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When it comes to love and sex, there’s a website for whatever you’re looking for. Even if what you’re looking for is plain ole’ sex. Adult Friend Finder is the leader in this space.

If you don’t want to spend your time scouting for potential hookups at the local bar, you might want to look into Adult Friend Finder (AFF). The site was launched in 1996, and today is the largest sex and swingers community with over 100 million users.

Is Adult Friend Finder legit?

Yes, Adult Friend Finder is legit. The site previously had an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, but is currently not rated. It has been in business since the beginning of the internet and has millions of users.

The app was named one of the best dating websites and apps in 2021 by Dating-Experts.org.  

While some reviewers on Reddit and Trustpilot like to call AFF a scam, it definitely depends on what you make of your experience. “I guess it IS a scam if you sign up expecting to put no effort into it at all and then get laid by some hot chick,” writes one Reddit user.

Keep in mind lots of people love to call dating apps “scams” when they feel they’re not getting their money’s worth (a.k.a. matches). Always take this with a grain of salt when you try any hookup site.

For someone who isn’t interested in dating and just wants to get laid including single moms, Adult Friend Finder might be the hook-up app for you. 

Read below to learn more:

Who is on Adult Friend Finder?

How does AdultFriendFinder work?

How much does AdultFriendFinder cost? 

Pros and cons of AFF

AFF reviews

Bottom line: Is AFF any good?

Adult Friend Finder alternatives

Who is on Adult Friend Finder?

Adult Friend Finder is open to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or sexual experience. The common theme on this dating website is casual sex; the pool contains:

  • People looking for friends with benefits
  • Casual hookups
  • Couples who practice polyamory
  • Cougars
  • Swingers
  • Adventurous folks looking to live out their sexual fantasies and fantasies.
Screenshot of types of people and couples on hookup site Adult Friend Finder.

How does Adult Friend Finder work?

When you sign up, you can customize your profile to disclose your interests, physical traits (like your cup size), and what you’re looking for. Adding photos are optional, but it’s always a good idea to put up a few (it increases the legitimacy of your profile and might lead to more matches). It’s also recommended to add a detailed description of who you are and what you’re looking for — it’s great for connecting with other matches who might be looking for the same things as you.

Once you complete your profile, it’s time to get searching! While AFF doesn’t match you up with users, it does provide a compatibility score as you’re searching for partners. You can also refine your searches based on location, race, gender, etc.

Here are the questions you can answer on AFF to help generate matches:

  • Have you ever had cybersex?
  • What kind of night life do you enjoy?
  • How big of a role does sex play in your life?
  • What types of sex activities do you regularly enjoy?
  • How much enjoyment do you get from receiving oral sex?
  • What are your thoughts on anal sex?
  • What’s the largest number of people you’ve shared a sexual encounter within one session?
  • What types of sexual activities turn you on?
  • What types of sexual activities are OFF LIMITS to you?
  • What factors are most important to you when looking for a sexual partner?
  • What types of new sexual experiences would you like to explore?
  • Besides the obvious, what areas of your body do you consider erogenous zones?
  • Have you ever had erotic pictures or video taken of you?
  • Does size really matter to you?
  • Do you enjoy talking dirty during sex?
  • Tell one of your favorite sexual fantasies. Don’t hold back!
  • What role-playing scenes do you fantasize about?
  • What location do you fantasize about for a sexual encounter?
  • Ever fantasized about having sex with a celebrity? Who? What turns you on about them?
  • Tell us about your favorite sexual encounter.

Etc.

Members can also share blog posts within their profiles, participate in group discussions (think: Reddit), share erotica (throwback to Penthouse Letters), and live cam of member, as well as its Sex Academy, with how-to videos on oral and anal sex, how to write profiles and connect with other members.

All these features make it easy to connect, but when things move offline, users often look for ways to keep the experience both fun and thoughtful. To keep things fun and safe, some users even bring extras like custom printed condoms to add a playful, personalized touch to their encounters.

How much does Adult Friend Finder cost?

Adult Friend Finder is free for anyone to sign up and look, but if you want to use the features (and get an ad-free experience), you can pay for a premium membership.

What you’ll get with using Adult Friend Finder for free:

  • Like photos and videos
  • Create hotlists of users you like
  • Watch videos on the homepage
  • Access to blogs and groups
  • The ability to search through filters
  • Watch public live streams

What you’ll get using Adult Friend Finder’s premium subscription

ContractPrice per month
1 month$6.99 (billed at $27.95 per month)
3 months$5.24/week (billed at $62.85 per quarter)
12 months$3.45/week (billed at $179.40 per year)
September 2025 prices
  • Full access to user’s profiles, plus adding friends
  • Sending and receiving messages
  • Access to a chat function on the site
  • Sending gifts to other users
  • Watching other members on a livestream

Adult Friend Finder pros

It’s good for people who want to explore their sexuality.

AFF welcomes everyone who wants to get laid, especially for those who want to get kinky or explore a sexual fantasy. Pro tip: write exactly what you’re looking for in your profile to find other matches who share the same interests!

It’s great for couples, too!

AFF isn’t just for singles. You’ll also find lots of couples who are looking for third partners, open relationships, voyeurism fetishes, and swingers, too.

How to catch a cheater

They offer sex tips to help you improve your game.

AFF has a Sex Academy available for premium members to help them get the most out of their hookups. The Sex Academy offers instructional videos on how to do different sex acts and has tips on how to safely meet people through the website.

There are a lot of ways for members to interact with each other.

AFF has a lively community that loves leaning into their sexual fantasies. They have pages devoted to erotic stories posted by members. In addition to those erotic stories, AFF has blogs and groups to help members connect with each other.

Adult Friend Finder cons

The website is outdated.

We’re gonna say it: the website is in need of a major makeover. Between the nudity and the suggestive copy, AFF looks like the homepage of a porn site. In addition to looks, one of the most common complaints is how hard it is to navigate. Some users report that their website lags and that live streams don’t work. AFF also does not have a smartphone app, so it’s definitely not the most accessible website.

Lots of fake profiles. Read: How to run a background check on your date

Lots of users on Reddit and Trustpilot complain about the numerous fake profiles they encounter. This seems to be a common wide issue with many dating apps as these companies try to lure people into using their products. Of course, the number of actual profiles will depend on how popular AFF is where you live.

It’s not suitable for dating relationships.

This hookup site is all about getting laid, so if you’re looking for something more serious, you might want to check out a dating site like Match, Bumble, or even Tinder. However some Reddit users say they met their girlfriends, so it is, in theory, possible.

eharmony is our leading recommendation of all dating sites and apps focused on serious relationships.

Interested in checking out other dating sites and apps? Here are some dating app reviews:

eharmonyZooskPlenty of Fish
Elite SinglesOKCupidMatch.com
BumbleSeeking ArrangementCoffee Meets Bagel
HingeMillionaire MatchThe League

You might get tons of explicit messages.

We warn you now, get ready to see lots of nudity, unsolicited dick pics, and lots of dirty talks. Trustpilot reviews also warn that there may be harassment from male users. This might be off putting to people who are new hookup sites or are just more reserved. But don’t worry, there are other hookup websites you can check out.

Limited options for free members.

While registration and sign-up is free, you can’t message anyone unless you buy a premium subscription. 

To cancel your account, go to:

My Account >> Manage Account >> Close Account >> Delete Account

Curious if someone you know is on OnlyFans? Sites like Onlyfinder let you search by name, email or phone number.

Adult Friend Finder reviews

AFF reviews from Better Business Bureau

Adult Friend Finder (parent company Various, Inc.) is not currently rated by the BBB. There are only 12 reviews.

AFF reviews from Trustpilot

AFF has a 1.1 rating out of five stars from Trustpilot, based on more than 415 reviews. Users cite that the website is a ripoff because even after paying for a membership, they’re still not able to get access to certain profiles. One reviewer also warns of harassment from some members. 

AFF reviews from Reddit

Reviewers on Reddit say that AFF is hit or miss. Some Redditors say there’s a lot of talking, but no one actually meets up. Others have said they’ve met up with people from the site with no problem. The common consensus is that AFF is a scam but as mentioned before, these websites are all based on the effort you put in.

Bottom line: Is AFF any good?

Adult Friend Finder can be a good option if you’re looking to find a casual hookup or exploring a fetish or finding a partner for a threesome. While you will need to comb through different profiles and are willing to pay the premium subscription, this site has managed to be a quality place for people on the fringe of dating.

AFF alternatives

Ashley Madison 

Known as the dating website for affairs, Ashley Madison is another credible hookup site. And the best part is, it’s always free for women to use. Most people on there are either married, in a relationship or open to a relationship with someone who is in one. 

International dating apps

Not having luck in your zip code? Have a kink for people of a certain ethnicity? We compiled this list of 13 international dating apps.

Pure

Pure prides itself on being the app for “shameless dating;” the environment is sex positive and it welcomes people of all sexualities, races and genders. Its aesthetic and easy-to-use platform makes it popular among millennials wanting to hook up.

Seeking

Seeking was originally a website for sugaring connections. If you’re unfamiliar with that term, sugaring is the type of dating where a man or woman (sugar daddy or sugar mommy) spoils their date (a sugar baby) with lavish gifts and money in exchange for intimacy and companionship. Seeking has evolved to become a hookup service dedicated to finding honest relationships that align with your goals — no sugaring required.

SeniorSizzle

Dubbed “The hottest sex site for seniors, SeniorSizzle is geared towards sexually adventurous adults aged 50+.

Tinder

Tinder is the original swipe-right-left hookup app, even if it has evolved (devolved?) into a general dating app that attracts all kinds of dating with one of the largest user bases.


If you’re looking beyond traditional dating platforms, browsing a fanslist is another easy way to discover creators and explore profiles.

Is Adult Friend Finder legit?

Yes, Adult Friend Finder is legit. Adult Friend Finder is not currently accredited or rated by the BBB.

Who is on Adult Friend Finder?

Adult Friend Finder is open to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or sexual experience.

How does Adult Friend Finder work?

When you sign up, you can customize your profile to disclose your interests, physical traits and what you’re looking for. Adding photos are optional, but it’s always a good idea to put up a few (it increases the legitimacy of your profile and might lead to more matches).

How much does Adult Friend Finder cost?

