Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in North Dakota
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in North Dakota
Last updated: September 2025
North Dakota has strong, practical resources you can use right now for safety, shelter, legal protection, food, child care, and cash help. This guide pulls together official, no‑fluff information—with phone numbers, dollar amounts, timelines, and direct application links—to help you make decisions quickly.
Safety note: If an abuser monitors your devices, use a safe device or a library/computer at a friend’s place. Clear your browser history after visiting help sites. The National Domestic Violence Hotline also has quick‑exit tools. (thehotline.org)
Quick Help — Fastest Options Near the Top
Emergency Actions
- If you are in immediate danger: Call 911. Tell the dispatcher if weapons are involved and whether children are present. You can ask for a domestic‑violence–trained officer. For behavioral health crises, call 988 (24/7 phone, text, and chat). (samhsa.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
- Talk to a domestic violence advocate now: National Domestic Violence Hotline (800) 799‑7233 or text START to 88788 (24/7; confidential). (thehotline.org)
- Find North Dakota shelters and advocates: CAWS North Dakota lists 20 crisis intervention centers statewide—call the center closest to you (you can use any center). (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Statewide information and referrals: FirstLink/ND 211—dial 211, call (701) 235‑7335, or text your ZIP code to 898‑211 (24/7). (myfirstlink.org)
- Native survivors: StrongHearts Native Helpline (844) 762‑8483 (call or text, 24/7). Cultural‑specific, confidential advocacy. (strongheartshelpline.org)
Quick Help Box
- Police/Fire/Ambulance: 911 (immediate danger)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 (24/7; phone, text, chat) (samhsa.gov)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799‑7233; text START to 88788; live chat online (thehotline.org)
- North Dakota 211 (FirstLink): 211 or (701) 235‑7335; text ZIP to 898‑211 (24/7 referrals and crisis support) (myfirstlink.org)
- StrongHearts Native Helpline: (844) 762‑8483 (call or text, 24/7) (strongheartshelpline.org)
- State Crime Victims Compensation: (800) 445‑2322 or (701) 328‑6195 (apply for medical, counseling, lost wages, funeral costs) (docr.nd.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Need | Go here first | What to say/ask | Expected timeline |
---|---|---|---|
Emergency shelter or safety planning | CAWS ND advocacy center directory | “I need safe shelter and help with a protection order.” | Often same‑day for shelter; help filing orders immediately. (cawsnorthdakota.org) |
Protection order (DVPO) | ND Courts DV Protection Order page | “Where do I file, and can an advocate help with forms?” | Temporary orders can be same‑day; court hearing usually scheduled within weeks (family time standards target most within 90 days). (ndcourts.gov) |
Food help (SNAP) | Apply for Help portal or call (866) 614‑6005 | “I need SNAP—can I get expedited benefits?” | Most cases within 30 days; expedited in 7 days if you qualify under federal rules. Max for family of 4 is $975/mo (FY25). (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov) |
Cash help (TANF) | TANF info & apply | “I’m fleeing abuse—what documents do you need and can I claim ‘good cause’?” | Varies; example increase since 10/01/24 raised monthly support levels; one official example shows $492/mo for a family of 3 in a common scenario. (hhs.nd.gov) |
Child care help (CCAP) | CCAP eligibility & apply | “I need child care assistance while I work/go to school.” | Eligibility up to 85% of SMI; approvals vary, many within weeks. (hhs.nd.gov) |
Victims Compensation | CVC program | “I need help with counseling/medical bills.” | Processing noted 2–4 weeks for applications/claims once submitted. Max award 25,000∗∗;funeralupto∗∗25,000**; funeral up to **5,000; wage loss up to $300/week. (docr.nd.gov) |
What To Do First — A Clear, Short Path
