Did you know that becoming a choice mom using a sperm donor could affect your ability to receive public benefits? Most people that set out on this path to parenthood do not expect that they’ll need to access public benefits. Unemployment or underemployment can happen to anyone. Don’t miss out on your ability to access important state programs like childcare assistance, job preparation, and medical benefits. Work with an attorney that has experience with Assisted Reproduction so you know that your child’s conception will not impact your ability to access these important state programs. Keep reading for more about public benefits for choice moms.

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (“TANF”) Program in Illinois can assist unemployed and underemployed pregnant people and parents. What you might not realize is that once someone applies for TANF benefits, the Illinois Division of Child Support Services (“DCSS”) will become involved. To keep receiving benefits, recipients must cooperate with DCSS. DCSS generally tries to locate a child’s non-custodial parent. Their goal is to legally establish paternity and collect child support. Why does the State require this? Illinois wants to locating a second parent because the state considers it in the best interest of the child. If you ever have to cooperate in a DCSS investigation, you’ll need proof that your child has a donor – not a dad.

This is one of the many reasons you need a sperm donor agreement in place (before your child is conceived). It’s always a good idea to hope for the best, but plan for the worst. Don’t take a chance with informal sperm donor agreements! Don’t assume that you’ll never need help from the state! Consult with a professional attorney to make sure that your donor agreement complies with Illinois Law. You can’t afford to risk it otherwise.