Adult Friend Finder is free for anyone to sign up and look, but if you want to use the features (and get an ad-free experience), you can pay for a premium membership.

Is AFF any good?

Adult Friend Finder can be a good option if you’re looking to find a casual hookup or exploring a fetish or finding a partner for a threesome.

If you’re new to online dating as a single parent, it can be overwhelming and confusing. This post breaks down the best online dating apps and sites for single moms — whether you are looking for love, fun, sex, marriage, partnership — or you’re not yet sure!

Have more questions about online dating apps? Keep reading.

Best dating app for single parents

Is there a dating app for single parents?

Looking for love locally? Where to find singles “near me:”

Dating apps for educated professionals

Dating sites for active, fit singles

Free dating apps for single parents

Single parenting dating app FAQs

Tips for using dating apps

  1. Single parent dating tip: Project confidence.
  2. Single parent dating tip: Project positivity.
  3. Single parent dating tip: Be honest.
  4. Single parent dating tip: Prepare yourself.

How to choose an online dating app

Bottom line: What is the best dating site for single parents?

You may also be interested in our roundups:

Christian dating sites
Spiritual dating sites
Catholic dating sites

Overall, here is my advice about online dating: Most of the apps are very similar in their technology and tend to be pretty general in the types of people who populate them.

  • Ask your local friends for which app they like best, and which is most popular in your community.
  • Many of the general-dating apps like Bumble, Hinge, Match, Plenty of Fish and OKCupid attract all kinds of people looking for a variety of dating: serious and casual.
  • Have fun and be positive and kind! This is an exciting new chapter and there are plenty great people who are also nervous and hesitant.

eharmony: Best dating site for single parents

There are many quality dating apps, but in our opinion, the best dating site for single parents is eharmony.com, based on its deep assessment that helps singles find meaningful partnership based on hundreds of criteria — including whether you are looking for or open to dating someone with kids.

This of course assumes you are looking for a serious relationship right now. If you’re not, keep reading for other options!

eharmony was founded more than 20 years ago by a psychologist whose goal was to create an algorithm to find true compatibility that will result in deeply committed, fulfilling partnerships. Read more about eharmony in my review here.

eharmony reports that more than 2 million users have ‘found love’ and claims that 542 people who met on eharmony marry every day.

eharmony stands out:

  • Free 150-point personality report supports site’s sole focus on serious, committed partnership or marriage
  • Apps for iOS and Android
  • 100% of members are proven to be real (no catfishing or married people!)
  • Free version
  • For paid memberships, eharmony has one of the lowest prices.
  • A Better Business Bureau rating

eharmony also has a documented rate of successfully connecting people. One study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that compared with couples who met on other dating sites as well as IRL, eharmony couples were more likely to be content in their relationship, less likely to break up, and more likely to marry — and less likely to divorce once they do.

As of September 2025, eharmony’s prices:

  • Free basic account: $0
  • Premium Light:
    • $38.94/ month for 6 months
    • $23.94/ month for 12 months
    • $17.94/ month for 24 months
  • Premium Plus:
    • $44.94/ month for 6 months
    • $26.34/ month for 12 months
    • $20.34/ month for 24 months
  • Premium Unlimited: 
    • $47.94/ month for 6 months
    • $29.94/ month for 12 months
    • $21.54/ month for 24 months

If you are not looking for a serious relationship, check out Adult Friend Finder, which is for those looking for casual sex, to satisfy a kink, or couples looking for open relationships or threesomes. 

Want to know more about your date? Do a background check first. You can also do a deep dive without paying with some know-how.

Is there a dating app for single parents?

This is a common question, and the answer is: All of them ;)

If you are interested in something casual, or you are not sure what your romantic goals are, ask a local friend. Each dating app’s population of singles differs by region.

Dating a single parent? 5+ challenges you need to know

Just Single Parents dating app

JustSingleParents.com is a UK-based dating site so small it is not listed on the Better Business Bureau and its Twitter and Facebook accounts have not been updated since 2015. There are plenty of other dating apps and sites to meet quality people. Skip!

Single Parent Meet dating app

Single Parent Meet is a small app/site owned by SuccessfulMatch.com, which runs a number of niche dating apps including those for bisexual people, cougars/younger men, and singles with STDs. SuccessfulMatch.com has a C rating with the Better Business Bureau and just one Trustpilot review — a 3.2-star/5 posted in 2020.

Single Parent Meet dating app

However, Single Parent Meet was designed for, and by, single parents. Do you keep meeting people who aren’t open to dating someone with kids? Have you found yourself dating someone who expresses no interest in your kids, let alone want to meet them? Or doesn’t understand your commitments and priorities as a single parent? If so, then SingleParentMeet is the perfect dating site for you. 

Single Parent Meet (often called Single Parents Meet) claims that all members are single moms and single dads, though no background checks are completed.

Free to join, you can cancel at any time. Upgrade your membership to one of SingleParentMeet’s premium levels, starting at $6.99 per month, which includes sending private messages. 

SingleParentMeet.com is owned by People Media, which also owns Our Time, and Black People Meet, and is not rated with the Better Business Bureau.

Read our review of SingleParentMeet.

While Single Parent Meet is specifically designated for single parents meeting one another, for serious relationships, our #1 dating app for single moms and dads, gay and straight, (and anyone else) is eharmony.

Dating a single mom? Tips for dating and 15 things NOT to say

Stir dating app

Stir is app-only dating for single parents. The interface is beautiful, easy-to-use and clearly targets a younger, cooler audience than the other dating apps for single moms and dads. Beyond the free version, prices start at $19.99 per week for a subscription.

Owned by Match Group, the app has a 3.8/5 start rating on Google Play and 4.1/5 stars on the App Store, with common complaints being a lack of quality selection and very limited free version — which is true for all dating apps.

8 rules for dating a single mom

Looking for love locally? Where to find singles “near me:”

We reviewed each of these single parenting dating apps and sites, with an eye towards quality of members, likelihood of finding partnership, price, customer service reviews, Better Business Bureau rating and overall user reviews from multiple sources. 

eharmony stood out in the crowd with its focus on serious, monogamous relationships, long-standing high reputation with third-party vetting agencies and customers alike, competitive pricing and solid customer service. 

  • Adult Friend Finder 
  • Bumble
  • ChristianCupid
  • Christian Mingle 
  • Coffee Meets Bagel
  • eharmony
  • Elite Singles 
  • Happn
  • Hinge
  • Jdate
  • Match.com
  • MilitaryCupid
  • OKCupid
  • Plenty of Fish
  • Silver Singles 
  • Single Parent Meet 
  • Tinder
  • Zoosk

Adult Friend Finder

AFF has was launched in 1996, and today is the largest sex and swingers community with over 100 million users. The site is not rated with, has a very limited free version, and like other online dating and hookup sites, has mixed user reviews — though the app was named one of the best dating websites and apps in 2021 by Dating-Experts.org.  

Adult Friend Finder is open to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or sexual experience. The common theme on this dating website is casual sex; the pool contains:

  • People looking for friends with benefits
  • Casual hookups
  • Couples who practice polyamory
  • Swingers
  • Adventurous folks looking to live out their sexual fantasies and fantasies.

Read our Adult Friend Finder review.

Bumble

Bumble was created by Tinder co-founder Whitney Wolfe a few years ago, with the sole focus of putting the power of dating into the hands of women.

In other words, women have since the dawn of time been sick of dudes coming on too strong, cheesy pickup lines, dick pics, stalkers and worse. Bumble is the answer to these issues, as in all cases, women initiate the online flirting, and are the only gender that can initiate in-app conversations and chats.

Women on Bumble report that the quality of men on the app tends to be higher, as they are guys who are comfortable with women who like to take charge.

The online dating app is free to try, with a reasonable upgrade program, and is easy to set up, as it pulls info from your Facebook profiles, which also informs which people are suggested to you. Each match has a time limit, so both are compelled to respond quickly to any promising interactions — not to mention incentivized to stalk the app.

However, Bumble has a F with the Better Business Bureau, where the many complaints have not been addressed by the company. 

Read our Bumble review.

ChristianCupid

Most dating sites allow you to search for matches by religion, but only a few dating sites are specifically targeted to people of the same faith, including Christian dating apps and Catholic dating sites.

ChristianCupid is a dating site to help Christian men and women find love and friendship. It is one of more than 30 niche dating sites operated by Cupid Media. Users can specify their religious preferences — like denomination and level of religious commitment (religious vs. very religious).

The site is free to use and browse, though features like reading and sending messages require a premium membership. ChristianCupid has a mobile app available for Android devices.

Christian Mingle

ChristianMingle, like EliteSingles, is free to search, and provides a free, color-coded personality test, which it uses to suggest matches based on your values, interests, dating goals and character. You can also directly search for and message fellow Christian singles.

Christian Mingle benefits:

  • 100% of accounts and photos are verified as real
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Claims to be largest Christian dating site in the United States, with 60,000 new users each month

Spark Networks, the parent company of ChristianMingle, has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and has 1.17/5 stars based on 70 customer reviews.

More Christian dating apps to consider here.

Coffee Meets Bagel

Coffee Meets Bagel, a.k.a. CMB is an app-only dating platform that focuses on serious relationships, with 86% of users reporting they are looking for a long-term partnership. With versions on Apple and Android, Coffee Meets Bagel requires you to register through Facebook, then uses your preferences and swiping patterns to suggest matches.

Coffee Meets Bagel CEO, Dawoon Kang, says the dating platform is more like a matchmaker than a dating app, taking a “slow dating” approach by suggesting only  a limited number of matches (“bagels”) daily. To receive more profiles, you must like or pass first, giving the dating site added information about you and making your matches more accurate in the future.

You can also browse through members’ profiles in the Discover section and use your “Beans,” accumulated by utilizing different features on the app, to like additional profiles. 

Free to join, or pay for a CMB Premium subscription to receive activity reports, read receipts, and intel about who likes you. Then meet for that bagel in real life.

Coffee Meets Bagel has a D rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Read our review of Coffee Meets Bagel.

CougarLife

As its name implies, Cougarlife is a dating site for older women, “cougars,” to date younger men, “cubs,” though the site doesn’t have any age restrictions to join. In fact, most of the users I saw were males over the age of 40. (Check out our post on meeting singles over 40 in person.)

