scroll top

Last year, my cousin Samm lost her fiancé Aaron, 27, in an unthinkable work accident. A stay-at-home mom of two young boys, she suddenly found herself thrust into the world of single motherhood without her primary support system.

Aaron’s accident rattled our family to the core, and we all felt a huge responsibility to be there for Samm and her boys.

As someone who was supposed to be a bridesmaid in her upcoming wedding, I wanted more than anything to be someone she could come to when she didn’t feel like keeping it all together.

Even though we live several hours apart, Samm and I have always been able to confide in each other without judgment. We’ve both told each other things that no one else knows. But for the first time since we became close, I found myself at a complete loss for what I could do or say to comfort her.

If you’ve ever had to support a friend or family member through a difficult time, you know it’s impossible to make everything OK (no matter how much you wish you could). 

But there are things you can do and say to comfort someone going through any number of difficult situations: 

  • Death of person or pet
  • Illness
  • Breakup or divorce
  • Job loss
  • Financial crisis
  • Mental health crisis

Tiffany Lovell, a licensed behavioral therapist and mental health professional based in North Dakota, says it’s never easy to initiate a conversation with someone who is struggling because we’re afraid of saying the “wrong thing.” 

“On the flip side, when someone is struggling, the feelings of isolation are often overwhelming,” Lovell says. “Mentally, those struggling feel alone, and the cycle of friends and family worried to say the ‘wrong thing’ only perpetuates that loneliness, since many people hesitate to reach out.”

I talked to several mental health professionals to find out the “right” things to say and how to comfort someone going through a hard time. Also, know that it is OK to feel unsure of how to proceed during tough times.

If you or someone you know is struggling, there is no shame in getting help — this is 2023 after all.

What should I say or do to comfort someone?

How do you comfort someone over text?

What not to do or say when you’re trying to comfort someone

What should I say or do to comfort someone?

In a survey published by the Public Library of Science, a total of 372 grieving adults (mostly women) were asked which types of social support were most impactful. 

Of the respondents, 64% felt most satisfied by receiving emotional support, which they generally defined as having people with whom they felt safe to grieve, who checked in on them, listened to them, and who didn’t try to hurry their grieving process. 

Here are a few things you can do or say to comfort someone:  

Tip #1: Address their practical needs.

Samm says that when Aaron first passed away, there was nothing anyone could say to make her feel better.  

“No one could tell me he was coming back, and that’s really the only thing that could have made anything better,” she says. 

To allow Samm time to process her grief and make things just a little bit easier, her sister started a GoFundMe and meal train. It can also help to help out with other battles when it comes to legal concerns by getting in touch with a trusted personal law team like Rue & Ziffra.

“Because of everyone coming together, I was able to pay my rent for the year and have a roof over our heads, fill up my fuel tanks so we’d have heat, and so on,” she says. “It was all the acts of kindness that really helped me. Without them, I would be struggling.”

Here are a few ways you can ensure someone’s practical needs are being met: 

  • Offer money or gift cards
  • Volunteer to watch their children or pay for a nanny
  • Prepare and drop off pre-cooked meals 
  • Organize a meal train or food delivery service
  • Offer to clean their home 
  • If they’re struggling with job loss, offer to make introductions or otherwise help them find a job
  • Pay to have their laundry sent out
  • Buy them a massage or spa treatment

Things to say if you want to offer practical support: 

  • “What can I do for you today to make your day easier?”  
  • “What are your biggest money fears right now?”
  • “Why don’t you let me watch your kids today so you can go to the gym?”

Tip #2: Acknowledge their struggle. 

Voicing your concern to someone who seems to be struggling shows that you are paying attention and care about their wellbeing. 

Heidi McBain, a licensed therapist in Texas who specializes in family and marriage therapy, says that kind of acknowledgement lets someone know they don’t need to go through their hard time alone. 

“This isn’t a one-and-done contact — it needs to be ongoing,” she says. “Often, especially with grief, family and friends reach out once and that’s it, which can leave the person grieving feeling like they are alone, not important, and not supported.”

Things to say to acknowledge someone’s struggle: 

  • “I know you might feel alone right now, but I’m here and will help you get through this however I can.”
  • “How you are feeling is valid. It is OK to not feel OK.”
  • “I can see you are having a rough time. How about I grab us something to eat and come over so we can watch a movie together?” 

Tip #3: Be a good listener. 

Natalie Hardie, a holistic mental health practitioner and Director of NH Neuro Training in London, says that simply starting a conversation to ask how a person is doing and offering to listen without judgment can go a long way. 

Even if the person isn’t ready to talk just yet, reassure them that you’ll be there if and when that time comes. 

“If you do not know what to say, be honest and let them know that you are there for them,” she says. 

Things to say to be a good listener: 

  • “I can’t imagine what you are going through and how it is making you feel, but know that I am always here for you and will not give up on you.”
  • ​​“If you need to vent to someone without judgment, I’m here to listen.”
  • “If you need to talk, scream, cry, blast some music, or anything else, count me in.”

Tip #4: Let them know you care. 

Hardie says positive affirmations let someone know they are loved and appreciated. 

“Someone who is emotionally struggling may benefit from knowing that they are cared for and valued,” she says. “There are simple ways to do so, just by using our words.”

She suggests writing some of the person’s positive qualities on sticky notes and putting them in random places in their home to find (like the cutlery drawer or inside a shoe).

“When they unexpectedly find the note, it will be a pleasant surprise, which may lift their mood.”

But that doesn’t mean you should downplay someone’s grief by telling them to just be happy. 

“What you say does not have to be profound,” she says. “It just needs to come from a place of compassion, with intention to support without judgment.”

Things to say to let someone know you care: 

  • “I love and care for you. Anything you need, I’ll be there.”
  • “I want to support you in any way you need. You are not alone.”
  • “You may not feel like it right now, but you are amazing.” 

One of the ways my family showed love for Samm was with a fun video we put together for her first Mother’s Day after Aaron’s passing. She’s a huge “Friends” fan, so we danced to the theme song and tried to make her smile on a day we knew would be especially tough. It wasn’t about making the grief go away, just using humor to cope for a moment when everything felt heavy. You can check it out here:

How do you comfort someone over text?

In a survey of 500 people between the ages of 18 and 34, cloud communication platform Infobip found that 75% of respondents would prefer an SMS-only phone to a voice-only phone. 

One of their reasons? Because texts are less disruptive than voice calls.

Texting allows people to respond on their own terms if and when they’re ready. But how you comfort someone should come down to how well you know the person and how you usually connect with one another.

“If you have a texting relationship, then text; if you usually call, then call,” says Dr. Anandhi Narasimhan, a Los Angeles child and adult psychiatrist. “Also, if you are worried about them, you might want to try a couple different ways to make contact with them.”

So how do you comfort someone over text? Here are some ideas.

Text tip #1: Let them know you’re available. 

Just telling someone you’re thinking about them can help them feel supported. Even if you usually text with your grieving loved one, a phone call can be welcome — as well as a physical visit. 

“Being present with someone can be very powerful,” Dr. Narasimhan says. “A hug, holding their hand, listening to music, or doing something enjoyable to help distract that person can help.”

She also suggests going for a walk, offering to run errands, or just asking how you can be helpful. 

Lovell says you don’t have to say as much as you think, and no one ever expects you to “solve” their problems.

“People need space to understand and lean into the feelings they are feeling,” she says.

Text message scripts to use: 

  • “I’m here. Let me know if you want to talk.”
  • “What are you up to? I’m free today if you want to hang out.”
  • “Need someone to sit with you today? I saw there was a new movie on Netflix you might like.”

Apps like Breeze-wellbeing can be helpful in understanding your past experiences and current emotions, with its tests for personality type, love language, emotional assessment, childhood trauma and ADHD. Recommending such a service can help your loved one.

Text tip #2: Give them something to do.

Samm says having friends and family around when she’s having a hard day has made all the difference in her grieving process.

“When they notice my struggle, they come and hang out more and ask me what I need, offer to babysit so I can have time by myself,” she says. 

Lovell says this shows the recipient you genuinely and deeply want to support them in the way they need to be supported.

Text message scripts to use:

  • “Want to go get pedicures today?” 
  • “Do you need to get out of the house? I’m down for whatever you want to do.”
  • “Have you tried the new restaurant down the street? I’d love to go if you are free.”

Text Tip #3: Give them permission to be a hot mess.

People who are struggling often try to put on a brave face to mask how they’re feeling. Samm says she’s been surprised how many people are critical of her grieving process. 

“I feel guilty enough when I smile,” Samm says. “I don’t need someone coming up to me and saying, ‘You’re handling this way better than I would be.’ I might be smiling now, but as soon as I get home, I’m crying myself to sleep.”

Telling someone it’s OK to feel what they’re feeling can give them a break from keeping up appearances and validate their struggle. 

Text message scripts to use:

  • “I don’t know if anyone has told you this, but it’s OK to be a hot mess right now.”
  • “You have full permission to not be OK right now. No one who loves you will judge you.”  
  • “You don’t need to hold it together in front of me. I’ll come over and you can scream, cry, yell…whatever you need to do.” 

Text Tip #4: Let them know they’re not alone. 

People who are grieving don’t often think about their “wins.” But Hardie says even just getting through a tough day is worth celebrating.

Of course, that doesn’t mean you should tell someone they’re doing great and leave them to fend for themselves. Offer encouraging or uplifting words but reassure the person you’ll be there in the moments they don’t feel strong. 

Text message scripts to use:

  • “So far your success rate for surviving days like these is actually 100%. You’ve got this, and I’m right behind you.”
  • “You probably don’t see it, but you are doing awesome just putting one foot in front of the other. And I’m here to hold your hand for as long as you need.” 
  • “Do you want to go out tonight to celebrate getting through this week?”

Text Tip #5: Give them motivation to keep going. 

Samm says having people around to motivate her on her hardest days has helped her get through them.

“They pull me out of bed and remind me of who I used to be and remind me that I’m strong,” she says. 

Text message scripts to use:

  • “Remember how much fun we had at karaoke? Do you want to go again this weekend?”
  • “Do you want to come to yoga class with me on Tuesday? I can pay for a babysitter.”
  • “You deserve to get away. Let’s plan a girls weekend or short trip with the kids — on me.” 

If their state is serious and you believe they are a threat to their own safety or that of others, seek out a psychiatrist appointment.

What not to do or say when you’re trying to comfort someone

When someone you know is going through a hard time, it might be tempting to shower them with attention and try to jump in and be as helpful as possible. But it’s important to make sure that’s what the person wants. 