- Get safe: If you can leave, go to a police station, hospital, or an advocacy center. If you cannot leave, move to a room with an exit and fewer hard objects. Keep your phone charged and a “go bag” ready (IDs, birth certificates, bank card, meds, car/house keys, spare phone). Ask an advocate to help you plan. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Call an advocate: A local advocate can arrange shelter, go to court with you, and help with benefits applications. Use the CAWS ND directory. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Consider a protection order: North Dakota offers Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPO) and Disorderly Conduct Restraining Orders (DCRO). DVPOs can order no contact, remove the abuser from the home, grant temporary custody, order support, and require firearm surrender. Violating a DVPO is a crime (first offense Class A misdemeanor; repeat offense Class C felony). Forms and instructions are at the ND Courts site. (ndcourts.gov)
- Use 211 for fast referrals: If you’re not sure what to do next, call 211. FirstLink operates 24/7 and can safety‑plan, make referrals, and connect you to ND services by phone, text, or chat. (myfirstlink.org)
Protection Orders in North Dakota — What They Do and How To File
Overview
North Dakota’s DVPO law (N.D.C.C. ch. 14‑07.1) allows courts to issue orders that stop abuse, bar contact, exclude the abuser from your home, award temporary custody/visitation, order support, attorney’s fees, and require surrender of firearms. DCROs cover unwanted acts, words, or gestures meant to affect your safety, security, or privacy (not limited to family/household). (ndcourts.gov)
Order type | Who can file | What it can do | How long | Where to start |
---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) | Family/household members, or those in qualifying relationships | No contact; stay‑away; removal from home; temporary custody/visitation; support; fee awards; firearm surrender | Set by the judge (violations: criminal—first A misdemeanor; repeat C felony) | ND Courts DVPO page—forms and instructions (ndcourts.gov) |
Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order (DCRO) | Any person targeted by intrusive/unwanted conduct | No contact; stay‑away; surrender weapons | Up to 2 years | ND Courts DCRO page—forms (ndcourts.gov) |
How to file: Download the petition and instructions, or ask a certified advocate to help you fill out forms and file at your county district court. Clerks can explain procedures but cannot give legal advice. You can also contact the ALL ND Victims legal line for free legal information and possible representation: (888) 247‑9039 (Mon–Fri, 9–4). (ndcourts.gov, nddsvc.org)
Service and hearings: Temporary orders may be issued quickly, followed by a hearing where both sides can be heard. ND case‑management standards aim to resolve “Family Minor” matters (including DVPOs) within 90 days in most cases; interim or ex parte orders require a prompt hearing under court rules. Bring any evidence (texts, photos, 911 logs, witnesses). (ndcourts.gov)
Plan B if this doesn’t work: Call a local advocacy center to safety‑plan and consider a DCRO, criminal “no‑contact” order, or relocation to shelter; ask about supervised exchange/visitation programs funded by ND HHS. (hhs.nd.gov)
Shelter, Housing, and Rent — What to Expect and What Help Exists
- Emergency shelter: Use the CAWS ND directory (20 centers). Many have safe houses, hotel placements, and transportation. If one center is full, another can often place you. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Transitional/longer‑term housing: Ask your advocate about transitional housing slots, YWCA programs (Fargo area), or local housing authorities for Housing Choice Vouchers. Expect waitlists; apply in multiple jurisdictions if possible. For budgeting, use HUD’s FY 2025 Fair Market Rents (FMRs) as a price guide. (huduser.gov)
Area | FY 2025 HUD 2‑BR FMR (guide to typical modest rent) |
---|---|
Fargo–Moorhead | $1,012/mo |
Bismarck–Mandan | $1,023/mo |
Grand Forks | $984/mo |
Dickinson | Similar to state average; check HUD FMR lookup |
Minot/Williston | Oil‑region markets fluctuate; confirm current FMRs |
Data source: HUD FY 2025 FMR documentation system; exact figures vary by county/metro/zip. Use HUD’s FMR tool or speak to your local housing authority when seeking vouchers or rapid‑rehousing programs. (huduser.gov)
Plan B if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 about motel/safe lodging funds, rapid rehousing, and ESG‑funded programs; ask your advocate to coordinate with Continuum of Care partners in your region. (myfirstlink.org)
Money, Food, Health, and Child Care — Programs With Real Dollar Amounts
Program | What it offers | Key amounts/limits (Aug–Sep 2025) | How to apply/contact |
