages) of the telephone book.
Usually, but not if he hurts or threatens you or the baby. The state expects a baby's mother and father (and even your parents, until you are 18), to help support the baby. The state expects you to name people who should help you with the baby's care.
If you feel that the health or safety of yourself or the baby would be in danger by giving up the name of the father (or your parents), you should not have to do this. You WILL have to explain the reason why, but you may need to get a lawyer to help you.
I just want to stay home with my baby. Do I have to do anything to get the cash each month?
Maybe. If you are not in school, the state may make you go to classes, training, or work, to get the monthly payments. You may not have to, if:
1. You are disabled.
2. Your baby is under 1 year old.
3. Your child is under 6 and you cannot find child care.
They are other exceptions, but you cannot stay at home just because you want to. If you think you have a good reason why you should not have to go to classes, training, or work to get the monthly cash benefits, explain it to the state worker. If you still have trouble, talk with a lawyer. Most free legal services programs help with this kind of problem.
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