Samm says that when Aaron passed, she felt overwhelmed by the number of people coming in and out of her home, even though they had good intentions. 

“People were trying to clean my house and moving his stuff aside, and it really bothered me,” Samm says. “They washed his dirty clothes that I wasn’t ready to wash. Now I hold on to the last dirty outfit of his that I have and take out on occasion to smell and hold because it’s the last thing I really have with his scent on it.”

Samm says that while she appreciated the effort from family and friends, she wanted space more than anything to process what happened. 

“I felt like everyone was too scared to leave me alone,” she says. “I almost felt like I was treated like a toddler who didn’t know how to take care of myself.”

Dr. Narasimhan says it’s common for people to withdraw when they’re feeling depressed or anxious, so it’s helpful to give them space to sit with their emotions.

“Figuring out a balance where they know you’ll be there when they need you can be helpful,” she says.

Samm says she’s also had to deal with comments that hurt more than they helped. 

“I personally have been really hard on myself since losing Aaron,” she says. “The last thing I want to hear is how someone who isn’t in my position would handle it and how what I’m doing is wrong.”

Any kind of patronizing or belittling comment can do irreparable damage to someone who is going through a hard time. Here are a few things you should never say to comfort someone who is depressed or grieving. 

1. “This too shall pass.”

2. “They’re in a better place.”

3. “It could be worse.” 

4. “You don’t have much to complain about.” 

5. “Get over it.” 

6. “Everything happens for a reason.”

7. “Focus on something happy.”

Lovell says phrases like these can feel insensitive since they encourage the recipient to “hurry up” their grieving process and deny them the ability to feel their feelings. 

“These types of statements and platitudes often leave people feeling unseen, unheard and not understood,” McBain agrees.

Although it may be unintentional, Hardie says emotional invalidation conveys the message that a person’s subjective emotional experience is insignificant or inaccurate. This can lead to the individual feeling confused and unable to trust their own emotions and validity of their experiences. 

“This can exacerbate existing mental health conditions and symptoms whilst hindering the individual from seeking help,” she says. 

Samm wanted to offer her advice for anyone dealing with a loss. 

“Do what makes you happy, and don’t listen to people tell you how you should or shouldn’t grieve,” she says. “Losing someone you love is hard enough as it is. Take care of yourself and remember, you deserve to be happy.”

McBain says therapy can be a safe space where someone who is struggling can feel their feelings and process what’s going on at a deeper level — underneath the symptoms that are currently showing up in their life.

If you’re going through a tough time, BetterHelp stands out among online therapy sites, and can connect you with a licensed therapist without ever leaving your home. Here’s why we recommend them: 

  • A Better Business Bureau rating
  • Used by nearly 2 million people
  • Network of more than 20,000 licensed therapists — who all have a Master’s or Doctorate degree
  • Financial aid is available for qualifying incomes
  • Plans start at $60-80/week for 24/7 unlimited messaging and include a weekly video or phone session (you get to choose)
  • Specialists available based on religion, age, sexuality, race, age and gender (plus couples therapy is an option)
  • Easy to switch counselors

Sign up with BetterHelp online therapy in a few minutes, and start chatting with your therapist within 24 hours.

Read about my experience with BetterHelp.

If you have unwanted gold, silver, or jewelry lying around your house, you can sell it to a recycler who will give you cash for your items — and you can feel good about doing it.

Gold and diamond mining are notoriously disastrous for the environment. Global greenhouse gas emissions from gold mining alone produce more than 100 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually.1

So while making money on selling your jewelry or coin, you can also feel good about helping to preserve the Earth.

But how exactly does a gold or silver recycler work? Which precious metals recyclers are the best?

We answer these questions and more:

Where to find silver, gold and jewelry recyclers

Recycling silver 101

Recycling gold 101

Where to find silver, gold and jewelry recyclers

Depending on how quickly you want to cash in on your jewelry, you can sell to an online or local jewelry buyer:

Online silver, gold and old jewelry recycling

Unless you have high-end branded or luxury jewelry, most online jewelry buyers are interested in your jewelry for its precious metal content. They will melt down your jewelry to create new jewelry, coins, bars, or bullion.

We put together guides on where to sell gold and sell silver. We also have reviews on several of the top online jewelry buyers:

  • Abe Mor (accepts gold worth at least $500 and diamonds of .50 carats or larger)
  • Alloy Market (All weight and karat of gold and silver and diamonds of at least 1 carat
  • CashforGoldUSA (accepts all forms/sizes of gold, silver, platinum and diamonds)
  • MyGemma (only interested in branded diamond jewelry and diamonds over .50 carats)

Our No. 1 recommendation when it comes to jewelry recyclers is CashforGoldUSA, thanks to its A+ Better Business Bureau rating, 24-hour payment, fast, insured shipping, and free, insured returns — features not shared by all jewelry recyclers.

Other jewelry recyclers you can consider include:

  • American Bullion (gold)
  • APMEX (gold and silver)
  • Goldco Precious Metals (gold)
  • Gold Geek (gold) 
  • JM Bullion (gold and silver)
  • Kitco (gold and silver)
  • Liberty Gold and Silver (gold and silver)
  • Luriya (gold and silver)
  • Money Metals Exchange (gold and silver)
  • SellYourGold.com (gold)
  • SilverRecyclers.com (silver)
  • US Gold Buyers (gold)
  • SpecialtyMetals.com (gold and silver)

Local jewelry recycling

If you don’t want to send your jewelry to an online buyer or you need immediate cash, you can also find local options for recycling your jewelry:

  • Pawn shops
  • Local cash for gold storefronts
  • Jewelry stores
  • Precious metals dealers

Detecting gold and other metals: beginners guide

Recycling silver 101

Chances are pretty good that you’ve got some unused or unwanted silver lying around your house. It might be in an obvious form, such as silver coins, silver flatware, or old or broken silver jewelry.

But it could also be in some surprising forms, too. Silver can be found in old electronics, soldering, trinkets, statues, ingot, and even in raw form. 

A silver flatware set, for example, could be worth more than $1,000—money that you can use to pay down your debt, start investing, or just buy something that you will actually use.

Why recycle silver now?

Global trade organizations report that the use of recycled silver has gradually been rising, as the population overall is more concerned with the environmental impact of the products they produce, and metals recycling has become more efficient.

Further, the high price of silver and gold in recent years has inspired many to cash in their old jewelry, coins and scrap — which buyers then melt for recycling. 

November 12, 2026, silver futures closed at $50.07, compared with $30 at the beginning of 2025.

In 2020, jewelry giant Pandora announced2 that by 2025, 100% of the gold and silver used in its jewelry will be recycled. Today, about 60% of the silver the Danish jeweler uses is recycled. 

How silver recyclers recycle silver

Silver recyclers might seem like complicated businesses, but they’re actually pretty straightforward. Most work like this:

The silver recycler purchases silver items or scrap from a seller, whether that is another business or an individual (like you). They will usually pay the seller slightly less than the current spot price of silver, which allows them to make a profit when they resell the metal later. 

Once the recycler has enough silver, they will collect it together and melt down the miscellaneous items. What happens next depends on what sort of business the recycler is in.

Some silver recyclers sell their silver to other businesses that need silver for their products. In these cases, the recycler will pour the molten silver into a mold (such as a bar mold, or an ingot mold) and let it cool. They will then sell this silver according to its current spot price to another business. This usually yields a relatively small profit margin for the recycler. 

Other silver recyclers are in the business of using their reclaimed silver for their own products. In those cases, they may pour the melted silver directly into the required mold, or they may store it in bar form until it is needed. 

As a note: Silver is often mixed with other metals, such as copper, to form an alloy. A recycler may decide to separate the silver out from the other metals so that in the end they will have pure silver, or they may simply keep the alloy as-is, depending on their needs.

Can tarnished silver be recycled?

If your jewelry is sterling silver, it definitely has value to any recycler — regardless of whether it is tarnished. If your silver is plated, it has little recycling value, though you may be able to sell it through consignment, Facebook marketplace or an antique store. You can always donate it.

Other ways to repurpose or recycle silver

Aside from melting silver down to recast it, the most common alternative for recycling silver is to reuse the component pieces as-is. 

For example, a silver ring can be resized, or converted into a ring blank to be used in a future design. Likewise, a silver chain can be transformed into a new necklace or bracelet. Silver trinkets or statues can be refurbished or incorporated into multi-media art projects. Silver electronic components can be moved to a new product.

Silver can also be used to create pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals. In these cases, it will be mixed with other compounds. 

Recycling gold 101

For as long as humans have owned gold, they’ve been melting it down and recycling it into new shapes whenever they’ve grown tired of the old shapes. This trend is on the rise. 

What can gold be recycled into?

According to the World Gold Council, recycled gold accounted for 28%3 of the global gold supply in 2020 — 90% of that recycled gold comes from jewelry. 

Gold coins become gold jewelry. Gold bracelets become electronic components. Gold electronic components become gold dental caps. Gold dental caps become gold coins. The cycle will continue for as long as we value gold.

And if you have gold coins, gold jewelry, or gold in any other form that you’re looking to sell, that’s good news—because it means you’ll always have a market to sell and recycle your gold.

Aside from jewelry, and as an investment, gold’s durability and heat-conducting properties make it valuable for many other uses. These include:

  • Industry and technology, including wiring and data storage, as well as a reflector on glass.
  • Space technology, as NASA uses gold on astronauts’ visors, as well as in the wiring of space equipment.
  • Medicine, as gold’s healing and diagnostic properties are applied to treat cancers and rheumatoid arthritis.

Detecting gold and other metals: 2024 beginners guide

How gold recyclers recycle gold

Gold recyclers purchase gold from sellers. This can include gold coins, gold jewelry, gold scrap, gold nuggets, gold ingot, gold statues, gold dental crowns, gold electrical components, and countless other forms of the metal. Usually, whatever gold recyclers pay the sellers will be a bit less than the current spot price of gold.

The recycler will typically separate the gold out by its karat weight, as this will make it easier to repurpose the gold later in the process.

Once the recycler has enough gold, they will melt it down and cast it — either into a form that they need for their own business, or into a form such as a bar or ingot that they will then resell to their customers. 

In this way, a collection of 14k gold items may become a bar of 14k gold, while a different collection of 24k gold items will become a bar of 24k gold, etc. 

If the recycler needs to, they may put less pure forms of gold through a process to separate the pure gold away from other metals. 

Other ways to repurpose or recycle gold

Sometimes, gold can be repurposed into new items without needing to go through a recycling process. 