---|---|---|---|
SNAP (food help) | Monthly benefits on EBT card | FY25 maximum for 4‑person household 975/mo∗∗;minimumbenefit∗∗975/mo**; minimum benefit **23; standard deduction 204∗∗;sheltercap∗∗204**; shelter cap **712; asset limit 3,000∗∗(or∗∗3,000** (or **4,500 if elderly/disabled). ND lists gross income screens up to 200% FPL for some households—see the ND income table. | Apply online at the Apply for Help portal; Customer Support Center (866) 614‑6005; ND SNAP income tables for 2024–25 posted by HHS. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov) |
TANF (cash help) | Monthly cash assistance on EPC card plus work services (JOBS) | ND raised the “standard of need” effective 10/01/2024 (modernization). Official example: a single mom of two earning 1,160/mo∗∗couldreceive∗∗1,160/mo** could receive **492/mo, bringing family income to $1,652/mo. Good‑cause protections available for survivors regarding child support cooperation. | Apply via TANF or at your Human Service Zone; Customer Support (866) 614‑6005. See TANF Environmental Scan and modernization news. (hhs.nd.gov) |
WIC | Healthy foods for pregnant/postpartum women, infants, children <5; nutrition counseling | FY25–FY24 CVB amounts through 9/30/2025: children 26/mo**; pregnant & postpartum **47/mo; fully/mostly breastfeeding 52/mo∗∗.NDincomeeligibility(5/1/2025–6/30/2026)for4‑personhousehold:upto∗∗52/mo**. ND income eligibility (5/1/2025–6/30/2026) for 4‑person household: up to **59,478/yr. | Call (800) 472‑2286 or find your county WIC clinic and apply in person. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov) |
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) | Pays part of your child care cost while working or in school | Income limits (effective 10/1/2024–9/30/2025): 3‑person family up to 6,462/mo∗∗;4‑personupto∗∗6,462/mo**; 4‑person up to **7,694/mo (others listed on CCAP page). State maximum provider rates (monthly) vary by care type (e.g., center full‑time infant $1,278). Child care workforce benefit waives copay for licensed child‑care employees. | Apply online; Customer Support (866) 614‑6005. See CCAP income table and provider rate schedule. (hhs.nd.gov) |
Crime Victims Compensation (CVC) | Reimburses eligible crime‑related costs | Max award 25,000∗∗total;funeralupto∗∗25,000** total; funeral up to **5,000; wage loss up to $300/week; application within 1 year of reporting; report crime within 96 hours (exceptions apply). Processing: allow 2–4 weeks for app/claim steps. | ND DOCR CVC: (800) 445‑2322 or (701) 328‑6195; online application available. (docr.nd.gov) |
Unemployment Insurance (UI) | Partial wage replacement during job loss | If abuse caused job separation, ask UI about “good cause” provisions and documentation (police report, advocate letter, etc.). File immediately; claims can’t be backdated. UI contact (701) 328‑4995. | File at Job Service ND (UI ICE) or by phone. (jobsnd.com) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to locate local food pantries, short‑term cash assistance (churches/nonprofits), and rental/utility programs; ask your advocate to write a verification letter for expedited processes. (myfirstlink.org)
Step‑By‑Step: Filing a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO)
- Start with an advocate: It’s easier with help. CAWS ND centers can help you fill out forms and navigate court. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Download and complete forms: Use the ND Courts DVPO instructions, Petition for Protective Relief, and cover sheet. Be specific with dates, threats, injuries, and witnesses; include screenshots or photos if safe. (ndcourts.gov)
- File at your county district court: The clerk will stamp your paperwork and give you a case number. Ask about how the sheriff will serve the respondent. (ndcourts.gov)
- Ask for a temporary order if needed: Tell the judge if you fear immediate harm; courts can issue temporary orders to bridge safety until a full hearing. (ndcourts.gov)
- Hearing: Show up with evidence and any witness statements. If the order is granted, carry a certified copy and share with your child’s school/daycare and employer. Violations are crimes; call police and your advocate. (ndcourts.gov)
Plan B if this doesn’t work: Consider a DCRO (covers stalking/harassment by non‑household people), a criminal no‑contact order if there’s a related case, or relocating with help from advocates. (ndcourts.gov)
Legal Help You Can Use