Cougarlife is designed for people seeking all types of relationships, from casual to more long term. Creating an account is quick and easy, since Cougarlife doesn’t require a lot of information to get started.

You can filter users by age, location, last login, appearance, and whether or not they have public or private photos.

Women on Cougarlife can send messages for free. Men, however, have to buy credits. The following credit packages are available:

  • Basic: $29.99 ($.30 per credit) for 100 credits
  • Classic: $99.99 ($0.20 per credit) for 500 credits (start 100 conversations)
  • Elite: $149.99 ($0.15 per credit) for 1,000 credits (start 200 conversations)

Men can also have their profiles highlighted as a Priority Man for $29.99/month (which is also included in the Elite credit package).

Cougarlife has a 4.1 /5 rating on Google Play, 3.9/5 on the App Store and 2.3 /5 stars on Trustpilot.

EliteSingles

EliteSingles stands out in that it has a deep personality survey that attracts an overwhelming percentage of members who are professionals with college degrees, and are looking for a serious, long-term relationship. The site says it serves all races, religions and ages who are interested in partnership.

EliteSingles stands out because it features:

  • A deep personality survey to make highly compatible matches
  • Profiles verified by Customer Care
  • Free personality report
  • Apps for iOS and Android
  • 82% of the members have a college education
  • Over 90% of members aged 30+

Read: EliteSingles online dating app review

EliteSingles matches potential partners via extensive questions about your values and ethics, lifestyle, how you feel about yourself, career attitudes and accomplishments, emotional maturity, whether you are seeking more children or not, sexuality, and much, much more.

Because of this, the online dating app tends to attract professional, educated singles seeking serious relationships. EliteSingles has poor online reviews. However, its parent company, Spark Networks, has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Happn

Happn is a newer dating site, one focused on hyper-locality. In other words, as soon as you create a profile by linking your Facebook account, Happn figures out where you are located, and uses GPS tracking to connect you with people who you have crossed paths with IRL, showing you a map of where you have been in the same coffee shop, bar, grocery store or AYSO soccer field.

Since Happn’s goal is to connect you with locals, you actually must be within 250 miles to actually send and receive messages from another member. This is a pro if you’re afraid of being catfished by some shady guy in Dubai.

Happn has some cool features, like an in-app feature that allows you to announce an activity — like watching the game at a certain bar, or having a meal at your favorite restaurant, which can inspire others to join your party. You can also send voice messages through Happn. Pretty cool.

Does this sound really cool? Do you find all this close-to-home tracking creepy? Maybe challenge yourself and try it anyway?

Happn has a very basic free version, with more usable memberships starting at $24.99 per month. Happn does not have a Better Business Bureau rating, and only 1.1 stars on Trustpilot.

Hinge

Hinge is a mobile-first (no real website) dating app that is focused on relationships and photos. In fact, Hinge’s CEO called it “Like Instagram profiles for dating.”

To sign up, download the Hinge app, and connect with your Facebook profile to get started. Like the relationship-focused dating app eharmony, Hinge encourages you to share personal information like your faith or spirituality, politics, and values, in an effort to make more meaningful connections.

Hinge takes just a few minutes to set up, and tends to skew younger. By comparison, eharmony requires you take a personality survey of 150 questions, and half of the users are over age 30.

Hinge does have a free version, but for meaningful interaction, Hinge premium memberships start at $16.98/week. 

Hinge, owned by Match.com, has a B rating with the BBB, and thousands of complaints there.

Jdate

Jdate bills itself as the “premier Jewish dating site for Jewish singles” and offers an app for iOS and Android users.

Although the majority of Jdate users are Jewish and looking for a Jewish partner, nobody is prohibited from using the site. You can specify your religious identity when you’re creating your profile.

An independent research firm hired in 2011 surveyed nearly 1,000 married Jewish internet users and found that Jdate is responsible for 52% of Jewish marriages that started online.

Jdate’s parent company is Spark Networks, the same company that operates EliteSingles, Zoosk, ChristianMingle, and a number of other online dating sites and apps. Spark Networks has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau but is not accredited.

The League

The League is all about exclusivity — in fact, they have an anonymous review panel that decides who gets in and who doesn’t make the cut.

While there are no specific criteria for approval, The League favors users with advanced degrees — especially those from prestigious universities — as well as those who have LinkedIn profiles, an appealing social media appearance, and who live in cities where The League is most active.

The League has an A+ BBB rating, though customer reviews on the BBB and Trustpilot are mostly negative.

Check out our full review of The League.

Match.com

One of the oldest and most popular sites, you cannot go wrong with Match.com.

Many great people I know have Match accounts.

The interface is a little dated, but workable, and in many parts of the United States, Match still reins as one of the best online dating apps, with the largest selection. The app has a ‘Not Rated’ standing with the Better Business Bureau — not a good look.

Read our Match.com review.

Learn more about How to choose dating profile photos

MilitaryCupid

Another of Cupid Media’s niche dating sites, MilitaryCupid is one of the few places for members of the armed forces to connect with other military personnel and civilians alike.

MilitaryCupid users might be looking for a pen pal to pass the time overseas or a true love connection with someone who understands their unique experiences and lifestyle.

Like other Cupid Media sites, you can join and browse for free, but you can’t read or send messages without a premium account. MilitaryCupid has an app available on Apple and Android devices.

Millionaire Match

Despite what its name suggests, you don’t have to be a millionaire to join Millionaire Match. The site pairs wealthy men and women with people who want to date them.

Members who can claim millionaire status can get a “Certified Millionaire” badge on their profile by showing proof of income and assets, as well as recent tax returns.

Although Millionaire Match claims it’s not a sugar baby/sugar daddy site, several users on Reddit say that’s exactly what a lot of people use it for — our dating writer (and single mom) Christelyne was personally offered thousands of dollars by two separate suitors in exchange for her time and company.

Plus, Millionaire Match is owned by SuccessfulMatch.com, Inc., the same parent company as SugarDaddyMeet.

Millionaire Match is not rated by the Better Business Bureau and has only 3.4/5 stars on Trustpilot.

Read our Millionaire Match review.

OKCupid

I love OKCupid. It is very popular in New York City where I live, but I find it to be a great interface.

There is a free version, but very few people can resist upgrading.

When you upgrade on OkCupid, you have access to features like seeing who “liked” your profile, or when the guy you’re hot for last logged in.

OKC is a highly interactive app, which features thousands and thousands of user-generated questions that allow you to really get to know a prospective match. When I was really dating like a mofo, I took a lot of time to read guys’ responses to these questions, as well as answer many myself, including adding comments. You can tell a lot about a person through these questions!

Some common OKCupid user-generated questions (which are totally up to you as to whether you answer):

Is interracial marriage a bad idea?

Would you consider an open marriage?

Do you spend a lot of time thinking about carbs?

Lights on or off during sex? [my answer: “On. Unless you’re ugly.”]

Are you going to run away as soon as it’s commitment time?

Is climate change real?

OKCupid is today owned by Match.com, which has been downgraded to a ‘Not Rated’ status with the BBB. Nor is the company accredited by the agency, which is unusual for such an old company.

or, read our OKCupid review.

PlentyofFish

PlentyofFish (PoF) is a solid, straight-forward online dating app, one that jibes with moms:

PoF reports that 44% of its female users are single moms, and that single moms find matches 10% faster than other users.

That is saying a lot, as there are 70 million members on this easy-to-use site. Unlike Tinder and other swipe-based sites, this one gives you plenty of room to write a nice essay.

PoF is also free, which is good and bad — free is always awesome, except that it attracts all the riff raff! Ain’t no such thing as a free [fish] lunch!

PoF is another Match.com property. It has a B rating on BBB. 

Or, read our PoF review.

SilverSingles

SilverSingles is focused solely on singles aged 50+. The free membership allows you to set up a profile, complete an in-depth personality test, and view other members’ profiles.

SilverSingles markets itself as a source for friendships, casual dates, and serious relationships. Unlike other sites that only allow you to connect with matches the app makes, EliteSingles allows members to search by age, location, height, education, ethnicity, and religion. The in-depth survey will also help the dating algorithm suggest matches that are likely to interest you.

Plus, there’s a free trial option, low monthly cost, and creating a profile is simple.

SilverSingles has both iOS and Android apps via the iTunes and Google Play stores, and is owned by the same parent company as EliteSingles, Spark Networks, which earned an A+ status with the BBB.

Tawkify

Tawkify aims to be a mainstream matchmaking service, with notable founders E. Jean Caroll, Silicon Valley funding and more than a decade finding relationships for clients.

While Tawkify does accept “Rolodex” clients to be on standby for dates, free of charge, clients pay $4,000 to $40,000 for concierge service, including a personalized interview, guaranteed number of matches along with the actual dates set up and ongoing communication with the Tawkify matchmaker.

Tawkify has a 4.5/5 on Trustpilot and lots of positive reviews and praise for matchmakers. But some complain that the value of the service doesn’t match the high price.

Read our Tawkify review.

Tinder

Tinder started out as a hook-up app, thanks to its geo-location feature and minimalist profile details. Tinder invented the dating app swipe — which everyone knows understands is a swipe right if you’re interested, and the fatal swipe left if you’re standing in front of your boat, shirtless, in a grainy pic from 6 years ago holding a big fish.

Unlike other apps, Tinder user profiles are limited to a few photos and a very brief profile. There is not a ton of opportunity to express who you are, or learn deeply about potential matches, by browsing alone. You have to connect, then chat (or call, or date!).

But like any popular technology, this one has gone mainstream, and I increasingly hear quality people – both men and women – say they rely on Tinder for dating people with serious relationship potential. It is simply another way to connect romantically, and should not be ignored if you want more than a friend with benefits (or — if you DO want a friend with benefits!).

This is the fastest-growing dating app, and also tends to skew younger, but that is also changing.

Tinder is owned by Match.com, which isn’t rated by the Better Business Bureau and has a 1.1/5 rating on Trustpilot. 

Read more in our Tinder review.

20 Tinder bios for guys: Best profile examples

Zoosk

There’s a reason Zoosk is the highest-grossing dating app around:

The app-based dating site has 35 million users around the world, and pulls in your social media accounts to help you quickly create an account and match with compatible people. Zoosk claims to use behavioral matchmaking technology to constantly customize your dating and matchmaking experience.