For example, imagine that you have a gold ring which is a family heirloom. You may not like the style of the ring, but also don’t feel right about selling it. In a case like that, you might work with a jewelry designer to turn the ring into something else that you actually do like: Such as a new ring, or a different type of jewelry altogether. 

Likewise, gold ingots, statues, and trinkets can be repurposed in a variety of ways to give them new life without necessarily needing to melt them down. 

Is recycled gold real gold?

Yes, recycled gold is truly real gold. Gold is an element (remember the periodic table of elements from high school chemistry?) and when broken down to its essential molecular structure, can be used again as pure gold, or combined with other metal alloys to make stronger 10k, 14k, 18k and 24k gold items. 

Is recycled gold bad?

Because recycled gold cuts down on carbon emission, recycled gold is good for the environment. Some critics4 argue that the smelting process for recycled metals still creates environmental waste, and any reduction in gold mining hurts the small mining communities that rely on that industry.

Can gold jewelry with diamonds and gemstones be recycled?

Yes, absolutely!

All you need to know to recycle your old jewelry is what it is made out of. If it contains a precious metal like gold, silver, or platinum, or a precious gem like diamonds, rubies, emeralds and pearls, you can sell it to a recycler who will break it down into its component pieces and reuse it.

Bottom line: There are options for recycling gold, silver, and jewelry

If you have gold or silver flatware, scrap, coins or jewelry, there are quality options for recycling for cash. Our top recommendations based on user reviews, customer service, security and speed to payment are CashforGoldUSA and CashforSilverUSA.

Sources

1. “Gold mining greenhouse gas emissions, abatement measures, and the impact of a carbon price,” Sam Ulrich, Allan Trench and Steffen Hagemann, Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 340, 15 March 2022. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0959652622004899

2. “Your Next Necklace May Have Gold From an Old Phone,” The New York Times, Aug. 29, 2022 nytimes.com/2022/08/29/fashion/jewelry-electronic-mining-recycling.html

3. “Gold Demand Trends Full year and Q4 2020,” World Gold Council, Jan. 28, 2021 gold.org/goldhub/research/gold-demand-trends/gold-demand-trends-full-year-2020/supply

4.”Is recycled gold an ethical choice?” Alliance for Responsible Mining, Oct. 30, 2019 responsiblemines.org/en/2019/10/is-recycled-gold-an-ethical-choice

Why recycle silver now?

Global trade organizations report that the use of recycled silver has gradually been rising, as the population overall is more concerned with the environmental impact of the products they produce, and metals recycling has become more efficient.

What can gold be recycled into?

According to the World Gold Council, recycled gold accounted for 28% of the global gold supply in 2020 — 90% of that recycled gold comes from jewelry.

Is recycled gold real gold?

Yes, recycled gold is truly real gold.

Is recycled gold bad?

Because recycled gold cuts down on carbon emission, recycled gold is good for the environment.

Can jewelry be recycled?

Yes. All you need to know to recycle your jewelry is what it is made out of.

Is recycled gold real gold?

Yes, recycled gold is truly real gold. Gold is an element (remember the periodic table of elements from high school chemistry?) and when broken down to its essential molecular structure, can be used again as pure gold, or combined with other metal alloys to make stronger 10k, 14k, 18k and 24k gold items.

Is recycled gold bad?

Because recycled gold cuts down on carbon emission, recycled gold is good for the environment.

If you are looking to bring in extra cash, selling gold jewelry, diamonds, watches, coins, or gold dental scrap can be a good way to make money, and CashforGoldUSA is one of the first online gold buyers that pops up on a Google search in a sea of options.

This post outlines why we think CashforGoldUSA is a quality company, based on company history, customer reviews, ratings by third-party agencies, overall services offered — and especially speed to payment.

Is CashforGoldUSA legit?

While it’s understandable that you might feel nervous about selling your gold online, CashforGoldUSA is a solid and legitimate business:

  • CashforGoldUSA pays within 24 hours
  • Better Business Bureau A+ rating
  • “Price beat” guarantee with written offer from another buyer
  • Free return guarantee
  • Insured up to $150,000
  • Family business with decades of history
  • Trustpilot 4.8 stars with 2,377 reviews
  • Buys all weight and karat of gold, as well as all diamonds and silver
  • 10% bonus if you ship within 7 days

How long does CashforGoldUSA take?

Once you request your free mailer, CashforGold claims the whole process to payment can be completed within three days, if you choose the fastest shipping options and immediately mail in your jewelry.

They offer two shipping options: 

  • USPS, with items in the Safepak insured for up to $1,000
  • FedEx envelope, with items insured up to $15,000

If needed, additional insurance is available when you contact Cash for Gold USA.

Shipping your item to the company will take less than 24 hours via trackable FedEx, CashforGoldUSA claims. However, USPS may take a bit longer — Melinda’s Safepak took three days to arrive to her home and a little over a week for CashforGold to confirm they had received it.

Once your item is received, it will be appraised within 24 hours and you will receive an offer. Melinda did receive an offer the next day after her item was received.

If you accept this offer, CashforGoldUSA will send payment immediately based on your preferred payment method.

Receiving payment via PayPal will be the fastest option, with money deposited in your account immediately, though there is a 3-4% processing fee deducted from your payout.. The following payment options are also available: 

  • Check via First Class USPS mail (no fee)
  • Print-at-home-check ($5 fee)
  • Check via FedEx Express (2-3 days, $15 shipping fee)
  • Check via FedEx Overnight (next day, $25 shipping fee)
  • Bank wire for payments over $30,000 (no fee)

CashforGold offers a 10% bonus if you ship within 7 days. However, if you are able to negotiate a higher price or ask CashforGold to match a competitor’s offer, this bonus may be wrapped into that final payout, not necessarily paid on top of it (this was Melinda’s experience).

How much does Cash for Gold USA pay?

Ultimately, how much you receive for your gold from any gold buyer will depend on the weight and purity of the gold, as well as the current market price of the metal.

Based on our recent experience selling gold to a number of online and in-person gold buyers, you can expect to make anywhere from 64% to 80% of the spot value of your gold, though you may be able to negotiate a higher price depending on the buyer. 

CashforGoldUSA offers a price-beat guarantee — if you have a written, higher offer for you gold, silver or diamond, they promise to beat it.

Here are some recent sales at CashforGoldUSA, including a gold chain and charms:

10k gold bracelet that sold for $430 on CashforGoldUSA.
Recent sales of rings and charms sold to CashforGoldUSA.

How does Cash for Gold USA work?

There are more details below, but in short, this is how CashforGoldUSA works:

  1. Go to CashforGoldUSA.com, enter your name, address, phone number and preferred shipping method.
  2. Provide photos and a brief description of your items
  3. FedEx or USPS mailer may arrive as soon as the next day, though shipping speeds vary — or print a label at home immediately
  4. Send in your item, and get an offer within 24 hours of receipt
  5. If you accept, get paid immediately by your choice of:
  • Direct deposit
  • PayPal
  • Virtual Visa credit card
  • Print-at-home check
  • Check mailed via overnight FedEx
  • Check sent via USPS First Class mail

CashforGoldUSA buys gold online from people looking to sell old gold jewelry, coins, dental scrap, as well as watches, Rolex, and diamonds. They make money by buying the gold at a discount to the scrap value of the metal. They then melt these objects down and sell at a profit.

Get an idea of the value of your item before you send it in for appraisal. Just enter the weight and karat of gold into CashforGoldUSA’s gold calculator:

CashforGoldUSA informational gold calculator
CashforGoldUSA informational gold calculator

Note that this is just for informational purposes, and not a final offer. The only way to get an accurate offer is to send your item in for appraisal.

What does CashforGoldUSA buy?

CashforGoldUSA buys gold in any shape, form, or quantity, including:

The company accepts all karats of gold, including 8k, 9k, 10k, 14k, 15k, 18k, 22k, and 24k gold. 

CashforSilverUSA and Diamonds USA

CashforSilverUSA and Diamonds USA are sister sites of CashforGoldUSA — they share the same family-run parent company, C.J. Environmental, which enjoys an A+ Better Business Bureau rating.

Learn about top silver buyers.

Diamonds USA (formerly CashforDiamondsUSA), buys engagement rings, diamond jewelry, tennis bracelets, necklaces, earrings, tennis bracelets and loose and lab-grown diamonds.

Learn about top diamond buyers.

CashforGoldUSA BBB rating and reviews

If you were to search for CashforGoldUSA on the Better Business Bureau website, you would learn that CashforGoldUSA and its sister websites are run by CJ Environmental, Inc., a metal refining company that has been in business since 2005 and accredited since 2020.

You’d also find that CJ Environmental has an A+ rating with the bureau. The profile also shows that the company has an average of 4.02 stars out of 5, based on an average of 42 customer reviews as of July 2025. 

At the time of this review, it appears CJ Environmental replied to and addressed all of the complaints filed on the BBB site.1

CashforGoldUSA TrustPilot reviews

CashforGoldUSA has more than 975 customer reviews on Trustpilot, averaging 4.8 stars with 2,377 reviews as of October 2026. Complaints include too-low of an offer.

Most are very positive, and highlight the ease of use, professional communication, quick process and payment, and fair price. Negative reviews are from customers who didn’t get as high an offer as they expected:

Cash for Gold USA Trustpilot reviews.

CashforGoldUSA’s Shopper Approved average review is 4.9 stars with 1,095 reviews.

Pros of CashforGoldUSA

The benefits of selling your gold to CashforGoldUSA include:

  • Ease: Selling your gold is as easy as requesting a mailer, sending your gold in for an appraisal, and accepting an offer.
  • Speed: If you accept their offer, you can be paid in as little as 24 hours depending on the payment method you choose.
  • High pay: CashforGoldUSA guarantees you’ll get the best price. However, it may be wise to seek estimates from multiple gold buyers to get CashforGold to match your highest price.
  • If you send in your item within seven days, you can receive a 10% bonus for your gold. 
  • Price match: CashforGoldUSA will match any offer from a competitor, so you know you’ll always get as much money for your gold as possible.
  • Free shipping: CashforGoldUSA will provide a prepaid, insured shipper for you to send in your gold for appraisal, and return your item free of charge if you choose not to sell.
  • Many choices for immediate payment:
    • Direct deposit
    • PayPal
    • Virtual Visa credit card
    • Print-at-home check
    • Check mailed via overnight FedEx
    • Check sent via USPS First Class mail
  • Hassle-free returns: If you decide you don’t want to accept their offer, CashforGoldUSA promises to send your item back without question.
  • Accepts a range of items and accepts all weights and quality of metals and gemstones: From jewelry to coins to dental scrap and Rolexes in any karat or weight. CashforGoldUSA will also accept platinum, silver, palladium, watches and diamonds and gemstones through its sister websites. No minimum weight or value.
  • Feel good about recycling your gold and silver — which has a much lower environmental impact than mining and smelting.