- ALL ND Victims legal line: Free legal information/referrals, possible representation for DVPO/SARO/DCRO, eviction, Marsy’s rights, and some family law. (888) 247‑9039 or (701) 223‑7610 (Mon–Fri, 9–4). (nddsvc.org)
- Legal Services of North Dakota (LSND): Free civil legal help if you qualify. Under 60: (800) 634‑5263; age 60+: (866) 621‑9886. Offices in Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot; tribal outreach at MHA and Turtle Mountain. (lsnd.org)
- ND Supreme Court Legal Self‑Help Center: Protection‑order forms and guides; lawyer referral ((866) 450‑9579 via State Bar). (ndcourts.gov)
- Marsy’s Law—Victim Rights: Learn and assert your rights (protection from disclosure, notice of hearings, restitution). ND Attorney General provides summaries and resources. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
Plan B if this doesn’t work: Ask your local state’s attorney victim‑witness unit for help, or call an advocacy center to partner you with a pro bono attorney. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
Protecting Your Privacy and Address
- Public records: Under Marsy’s Law, you can prevent disclosure of contact information that could be used to locate or harass you. Make sure the prosecutor has your up‑to‑date contact info to provide notice of any requests. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
- Digital safety: Learn and use safe browsing tips; ND HHS and The Hotline provide alerts about monitored devices and ways to clear histories safely. (hhs.nd.gov, thehotline.org)
- Mailing address: If you can’t safely receive mail at home, consider a P.O. Box and ask agencies/schools to use it. StrongHearts also explains Address Confidentiality Programs conceptually (ND does not publish a statewide ACP program; rely on Marsy’s protections and safe mailing). (strongheartshelpline.org, attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
Plan B if this doesn’t work: Ask your advocate about school FERPA directory blocks, utility account privacy flags, and credit freezes to limit doxxing.
Food, Health, and Child Nutrition Details You Can Use Today
- SNAP numbers you asked for: FY25 national amounts include a family‑of‑four maximum of 975/month∗∗,minimumbenefit∗∗975/month**, minimum benefit **23, standard deduction 204∗∗,sheltercap∗∗204**, shelter cap **712, and asset limits of 3,000∗∗(or∗∗3,000** (or **4,500 if an elderly/disabled member). ND publishes an income table with 200%/130%/100% screens (e.g., 4‑person 5,200∗∗,∗∗5,200**, **3,380, $2,600 gross monthly respectively). Apply online or by phone; the Customer Support Center can help you upload documents. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
- WIC amounts and income for 2025: Monthly fruit‑and‑vegetable CVB for children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, fully/mostly breastfeeding 52∗∗.NDincomeguidelinefora4‑personhouseholdis∗∗52**. ND income guideline for a 4‑person household is **59,478/year through June 30, 2026. WIC served 16,200 North Dakotans in the last reported year. Apply by calling (800) 472‑2286 or your county clinic. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
- Child care assistance specifics: For a 3‑person family, income up to 6,462/month∗∗;for4people,∗∗6,462/month**; for 4 people, **7,694/month. Max monthly state rates (examples): center full‑time infant 1,278∗∗;toddler∗∗1,278**; toddler **1,243; preschooler $1,040. If you work for a licensed provider, the workforce benefit may cover up to the full max rate with no copay. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use 211 for food pantries and diaper banks; ask your WIC/SNAP worker about fair‑hearing rights if you’re denied. (myfirstlink.org)
For Single Moms Navigating Family Law and Child Support Safely
- Good cause if cooperation is unsafe: TANF recipients who fear harm from child support cooperation can claim “good cause.” ND HHS publishes the “Notice of Right to Claim Good Cause” form in the TANF resources—ask your worker to document safety risks. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Orders and custody: DVPOs can grant temporary custody/visitation terms. Coordinate with your local advocate and LSND for family law guidance. (ndcourts.gov, lsnd.org)
Plan B if this doesn’t work: Ask the ALL ND Victims legal line about filing a DCRO or addressing abusive litigation under N.D.C.C. ch. 14‑07.6. (ndcourts.gov)
Diverse Communities — Tailored Help