The easy-to-use app and app have a free version, as well as premium monthly and annual memberships. Zoosk also has cool features like a “boost” which is a fee-based bump in the number of people who will see your site, as well as verified profiles, to help you sort through the undesirables.

Overall, Zoosk is a great online dating app for online daters, and may become the favorite of veterans!

Zoosk is another Spark Networks property, which has an A+ rating with the BBB but poor Trustpilot reviews. 

Learn more about Zoosk in my review.

Dating apps for educated professionals

If you are a successful, educated professional or academic looking for similar singles, consider:

  • Academicsingles.com
  • Educatedsingles.com
  • Educatedsinglesonly.com

How to write a dating profile bio

Dating sites for active, fit singles

If you enjoy fitness, exercise, and otherwise are a healthy single looking to meet other fit singles, check out:

  • Fitness-singles.com
  • Gosporty.com

Free dating apps for single parents

Most dating sites have a free version, at least for a limited time. These include eharmony, Match.com, Plenty of Fish, OKCupid and Hinge.

Mingle2 is totally free, though online reviews are mostly negative. 

Dating a widower: 6 things you need to know

Single parenting dating app FAQs:

Which dating site has the highest success rate?

While only eharmony (that we know of) actually reports success rates, a relevant question here is: how do you define success?

If success means a serious relationship, including marriage, eharmony reports that more than 2 million users have ‘found love’ and in 2010, the site reported that 542 people who met on eharmony married every day. eharmony also reports that couples who meet on their app and marry face a mere 4% divorce rate, compared with approximately 50% for the general public.

Which dating site is the best for serious relationships?

eharmony reports 37 million users in 200 countries. Perhaps the sheer numbers play a role in increasing your chances of meeting your dating goals.

13 international dating app reviews — which is best?

What is the most elite dating app?

The League has set itself apart by marketing itself as a very exclusive dating app, and while reviews are mixed, the limited number of people accepted, high price, and pressure to actively use the site do increase the quality of users.

Outside of dating sites, matchmaking services with their higher prices and personal, high-touch process rank as the most elite dating experience.

Professional matchmaking services can be a fantastic service for single moms, as these professionals get to know you personally, and connect you with quality people, saving you lots of time and heartache.

Is there a Tinder for single parents?

There are many single moms and single dads on Tinder, and every other dating app — almost all of which allow users to sort by whether potential matches have children, and allow you to qualify that you do have children.

Is Single Parent Meet a good dating site?

Single Parent Meet may be a good fit, depending on where you live, and how you use the site. There are many other dating apps where you can find quality single moms and dads to date. 

Life after divorce: 11 tips for moving forward and starting a new life

5 tips for single moms using dating apps

If you are new to dating after divorce, a big breakup, or a long, dry spell, you are likely feeling a little nervous. Negative thoughts may include:

There are no good guys left at this stage! “I’m so lonely and want a boyfriend. But there are no good men — right?”

No quality man wants to date a single mom seriously. 

Texting, sexting, dick pics, dating apps are all new since the last time I dated. I’m terrified! 

My mom bod is so fat and saggy! Who would want to get with this mess!

I am too busy to take time away from my kids. 

I don’t trust my judgement about men and am afraid of getting into a bad situation again. (Learn more about background checks for dating)

Where do single moms meet people?

Any of this sound familiar?

What to know about dating while going through a divorce and why sex can be so hot for single moms

1. Single parent dating tip: Project confidence.

First, some quick tricks to how to feel sexy and confident.

Then, read what this dating coach says about successful men and single moms (spoiler alert: they love them!).

2. Single parent dating tip: Project positivity.

Next, hear what other happily dating single moms say about romance and sex in this post: 9 reasons dating is better as a single mom.

3. Single parent dating tip: Be honest.

Not sure when to bring up your kids? That’s one of the benefits of dating single dads. Read: Why single parents should put their kids second when dating. 

4. Single parent dating tip: Prepare yourself.

Learn more about dating after divorce, including my own experience with my first post-divorce breakup. Know that sometimes post-divorce rebound breakups hurt. Keep in mind these dating red flags — and when to call it quits to minimize the potential for a broken heart later.

Rebound relationships: How to recognize signs and stages

You can always do a quick background check on your date. Learn more about our recommendation: TruthFinder.

How to choose the best online dating app for you

With so many online dating sites and apps, it can be overwhelming to pick one. Here is my advice:

  • Try a few. Most online dating sites have a free version, with a premium upgrade for a monthly or annual cost.
  • Ask your friends. If you are interested in dating locally, and have an idea of whether you’re interested in casual or serious dating, other singles you trust may prefer one site over others. Based on the thousands of women I interact with through this blog and social media, I’ve learned that each app attracts different types of people depending on the location. For example, Tinder is more of a hookup app in some areas, but full of serious daters in others.

Bottom line: What is the best dating site for single parents?

If you are interested in finding a serious relationship, I highly recommend eharmony. Aside from the free basic membership, the in-depth survey assesses each member’s personality, goals, and values, and verifies each member, average age 30, and 100% of whom are vetted as real and honest, and focused on serious, committed partnership.

Which dating apps for single moms have YOU tried? Comment below and give it a review!

Which dating site has the highest success rate?

While only eharmony (that we know of) actually reports success rates, a relevant question here is: how do you define success? If success means a serious relationship, including marriage, eharmony reports that more than 2 million users have ‘found love’ and in 2010, the site reported that 542 people who met on eharmony married every day. eharmony also reports that couples who meet on their site and marry face a mere 4% divorce rate, compared with approximately 50% for the general public.

Which dating site is the best for serious relationships?

eharmony reports 37 million users in 200 countries. Perhaps the sheer numbers play a role in increasing your chances of meeting your dating goals.

What is the best dating site for single parents?

If you are interested in finding a serious relationship, I highly recommend eharmony.

If you’re looking for a parenting class, but don’t need to go in-person, it’s possible to go online. Online parenting classes can even provide insight into how to be better for your children and create a healthier environment.

Typically, online parenting classes contain the same content as in-person parenting courses, but the content can be accessed through a computer or smartphone — and some of the lessons and tools may be digital.

Here are some of the websites with online parenting classes we reviewed:

  • Positive Parenting Solutions (best overall)
  • OnlineParentingPrograms.com
  • ActiveParenting.com
  • Center for Divorce Education
  • Course for Parents
  • Happy Heart Parenting

Our top choices for websites with online parenting classes:


Why we like this website:

*Courses for specific needs, including co-parenting, high-conflict, teens and more
*Court-order certificates
*Accessible and affordable pricing
*Financial assistance available
Why we like this website:

*Hundreds of positive user reviews and accolades from media outlets
*Practical advice based in discipline research
*Video, written and audio tools

Overall best online parenting program: Positive Parenting Solutions’ 7-Step Parenting Success System

Best court-ordered online parenting classes websiteOnlineParentingPrograms.com

Best online co-parenting class for parents going through divorce: Online Parenting Programs

Best online co-parenting class for high-conflict parenting when court-ordered: Online Parenting Programs

Online parenting classes website: AhaParenting.com

Best parenting class from Aha! Parenting

Online parenting classes website: ActiveParenting.com

Online parenting classes website: Center for Divorce Education

Online parenting classes website: Course for Parents

Online parenting classes website: eNew Beginnings Parenting Class

Online parenting classes website: Happy Heart Parenting

Online parenting classes website: LifeMatters.com

Online parenting class: Neuroscience for parents: How to raise amazing kids

Online parenting classes website: OnlineParentingCenter

Online parenting classes website: PeaceatHomeParenting.com

Online parenting classes website: PricelessParenting.com

Free online parenting classes website: EdX.org

Free online parenting classes website: calparents.org

Best free parenting class from calparents.org

Free online parenting classes website: Parent Club

Free online parenting classes with certificate: uptoparents.org

Overall best online parenting program: Positive Parenting Solutions’ 7-Step Parenting Success System

Positive Parenting Solutions’ 7-Step Parenting Success System is our recommended online parenting course for these 3 reasons:

  1. Based on the proven principles of Adlerian Science and Positive Discipline
  2. Hundreds of positives reviews
  3. Proven track record of helping parents overcome power struggles and get their kids to listen without nagging, yelling or losing control

Positive Parenting Solutions is a suite of 36 practical parenting courses that have helped more than 75,000 families, taught by Amy McCready, author of bestselling books If I Have to Tell You One More Time…: The Revolutionary Program That Gets Your Kids To Listen Without Nagging, Reminding, or Yelling, and The Me, Me, Me Epidemic: A Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Capable, Grateful Kids in an Over-Entitled World. 

Positive Parenting Solutions covers these topics:

  • Taming Morning Mania
  • Managing Mealtime Madness
  • Curing the Bedtime Blues
  • No More Chore Wars
  • MBST: Secret Weapon for Better Behavior
  • Potty Training 101
  • Raising Adventurous Eaters
  • Stopping Sibling Bullying
  • Divorce & Parenting Apart (more about parallel parenting in this post)
  • Getting Your Partner on the Same Page
  • Stronger Than Ever Parenting Partners
  • Help for Homework Hassles
  • 3 R’s of School Success
  • Keeping Kids Safe from Bullying
  • Help for Struggling Students
  • Terrific Teens Parenting Skills
  • Technology Survival Plan
  • Sex Talks…Simplified
  • 14 Talks by Age 14
  • Responsible Social Media
  • Curing the Entitlement Epidemic
  • ABCs of Allowance
  • Say NO to Rewards & Praise
  • Business Systems for the Family

The course promises “specific, battle-tested techniques, not fluffy classroom theory, as well as word-for-word scripts you can rely on, even in the heat of high-stress tantrums and fights.”

Access to private 1-on-1 parenting coaching calls, and a private Facebook group.

30-day money-back guarantee.

Founder Amy McCready is a frequent contributor to the TODAY Show and has also appeared on Rachael Ray, CNN, CBS This Morning, Fox & Friends, MSNBC, and The Today Show.

Pros of Positive Parenting Solutions 

With hundreds of positive reviews online, Positive Parenting Solutions is a solid option for parents who want to learn how to improve how they parent and raise their children.

Here are some of the pros of choosing Positive Parenting Solutions:

  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Different price levels to suit your budget and payment plans are available
  • Less expensive than going to a family therapist
  • Comprehensive, evidence-based instruction that is proven to be effective
  • Highest membership level (Gold Level) gives you access to course founder, Amy McCready, 1-on-1 coaching, and private Facebook community access
  • Short, on-demand videos are perfect for a busy lifestyle
  • Easy-to-follow courses
  • Help desk access

Cons of Positive Parenting Solutions

The biggest con of Positive Parenting Solutions is that these are not court-approved parenting classes. If you need a parenting course to meet that requirement, you’ll have to check with your state for approved classes.

Other cons include:

  • More expensive than some other online options
  • Workbooks are expensive to buy ($25 each) and lengthy if you choose to print them
  • Instruction style addresses a lot of the why before getting to the solution 
  • Recorded coaching calls, offline course access, and private Facebook community only available with a Gold Level membership
  • Parenting-In-Your-pocket mobile app is not available with Bronze Level membership
  • Lack of diversity among the test subject interviewees in the training videos

Parents’ review of Positive Parenting Solutions

Here’s what parents who have taken McCready’s courses have to say: 

Positive social media review of online parenting classes from Positive Parenting Solutions.
Positive Facebook review of online parenting classes from Positive Parenting Solutions.
Facebook review of online parenting classes from Positive Parenting Solutions.
Positive review of online parenting classes from Positive Parenting Solutions.
Review of online parenting classes from Positive Parenting Solutions.

Also, check out these Reddit threads to see more feedback from parents who have used the program:

Positive Parenting Solutions
byu/Princess_Fluffybuutt inAskParents
Posts from the parenting
community on Reddit

Read our review of Positive Parenting Solutions

Best court-ordered online parenting classes website: OnlineParentingPrograms.com

The online classes offered by Online Parenting Programs focus on different aspects of family circumstances. These are online courses ranging from 2 to 12 hours. 

Online Parenting Programs offers comprehensive classes on co-parenting and divorce accepted by 1,400 counties in the United States. If you need to complete a court-ordered co-parenting course, the site offers several class options — starting at $29.99 for a 2-hour course — that meet the minimum requirements for most counties.

Participants take a multiple-choice exam at the end to qualify for a certificate of completion. Financial assistance is available. The website is easy to navigate and find the specific class that meets your needs.

Programs offered include:

  • Co-parenting and divorce
  • High-conflict co-parenting
  • Basic parenting skills
  • Thrive class in which parents and children attend together
  • High-risk parenting skills
  • Anger management

Pros of Online Parenting Programs 

Online Parenting Programs is a court-approved option, so if you need to fulfill this requirement, you can check to ensure the classes are recognized in your county.

Here are some of the pros of choosing this online option for co-parenting classes:

  • Approved in over 1400 counties across the nation
  • Classes are affordable, starting at $29.99
  • Discounts available if you need financial help
  • 84% of parents who took the classes would recommend them to other parents
  • Instruction is evidence-based
  • Free access to an online parenting knowledge center
  • Instant access once you pay
  • Self-paced course
  • Take the final exam again for free if you do not pass the first time
  • Download your certificate as soon as you pass your class
  • Option for subtitles and voice overs in Spanish
  • Incorporates diversity and inclusion to represent different groups of parents
  • Toll-free customer number or email if you have questions

Cons of Online Parenting Programs 

  • Some classes take a long time to complete, up to 24 hours in length (the more time, the more it costs)
  • Co-parenting classes are not approved in every jurisdiction — you’ll need to verify your local court’s acceptance
  • Not all classes are court-mandated
  • Must complete the class you select within 30 days

Reviews of Online Parenting Programs

Here are some testimonials featured on the Online Parenting Programs site.

Site review of online parenting classes from Online Parenting Programs.
Review of online parenting classes from Online Parenting Programs.

Interested in 50/50 parenting? Read my book, The 50/50 Solution: The Surprisingly Simple Solution that Makes Moms, Dads and Kids Happier When Parents Split (Sourcebooks, March 26, 2024)

Cover of The 50/50 Solution book by Emma Johnson.

Best online co-parenting class for parents going through divorce: Online Parenting Programs

No matter if you are still BFF after divorce or about to rip each other’s heads off, divorce and breakups in families with kids are a struggle for parents, the children and even extended families.

OnlineParentingPrograms.com’s co-parenting course was created in partnership with New Ways for Families and Bill Eddy of the High Conflict Institute — an award-winning consulting firm that employs psychologists, attorneys, judges and law enforcement experts to help people and families resolve conflict. 

These online parenting classes for divorce, and online divorce education, can help make the transition easier, and set your family up for success long-term. Courses range from 4 to 12 hours long, as well as one 2-hour class for military families facing divorce.

Best online co-parenting class for high-conflict parenting when court-ordered: Online Parenting Programs

OnlineParentingPrograms.com offers a series of co-parenting classes just for parents who are separated or divorced, and have a high-conflict situation in their families — whether the parents struggle to get along, children are having a hard time adjusting, or other difficult family dynamics exist.

“High Conflict Co-Parenting: Parenting Without Conflict,” available in four options from 6 to 16 hours, satisfies court requirements for parents who are required to take a high-conflict parenting class in most counties. You can use the chat feature on the Online Parenting Programs website to verify the class is accepted in your county. You will receive a certificate of completion at the end of the course to turn in. 

9 toxic parenting signs you should know

How co co-parent with a narcissistic or toxic ex

Online parenting classes website: AhaParenting.com

Aha! Parenting offers a variety of online resources to learn about parenting. You can read articles, listen to a podcast and even buy books. However, you can also sign up for the Peaceful Parent Happy Kids online course. This course is a 12-week class that walks you through the parenting method developed by Dr. Laura Markham, child psychologist, author of three bestselling parenting books, including Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting.

With the course, you get weekly audio lessons along with transcripts, worksheets and journal prompts. You also receive exercises you can do with your child. Members get access to an exclusive Facebook group where you can interact with other parents and trained coaches. Registration is limited, and you can only sign up to go through with a cohort, since this is a set 12-week course. Topics include:

  • Peaceful Parenting 101
  • Regulating Your Own Emotions
  • Connecting With Your Child
  • Parenting for Emotional Intelligence
  • Discipline
  • Self-Care
  • Developing resilience, self-discipline and grit
  • Healing Your Triggers
  • Siblings

There are a lot of resources on the website that can help you develop a relationship with your child and develop your own emotional intelligence. Aha! Parenting and Dr. Markham have been featured in major news outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, Parents, WebMD and others.

Blending families? How to make a blended family work

Best parenting class from Aha! Parenting:

Aha! Parenting’s marquis course is Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids, a self-paced 12-week online program that promises “more peace, joy and connection” with your children. 

Aha Parenting customer review.
Aha Parenting customer review.
Aha Parenting customer review on Facebook.

33 financial help resources for single moms

Online parenting classes website: ActiveParenting.com

You can enroll in an online class with Active Parenting and get access to informational videos and lessons, as well as quizzes. On top of that, you can participate in discussions with other parents. There are activities and lessons developed by certified educators. There are three courses based on the age of your children, as well as two different courses that include a focus on Christian parenting and co-parenting in divorce situations.

Depending on your jurisdiction requirements, some of the Active Parenting courses might be eligible to fulfill court requirements. Check with your court to find out. When you complete the course and pass the final quiz, you can get a certificate to show the court that you’ve met the requirements.

This website is fairly easy to navigate, and you can easily take quizzes, sign up for online parenting classes or find an in-person parenting class “near me.”

Court-monitored communication? Get a co-parenting app

Online parenting classes website: Center for Divorce Education

The Center for Divorce Education offers several online parenting courses and resources for divorcing parents. “Children in Between” is a 4-hour, court-approved parenting course that discusses the most common parenting pitfalls and teaches parents how to overcome obstacles and reduce stress. 

The course price varies by location, but in most states, it costs between $45 and $70 for 30-day access. Upon course completion, you can download, print, or email your certificate.

The Center for Divorce Education also offers an 8-hour high-conflict version of the “Children in Between” course and a course for children and their parents to take together (designed for children ages 7 to 14). 

All of the Center for Divorce Education’s online classes are optimized to fit all screens and have been accepted in more than 250 judicial districts and statewide in Florida, New York, Minnesota, and Nebraska.

Online parenting classes website: Course for Parents

Course for Parents offers its online Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course starting at $25 for a 4-hour self-paced course. It also offers the following course options: 

  • 8 hours – $45.00
  • 12 hours – $65.00
  • 16 hours – $85.00

Course For Parents courses are recognized and accepted by most states to satisfy court requirements. Course for Parents offers a lowest-price guarantee, meaning they’ll beat the price of any similar courses offered at a lower price. They also offer a money-back guarantee if your certificate is not accepted by the court. 

Course certificates are available for download and printing upon course completion. 

Online parenting classes website: eNew Beginnings Parenting Class

The eNew Beginnings Parenting Class is an online course built around the New Beginnings Parenting Program, which helps parents and children adjust to a new normal after divorce.

Based on 30 years of research and funded by the National Institutes of Health, the class focuses on four main principles:

  1. Positive activities to have more fun with your children
  2. Listening tools to get your children to share more
  3. Effective tools to decrease your children’s misbehaviors
  4. Practical tools to protect your children from conflict with your ex

Using a series of videos, along with downloadable handbooks, the eNew Beginnings Parenting Class offers separate courses for moms and dads, broken down into the following class options:

  • 10-week course for mothers – $69
  • 10-week course for fathers – $69
  • 6-week course for mothers (court accepted) – $49
  • 6-week course for fathers (court accepted) – $49

Each unit in the course includes about 30-40 minutes of online videos, which are meant to be watched at a unit per week, though you can move at your own pace and courses never expire.

At the end of the 6-week course, you must score at least 70% on a final exam to receive a certificate that can be presented in court. The 10-week program does not fill a court requirement.

eNew Beginnings is recognized by scientific journals, including the Journal of American Medical Association, and offers a free trial for a period of 6 days to the first unit in the course.

Online parenting classes website: Happy Heart Parenting

Happy Heart Parenting offers two court-approved classes — one on parenting and one on co-parenting — for $39, with a money-back court-approval guarantee. 

Both courses cover parenting essentials, including lessons on communication and proper discipline. Happy Heart Parenting courses are self-guided and can be completed in 6 hours. You can download and print out your certificate of completion at the end of your chosen course. 

Online parenting classes website: LifeMatters.com

If you’re looking for something straightforward and simple, the LifeMatters parenting classes can help you focus on the essentials. The website guarantees that it offers court-approved parenting classes that are accepted in all 50 states, so if you need something to help you meet court-required criteria, this website might be able to help.

There are rapid parenting class options that focus on various age groups for your children, as well as co-parenting classes for those going through divorce. With these classes, you read online material and take required tests. When you pass, you receive a certificate that can be presented to the court. LifeMatters also offers eight-week courses with personal coaching, with more in-depth help and daily lessons and activities. These courses also focus on different age groups and situations.

LifeMatters encourages you to submit the information to a lawyer, social worker or court for pre-approval, and offers a money back guarantee if the family court doesn’t end up accepting the certificate.

Online parenting class: Neuroscience for parents: How to raise amazing kids

This 3.5-hour video course is the No. 1 most popular parenting class on Udemy, which means you can watch as part of your membership, try for free — or pay $19.99. This class is aimed at people who want to deeply understand their kids’ brain structure, and how to best raise well-behaved, high-achieving children.

Teachings include:

  • Understand why your children act based on brain development and structure
  • Understand the impact of your parenting style
  • Adapt communication and reactions to the kid’s active brain structure
  • Grow your children’s self-esteem
  • Help my children develop a strong worldview
  • Help my child develop a more efficient study method
  • Foster the natural talents of my children

Udemy claims more than 63,000 people have taken the course, which enjoys a high 4.6/5 rating based on 8,440 ratings.

Online parenting classes website: OnlineParentingCenter

OnlineParentingCenter offers a number of online, court-approved parenting classes starting at $24.99. All of its courses are self-paced and come with a low-price and court-approval guarantee. If you find a cheaper parenting class with the same hourly/weekly specifications, you’ll pay 50% of the competitor’s price.

OnlineParentingCenter offers its classes in two formats: 

  • By the hour – classes range from $24.99 for a 4-hour parenting class to $149.99 for a 52-hour parenting class
  • By the week – classes range from $24.99 for a 4-week parenting class to $149.99 for a 52-week parenting class

OnlineParentingCenter’s parenting courses do not require you to complete any tests to qualify for certification.

OnlineParentingCenter also offers courses on: 

  • Adoption
  • Child development
  • Fostering
  • Teen parenting

7 benefits of parenting classes and where to find them

Online parenting classes website: PeaceatHomeParenting.com

Peace at Home Parenting Solutions offers an annual membership that offers unlimited access to past trainings and classes. There is also a free parenting class available through this website. Peace at Home continually updates its offerings. This website also stands out as one that offers online parenting classes in Spanish.

When you purchase individual classes or a membership, you can get access to printable handouts to work on in your own time, as well as monthly Q&As. There are also live classes, and you can receive recordings to watch on demand later. Finally, there’s a Facebook group that allows you to interact with other parents and get information from experts.

The board of advisors includes a number of people from different areas of healthcare and fintech, and includes licensed social workers.

Online parenting classes website: PricelessParenting.com

At Priceless Parenting, you can find parenting classes for various ages. Additionally, this website features court-ordered parenting classes. You can choose classes that can be accomplished online in a few hours, or you can sign up for instructor-led classes. There are also a number of presentations available at Priceless Parenting, taught by Kathy Slattengren, who has a M. Ed. and is a specialist at helping parents with children with behavioral issues.

Parenting classes include lessons that you can follow at your own pace, as well as unlimited access to various resources. You can also join monthly group sessions via Zoom and take advantage of the private Facebook group for parenting support. This resource is recommended by social workers, counselors and lawyers, and has also received a Mom’s Choice Award.

Free online parenting classes website: EdX.org

If you’re more interested in free parenting classes to learn how to be a better parent, EdX can provide you with classes from top universities. Some of the offerings include “The Science of Parenting” from UC San Diego and “Developmental Psychology” from IsraelX, a consortium of leading academic institutions in Israel.

These classes include lectures, assignments and work you can do on your own. They are free to watch, but you won’t have access to instructor help or certifications. In order to get an experience more reminiscent of a classroom or course, you need to pay. However, there are classes available from 140 well-known institutions.

Best free parenting class from EdX.org:

We recommend the Science of Parenting is a free 5-week course (3-5 hours weekly) taught by University of California San Diego psychology professor David Barner. Topics covered include: 

  • Infant sleep, forms of discipline, breastfeeding, language and math learning, screen time, bilingualism, and autism.
  • How to compute the contribution of genetics to a trait, how kids can effectively study for tests.
  • Best practices for sleep training, discipline, and feeding.

Free online parenting classes website: calparents.org

The Child Parent Institute (formerly the California Parent Institute) runs this website designed to provide online parenting classes for those in Sonoma County. However, you can find resources to help you no matter where you are. There are online live classes that you can register for in advance. This includes classes in Spanish as well as English. 

Classes include co-parenting help, anger management, creating strong families and other topics that might be of interest for someone hoping to create a healthier emotional environment for children. It’s also possible to take advantage of parenting resources in person.

Best free parenting class from calparents.org:

Calparents.org’s free Parenting Your Teen class is a popular, free online four-week parenting course that periodically is offered to the public. 

Free online parenting classes website: Parent Club

The Center for Children and Families at Florida International University offers the Parent Club, which provides online parenting workshops in English, Spanish and Creole. This site partners with The Children’s Trust. However, the classes are aimed only at those with children up to 12 years old.

With the Parent Club, you sign up for workshops on specific dates. Then, you attend online. The workshops are designed to help you create a positive learning environment, be a better parent, help children develop skills and deal with negative feelings. 

Hey single mom— Do you tell your son he’s the man of the house? 16 tips for raising sons

Free online parenting classes with certificate: uptoparents.org

UpToParents.org is a free resource for parenting classes. It is court-approved in some jurisdictions, so you’ll need to check with your local court to verify you’ll receive proper credit.

The website offers a workshop-style class that you can access online and take on your own time. It focuses on teaching students how to successfully co-parent.

The main focus is on helping children navigate divorce, marital separation, or challenges that cause issues between non-married parents. UpToParents.org gives parents tools to support and protect their children. Upon completion, you will get a certificate that you can show as proof of taking a co-parenting class.  

As a single parent, dating can be tough, especially if it’s been years since you’ve done it. First, it’s finding the time to date; this can be true, especially if you’re a mom to young kiddos. Then, it’s deciding where to start: Do you go with one random dating app and hope for the best? Ask friends to set you up? Hire a babysitter and scout for love at a nearby bar?

And if you’re looking for a relationship, how do you weed out the people who can’t grasp the logistics and sometimes the challenges of being a parent? Or people who don’t want kids?

One dating service to consider is SingleParentMeet, a dating app and site that caters to — you guessed it — single parents. Read below to learn more about SingeParentMeet and whether it’s the right dating website for you.

However, if you are interested in a serious partnership, there are other apps to consider.

Here are our top three dating app recommendations:

eharmonyTinderHinge
– A- BBB rating
– Focused on serious relationships
– 150-point personality report
– Apps for iOS and Android
– 100% member verification (no catfishing)
– Billions of potential matches worldwide
– For love, casual dating, and hookups
– No long sign-up process
– Easy, swipe-based matching
– Photo verification
– Focused on serious relationships
– Lots of free features, including messaging
– Algorithm designed to match compatible people
– Prompts encourage conversation
– Hybrid between eharmony and Tinder

What is SingleParentMeet?

Is SingleParentMeet legit?

How does SingleParentMeet work?

How much does it cost to join SingleParentMeet?

Is SingleParentMeet worth it?

SingleParentMeet reviews

Bottom line: Is SingleParentMeet worth it?

What is SingleParentMeet?

SingleParentMeet is a niche dating service created by People Media that strives to be an online community filled with individuals who understand the demands and rewards of parenthood. It’s open for anyone looking for a connection, whether something casual or a more serious relationship. And you don’t need to be a parent to join. SingleParentMeet is open to anyone who is open to the idea of having a relationship in which kids are in the mix. 

Is SingleParentMeet legit?

Yes, SingleParentMeet is completely legit, its parent company People Media has a B rating from the Better Business Bureau and has been in business since 2007. The app reports it has more than 1,000 users. 

How does SingleParentMeet work?

The signup process for SingleParentMeet is standard for dating sites:

  1. Create a free profile, including a username and password. 
  2. Share your story (here, you can go as much or as little into detail as you would like. In addition to a bio, you can answer personality questions and write a top Interest to beef up your profile.

And that’s it! Once your profile is done, you can search profiles based on specific criteria (like location, height, or age) or usernames. SingleParentMeet does not offer identity verification.

One thing to know: You’ll need to pay for a membership to get the most on SingleParentMeet. More on that below:

How much does it cost to join SingleParentMeet?

SingleParentMeet is free to sign up for, but there’s not much you can do without paying for a plan. Below is a breakdown of the costs of the standard versus the premium plan and the features that come with it:

What you get using SingleParentMeet’s free version:

  • Free matches
  • Interact with members through playful features like sending a flirt (think: Facebook’s old poke feature).
  • Access to SingleParentMeet’s app (available in iOS and Android).
  • Liking photos (however, you can’t see who liked you.)

What you get using SingleParentMeet’s premium membership:

$17.29/month

$8.49/month for a 3-month contract

$5.94/month for a 6-month contract

  • See who likes and flirted.
  • Send and receive private messages from other members.
  • Send and receive virtual gifts.
  • Tokens for special features.
  • PromoteMe feature (lets you use tokens to boost your profile).
  • NotifyMe feature (sends you alerts when your matches log on).

Unsure about your profile. Lean more about how to create a successful dating profile, and which pictures to choose.

Dating a single mom? Tips for dating and 15 things NOT to say

Is SingleParentMeet worth it?

Pros

A supportive space for single parents.

It can be intimidating getting back out there. On SingleParentMeet, you’re surrounded by other individuals who share similar experiences. In addition to single parents, this dating service might also work for individuals who can’t have their own kids and would find love with someone who has them.

The website is easy to use.

It’s very easy to navigate around SingleParentMeet’s website. The homepage has a simple layout without the distraction of ads or any explicit content. Plus, SingleParentMeet also has an app, making it easy for parents to connect with wherever you are — at work, at a PTA meeting, after your kid’s bedtime.

May be helpful for finding connections outside of dating.

SingleParentMeet isn’t just for romantic connections. You can also use the website for finding friends or even a babysitter!

Cons

You have to pay to use most of the features.

It’s very hard to meet people on SingleParentMeet if you don’t have a premium membership. While its prices are less expensive compared to other dating sites, you might want to try OkCupid, Plenty of Fish, or even Tinder.

Niche dating sites are generally a smaller pool.

Niche dating sites generally have less pool of people since they’re more specific. Depending on where you live, you may not find a lot of people using SingleParentMeet. Right now SingleParentMeet is only available for the United States and Canada, which for some may be a con if you live internationally or are interested in meeting someone abroad.

It appears membership numbers are low compared with other dating sites and apps.

There’s no free trial.

It’s really hard to judge a dating service if you can’t really interact with it. A free trial could be beneficial for those who want to get a good feel for SingleParentMeet without committing to a membership.

Dating as a single dad? Advice for single dads you should know

SingleParentMeet reviews

SingleParentMeet’s parent company, People Media Inc. has a B rating but is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau. They have a 1.23 /5 stars and 35 customer reviews. None specifically call out SingleParentMeet; most reviewers complain about encountering fake profiles and are unhappy with their experience with People Media Inc.’s dating services (People Media also owns over 20 dating websites such as LoveandSeek, SeniorPeopleMeet, and Our Time); one common word throughout the page is “scam.”

On Trustpilot, People Media Inc. has a 1.5 out of 5 stars and just forty one reviews. 

Another thing to remember: it can take months for anyone to find love on a dating website (and that goes for all of them). The best way to know if SingleParentMeet is right for you is to give it a chance. Case in point: two Reddit reviewers who found relationships via SingleParentMeet:

“We both joined with the expectation that any potential date we met on there would have a better understanding of our situation and priorities,” writes one Reddit reviewer who met their boyfriend using the site:

Another Reddit reviewer said they met their wife on SingleParentMeet 11 years ago and report being still happily married:

Bottom line: Is SingleParentMeet worth it?

SingleParentMeet is a great resource for people who want to find love or other single parents to connect with. However, if you don’t want to pay for a dating service, there are other options out there. Many dating apps ask you to share whether or not you have kids in order (among other things) to make the experience more transparent and honest.

This includes eharmony, which has a higher BBB and Trustpilot ratings than SingleParentMeet, has many other members who are parents or open to dating people with kids, and is solely focused on serious, committed relationships.

Interested in checking out other dating sites and apps? Here are some dating app reviews:

eharmonyZooskTinder
Christian MingleAdult Friend FinderMatch.com
BumbleOKCupidPlenty of Fish
13 international
dating apps
Seeking ArrangementCoffee Meets Bagel
Dating.comHingeJewish dating sites
Millionaire MatchThe League

Also, check out our roundup of best dating apps and sites for single parents.

What is SingleParentMeet?

SingleParentMeet is a niche dating service that strives to be an online community filled with individuals who understand the demands and rewards of parenthood.

Is SingleParentMeet legit?

Yes, SingleParentMeet is completely legit, with a B rating from the Better Business Bureau and has been in business since 2007.

How much does it cost to join SingleParentMeet?

SingleParentMeet is free to sign up for, but there’s not much you can do without paying for a plan, which starts at $15.29 per month.

Is SingleParentMeet worth it?

SingleParentMeet is a great resource for people who want to find love or other single parents to connect with.

Nearly two years after the start of the pandemic, one in seven people in the U.S. are living in poverty. That means millions of people across the U.S. may not be able to afford essential clothing items like a winter coat.

The right clothes can help you land a job, boost your confidence, and affect your mental performance, according to research by psychological scientists from California State University, Northridge, and Columbia University.

Looking for free places to get free clothes? Keep reading to learn more:

16 places to get free clothes

  1. Churches 
  2. Clothing swap 
  3. Consignment shops 
  4. Craigslist 
  5. Credit card rewards 
  6. Facebook Marketplace 
  7. Freecycle.org 
  8. Garage or tag sales 
  9. Hand-me-downs 
  10. Instagram 
  11. Referral programs 
  12. Salvation Army 
  13. Thrift shops 
  14. TrySpree 
  15. Dress for Success
  16. Freebie Alerts app

16 places to get free clothes

A yard sale. Here's how and where to get free clothes in 2024.

Whether you need new clothes for your children, a suit for a job interview, or you just want to update your wardrobe, there are a lot of ways to get free clothes when you’re short on cash or on a strict budget.

Check out this list of places to get free clothes:

1. Churches 

Local churches often have clothing closets or clothing ministries, which offer free clothing to anyone in need (and you usually don’t have to show proof of income). You can get new, nearly new, or gently used clothes, depending on the types of donations the church accepts.

Churches may operate clothing drives on certain days of the week and at specific times, so you’ll need to contact churches in your area to find out when to stop by.

Some larger nonprofit organizations may also partner with local churches to provide free clothing. Search “free clothing at churches near me” to find churches that provide free clothing in your community.

2. Clothing swap 

Organize a clothing swap with neighbors, friends, family members, or co-workers. Make sure everyone invited has at least one other person who wears the same size so everyone has clothing to browse.

You can run the clothing swap at your home or find a free place to set up like a community room at your local public library.

You can also do a virtual clothing swap using tools like Facebook Groups. Go to Facebook Groups and use the search feature to find local clothing swap or single mom groups. You can search “clothing swap” and then add your city. For example, “clothing swap Austin” or “free clothing Newark.”

3. Consignment shops 

Have you ever thought about selling your clothes on consignment? Depending on where you go, you can get some cash upfront for selling clothes you no longer wear that are still in good shape. 

To get top dollar, make sure the clothing is:

  • In good condition and high quality
  • From an in-demand brand
  • In line with style trends or a timeless classic

You can use the extra cash from your consignment sales to purchase new or gently used clothing. Keep in mind, some consignment shops only pay after your items sell, so if you need money right away, you might want to consider another alternative.

Search “consignment shops near me” or search Consignment Shopper online, a nationwide database of consignment shops.

What to do with old clothes: 11 tips to recycle, repurpose, and resell

4. Craigslist 

Craigslist can be a gold mine for connecting with people who want to give away free or discounted clothes. It is a nationwide online classified marketplace connecting you to people in your community looking to part with apparel and other unwanted items.

To find free clothing, look for the “For Sale” section. Then, click the “free” link to see what’s available nearby. You might have to sort through the items to find clothing or type “clothes” in the search field. 

Just remember to take safety precautions when using Craigslist. Always use the Craigslist proxy email address for initial contact to avoid future spam. Use an app like Google Voice to get a phone number that will ring to your phone and protect your real phone number. Meet in a public place and take a friend with you. 

23 sites like Craigslist to buy or sell stuff

5. Credit card rewards 

Do you have a credit card that rewards you with points you can use like cash to buy clothing (or anything else you need)? If not, search for and apply for a 0% interest cash back card.

On Amazon, you can shop for yourself and your children on Amazon Essentials. It’s a brand of Amazon clothing that offers affordably priced wardrobe basics — everything from underwear to coats for all sizes, children and adults.

6. Facebook Marketplace 

Don’t overlook Facebook as a place to get free clothing. Facebook Marketplace is a great option for finding free clothing. 

Navigate to “Free Stuff” on Facebook Marketplace and browse what’s available nearby. Or, you can use the search bar and type in a phrase like “free clothes” to narrow your results.

You can send messages via Facebook Messenger to ask questions about the free clothing and communicate about how you will pick up or receive the items.

7. Freecycle.org 

The Freecycle Network is a free membership site that connects you with local people who are giving away free stuff. With over 9 million members represented in 5,300+ towns and cities, it is an excellent resource for free clothing. 

Not only can you get free clothes, coats, and shoes, but just about anything else you can think of. Create a free membership, browse Freecycle groups in your area and join the groups that interest you. Freecycle is a nonprofit focused on reuse and keeping as many items out of landfills as possible.

8. Garage or tag sales 

Saturday mornings are usually the best time to seek out garage sales or yard sales. Clothing might not be free, but you can usually get it at very low prices. You can use apps like NextDoor or search for community groups in Facebook Groups to find dates and times of nearby garage sales.

Tag sales are a step up from garage sales, so prices are usually higher, but so are the quality of goods. They are usually handled by professionals who price, list and sell the goods of an estate on an online auction site or at a person’s home.

You can search EstateSales.net, a nationwide search tool that shows local tag sales, in addition to estate sales and auctions.

9. Hand-me-downs 

If you need clothes for your children, ask your network of moms if they are willing to part with clothes their child has outgrown. You can also use Facebook as a resource, since some people use the social media platform to give away items.

You could post, “Is anyone looking to clear out some clothes your kids never wear?” on your Facebook profile. You might be surprised by how many helpful responses you get.

10. Instagram 

A woman accessing Instagram on her tablet. Find out about There are a lot of ways to get free clothes when you’re short on cash or on a strict budget.

If you have time, you can set up an Instagram account or use your existing account to become a fashion influencer. Clothing brands often send fashion influencers clothing for free. Then, they wear the outfits and post them to their followers. 

This idea does take some initial effort to amass enough followers to become an influencer, but if you enjoy getting dressed up and snapping pics, it could turn into a lucrative opportunity. Search “how to become a fashion influencer on Instagram” for ideas on how to get started.

11. Referral programs 

There are a variety of online consignment shops offering referral programs where you can earn credit for free clothes. Two such shops we’ve reviewed are online consignment sites Poshmark and Mercari.

When you set up a free account with either (or both) and use the online marketplace to buy or sell clothing, you’ll get a referral link you can share with family, friends, or even your social media network.

When someone uses your unique link to make a purchase, they’ll get a credit to use toward their purchase. Once the purchase is complete, you’ll get a referral credit you can use on a future purchase. Translation: Shop for free clothes!

12. Salvation Army 

While the Salvation Army doesn’t offer free clothes, you can get items that are steeply discounted (especially if you shop on discount days). Each store has specials they run on certain days of the week. In some cases, you can get 50% off. To find out what they offer, contact your nearest Salvation Army store directly. 

13. Thrift shops 

A woman choosing clothes from a rack in a clothes shop. Get the best tips on There are a lot of ways to get free clothes when you’re short on cash or on a strict budget.

Thrift shops, just like consignment stores, are perfect for finding bargains on new or gently used apparel. You can get clothes for next to nothing when you combine already discounted clothing with special coupons and offers from thrift stores.

Some popular thrift stores include Goodwill, Plato’s Closet, and Salvation Army. You can also get great deals on clothing from online consignment shops like Poshmark, Mercari, and ThredUp. 

Here are a few tips on thrifting:

  • Search multiple shops: There’s nothing wrong with comparison shopping. This works more efficiently online because you can look through multiple stores with a few clicks.
  • Ask about specials: Most thrift stores have special discount days or offers you can combine for a huge discount.
  • Know the return policy: Always educate yourself on a thrift shop’s return policy before you make a purchase to avoid buyer’s remorse.

14. TrySpree 

TrySpree is an app that connects you with retailers who offer free samples. It’s a forum-based community where members post leads for free samples and share their experiences with the retailers. Each post is vetted by other members who are champions of finding and sharing the best freebies. While offers vary, you can often get free underwear, T-shirts, sweatshirts, or hats. 

But the freebies aren’t limited to clothing. On TrySpree, you can get free samples from retailers and brands across 16 different categories, including items for your car and free stuff for your baby. Samples are available from major brands like Fruit of the Loom, Timberland, L-Occitane, and Conair.

15. Dress for Success

Dress for Success is an organization that helps women prepare for job interviews with a professional outfit and career coaching. The organization has affiliates across the U.S. and accepts referrals from any 501(c)3 nonprofit for women ages 15+. Visit the Dress for Success website to find your nearest affiliate.

16. Freebie Alerts app

The Freebie Alerts app, available on the App Store and Google Play, sends you a notification every time your neighbors are giving away free stuff, including free clothes. 

The app monitors:

  • Facebook Marketplace
  • Nextdoor
  • OfferUp
  • TrashNothing

You can choose to receive alerts from all or some of these sources of free stuff. 

If you want specific items, you can use the whitelist feature to notify you of offers with certain keywords. When you want an item, just tap on it in the app to communicate with the person giving it away. You can also post items you would like to give away.

Get the Freebie Alerts app

Other ways to find helpful and free resources for low-income families and individuals:

Help for single moms: 16+ resources$500 monthly single mom grant
Free laptopsScholarships for single moms
Free carFree Christmas gifts
Free smartphoneBest jobs moms can do from home
Free wifi Free and low-cost prescriptions
Free formulaFree diapers
Free toysGovernment assistance for single moms
Free gasFree daycare
Free preschoolAffordable dentures
Free prescription glassesFree money
10+ charities that help single mothersTutoring and homework help
Free or low-cost after school programsHealth insurance
Cash for junk carsFree food
Dumpster divingLow-income home loans
Free school suppliesFree housing
Home buyer grantsFree or cheap dental care
Free gift cardsFree Christmas money
Cheap eats near meFree money for bills
Free car repairsFree home repairs
Free bedsFree baby stuff
Free car seatsFree furniture
EBT cashEBT on Amazon
EBT discounts and freebies

Like a lot of new moms, I struggled with low milk supply after giving birth to my son, who spent his first two weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit. By the time we got home, my son had no interest in breastfeeding, and my pumping efforts were futile. 

At the time, I was 22, less than a year out of college, and on unpaid maternity leave from my entry-level newspaper job. After burning through free formula samples from the hospital, my doctor recommended I apply for the WIC program, which provides free baby formula and nutritional foods to low-income mothers and their babies. 

Receiving free formula through WIC took away some of the stress and uncertainty of being a young mom and allowed me to save money to move out of my parents’ home. 

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, baby formula costs an average of $1,200 to $1,500 for a baby’s first year. The last thing any new mom (or any mom, for that matter!) should have to worry about is how she’ll afford to feed her baby. 

Where can I get free formula for my baby?

Here are some ways to get free formula and formula samples for low-income moms and families:

1. Free formula from the government

2. Free baby formula from manufacturers: Contact Enfamil, Similac and Gerber — as well as Amazon

3. Free formula samples from hospitals and doctors’ offices

1. Free formula from the government

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children — better known as WIC — is a nutritional assistance program administered by the U.S. Food and Nutrition Service. Nearly 9 million pregnant women, mothers, and caregivers of infants and young children receive free baby formula and nutritional food items through WIC each month. 

Though the program is federally funded, each state has its own income requirements and application process. For reference, the maximum annual income for a two-person household in Pennsylvania (where I received benefits) for 2023-24 is $36,482. 

How do I get emergency baby formula?

If you need free baby formula in a pinch, call your child’s doctor or local hospital to see if they can give you free formula samples until you are able to apply for free formula through WIC.

Even if you are not currently receiving WIC benefits, you can call your local WIC branch to find out about resources nearby to receive free formula until you can apply.

How do you get free formula from WIC?

WIC provides checks or vouchers for free formula and healthy food items you can use at designated grocery stores. At checkout, you’ll present your checks to the cashier, who will scan them as payment for your formula. 

If you want to receive free formula from WIC, visit the WIC website to find your state’s program and learn how to apply. 

The application process might look a little different depending on where you live, but you’ll likely have to go to your nearest WIC location and present proof of income before you start receiving WIC checks. 

Does EBT cover formula?

If you receive SNAP benefits (formerly food stamps), you can use your EBT card to purchase baby formula at participating retailers. You can also purchase items like baby food and cereal as your child grows. 

However, if you qualify for SNAP benefits, you’re automatically eligible for WIC. You can enroll in both programs simultaneously and save your EBT funds to purchase food items for yourself and the rest of your family. 

To see if you qualify for SNAP benefits, check your state’s eligibility and application requirements. 

So how do you get free formula through WIC? 

WIC formula participants receive checks or vouchers each month to purchase baby formula and healthy foods for mom and baby. The number and types of checks you receive will depend on whether you are breastfeeding or exclusively formula feeding. Breastfeeding moms receive more checks for regular food items to ensure a healthy milk supply.

WIC typically pays for standard formulas from companies like Similac and Enfamil, but you can request checks for specialized formulas with a doctors’ note (like I did for my son with a dairy sensitivity). 

As your child grows and transitions to solid foods, you will receive checks to buy items like jarred baby food and infant cereal. 

WIC also funds nutritious foods for mom like meats, whole wheat bread, brown rice, soft corn and whole wheat tortillas, juice, eggs, milk, cheese, peanut butter, dried beans or peas, fruits and vegetables, soy beverages, tofu, and canned fish.

There are about 46,000 stores across the United States. authorized to accept WIC checks. Your local WIC branch will likely give you a list of nearby stores where you can shop, or you can search for locations through your state’s website. 

2. Free baby formula from manufacturers: Contact Enfamil, Similac and Gerber — as well as Amazon

Most formula companies are more than willing to send you free formula samples because they want you to buy their products in the future. You can sign up for free formula samples on the formula manufacturers’ websites.

Amazon Family also offers Prime members discounts on baby formula and other baby items like diapers. You can get a free welcome box with sample products when you create a baby registry, add at least 60% of the items on Amazon’s checklist, and have at least $10 of purchases made from that list (by you or someone else). Prime memberships are $119 annually or $12.99 a month.

Enfamil free samples

Enfamil offers a number of programs that include free formula

  • The Enfamil Wonder Box is a one-time gift of free formula varieties and coupons
  • The Enfamil Family Beginnings is an ongoing program that includes free formula samples, formula coupons, cash-back earnings and access to a 24/7 nurse advice for free.
  • The Enfamil app generates rewards points toward future purchases when you read articles, participate in polls and refer friends.

Free Similac samples

You can sign up for the MySimilac Rewards program to receive free formula samples, formula savings, and products from Similac’s partner brands: 360 Total Care, Pure Bliss, Alimentum and Advance.

Free Gerber Good Start samples

MyGerber Baby program similarly offers free formula, coupons and rewards points: $10 off every fifth qualifying purchase and a free gift with every $150 spent.

3. Free formula samples from hospitals and doctors’ offices

Formula companies send free formula samples to doctor’s offices and maternity hospitals hoping they’ll pass them on to you.

At your child’s next office visit, ask if they have any free samples of formula on hand. Even if they don’t, your child’s doctor may be able to connect you with local organizations that provide free baby formula to qualifying families. 

Other helpful and free resources for low-income families and individuals:

Help for single moms: 16+ resources$500 monthly single mom grant
Free laptopsScholarships for single moms
Free carFree Christmas gifts
Free smartphoneBest jobs moms can do from home
Free wifi Free and low-cost prescriptions
Free clothesFree diapers
Free toysGovernment assistance for single moms
Free daycareFree preschool
Free gasAffordable dentures
Free prescription glassesFree money
10+ charities that help single mothersTutoring and homework help
Free or low-cost after school programsHealth insurance
Cash for junk carsFree food
Dumpster divingLow-income home loans
Free school suppliesHome buyer grants
Free housingFree or cheap dental care
Free gift cardsFree Christmas money
Cheap eats near meFree money for bills
Free car repairsFree home repairs
Free hearing aidsFree baby stuff
Free car seatEBT cash
EBT on AmazonEBT discounts and freebies
How do I get emergency baby formula?

If you need free baby formula in a pinch, call your child’s doctor or local hospital to see if they can give you free formula samples until you are able to apply for free formula through WIC.

How do you get free formula from WIC?

If you want to receive free formula from WIC, visit the WIC website to find your state’s program and learn how to apply. The application process might look a little different depending on where you live, but you’ll likely have to go to your nearest WIC location and present proof of income before you start receiving WIC checks.

Does EBT cover formula?

If you receive SNAP benefits (formerly food stamps), you can use your EBT card to purchase baby formula at participating retailers. You can also purchase items like baby food and cereal as your child grows. However, if you qualify for SNAP benefits, you’re automatically eligible for WIC.