Get started with CashforGoldUSA.com today >>

Cons of CashforGoldUSA

Drawbacks of CashforGoldUSA include:

  • It’s not ideal for collectible coins, or, in some cases, branded jewelry: If you have gold coins that have value as collectible or high-end designer jewelry, such as Tiffany, Cartier, Bvlgari, David Yurman, Van Cleef & Arpels, or Harry Winston, we recommend Abe Mor or Worthy.
  • Your offer is based on a single evaluation: CashforGoldUSA appraises each item as it is received and uses this one evaluation to calculate an offer. Take it or leave it. That said, feel free to negotiate, or get your item returned for free.

CJ Environmental history

CashforGoldUSA.com, CashforSilverUSA.com, and CashforDiamondsUSA.com are owned by CJ Environmental, which was founded by Norm Schneider in the basement of the Schneider family home. Norm still owns and operates the company in Foxboro, Massachusetts with his sons Cory, Stephen and Barry.

Other places to sell gold online

Selling your gold can be a great way to reach your financial goals, whatever they are, and CashforGoldUSA is an excellent option to help.

This post outlines top gold buyers to consider, and you may also look into local pawn shops for immediate cash, as well as antique or consignment stores that may be interested in gold jewelry or coins.

Also, here is specific information on how to sell your jewelry.

SOURCES

  1. CJ Environmental Better Business Bureau review https://www.bbb.org/us/ma/canton/profile/precious-metal-dealers/cj-environmental-inc-0021-32441
Is Cash for Gold USA legit?

While it’s understandable that you might feel nervous about selling your gold online, CashforGoldUSA is a completely legitimate, A+ BBB rated business started in 2005.

How much does Cash for Gold USA pay?

Ultimately, how much you receive for your gold will depend on the weight and purity of the gold, as well as the market price of the metal. That said, CashforGoldUSA guarantees that they will match any offer you have received from a competitor.

What does CashforGoldUSA buy?

CashforGoldUSA buys gold in any shape, form, or quantity, including: broken gold jewelry, gold coins, gold ingots, gold dental scrap, and more.

How does Cash for Gold USA pay?

CashforGoldUSA pays within 24 hours by paper, mailed check, Paypal or ACH bank wire — your choice.

In 1980, David Yurman founded his eponymous jewelry company alongside his wife Sybil. Just two years later the company would release a design that would become an icon of the brand—the cable bracelet. In the following years, other of the brand’s designs like the Renaissance bracelet, Noblesse ring, Albion ring, and Oval Link necklace would incorporate the cable motif.

David Yurman is extremely popular thanks to its brand recognition and wide variety of price points thanks to his use of silver and semi-precious gemstones like quartz, citrine, topaz and turquoise. 

As such, most major jewelry buyers will not pay a premium for David Yurman like they will Tiffany, Bulgari or Cartier, and instead pay a standard price for the weight and grade of the diamond or gemstone, as well as the weight and grade of the gold or silver. 

Below, we walk you through a number of options for selling your unwanted David Yurman jewelry for as much money as possible, and answer other common questions about the brand:

Where to sell David Yurman jewelry

How to sell David Yurman jewelry online

How much David Yurman jewelry is worth

Common questions about David Yurman jewelry

Where to sell David Yurman jewelry: 5 ways

David Yurman doesn’t currently buy back their jewelry but there are places to get cash for your item. Keep in mind the following challenges for selling your David Yurman:

Resale value is low, especially for silver and semi-precious gemstones. Because Yurman is one of the most popular brands in the business, there is a big markup at retail. There are also a lot of fakes on the market, so they are mostly worth only the scrap materials if you sell to most online jewelry buyers. There does seem to be a David Yurman market on ebay and online consignment stores — but lots of fakes are also reported.

Sell back to a jeweler

Some local jewelers purchase used jewelry, including designer brands like David Yurman. Make an appointment for an appraisal, which will help you understand the value of your piece. Then, ask them if they’d be interested in buying your item. 

Selling your David Yurman to a local jeweler can be a good option if you would prefer to sell your jewelry in person, and in emergencies where you need money immediately.

That said, local jewelers ultimately make money by reselling your jewelry to another customer, so expect a trustworthy jeweler to pay you around 50-70% of the item’s resale value. 

Sell on consignment

Selling your David Yurman jewelry on consignment works like this:

  • Find a local consignment shop that accepts high-end jewelry.
  • Bring your item to the store so they can decide whether or not they’d like to take it.
  • If they accept your item, the store will typically price the item and then display it in their shop for sale.

How and when you get paid will depend on the shop’s policies. Some consignment shops pay an upfront fee when they accept your item.

Other shops only pay when they actually sell your item. Expect to get 40 to 60% of the sale price.

You can also turn to an online consignment shop like TheRealReal, which has an extensive David Yurman offering. 

Sell at a pawn shop

When many people think about selling their jewelry, they immediately think of local pawn shops. But the truth is that pawn shops on average only pay around 30% of the retail value of your item. If you need money fast, then a pawn shop might be a good option for you. Otherwise, you’d likely be better served by selling your David Yurman elsewhere.

Sell at an auction

With a jewelry auction, you ultimately sell your piece to the person who’s willing to pay the highest amount of money for your item. 

However, since the majority of David Yurman pieces are not particularly valuable, most auction houses will not take these items.

Worthy.com will buy a gold and diamond David Yurman piece worth at least $1,000. Typically, this translates into a piece of jewelry with a diamond that is .7 carat or larger, or precious gems like rubies, emeralds, or sapphires that are at least 2 carats. When it comes to David Yurman, Worthy is more inclined to accept gold pieces over silver pieces.

We like Worthy because:

  • Worthy has a B+ rating with the BBB and a score of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, based on more than 3,500 customer reviews.
  • Worthy lets you choose the minimum sale price for your item
  • Worthy covers shipping, handling, and insurance of your item, meaning that you pay nothing to sell your item.
  • Free GIA or IGI lab report for each item
  • Only professional jewelry buyers can purchase items through Worthy’s platform, increasing the chances of a good price

Read our extensive review of my personal experience selling with Worthy.

Sell to a professional jewelry buyer online

Just like local jewelry shops buy jewelry to resell in their brick-and-mortar shops, some professional online jewelry buyers purchase jewelry with the intention of reselling it. 

Because these businesses typically have less overhead compared to physical businesses, and because they must compete with other online venues, you’ll often find that they offer more for your items, which can make them a great option for selling your jewelry.

CashforGoldUSA is our recommended online jewelry buyer for most items, because:

  • A+ BBB rating
  • Accepts all sizes and weights of gold, silver and gemstone items
  • Pays within 24 hours of shipping your item
  • 100% free FedEx shipping
  • Insured up to $150,000 – free
  • 10% bonus if you send your item in within 7 days

CashforGoldUSA will pay market rate for the gold, silver, diamond and gemstones in your item — but not a premium for the name brand, as with most jewelry buyers.

How to sell David Yurman jewelry online

The best way to sell your David Yurman jewelry online depends on what you are trying to sell. 

CashforGoldUSA is our top choice because they will accept your David Yurman piece, no matter the value. They are also extremely trustworthy and found by my own investigation to pay top dollar, qickly.

How to sell to CashforGoldUSA:

  1. Go to CashforGoldUSA.com
  2. Plug in your name and address, and whether you prefer a FedEx or USPS mailer.
  3. Either print your mailer immediately, or wait a few days for one to arrive.
  4. Pop your item in the mailer and get it picked up by FedEx, or drop it off.
  5. Within 24 hours get an offer and accept payment. If you choose Paypal, you get your funds immediately.

How much is David Yurman jewelry worth?

A lot of factors go into determining the worth of your David Yurman jewelry. Some of the most important factors include:

  • The materials used (gold, sterling silver, diamonds, other gemstones, etc.)
  • The condition of the jewelry, including whether or not it has any damage
  • The rarity and popularity of the specific design you are selling
  • Whether or not you can prove provenance with a receipt, certificate, or original box/bag/other accessories that would have come with the piece

All of that being said, you can get a sense of what your jewelry might be worth by comparing it against similar pieces that have recently sold. Some David Yurman bracelets that have sold recently on Worthy.com include:

14K gold cuff and silver 18k and diamond bracelets for $2,029*

Gold, silver and diamond David Yurman bracelets for sale.

2 David Yurman 18K gold and diamond bracelets for $1,154*

Two gold, silver and diamond David Yurman bracelets for sale.

4 18K gold and diamond David Yurman bracelets for $2,228*

Four gold and diamond David Yurman bracelets for sale.

*Note that Worthy generally does not accept single items worth less than $1,000, and each of these sales are a lot of 2 to 4 items.

CashforGoldUSA accepts all weights and values of gold, silver, diamond, gemstone and other jewelry.

FAQs about selling your David Yurman jewelry

Below are answers to some of the most common questions people have about selling David Yurman jewelry.

Can I trade in my David Yurman?

David Yurman does not offer a trade-in program.

What is the resale value of David Yurman jewelry?

The resale value of your David Yurman jewelry will depend on a lot of different factors, including the condition of the piece, how rare and popular the design is, and the materials that were used to make it. Pieces with diamonds or other gemstones will fetch a higher resale value than similar pieces without stones.

Likewise, if you have the original box or bag that the piece came in you might find it easier to sell the piece to a new owner, as this will make it easier for you to prove the provenance of the piece. 

Typically, expect to get the scrap gold or scrap silver value of your item. Check current value at CashforGoldUSA’s gold and silver calculator >>

CashforGoldUSA informational gold calculator
CashforGoldUSA informational gold calculator

It is important to note that this is just for informational purposes, and not a final offer. The only way to get an accurate offer is to send your item in for appraisal.

How can you tell if your David Yurman jewelry is real?

If you purchased your jewelry directly from David Yurman or a reputable jeweler including Neiman Marcus or Saks, then you can rest easy knowing that the piece is authentic. If, however, you purchased your piece from a second-hand buyer or received it as a gift, you may not be 100% certain that it is, in fact, real.

One way to see if your David Yurman jewelry is real is to look for the brand’s trademark in the piece. All authentic David Yurman jewelry is stamped with the David Yurman trademark. Depending on the year and design, this could include:

  • D.Y.
  • D. YURMAN
  • DAVID YURMAN
  • Or even the artist’s signature

Of course, a skilled counterfeiter can forge a trademark. With this in mind, the only way to know 100% whether or not your jewelry is real is to have it appraised.