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your advocate to flag any gender/identity‑related safety concerns at shelter intake. The National Domestic Violence Hotline serves all survivors and can route you to inclusive ND providers. Phone: (800) 799‑7233; Text: 88788. (thehotline.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Tell 988 you need the Developmental Disabilities CARES Response Team if a disability crisis is involved. Phone: 988. ND HHS offers specialized crisis care within 24 hours of the initial call. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask 211 for VA‑connected counseling and housing (SSVF) and legal referrals. FirstLink can connect you statewide. Phone: 211. (myfirstlink.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can apply for protection orders regardless of immigration status. Ask advocates about U‑Visa/VAWA options and use WIC/SNAP if eligible—WIC is open to many immigrants who meet income rules. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Call StrongHearts (844) 762‑8483 (24/7). ND tribal programs include Spirit Lake Victim Assistance (701) 766‑1816; Hearts of Hope—Turtle Mountain (701) 477‑0002; Three Affiliated Tribes Victim Services (701) 627‑3617 (ask your nearest center even if you live off‑reservation). (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Use phone and text options (211; ND courts forms online) and ask shelters for transportation help. Phone: 211. (myfirstlink.org)
- Single fathers: All services above are survivor‑focused and available to you as well. CAWS ND centers serve all genders. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Language access: 988 offers English/Spanish plus interpreter services in 240+ languages; ask courts for interpreters when filing. (samhsa.gov)
Resources by Region — Local Hotlines and Centers (You Can Call Any Center)
- Bismarck/Mandan — Abused Adult Resource Center: Crisis (866) 341‑7009, Office (701) 222‑8370. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Fargo — Rape & Abuse Crisis Center: Crisis (800) 344‑7273, Office (701) 293‑7273. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Grand Forks — CVIC: Crisis (866) 746‑8900, Office (701) 746‑0405. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Minot — Domestic Violence Crisis Center: Crisis/Office (701) 852‑2258. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Williston — Family Crisis Shelter: Crisis (701) 770‑5180, Office (701) 572‑0757. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Dickinson — Domestic Violence & Rape Crisis Center: Crisis (888) 225‑4506, Office (701) 225‑4506. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Jamestown — Safe Shelter: Crisis (888) 353‑7233, Office (701) 251‑2300. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Devils Lake — Safe Alternatives for Abused Families: Crisis (701) 409‑0665, Office (701) 662‑7378. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Wahpeton — Three Rivers Crisis Center: Crisis/Office (701) 642‑2115. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Grafton — Domestic Violence & Abuse Center: Crisis (866) 435‑7490, Office (701) 331‑0466. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Washburn — McLean Family Resource Center: Crisis/Office (701) 462‑8643. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Beulah — Women’s Action & Resource Center: Crisis/Office (701) 873‑2274. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Bottineau — Family Crisis Center: Crisis (800) 398‑1098, Office (701) 228‑2028. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Lisbon — Abuse Resource Network: Crisis/Office (701) 683‑5061. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Stanley — DV Program of NW ND: Crisis (800) 273‑8232, Office (701) 628‑3233. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Valley City — Abused Persons Outreach Center: Crisis (701) 845‑0072, Office (701) 845‑0078. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Spirit Lake Victim Assistance (Ft. Totten): Crisis/Office (701) 766‑1816. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Three Affiliated Tribes Victim Services (New Town): Crisis (701) 627‑3617. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Turtle Mountain—Hearts of Hope: Crisis/Office (701) 477‑0002. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
Application Checklist — Bring These When You Can
Document | Where to get it fast |
---|---|