Can I trade in my David Yurman?

David Yurman does not offer a trade-in program.

What is the resale value of David Yurman jewelry?

The resale value of your David Yurman jewelry will depend on a lot of different factors, including the condition of the piece, how rare and popular the design is, and the materials that were used to make it. Pieces with diamonds or other gemstones will fetch a higher resale value than similar pieces without stones. Typically, expect to get the scrap gold or scrap silver value of your item.

How can you tell if your David Yurman jewelry is real?

If you purchased your jewelry directly from David Yurman or a reputable jeweler including Neiman Marcus or Saks, then you can rest easy knowing that the piece is authentic. If, however, you purchased your piece from a second-hand buyer or received it as a gift, you may not be 100% certain that it is, in fact, real. One way to see if your David Yurman jewelry is real is to look for the brand’s trademark in the piece. All authentic David Yurman jewelry is stamped with the David Yurman trademark.

According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data, women are the head of household in 80% of all single-parent families. Within those families, 29% of single moms are unemployed.

If you’re currently out of work and struggling, the government can provide financial assistance and essential items for you and your children. These programs are being cited as a great success in reducing child poverty by 59% over the past three decades, including helping many single moms work.

Keep reading to review our comprehensive list of government help for single mothers with no income. 

What is welfare, and what kinds of welfare programs are there in the U.S.?

Cash assistance

Food assistance

Housing assistance

Government health insurance

Government dental assistance

Child care assistance

Government assistance for family caregivers

Government assistance/welfare programs helped this professional single mom get on her feet

For each of these reputable government welfare programs, we’ve broken down the qualifications to receive assistance and provided links to apply. 

What is welfare, and what kinds of welfare programs are there in the U.S.?

Welfare programs in the United States are defined as government programs paid to the poor. Recipients of these government entitlements are typically people who work, but earn below a certain gross or annual income. 

There are dozens of federal and state welfare programs that help with food, rent and housing, medical and health care, child care, preschool, and financing college.

Cash assistance programs

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

TANF, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, is the new name for cash assistance once called ‘welfare.’

Today the program requires participants to work part-time or prove that they’re looking for work. There is a federal maximum of 60 months you can receive TANF benefits, though each state creates its own limits.

How TANF works

TANF payments are automatically loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card which is used like a debit card to pay for limited expenses, including rent, daycare, and food.

TANF is administered through your state’s welfare services, which may be called Department of Human Services, Department for Children and Families, Economic Services Division, Workforce Services, Department of Social Services or related names. Recognized tribes also administer their own TANF programs.

Learn more about EBT cash benefits.

Find a welfare services office near you

map locator

Here are the four purposes of TANF:

  • Provide assistance to needy families so that children can be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives
  • End the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage
  • Prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies
  • Encourage the formation and maintenance of two-parent families.

This pro-two-parent-family agenda is reflected in child support laws, which require that a man’s child support checks go to repay TANF outlays to their families.

Who is eligible for TANF?

Each state’s TANF qualifications, rules and payments are different, but can include:

  • Income
  • Assets 
  • Number of household members
  • Number of children under age 18 
  • How long you have already received TANF benefits. All states except for Massachusetts and New York have limits

In all states except for Wisconsin, you must earn less than the federal poverty limit. Each state’s percentage is different.

Number of people in family/householdAnnual income
1$15,960
2$21,640
3$27,320
4$33,000
5$38,680
6$44,360
7$50,040
8$55,720

For families/households with more than 8 people, add $5,680 for each additional person.each additional person.

You can also look up your area median income (AMI) here.

Learn about single mom statistics.

TANF work requirements

To continue receiving TANF benefits, you must participate in work activities for an average of 30 hours per week or get a job within two years of first receiving benefits. 

Single parents must participate in a work activity for a minimum of 20 hours per week if your child is under age 6, or 30 hours if the kid is over age 6.

Work activities can include paid and unpaid work, training, vocational school, community service, or provide child care for others completing community service. 

Some states deny extra TANF funds to families with more children, the “family cap” designed to disincentivize poor women from having more children.

These states still have family caps:

ArizonaMississippi
ArkansasNorth Carolina
ConnecticutNorth Dakota
DelawareSouth Carolina
FloridaTennessee
GeorgiaVirginia
Indiana

Most states require you not have more than $2,000 in cash assets, though Alabama, Colorado, Louisiana, Maryland, Ohio, and Virginia have done away with those limits.

Learn more about TANF and where to find government help for families nearby.

Guaranteed income (or universal basic income)

Universal Basic Income, or UBI, is increasingly gaining popularity as an efficient, effective way to alleviate poverty and improve society overall. 

The essence of these programs is that by giving people a guaranteed sum of cash each month — opposed to expensive, cumbersome and inefficient programs — recipients are more likely to get the services or resources they need, money flows more freely in local economies, and society overall benefits from a sense that we take care of one another, studies are finding.

“I am now convinced that the simplest approach will prove to be the most effective — the solution to poverty is to abolish it directly by a now widely discussed measure: the guaranteed income.”

— Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Single moms stand to benefit the most from this kind of help. From feminist news site The 19th:

About 56% of the people who live in poverty in the United States are women, and most of those are women of color. Of that group, unmarried women with children, like Nichols, are the most likely to be below the federal poverty line. For her family of five, that’s $30,680.

Here is a list of some recent pilot UBI programs that are no longer accepting applications:

  • Chicago Resilient Communities Pilot: 5,000 Chicagoans will be selected through an open application and lottery system to receive $500 per month for 12 months, no strings attached. Mayor Lori Lightfoot and the City of Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services are funding the $31.5 million dollar project. Applications closed in December 2022.
  • Mayors for Guaranteed Income (MGI): A coalition of 36 mayors from select cities came together to test UBI programs in their cities. Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey committed $15 million to the organization. Dozens more mayors across the country have since joined the coalition and have established or are in the process of establishing UBI programs. You can use the search tool on the MGI page to find a program in your area.
  • Magnolia Mother’s Trust: Magnolia Mother’s Trust is a pilot program founded in 2018 that provides $1,000 a month for a year to low-income Black mothers living in affordable housing in Jackson, Miss. The program now serves about 100 mothers annually, who also get $1,000 in a 529 college savings account for their children.
  • Basic Income Guaranteed: Los Angeles Economic Assistance Pilot: Approximately 3,200 Los Angeles families living in poverty received $1,000 a month for a year as part of a research study, with no rules for how the money was spent. This pilot program will come to an end in March 2023, with no current plans to select new participants.
  • Oakland Resilient Families: The Oakland, Calif., city program, which raised $6.75 million from private donors, selected 600 low-income families of color to receive $500 per month. They are not currently accepting new applicants and haven’t announced a continuation of the program.
  • Cook County Promise Program: In Cook County, Ill., low-income families received $500 payments, starting in December 2022, which will be paid for two years. The $42 million in funds for the program comes from the American Rescue Plan Act. No future iterations of the program have been announced.

Food assistance programs

Food assistance programs like WIC and SNAP provide food for millions of Americans.

If you have low or no income, you can search for information and eligibility requirements for these programs in your state:

WIC

The Women Infants and Children program for families with children aged 5 and younger offers food coupons you can use at grocery stores, markets and bodegas, for qualifying food. Learn whether you are eligible for WIC, and how to apply.

SNAP

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program loans financial credit to low-income people on a debit card that you use at your local grocery store and market. SNAP eligibility requirements are based on gross and annual income, as well as household size. Learn how to qualify, and apply online for SNAP.

Each state has its own income limits for food stamps. Check this list from the USDA to find your local SNAP office to see if you qualify. 

As one example, here is the current income limit chart for Pennsylvania (published in October 2022) that determines whether or not you qualify if you live in PA:

SNAP benefit limits in Pennsylvania, a type of government help for single moms.

Note that during the pandemic, households in several states had been receiving an additional payment in the second half of the month. Starting in March 2023, SNAP recipients will no longer receive this additional payment.

School Breakfast and Lunch Programs 

The national school breakfast and lunch program helps families with food through their local schools and daycare centers by providing free breakfasts and lunches to students.

In April 2021, SNAP emergency funding was expanded by an additional $1 billion per month to 25 million people as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s American Rescue Plan Act.

As part of that expansion, SNAP recipients were given an additional payment each month, which is now over as of March 2023.

WIC fruit and vegetable vouchers are expected to increase in 2023 to $25 for children, $44 for pregnant and postpartum mothers, and $49 for participants who are fully or partially breastfeeding their children.

See if your local schools offer free meals for families with children, and food programs for senior citizens.

Special Milk Program

If your school does not have a free breakfast or lunch program, they may qualify for the special milk program.

Summer Food Service Program

The federal Summer Food Service programs help families who depend on school lunches and breakfasts to access nutritious foods during summer breaks.

Other resources:

  • Food Finder: Find a food pantry near you using Food Finder, which will connect you with free food given away through local churches, community programs, charities in all 50 states.
  • Feeding America: Find your local food bank through the Feeding America website.
  • USDA National Hunger Hotline: 1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479) or 1-877-8-HAMBRE (1-877-842-6273). Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern.
  • Read our guides on free food and free formula.

Housing assistance programs

Even if you have a solid income, you may qualify for first-time homeowners programs, or rental assistance. Learn more about some government housing programs available for single mothers.

You can also check out our posts on how to buy a house as a single mom and security deposit assistance.

Housing authority

Public housing agencies (PHAs) were established to provide affordable housing in safe communities for low-income families.

For example:

The Philadelphia Housing Authority provides over 14,000 affordable homes for rent. It also has earned Moving to Work (MTW) status, a program that helps residents find employment opportunities and promotes self-sufficiency.

With over 177,500 rentals throughout 335 housing developments in all five boroughs, the New York City Housing Authority is the largest PHA in North America. The average rent is $542, and 43.5% of residents are employed.

The Houston Housing Authority provides affordable housing to over 60,000 low-income families across 25 public housing and tax credit developments. 

The Los Angeles County Development Authority is a combination of multiple entities that work together to provide affordable housing and community/economic development. There are over 2,900 public housing units across 63 sites in Los Angeles County.

Section 8

The Section 8 housing subsidy from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) — also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program — gives families in need access to decent, clean, and safe housing in privately-owned neighborhoods or within a housing project.

This includes apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. It gives families a choice about where they want to live.

Local PHAs grant the housing subsidy to low-income families, older adults, and those who have a recognized disability. 

Section 8 Housing Qualifications

To be eligible, your family’s income cannot exceed 50% of the median income of the area in which you wish to live. Preference is given to families whose income does not exceed 30% of the area median income. 

For exact requirements, contact your local PHA.

Read more about housing help in this post about free housing and rental assistance — plus home loans and first-time home-buyer programs.

25+ options for single moms seeking loans for emergencies and more

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income families and individuals with energy costs, energy crisis help, weatherization and energy-related home repairs. If you use other benefits programs like SNAP or TANF, you may automatically qualify. 

Find info on LIHEAP for your state here.

Government health insurance

The government offers health insurance to qualified individuals in the form of Medicaid, Medicare, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These programs provide health care coverage to millions of Americans.

As long as you meet the requirements, you’ll be able to get the care you need at little to no cost for covered services.

If you don’t qualify for these programs, you can apply for a subsidy from health insurance exchanges in each state. 

Medicaid

Medicaid covers costs for inpatient and outpatient care in hospitals, as well as lab tests, doctor visits, home health care and other services. It’s a government program providing free or low-cost health care to low-income families, older adults, and people with disabilities.


Many women don’t realize that Medicaid and private insurance may also cover certain surgical procedures when there is a documented medical need. Breast reduction is one of the most commonly approved examples. Women dealing with chronic back pain, shoulder grooving, and skin irritation from disproportionately large breasts should look into breast reduction insurance coverage through their plan after their doctor provides the required documentation.

Medicaid eligibility criteria varies by state. If you have questions about coverage, contact your state’s Medicaid office or visit Medicaid.gov.

Medicare

People often confuse Medicare and Medicaid, but they are two separate programs.

While Medicaid is a joint state and federal program, Medicare is a federal-run health insurance program for people aged 65 or older or living with a disability or End-Stage Renal Disease. For most eligible Medicare recipients, there is no monthly cost if Medicare taxes were paid while working.

Read more about Medicare at Medicare.gov.

CHIP

CHIP provides health coverage to children in families that earn too much money to qualify for Medicaid, but cannot afford private health insurance. Like Medicare, it’s a joint program between states and the federal government.

Benefits vary by state, but essential services like doctor visits, immunizations, and routine checkups are available to all CHIP recipients.

You can learn more about CHIP at Medicaid.gov.

Can’t afford health insurance? Check out these 5 health insurance options.

Government dental assistance

Dental care is expensive, but it’s vital for overall health. If you receive benefits from CHIP, Medicaid, or Medicare, you can get help with routine dental care for your children (and in some states, for yourself). You can also check out our post on affordable dentures.

CHIP 

While specific benefits vary by state, CHIP provides dental benefits to child participants up to 19 years old for free or at a steep discount.

Under CHIP, children can get services like:

  • Annual check-ups
  • X-rays
  • Flouride treatments
  • Sealants
  • Fillings 

For a complete list of services, check your state’s CHIP website  or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW.  

Medicaid 

The government requires states to provide dental benefits for children who are covered by Medicaid through the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit.

While children up to age 21 are covered, states can decide if they want to extend that coverage to adults. Most states offer some sort of emergency dental care for adults.

Refer to this guide for benefit details.

Medicare

Medicare (Part A and B) doesn’t provide free or low-cost dental care as a benefit. However, there are provisions for emergency dental procedures under Medicare Part A if you are hospitalized.

If you have Medicare Part C, also known as an Medicare Advantage Plan, you may have access to dental care depending on the plan you chose during enrollment. Since Medicare Part C plans are offered by private companies, you’ll need to contact the plan administrator for details. 

Don’t qualify for these programs? There are other options for you to get free or low-cost dental care:

  • Search “free dental clinics” near me
  • Ask your local United Way or health department
  • Try a dental school or dental hygiene school, where students perform the work under licensed supervision
  • Ask your dentist about payment plans or sliding fees
  • Look into businesses like Aspen Dental that provide a free initial exam
  • Research companies that offer affordable dentures

Child care assistance programs

Public assistance day care programs

Each state’s Health and Human Services can help you find grants and money for low-cost or free daycare, based on your need, income and program availability in your area. Learn about your options at the Office of Childcare Website.

Head Start daycare

Head Start and Early Head Start is an established federal program that has proven successful in providing educational readiness for low-income children under age 5 from low-income families. The program’s goals are to help all children get ready for school, as well as provide affordable child care to their parents.

Find Head Start programs near you.

State child care assistance subsidies for single moms

Each state has child care assistance programs that can help you find quality day care centers, and pay for them. Find programs in your state and town with the Office of Child Care’s website.

Also, read our guide on free and affordable child care assistance programs you — as well as free preschool and free after-school care.

There are many more government programs that can help with free medical care, including:

Government assistance for family caregivers

If you are a caregiver for your spouse, special needs child, or disabled parent, the government provides financial or budgeting support through several programs:

Medicaid Self-Directed Care Program

This Medicaid program gives participants the power to choose who provides their services and how and where those services are performed.

Having employment authority means those who need services can choose who they want to hire and how to direct Medicaid funds to compensate caregivers.

Have questions? Contact your state Medicaid office.

Veteran-Directed Home and Community Based Services Program

If you are a veteran, this program helps you set up a budget for hiring a family member to provide personal care at home or in your community. Help with fixing meals, dressing, bathing or even companionship can improve your quality of life.

Talk to a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) social worker to determine what kind of help you can expect to receive. 

For more information, visit VA.gov or reach out to your VA social worker.

Aid and Attendance Program

Another benefit for veterans with a VA pension who need care, this program helps pay for a caregiver of choice. It’s for veterans living at home or in a care facility that need help with daily life, such as getting dressed or eating a meal.

Contact your VA pension management center for more help.

More resources for single moms:

Best jobs moms can do from homeScholarships for single moms
Free laptopsFree Christmas gifts
Free carFree clothes
Free smartphoneFree gas
Free wifiFree money
Free toysEnergy assistance
Tutoring and homework helpFree school supplies
Free gift cardsFree Christmas money
10+ charities that help single mothersFree money for bills
Free bus passesFree beds
Free bus ticketsFree baby stuff
Free ipadFree car seat
Free air conditionerFree help with tax preparation
Lower car paymentsFree cable
Free internetFree car insurance
Free streamingScholarships for women

Government assistance/welfare programs helped this professional single mom get on her feet

I often struggle with this platform, where I speak primarily to women like me: Educated, professional single moms.

The number of unmarried mothers is increasingly affluent and educated, as women gain power in business and earning. But the reality remains that about half of kids raised primarily by a single mom live in poverty (a figure plummets for kids raised by single dads).

I don’t pretend that what I write about here speaks to every single one of the 10 million U.S. single moms, or financial challenges that I face as an educated white woman are the same as someone who grew up with the challenges of generational poverty.

However, I often hear from women facing single motherhood and find themselves in financial straits — very real, scary financial straits — despite having had every perceived advantage, a fact that only adds to the shame and fear around their situation.

A couple years ago I had this Facebook instant message conversation with Jennifer L.W. Fink, a single mom to four boys in Wisconsin. She separated five years ago and has been divorced for two.

When she separated, Fink worked part-time as a freelance writer and homeschooled her children. She turned to public assistance.

Today Fink makes a living as a full-time freelance writer. She blogs at Building Boys. 

EJ: In launching this blog I started researching the economics of single moms, and it actually depressed me for a few days. I don’t need to tell you that the numbers are dire. When I realized I would become a single mom, I just kind of put my blinders on to the roadblocks in my way and plunged ahead. So far so good. That is what I aim to preach on Wealthy Single Mommy.

But I also try to appreciate that I am a white, educated middle-class woman who had a career before I had kids and got divorced. No ignoring that.

JLWF: That’s a big point. I’m white and educated and relatively middle class. But I married at 20 and didn’t exactly have a career before that. But I still have a leg up that a lot of other single moms don’t have in that I have a college degree and had some professional experience.

But here’s the thing: raising kids takes at least as much time as it takes money. I don’t think we, as parents, do ourselves any favors by glossing over that fact. Ideally, you have two parents working toward that goal.

How to pay off debt (even on a low income)

There’s no shame in applying for government assistance

EJ: I agree 100 percent. But that isn’t our story now. So what do you suggest?

JLWF: I definitely suggest applying for and accepting as much help as you need. There is nothing wrong or shameful about that.

EJ: We’re talking public assistance?

JLWF: Yes. Most of the time, single motherhood is sudden. Even in families with two, educated, professional spouses, one spouse (often the woman) is working less outside the home to facilitate family life. And while many moms— most moms—can and will ramp up their income and earning potential, they can’t always pull that off right away. I would definitely urge these women to look into what’s available in terms of health benefits, food stamps or other benefits. You have nothing to lose.

EJ: Did you accept public aid?

JLWF: Yes, I did, and I’m OK talking about it.

I have a nursing degree, but I transitioned into a writing career while I was having and homeschooling my kids. By the time of my divorce, I hadn’t actively practiced nursing in 6 years. I made something like $21,000 writing the year before I divorced — not bad for a part-time job, but it’s not nearly enough to support a family of five.

When I separated I ramped up my writing work, but to fill in that gap I applied for every kind of assistance I could get. Health insurance was a particular worry since my ex had carried me on his policy. I qualified for food assistance for six months, health benefits for a year, and help with heating costs that first winter.

EJ: How did you feel about applying for aid? What went through your mind?

JLWF: I’m from a middle class home. I’m not supposed to be one of “those moms.” I felt angry at a world and a system and circumstances that put my children and me in such a position that makes it easy for one spouse to walk away, while another struggles to figure out how to feed and clothe her kids. But at that time, it truly was survival for me. It was the only way to make the numbers work.

EJ: What would your family’s life have looked like had you not gotten that assistance?

JLWF: I’m lucky and blessed to have good friends and family. No one would have let us starve, or land on the streets, but none of my family or friends could have afforded to subsidize us for long. We would definitely have considered selling the house. But it would have been tough to find something more reasonable, and apartment living isn’t exactly a great option for four active boys.

Emotions associated with accepting public benefits

EJ: Not at all! Do you worry that professional women — or at least middle-class women — struggle unduly because they’re too embarrassed to apply for public benefits?

JLWF: Yes. It’s very hard to whip out your state assistance food card at the grocery store when you’re used to using a credit or debit card.

Find even more help for single moms here >>

Finding a partner who shares your spiritual beliefs, healthy, environmentally conscious lifestyle, and interests might seem impossible in a sea of generic online dating profiles.

Luckily, there are multiple spiritual dating sites specifically built for people seeking a deep spiritual connection. 

What is the best dating site for spiritual daters?

  1. Conscious Singles
  2. dharmaMatch
  3. Love Spiritually
  4. MeetMindful
  5. Soulful Match
  6. Spirituality.Dating
  7. Spiritual Singles
  8. Christian and Catholic dating sites

What is the best dating site for spiritual daters?

Like a lot of other niche dating sites, the pool of daters on these spiritual dating sites will be smaller (and in some areas, nonexistent), and the tech is dated (most do not have apps!).

That’s why our No. 1 recommendation for spiritual dating is eharmony.com, which prioritizes finding committed partnership over hookups and has over 750,000 paid subscribers and 10 million active users. 

Check out our full review of eharmony.

1. Conscious Singles

Since 1999, Conscious Singles has marketed itself as “the oldest, largest exclusively conscious, spiritual dating site.” This spiritual dating site matches potential couples based on shared spiritual interests such as astrology, mindfulness, and meditation — which means you’re likely to find someone who wants more than something casual.

Registration takes a hot minute, but we promise it’s worth the effort. Like its sister site, Spiritual Singles, Conscious Singles offers inspirational articles, spiritual/self-improvement products, and events. Both sites are part of the Conscious Dating Network, so you can access all sites when you create an account.

Is Conscious Singles legit?

Conscious Singles doesn’t have a BBB rating or Trustpilot profile. However, its sister-site, Spiritual Singles, has great Trustpilot reviews, which lends credibility to the entire Conscious Dating Network. All pictures/profiles on the site are subject to verification by a moderator. Check out our post with some online dating profile examples.

How much does Conscious Singles cost?

While it’s possible to meet people with the free version, you will have more control choosing potential mates if you subscribe.

Conscious Singles pricing (plans automatically renew unless you cancel):

1 Month$24
3 Months$48 ($16 per month)
6 Months$72 ($12 per month)

Conscious Singles Pros

  • Reading/replying/sending likes is free
  • Webcam chat

Conscious Singles Cons

  • No app
  • Public profiles (no privacy)

Conscious Singles reviews 

Incredibly Grateful & Married, Conscioussingles.com review

(Received recently–that’s how it works sometimes!) My name is Randy, and I joined your site on February 14, 2016. After several months I became convinced that I would meet my match on this site. I traveled to meet several women but no match. However, I felt that I was getting closer to finding her each time.

On November 30, 2016, I sent an interest to a woman in Austin, Texas. We began speaking on the phone daily for hours, and we both knew after just a few days that we would spend our lives together. So on December 30, I flew from Chicago to Austin on a one-way ticket and stayed five weeks. After the first two weeks, we moved her into a larger apartment because we knew that we would always be together and go into business together!

Kim, my wife now, or Kimmy Chi as she is known, had created a line of organic body & skincare products, and I decided to work with her after she told me that she needed a sales and marketing person. That was me, too! We’ve now expanded the line with CBD products, and now we sell Chiki Buttah Products nationally.

Given it’s our first anniversary, I’m now adding my story to the site. We feel that we are perfect for each other, but the most amazing thing to us is how we managed to meet and immediately start living together and working together while still getting to know each other. We’re like 24/7 together and love it.

There is no doubt that we would not have met if not for Conscious Match! We will forever be incredibly grateful! We’ve never been so happy. Thank you!

Kim and Randy Keeshin

England to Atlanta! Soul Mates United, Conscioussingles.com review

Hello, it has been a while since we finally wanted to write and thank your website.  

The website allowed me to meet my soulmate in just a few short weeks. We believe that it was our destined journey to meet through your site and that it’s in alignment with the universe and God for us to be together. 

At first, what seemed friendly and pleasant became an unimaginably wonderful gift. We lived in different countries and soon after meeting knew we could not be apart long and decided marriage was for us. It was a true gift of marrying my soulmate and twin flame, and we cannot thank you enough.

We met last June and were married by the end of January. Thank you so much, and we will never forget your website. 

Best Regards,  

Paula & Teresa

Learn more about running a background check on someone your’re dating

2. dharmaMatch

dharmaMatch is a refreshing dating concept built around being your best self. This spiritual dating site draws inspiration from the Eastern spirituality notions of dharma and karma, and its mantra is “Be Good. Meet Good. Do Good.” 

While it sounds like a great concept, the actual dating site leaves a lot to be desired. Based on most reviews, customer satisfaction is low. If you want to see if the app is worth your time, try running its free user base search in your area. For reference, we searched an NYC zip code with a 100-mile radius and received only two pages of user results (each page is 10 profiles).

On smaller sites like dharmaMatch (and on any dating site or app), it’s important to run a background check on anyone you decide to meet up with to make sure they’re safe and legit. Also, learn which red flags to look out for on your dates. Educate yourself about safe online dating.

Is dharmaMatch legit?

dharmaMatch has an A+ rating with the BBB and has been accredited since March 2023, although it has no ratings. The dating site is not listed on Trustpilot. It has 1.6 stars based on five reviews on Sitejabber. While legitimate, user satisfaction is low.

How much does dharmaMatch cost?

You can create a profile, send “smiles,” and respond to messages for free. However, you must subscribe to the gold membership to send emails or initiate contact.

dharmaMatch pricing:

1 Month$19.99
3 Months$50.97 ($16.99 per month)
6 Months$77.94 ($12.99 per month)

dharmaMatch Pros

  • Free responding to messages/”smiles”
  • Like-minded matches

dharmaMatch Cons

  • No app/live chat
  • Tiny user base

dharmaMatch reviews 

C P., 10/2/23, Sitejabber review

After taking the effort to make profile you find out that you are not even able to send a message without paying for an expensive subscription! What a joke! Some spiritual values this sham of a company has. This paid subscription model is the reason the website is as dead as can be which is a real shame as it could be something really worthwhile if it was accessible to everyone.

Googie B., 11/5/17, Sitejabber review

It sucks, don’t waste your time! Well, dharmaMatch is not free even though profiles have no dates, are not active, and Dharma doesn’t tell you when they were active. Pretty clever, don’t you think so? You look like an idiot that spends 2/3 hours filling out their forms and answering their stupid questions just to send a smile to members who were active years ago. Hahaha, they got you, but at least now you know. I wasted hours making my profile :(

Mike D. January 22, 2018, Sitejabber review

Dating sites are coming to an end, and they know it. That’s why there is no way to tell when someone has last been active for most of them. eharmony removed those notifications- what other possible reason would they do that? Dharma was a decent idea in trying to weed out the shallower end of the pool, and at some point, it probably worked, but it’s a ghost town now.

I live in a central US metropolitan area, paid for one month – no significant loss – and contacted many people. I understand not getting responses, but my profile had only 2 VIEWS in a month. None were the people I contacted. These sites may have once had good intentions, but…

How to choose the right pics for your dating profile

3. Love Spiritually

Love Spiritually is for those individuals who value daily mindfulness and spiritual practice. In addition, the site intends to form a platform for individuals who seek “holistic, sustainable living, yoga, raising the collective consciousness, and living with a pure, open heart…”

When I created an account, there were 192 people online (with only four profiles available for Instant Messaging). Upon profile creation, Love Spiritually awards you with one free conversation. And even though I specified that I was interested in men, I was matched with females and males far outside my preferred age range.

Also, nothing seems related to/driven by spirituality other than the site’s name. Using the search criteria of male, age 30-50, within a 100-mile radius of NYC, 75 profile matches were returned. Overall, we recommend focusing your efforts on other dating sites.

Is Love Spiritually legit?

Love Spiritually has no Trustpilot or BBB profile. The site brands itself as the “#1 spiritual community on the net,” and while we strongly disagree, it is a legitimate dating site.

How much does Love Spiritually cost?

It is impossible to meet someone using the free version (unless the one free conversation granted to you ends in success). You can send up to 30 free “flirts.” However, your chances are improved if you subscribe.

Love Spiritually pricing (automatic subscription renewal unless you cancel):

5-Day trial$5 ($34.95 per month after trial ends)
1 Month$32.95
3 Months$44.97 ($14.99 per month)

Love Spiritually Pros

  • You can prevent contact from people who don’t fit your criteria

Love Spiritually Cons

  • No app/blog
  • Small user base/bad profile qualities (except for the Richard Branson profile)

Love Spiritually reviews

We couldn’t find any user reviews. However, we did see that Love Spiritually has 1,400 Facebook “likes” and 1,500 “follows.”

4. MeetMindful

User Beware. We cannot recommend this site because of the overwhelming scam/unfair billing practice complaints. However, if you are still curious, read on.

MeetMindful is intended for individuals looking to form serious relationships and fall in love. It offers entertaining articles, and its user base is overwhelmingly female.

Is MeetMindful legit?

After eight years in business, MeetMindful is not accredited with the BBB and holds an F rating and there are multiple unanswered billing complaints. There is a current alert on file (with a disclosed phone number) for this business, given the pattern of complaints about unfair billing/unresponsive customer service.

MeetMindful holds a 1.4/5-star rating (based on 104 reviews) on Trustpilot. Most complaints are about unfair/illegal billing practices. Many allude to fake profiles, repeating (rejected) profiles, a massive volume of unopened/unanswered messages and more.

How much does MeetMindful cost?

You cannot expect to meet anyone with the “free” version, as sending messages is reserved for paying subscribers.

MeetMindful pricing:

1 Week$14
1 Month$29
3 Months$49 ($16.33)
6 Months$79 ($13.17)

MeetMindful Pros

  • App on Apple Store and Google Play
  • Somewhat larger user base focused on large metro areas

MeetMindful Cons

  • Poor customer service/lots of billing complaints
  • You can’t try the app for free

MeetMindful reviews

November 25, 2024, Trustpilot Review

Unprofessional and neglected by operators.

The idea of not judging each other solely on the basis of photos but also focusing on interests sounds good at first. Unfortunately, the operators have a completely unprofessional approach to the site. I wanted to complete my registration with verification, but no matter which e-mail I entered, I never received it, not even in the spam folder. If you click on the “Helpcenter” on the site, a black screen “not found” appears. That is quite telling. Unfortunately, I have already entered my details and hope that something dubious doesn’t happen to them.

October 19, 2024, Trustpilot Review


Meetmindful is awful!

I would like to follow up with my experience with meetmindful. After they apologized for their site being unavailable, they emailed me and said they would give me 90 days free premium membership. I accepted yet they continued to charge my card and again the site was unavailable 8 out of 10 times I attempted to access it. I realized that they were continuing to charge my card even though they said I could have 90 days free. I then cancelled my subscription and emailed them my displeasure at them charging me for what was supposed to be free and I couldn’t even access the site 80 percent of the time. Here we are 3 months later and they are still attempting to charge my card. I have had to lock my debit card so that they can’t charge it any longer and just reported them to the BBB and CPA. Do yourself a favor and don’t use meetmindful.

June 24, 2024, Trustpilot Review

It’s a complete scam.

It’s a complete scam! I just paid $35 for a premium membership and a week after the site went down. I used it twice and have tried to log back on multiple times, over a week now and keep getting an error message. Now that I am reading other reviews, it looks like others have had the same experience. Do not pay money to this site. I emailed them and sent requests to their Help and no one has responded. I am reporting them to BBB and Consumer Protection Agency.

5. Soulful Match

Soulful Match is a private dating site that caters to singles looking for love and lasting relationships. Soulful Match offers inspirational articles and events and is a Conscious Dating Network partner.

The good news is that if you have a profile with Spiritual Singles or Conscious Singles, you already have access to this dating community. You can indicate your interest for free, send up to five “Hellos,” and respond to messages. The premium subscription allows you to initiate messages, attach images, access instant messaging, and upload up to two videos. The profile creation process is lengthy, but ultimately, it’s worth your time.

Is Soulful Match legit?

Soulful Match has a profile on Trustpilot but no reviews. However, it is a legitimate online dating site as part of the Conscious Dating Network.

How much does Soulful Match cost?

While Soulful Match costs less than most dating sites, it is possible to meet people with the free version since you can respond to messages received.

Soulful Match pricing (renews automatically):

1 Month$24
3 Months$48 ($16/month)
6 Months$72 ($12/month)

Soulful Match Pros

  • Profiles are approved manually (no fake profiles)
  • Truly caters to the spiritual community

Soulful Match Cons

  • No app

Soulful Match reviews 

Lists Fulfilled, check! Soulfulmatch.com website

My husband John and I met on your site nearly six years ago, and as I write this, we are celebrating our 3rd wedding anniversary! 

By the time I was 44, I had experienced several long-term relationships, but never marriage, and I truly wanted that life-long commitment. My last relationship was with a man I met the first time I was on your site as well, and after nearly three years, it ended amicably.

When I was ready to date again, I returned to your site because I knew this was the site where I would find the best mate for me. And I did! Months before, I had made a list of what I wanted in a mate, and as I read through John’s thoughtful profile, I mentally checked off all the things on my ideal mate list. John was my list! (Coincidentally, he had made a list around the time I had made mine, and I was his list, too! Eerie!).

The fact that he was a widower with two young sons didn’t scare me. All I knew was that his profile spoke to me, and I felt a connection. We exchanged long emails and quickly set a first date that lasted 4 hours. 2 ½ years later, we were married.

As a result of our union, I have gained two beautiful sons, John’s family and his late wife’s family, all of whom have made my life complete. He was well worth the wait, and I am so glad to have found someone who values the same things I do. I doubt I would have been able to find him through other dating sites. 

Our shared values have prompted us to form a company together. Sister Eden Media makes how-to and satirical videos about taking care of ourselves and our planet. 

Take care, and thanks again for what you do!

Lori Hill

Soul Level Connection, Soulfulmatch.com website

We found each other thanks to the Conscious Dating Network!  After some initial frustration that potential matches were a geographical challenge, we discovered that we both live in Arizona, making it easy to meet up for dinner and a complete conversation.  

We have found that our values are amazingly very similar and form the basis for what we both feel is a deep soul-level connection.  Thank you for providing this service and helping us find each other! We truly feel a profoundly emotional, spiritual, physical connection and marvel at finding each other every day. Thank you very much! We are delighted and very much in love!

Sincerely,

Kathy and Stephanie 

Follow up:

Hi,

I (we) sincerely want to thank you!! You truly helped us find this soulful magical match.

Words are inadequate.

We are simply so happy and now MARRIED.

Best wishes to you and yours,

Kathy

6. Spirituality.Dating

This dating site is worth trying, mainly because it’s free. According to its website, it’s perfect for singles who “…are spiritual… and value a healthy holistic lifestyle (mind, body, spirit, and soul).”

When signing up, you can be as specific as you’d like about your spirituality, preferences, and beliefs. The interface is a bit cluttered, but you get to take fun quizzes like “Who were you in your past life?” The typical search filters include age, geographical location, pictures, and more. If you live near a large urban area, give it a go.

Is Spirituality.Dating legit?

Spirituality.Dating has no ratings on Trustpilot or BBB, but this dating site is steadily growing in popularity.

How much does Spirituality.Dating cost?

Spirituality.Dating is free. However, if you are looking to upgrade, you will get to:

  • Experience unlimited chats
  • View who looked at your profile
  • Flirt up to five times a day
  • Find out who likes or favorited you
  • Unlock all photos for other users
  • Undo swipes
  • Use the invisible mode

Spirituality.Dating pricing (no recurring charges/subscription):

5-day trial$4.95
1 Month$32.99
3 Months$14.66/month

Spirituality.Dating Pros

  • Free
  • Growing in popularity

Spirituality.Dating Cons

  • Small dating pool

Spirituality.Dating reviews 

We couldn’t find any reviews on spiritual.dating but will add them as they become available. 

7. Spiritual Singles

When creating a profile, you have to meet the minimum requirements and invest a bit of energy, thought, and time. However, this site is worth it! Your profile will stay hidden until approved.

In the meantime, you have the opportunity to answer 20 “match” questions. Spiritual Singles is worth joining for more than just finding a mate. The site lists spiritual events, classifieds and is like a spiritual community.

Is Spiritual Singles legit?

This dating site is trustworthy given that it actively seeks feedback/customer reviews regardless of whether or not they are favorable. Additionally, spiritual Singles uses SSL inscription, fraud detection, and id authentication/profile verification. As a result, most profiles you come across are legitimate.

While not rated on the BBB website, Spiritual Singles has 3.8 out of 5 starts on Trustpilot (over 607 total reviews), indicating that most users are happy with their experience. However, reviewers on Sitejabber give it 2.3 out of 5 stars.

How much does Spiritual Singles cost?

The site regularly offers specials, so check it out around upcoming holidays. Subscriptions renew automatically. Video date time can be purchased separately ($4 per hour, $12.50 for five hours, and $20 for 10 hours).

Premium membership allows you to send up to 50 emails per day (nonsubscribers can respond for free), attach pictures to messages, initiate unlimited instant messaging, 20 photos, and two videos.

Spiritual Singles pricing:

1 Month$24
3 Months$48 ($16/month
6 Months$72 ($12/month)

Spiritual Singles Pros

  • Messaging is free if a subscribing member initiates contact
  • Spiritual community, events, and classifieds

Spiritual Singles Cons

  • No app 

Spiritual Singles reviews 

June 16, 2025, Trustpilot review

Met a great guy. Started dating.

– Spacious

June 07, 2025, Trustpilot review

Save your money. It’s unfortunate and disappointing that most of the profiles are inactive. I also find it very disappointing and deceptive, especially for a site that is intended for a spiritually oriented community. I do not find that to be an enlightened business practice. For example, when I search for profiles within 100 miles of my location, I am presented with 64 profiles. When you sort by activity, only three of the profiles have been active within the last six months. If I search in an area of 300 miles, I am presented with 200 profiles. If I sort for those profiles with recent activity, there are only nine profiles that have been active within the last few weeks.

What is most disappointing though, when I initially posted a basic review, pointing out that most profiles where inactive, I was contacted by the ownership of the sight, telling me to take it down. I suggested refunding my money and I would glad to, but then I thought about it and I remembered one of my favorite quotes: The truth shall set you free. Keep the money. People are so hungry to authentically connect with others like them, that I absolutely believe that its very important for site like this to be totally transparent and authentic. I believe that you would attract more people with positive, authentic business practices. I wish you success.

– Customer

March 12, 2025, Trustpilot review

It’s not the company. It’s the men on the site who never respond, even when I do the responding. There are very few men even in Arizona that I live in. I have been on your site for many years, and it’s the same every time I go on. No response, no interest. It makes no sense to me that if you’re on a dating site, you would choose to at least respond kindly to those that you reach out to, which have been very few. So disappointing. I wish I had a better report. Susan Hutchins

I always respond to any comments.

– Susan Hutchins

8. Christian and Catholic dating sites

For religion-based connections, please consult our guides to Catholic and Christian dating sites.

Which spiritual dating sites are the best this year?

You may wish to explore alternative spiritual dating sites like JustspiritualDating.com, NaturalawAkeningSingles.com, LightworkersinLove, MeetSpiritualSingles, DivineDating app, and Nuitapp. In the meantime, let’s talk about our favorites on this list.

  1. Because of its large user base and reputation for leading to meaningful relationships, eharmony tops our list for spiritual daters, even if it isn’t specifically “billed” as a spiritual dating site. We also love eharmony for its A Better Business Bureau rating and in-depth personality questionnaire that seeks to learn your spiritual and religious preferences. It also boasts a high marriage rate and low divorce rate compared to other dating sites, according to a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
  2. Our No. 2 choice is a tie: Spiritual Singles, Conscious Singles, and Soulful Match. We cannot praise this network of sister sites enough. Because they are a part of the Conscious Dating Network, one account gives you access to all.
  3. Spiritual.dating is our third choice and worth exploring. It is still growing, free and fun. We look forward to seeing how Spiritual.dating evolves and hearing members’ reactions/success stories.
  4. Our fourth choice is Love Spiritually. It has a small user base and poor-quality profiles, but you can try it if you wish to explore more sites.
  5. Next is dharmaMatch. We recommend bypassing this site and its tiny user base.
  6. Lastly, we have Meet Mindful. Unfortunately, while Meet Mindful offers the convenience of an app, we cannot recommend this dating site due to extensive (and unresolved) billing complaints on BBB.

Looking for more than a spiritual connection? Check out our list of the best dating apps and sites for single parents, or learn about working with a professional matchmaking service, including It’s Just Lunch and Tawkify.

We also put together a guide to boosting your confidence so you can attract the right kind of matches and know your worth. And, if you’re concerned, a guide on background checks for dating.

Also:

20 online dating profile examples

Tinder profiles for guys

What pics to use in your online dating profile

We’ve also reviewed some of the top-rated online dating apps and sites that all help you connect with like-minded daters. Check them out:

Match.comBumbleElite Singles
ZooskPlenty of FishOKCupid
TinderChristian MingleSingle Parent Meet
13 international
dating apps		Coffee Meets BagelDating.com

Featured in