Photo ID | Wallet, DMV printout if lost; ask advocate about fee waivers |
Children’s birth certificates/SSNs | Home files; county vital records; SSA for cards |
Proof of ND address | Lease, utility bill, shelter letter from advocate |
Income proof | Last 30 days of pay stubs, child support letter, benefit letters |
Bank/asset info (if asked) | Banking app screenshots or recent statements |
Medical/counseling bills | For CVC claims—ask providers for itemized statements |
Police reports/court papers | Clerk’s office records; advocate can help request |
Tip: If you left without documents, ask your advocate to write a verification letter for SNAP/WIC/CCAP to keep things moving while you order replacements. (hhs.nd.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to apply: SNAP and TANF start from your application date; UI claims can’t be backdated. File now, even if paperwork isn’t perfect. (jobsnd.com)
- Not asking for expedited SNAP: If funds are near zero, ask for “expedited” processing. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Missing hearings: If you miss a DVPO hearing, the case can be dismissed. If you’re scared to face the abuser, ask for remote appearance or advocate support. (ndcourts.gov)
- Sharing your address widely: Assert Marsy’s privacy rights and use a safe mailing address. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
- Not documenting injuries or threats: Save texts/voicemails; photograph injuries; get medical care and discharge papers (helpful for CVC). (docr.nd.gov)
Timelines — What’s Realistic
- DVPO: Temporary orders may be issued quickly; hearing dates are typically set within weeks. ND’s case‑management standards target most family‑minor matters within 90 days. (ndcourts.gov)
- SNAP: Most cases within 30 days; expedited within 7 days if you qualify. (hhs.nd.gov)
- TANF/CCAP: Varies by case; many approvals take a few weeks (faster with complete docs). ND’s Customer Support Center centralizes processing to reduce delays. (hhs.nd.gov)
- CVC: Allow 2–4 weeks for initial processing of applications/claim reimbursements after submission. (docr.nd.gov)
Real‑World Examples
- Example — Cash help while fleeing: A single mom with two kids working 1,160/mo∗∗qualifiedfor∗∗1,160/mo** qualified for **492/mo TANF after ND raised the standard of need, bringing total monthly resources to $1,652 (official scenario published by ND HHS). (hhs.nd.gov)
- Example — WIC helps fast: First WIC appointment (30–45 minutes) often issues benefits same day to your eWIC card, including the monthly fruit/vegetable CVB. (hhs.nd.gov)
Where To Contact State Offices (One‑Stop)
- ND HHS Customer Support Center: (866) 614‑6005, Fax (701) 328‑1006, Email: applyforhelp@nd.gov (SNAP, TANF, CCAP, Medicaid, LIHEAP). Online portal: Apply for Help. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Human Service Zone finder: Local office lookup for in‑person help. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Job Service ND (Unemployment): (701) 328‑4995; appeals (800) 351‑9098. (jobsnd.com)
- Crime Victims Compensation: (800) 445‑2322 / (701) 328‑6195. (docr.nd.gov)
- ND 211 (FirstLink): Dial 211; (701) 235‑7335; text ZIP to 898‑211 (24/7). (myfirstlink.org)
Frequently Asked Questions (State‑Specific)
- How much is SNAP for my family size in ND: The federal FY25 maximum for a family of four is $975/month; individual amounts vary by size and income. See ND’s posted income screens and the FNS FY25 COLA. Apply and ask about expedited service if food is very low. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
- Is there a fee to file a DVPO: The ND Courts provide DVPO forms and allow you to file at your local district court; advocates can help for free. Ask the clerk/advocate about service details in your county. (ndcourts.gov)
- What if I can’t go to court because of safety or child‑care: Tell the clerk and your advocate; you may be able to request remote participation or a continuance. Advocacy centers often help with child‑care logistics. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Can a DVPO include my kids and the house: Yes—ND DVPOs can award temporary custody/visitation, exclude the abuser from the home, and grant temporary use of property. (ndcourts.gov)
- What happens if the abuser violates the DVPO: Call police. A first violation is a Class A misdemeanor; repeat violation is a Class C felony. (ndcourts.gov)
- How fast is WIC: Many clinics can issue benefits the same day after your first appointment; call (800) 472‑2286 to book. (hhs.nd.gov)
- How do I find urgent mental health help without calling 911: Call or text 988; it’s 24/7, confidential, with interpreter services. (samhsa.gov)
- I left my documents behind. Can I still apply: Yes. File now and submit what you have; your advocate can provide verification letters while you order replacements. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Can TANF make me pursue child support if it’s unsafe: Tell your worker you want to claim “good cause” due to safety risks; ND’s TANF materials include a specific notice/form for this. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Are there statewide hotlines just for ND: Use ND 211 (FirstLink) for round‑the‑clock in‑state referrals and crisis support; it also answers 988 calls in ND. (nd.gov)
What To Do If a Door Closes — Always Have a Plan B
- Court delay or denial: File a DCRO, ask an advocate about refiling with more documentation, or seek a criminal no‑contact order if charges exist. (ndcourts.gov)
- Shelter full: Call another center from the CAWS ND list; ask about hotel placements or transport to another town. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Benefits denied: Request a hearing (SNAP/TANF/CCAP appeals are available). Ask legal aid or ALL ND Victims for help preparing. (hhs.nd.gov, nddsvc.org)
- Costs adding up: Apply to CVC for counseling/medical/wage‑loss/funeral costs related to the crime; it’s a payer of last resort but can close gaps. (docr.nd.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, ND Court System, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, HUD, ND Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation, and established statewide coalitions (CAWS ND/NDDSVC). It follows our Editorial Standards that require primary sources, link testing, and timely corrections. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. Please send corrections to info@asinglemother.org.
- Primary source methodology and update cycle: Our policy describes source verification, archiving, and 48‑hour change tracking for confirmed policy updates. (ndcourts.gov)
Disclaimer
Information changes: Benefit amounts, eligibility rules, and procedures can change. Always confirm with the agency or court linked in this guide. This content is for general information only and not legal advice or a substitute for an attorney.
Health and site safety: If you believe someone is monitoring your device, use a safe computer or call by phone. We maintain security best practices, but no website can guarantee complete safety. If you’re in danger, call 911 immediately. (thehotline.org)
Tables and Links Used Above — Official Sources
- ND Courts DVPO/DCRO pages: Protection‑order forms, powers of orders, and violation penalties. (ndcourts.gov)
- ND case‑management time standards: Family minor matters targeted within 90 days. (ndcourts.gov)
- CAWS ND/NDDSVC directories: 18–20 centers statewide with crisis lines and services. (cawsnorthdakota.org, nddsvc.org)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 24/7 phone/text/chat and safety info. (thehotline.org)
- StrongHearts Native Helpline: 24/7 Native‑centered advocacy. (strongheartshelpline.org)
- ND 211/FirstLink: Statewide 24/7 crisis referrals; 211 call/text. (myfirstlink.org)
- 988 Lifeline (SAMHSA): 24/7 mental health/substance crisis support, multi‑language. (samhsa.gov)
- SNAP FY25 COLA (FNS): Maximum allotments and deductions for FY25. ND income limits posted by HHS. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
- TANF program & modernization; example benefit: ND HHS pages. (hhs.nd.gov)
- WIC amounts and state income levels: FNS policy memos and ND HHS WIC eligibility/clinics. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
- CCAP income limits and max rates: ND HHS CCAP page. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Crime Victims Compensation: Caps and processing. (docr.nd.gov)
- HUD FY 2025 Fair Market Rents: Statewide documentation portal. (huduser.gov)
- Marsy’s Law resources and privacy protections: ND Attorney General. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
If you see anything out of date or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll update within 48 hours per our policy. (ndcourts.gov)
🏛️More North Dakota Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Dakota
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery