Legal Help for Single Mothers in Maine

Last updated: September 2025

This hub brings together practical, current legal help for single moms in Maine. You’ll find emergency steps, official contacts, local clinics, and plain‑language how‑tos you can use today. Every section ends with a Plan B. When in doubt, call 211 to get routed to nearby help through 211 Maine. (211maine.org)

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

(One‑page summary you can act on right now. Keep reading below for details.)

• Call for immediate safety help: If you’re in danger or need a protection order today, call Maine Domestic Abuse Helpline at 1-866-834-4357 (Deaf/HH: 1-800-437-1220). Advocates can help you file a Protection From Abuse (PFA) by email or at court. See court filing options at Maine Judicial Branch — Abuse & Harassment. (mcedv.org)
• Stop a utility shutoff today: Call your utility and ask for a “Special Payment Arrangement,” then, if needed, call the Maine Public Utilities Commission Consumer Assistance at 1-800-452-4699. Ask about winter protections, medical protection, and the Arrearage Management Program. (www1.maine.gov)
• Get same‑day legal triage: Call Pine Tree Legal Assistance (PTLA) during intake hours or submit online; also try Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP) for brief advice. If lines are busy, dial 211 Maine and ask for legal clinics near you. (ptla.org)

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Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• Court protection forms: Download email‑file packets for PFA or PFH from Maine Judicial Branch — How to File; find your court’s email on the same page. (courts.maine.gov)
• Child support case help: Call DSER Voice Response 1-800-371-7179 or 1-207-624-7830; to request an order review, see DSER — Request a Review. (www1.maine.gov)
• Benefits and appeals: Reach Maine Equal Justice at 1-866-626-7059 for TANF/GA/appeals help; see quick housing tips at MEJ — Housing & Utilities. (maineequaljustice.org)
• Interpreter or ADA at court: Request free court interpreters via Interpreter & Translation Services or ADA accommodations at Judicial Branch — ADA. (courts.maine.gov)
• Lawyer referral when you can pay a little: Use Maine State Bar Lawyer Referral Service (first 30 minutes for $35) or read FAQs at MSBA LRS FAQ. (mainebar.org)

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How to Get a Protection From Abuse Order Today

Most important action: Call the helpline now and ask an advocate to walk you through PFA filing. The statewide number is 1-866-834-4357 (Deaf/HH: 1-800-437-1220) through Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence (MCEDV). You can file a PFA by email or in person using packets from Maine Judicial Branch — How to File. (mcedv.org)

• Where to file: You may file by email using the official packet or file in person at your District Court. The court can arrange service by law enforcement for email filings. See details and the list of court email addresses on Maine Courts — How to File a Complaint. (courts.maine.gov)
• Sexual assault support: For confidential support, call the statewide sexual assault line at 1-800-871-7741 via MECASA; court pages list both DV and SA hotlines on Maine Judicial Branch — Abuse & Harassment. (mecasa.org)
• Timeline: Courts aim to review requests quickly. For temporary orders, the judge may call you the same day; make sure your complaint has a safe phone number, as warned on the court’s filing instructions. Expect the final hearing to be scheduled within weeks, depending on service and court calendar. (courts.maine.gov)
• Help with forms: Advocates can help you complete forms. See the “get help” links under Abuse & Harassment — Maine Courts, or contact PTLA — Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault & Abuse for plain‑language guides. (courts.maine.gov)
• Language access and disability: Ask the court for a free interpreter through Interpreter & Translation Services or request ADA accommodations at Judicial Branch — ADA. These services are free to court users. (courts.maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 Maine (or 1-877-463-6207 from out of state) to locate a closer advocacy center, and ask for “protection order filing help.” If the court is closed, email the PFA packet as instructed and call MCEDV to safety plan until the court opens. (211maine.org)

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Child Support — Start It, Change It, or Enforce It

Most important action: Open or review your case with Maine’s child support agency. The Division of Support Enforcement & Recovery (DSER) handles paternity, orders, and collections. Start or manage your case through Maine Child Support Services (DSER) or call 1-800-371-7179. For an order review, use DSER — Request an Order Review. (www1.maine.gov)

• What DSER does: DSER can establish paternity, set and collect support, and enforce through income withholding, liens, and license actions. See the service list at Child Support Services — Maine DHHS and court guidance at Maine Courts — Child Support. (www1.maine.gov)
• Fees: If you have never received TANF cash assistance, federal law may require a $25annualfeeonceatleast$500 is collected. See Maine Courts — Child Support for the policy, and confirm current rules with DSER. (courts.maine.gov)
• Good cause when you fear the other parent: If you get TANF and naming the other parent could put you or your child at risk, ask your worker about “good cause.” See the DHHS note “When you are afraid of the other parent” on Child Support Services. (www1.maine.gov)
• Need a quick estimate: PTLA has a user‑friendly support estimator linked from Maine Equal Justice — Making Ends Meet. For complex cases, ask a VLP family law clinic via VLP Family Matters. (maineequaljustice.org)
• Out‑of‑state orders: Maine can register and, in some cases, modify another state’s order when everyone lives here, under Maine’s UIFSA law (19‑A §3255). See statute text at Maine Legislature — §3255. (legislature.maine.gov)
• If child protection is involved: Parents and custodians have a right to counsel in child protection cases if indigent (Title 22 §4005). See the statute and talk to your caseworker about appointment. Read §4005 at Maine Legislature. (legislature.maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call PTLA during intake hours or try Maine State Bar LRS for a low‑cost 30‑minute consult. If it’s urgent enforcement (no payments, assets at risk), ask DSER about an accelerated review by calling 1-800-371-7179. (ptla.org)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Maine Today

Most important action: Call your utility and ask for a Special Payment Arrangement, then immediately contact the Consumer Assistance Division at the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) at 1-800-452-4699. Between November 15 and April 15, utilities need PUC permission to disconnect residential service; income‑eligible households can get winter payment plans. See the PUC’s winter rules and FAQ. (www1.maine.gov)

• Programs to ask about: Ask your utility or your local Community Action Agency about the Arrearage Management Program (AMP) for CMP and Versant customers, plus LIHEAP energy help. AMP can forgive up to $300/month of old debt when you pay current bills on time. See the AMP explanation in PUC FAQs. Also ask Versant about its LifeLight medical protection program for medically necessary equipment. Check PUC FAQ and Versant LifeLight. (www1.maine.gov)
• Know your rights in winter: Maine law defines a “disconnection prohibition period” from November 15–April 15; many winter disconnections need prior PUC permission. See 35‑A §718 and consumer rules (Chapter 815) regarding disconnections. Learn more at Maine Legislature — §718 and PUC Consumer Assistance. (legislature.maine.gov)
• Natural gas: Call Maine Natural Gas at 1-877-226-7427 to set a payment arrangement and ask about assistance before a shutoff; they must work with you and the PUC. See Maine Natural Gas — Disconnection/Reconnection. (mainenaturalgas.com)
• If you need heat or shelter tonight: Call 211 Maine or the General Assistance after‑hours line in your town via DHHS — General Assistance. GA can provide emergency hotel stays and heating help. (211maine.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with the PUC Consumer Assistance Division and tell your utility you have contacted the PUC. Re‑ask for an AMP referral through your Community Action Agency. Use PTLA — Rental Housing/Utilities guides to assert rights if a landlord controls your utilities. (www1.maine.gov)

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Evictions, Unsafe Housing, and Local Tenant Rules

Most important action: Get legal advice before your court date. PTLA runs weekly eviction info sessions and publishes plain‑language guides. Join the Tuesday 9:00 a.m. online session via PTLA Eviction Information Sessions and read PTLA — Rights of Maine Renters: Eviction. (ptla.org)

• Your basic rights: Landlords must use the court process to evict. They cannot lock you out or shut off utilities to force you out. Read PTLA — Your Rights as a Tenant and see state consumer housing chapters in the Maine AG’s Consumer Law Guide. (ptla.org)
• Security deposits: Maine caps deposits and requires proper handling in a separate account. Learn what you can claim if it isn’t returned on time or is mishandled at Maine Legislature — §6038 and PTLA — Getting Your Security Deposit Back. (legislature.maine.gov)
• Local rules that matter:
  • Portland has added tenant protections including longer notice periods, a one‑month cap on security deposits, and rules around “no cause” notices. See PTLA — Portland Landlord‑Tenant Rules. (ptla.org)
  • Bangor’s Tenants’ Housing Rights Ordinance requires 60‑day rent‑increase notice and limits fees. See details at City of Bangor — Tenants’ Housing Rights and coverage at the Bangor Daily News. (bangormaine.gov)
• Fair housing: Discrimination based on sex, familial status, use of vouchers, pregnancy, LGBTQ+ status, race, disability, and more is illegal. Learn and report via Maine Human Rights Commission (MHRC) and read fair‑housing basics at PTLA — Fair Housing. (www1.maine.gov)
• If you’re homeless or about to be: Get shelter referrals and immediate housing help by calling 211 Maine. If no shelter is available, apply the same day for municipal GA housing help as explained by Maine Equal Justice — Housing & Utilities. (211maine.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the court to schedule mediation or more time to find help, and attend PTLA’s Tuesday session. Call VLP for courthouse‑based advice projects (CHAP) on family and housing issues. (ptla.org)

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Custody, Parental Rights, and Divorce (When You Don’t Have a Lawyer)

Most important action: Get the correct packet and the official Summons from the clerk. For divorce or “Parental Rights & Responsibilities” (if never married), download forms and instructions at Maine Courts — Divorce & Separation and the “How to Start” steps at Maine Courts — How to Start. The Family Matters Summons with court seal must be purchased at the clerk’s office. (courts.maine.gov)

• Filing & service: Follow the step‑by‑step on Court Process in a Family Matters Case. If you can’t afford fees, use the Application to Proceed Without Fees included in the packets. For help, try VLP Family Matters. (courts.maine.gov)
• Domestic violence & custody: Tell the clerk or judge if abuse is part of your case; safety and contact plans can be tailored. You can also seek a PFA with temporary custody using Abuse & Harassment — How to File and get an advocate through MCEDV. (courts.maine.gov)
• Interpreters/ADA: Request free interpreters or ADA accommodations as early as possible via Interpreter & Translation Services or Judicial Branch — ADA. (courts.maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the clerk about local family law help days. If your case involves DHHS child protection, tell the court you are indigent and request appointed counsel under Title 22 §4005. See the statute at Maine Legislature. (legislature.maine.gov)

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Benefits, General Assistance, and Appeals

Most important action: Apply for help and appeal fast if denied. For TANF cash, SNAP, or MaineCare, contact the Office for Family Independence (OFI) Call Center at 1-855-797-4357 or apply online through MyMaineConnection. If you need emergency help for rent, heat, or a motel, apply at your town hall through General Assistance (GA). (www1.maine.gov)

• Your GA appeal rights: If GA denies or delays help, you can request a municipal fair hearing; decisions must be made quickly, and aid ordered must be provided within 24 hours. See Title 22 §4322 at the Maine Legislature and DHHS GA guidance. (legislature.maine.gov)
• Recent GA rule updates (2025): DHHS updated GA rules effective April 1, 2025 (Rule #26A). If eligibility is unclear, administrators must check for emergencies and may issue interim help. See the adopted rule on DHHS Rulemaking. (www1.maine.gov)
• Help with complex appeals: Call Maine Equal Justice (1-866-626-7059) for case review or use their guides on Making Ends Meet and Housing & Utilities. (maineequaljustice.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call PTLA for benefits appeals guides and request an administrative hearing under DHHS hearing rules. You can also ask 211 Maine to route you to a local advocate. (ptla.org)

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Immigration Legal Help for Maine Moms

Most important action: Request an appointment with ILAP (capacity fills monthly). The Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (ILAP) offers free/low‑cost immigration help to low‑income Mainers; main line 1-207-780-1593, toll‑free 1-800-497-8505. Check appointment windows and emergency instructions at ILAP — Request. (ilapmaine.org)

• Safety‑based immigration options: Ask about VAWA self‑petitions, U visas (crime victims), and SIJS for certain children. ILAP outlines intake and languages served at ILAP contact and national directories list their services at Immigration Advocates Network. (ilapmaine.org)
• Need LGBTQ+ family law or ID guidance: Get free legal information for New England through GLAD Answers (800‑455‑GLAD) and connect locally with EqualityMaine. (glad.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 Maine for other immigration nonprofits or private referrals, and check GLAD for identity‑document guides if you’re updating name/marker while your case is pending. (211maine.org)

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Consumer, Debt, and Money Problems

Most important action: Get free legal info and a quick lawyer referral. PTLA’s “Money, Taxes & Debt” library at ptla.org is Maine‑specific. For mediation or complaints about unfair practices, see Maine AG — Consumer Protection. (ptla.org)

• Foreclosure or mortgage help: The state lists HUD‑approved counseling and legal aid contacts (including PTLA and VLP) at Maine Bureau of Financial Institutions — Foreclosure Assistance. (www1.maine.gov)
• Landlord won’t return a deposit: Review deposit timelines and remedies at Maine Legislature — §6038 and use PTLA’s step‑by‑step letter templates at Security Deposit. (legislature.maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with the AG’s office from the Consumer Law Guide, and ask Maine State Bar LRS for a targeted 30‑minute consultation. (www1.maine.gov)

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Diverse Communities — Targeted Legal Help

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Reach GLAD Answers at 1-800-455-4523 for New England‑specific family, parentage, and ID guidance; connect with EqualityMaine for local support and referrals. Ask the court for interpreters/ADA via Interpreter & Translation Services if needed. TTY users can contact services through Maine Relay 711. (glad.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Contact Disability Rights Maine at 1-800-452-1948 (V/TTY) for advocacy in education, access, housing, and discrimination; learn their intake process at DRM — Getting Started. For court accommodations, write accessibility@courts.maine.gov. (drme.org)

Veteran single mothers: The Bureau of Maine Veterans’ Services (BMVS) can connect you to benefits, emergency help, and legal referrals; call 1-207-287-7020 or find your local office on Field Offices. If you are in crisis, dial 988 then press 1 per BMVS — Emergency & Crisis Support. (www1.maine.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: Start with ILAP Maine (1-207-780-1593; 1-800-497-8505). For domestic or sexual violence on tribal lands or among Wabanaki communities, contact Wabanaki Women’s Coalition or a tribal advocacy center such as the Penobscot Nation DV/SA Advocacy Center. (ilapmaine.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: Wabanaki centers include hotlines for the Aroostook Band of Micmacs, Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, and Passamaquoddy Tribes; see the statewide list at MECASA — Wabanaki Resources and the coalition directory at Wabanaki Women’s Coalition. Tribal court contacts (like Penobscot Nation Tribal Court) are published at Penobscot Nation — Tribal Court. (mecasa.org)

Rural single moms with limited access: Use 211 Maine for ride, shelter, and clinic referrals; ask courts for remote hearings and interpreter phone lines via Interpreter & Translation Services. For phone‑only help, PTLA’s statewide resources at ptla.org can be read or printed at libraries. (211maine.org)

Single fathers: The same legal routes apply. Use Maine Courts — Family Matters packets, get VLP brief advice via Family Matters, and ask DSER about support options at Child Support Services. (courts.maine.gov)

Language access: Courts provide free spoken‑language and ASL interpreters; request by email to interpreters@courts.maine.gov through Interpreter & Translation Services. Many helplines use tele‑interpreters; call 211 Maine and say your language. (courts.maine.gov)

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Resources by Region (Selected)

• Southern Maine (Cumberland, York): Through These Doors serves Cumberland; Caring Unlimited serves York via the MCEDV network. Legal help via PTLA Portland Office and VLP intake lines. (mcedv.org)
• Lewiston/Auburn (Androscoggin, Oxford, Franklin): DV help via Safe Voices. Immigration help at ILAP Lewiston Office; benefits/GA help at Maine Equal Justice. (mcedv.org)
• Bangor & Penobscot/Piscataquis: DV help from Partners for Peace; tenant protection articles and local ordinance info via City of Bangor. Legal clinics through PTLA Bangor. (mcedv.org)
• Augusta & Central Maine (Kennebec, Somerset): DV help via Family Violence Project. State offices and courts are concentrated here; see Maine Courts — Courthouse locations by town. For veterans, contact BMVS Augusta Office. (mcedv.org)
• Down East (Hancock, Washington): DV help via Next Step. Tribal resources for Passamaquoddy communities appear under Wabanaki Women’s Coalition. For PTLA help, see the Machias office in PTLA local offices. (mcedv.org)
• Aroostook County: DV help via Hope & Justice Project; tribal DV/SA hotline for the Aroostook Band of Micmacs at MECASA — Wabanaki resources. PTLA Presque Isle office details at PTLA local offices. (mcedv.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Keep this on your phone)

(courts.maine.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing short deadlines: PFA filings, eviction answers, GA appeals, and child‑support reviews all have quick timelines. Print deadlines from Maine Courts forms and from DSER — Request Review. (courts.maine.gov)
• Not asking for language/ADA help: Interpreters and accommodations are free in court. Request them early through Interpreter & Translation Services or ADA page. (courts.maine.gov)
• Skipping PUC help on utilities: Don’t set private payment plans that you can’t keep. Ask for a PUC‑approved winter arrangement and AMP. Start with PUC Consumer Assistance. (www1.maine.gov)

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Reality Check — What to Expect

• Court delays and limited capacity: VLP and ILAP often face backlogs (1–2 weeks for callbacks are common). Check VLP intake hours on VLP Contact, and ILAP posts monthly appointment windows on ILAP — Request. (vlp.org)
• Winter utility protections are not automatic: You must ask for a Special Payment Arrangement; the PUC must approve many winter disconnections. See PUC FAQ. (www1.maine.gov)
• Housing rules vary by city: Portland and Bangor have local tenant protections, but most towns follow state law only. Confirm local ordinances at PTLA — Portland rules and Bangor Tenant Rights. (ptla.org)

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Application Checklist (Print or Screenshot)

[ ] Photo ID and your child’s ID: School ID, birth certificate, or passport for court/benefits. See document lists in Maine Courts Family Matters and benefit pages at OFI. (courts.maine.gov)

[ ] Income proof: Recent pay stubs, child support records, benefits letters. For GA, towns must make quick decisions; appeal rights at Title 22 §4322. (legislature.maine.gov)

[ ] Housing papers: Lease, rent receipts, notices. Read tenants’ guides at PTLA — Your Rights as a Tenant and the AG Consumer Law Guide — Housing. (ptla.org)

[ ] Court forms: Download the correct packet; buy the official Summons from the clerk when required. Start with Maine Courts — Forms. (courts.maine.gov)

[ ] Interpreter/ADA requests: Email interpreters@courts.maine.gov and/or accessibility@courts.maine.gov. See Interpreter & Translation Services and ADA page. (courts.maine.gov)

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Local Organizations, Charities, and Support

• Civil legal aid: Pine Tree Legal Assistance — regional offices statewide; intake hours posted. Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project — brief advice clinics and CHAP projects. (ptla.org)
• Domestic violence & sexual assault: Call 1-866-834-4357 via MCEDV, or 1-800-871-7741 via MECASA. Court sites list filing options at Abuse & Harassment — Maine Courts. (mcedv.org)
• Disability rights: Disability Rights Maine — statewide protection & advocacy; phone 1-800-452-1948. For school or public benefits issues, they can advise or refer. (drme.org)
• Veterans: Bureau of Maine Veterans’ Services — benefits, claims, and referrals statewide; office list at Field Offices. (www1.maine.gov)
• Statewide navigation: 211 Maine — dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898‑211 for resource referrals; email info@211maine.org if you need written info. (211maine.org)

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Tables You Can Use

Maine Legal Aid and Hotlines

(ptla.org)

Family Law and Child Support

(courts.maine.gov)

Utility Shutoff Prevention

(www1.maine.gov)

Housing and Tenant Issues

(ptla.org)

Municipal Emergency Help

(www1.maine.gov)

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If Your Application Gets Denied (Any Program)

• Read the notice: It must explain why and how to appeal. For GA, you have a very short window — often 5 working days — per Title 22 §4322. For court matters, see instructions attached to your orders at Maine Courts — Forms. (legislature.maine.gov)
• Request a hearing or review: For child support, ask DSER for an order review using the portal or phone from DSER — Request Review. For DHHS programs, use the hearing notice on your decision letter (see general hearing rules at DHHS Manuals). (www1.maine.gov)
• Get representation or coaching: PTLA and VLP can prep you for hearings; find contacts at PTLA and VLP. (ptla.org)

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County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

• Portland: Extra tenant protections affect notice periods, “no‑cause” terminations, application fees, and deposits. Always check the latest PTLA summary at Portland Landlord‑Tenant Rules. (ptla.org)
• Bangor: The Tenants’ Housing Rights Ordinance requires 60‑day rent‑increase notices and restricts fees. Read the city summary and forms at Bangor — Tenants’ Housing Rights. (bangormaine.gov)
• Rural towns: Some municipal GA offices are part‑time; after‑hours emergency help is required. If you cannot reach your GA office, call the DHHS GA hotline listed at General Assistance — DHHS. (www1.maine.gov)

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FAQs (Maine‑Specific)

1. How fast can I get a temporary PFA?
   A judge may review same‑day if you file early and include a safe phone number. You can file by email using the official packet and instructions on Maine Courts — How to File; get 24/7 advocacy at MCEDV. (courts.maine.gov)
2. I got a 7‑day notice for nonpayment — what now?
   Don’t move out. Attend court and seek legal help. Learn defenses and timelines at PTLA — Eviction and get weekly coaching via PTLA Eviction Info Sessions. (ptla.org)
3. Can DSER help if we were never married?
   Yes. DSER can establish paternity and support and collect payments. Start at Child Support Services. (www1.maine.gov)
4. I can’t pay my electric bill this winter — will they shut me off?
   Ask for a Special Payment Arrangement and call the PUC. Rules limit winter disconnections and offer AMP for eligible customers. See PUC — Consumer Assistance and PUC FAQ. (www1.maine.gov)
5. How do I get an interpreter in court?
   Request one for free through Interpreter & Translation Services or ask the clerk. For ADA needs, write accessibility@courts.maine.gov. (courts.maine.gov)
6. What if DHHS takes my case to child protection court?
   You may qualify for appointed counsel if indigent. See Title 22 §4005 at the Maine Legislature. (legislature.maine.gov)
7. Where do I file discrimination in housing or work?
   File with the Maine Human Rights Commission. Call 1-207-624-6290 to discuss filing within 300 days. (www1.maine.gov)
8. Is there rent control in Maine?
   Portland has local tenant protections; other towns generally follow state law. See PTLA — Portland rules and check your city website. Bangor has fee/notice rules: Bangor Tenants’ Rights. (ptla.org)
9. I’m homeless with kids — can the town help tonight?
   Yes. Homelessness is treated as an emergency under GA. Apply at your town office; if closed, use the after‑hours instructions and appeal rights in DHHS — GA. Call 211 Maine for shelter placement. (www1.maine.gov)
10. I’m an immigrant survivor — who can help me safely?
    Contact ILAP for immigration options (U visa, VAWA). For immediate safety, call MCEDV or a tribal center listed by the Wabanaki Women’s Coalition. (ilapmaine.org)

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What to Do if a Section Above Didn’t Solve It

• Legal clinic saturated: Ask for a callback window, then call 211 Maine to locate backup clinics or law school clinics. Re‑check VLP open hours before calling. See VLP — Contact Us. (211maine.org)
• Court confusion: Bring your papers to the clerk and ask where your next step fits in the Court Process — Family Matters. If you’re overwhelmed, ask a PTLA navigator at ptla.org. (courts.maine.gov)
• Safety risk rising: Call 911 for emergencies and your regional advocate through MCEDV. If you need to file by email after hours, use the PFA email packet at How to File. (mcedv.org)

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Real‑World Examples

• Eviction court tomorrow, no lawyer: You hop on PTLA’s Tuesday Zoom at 9:00 a.m. from your phone and learn how to ask for a short continuance to find help. You cite repair issues using PTLA — Eviction and bring photo evidence to court. You also call MaineHousing — Eviction Prevention Program to see if your landlord will accept payment. (ptla.org)
• Winter disconnection notice: You tell the utility that you qualify for a Special Payment Arrangement due to income and SSI eligibility; you then call the PUC, which can block disconnection while a plan is set. You also apply for AMP with your CAA as described in PUC FAQs. (www1.maine.gov)
• Out‑of‑state support order: You and your child now live in Maine; you work with DSER to register and modify the old order under UIFSA (19‑A §3255). Start at DSER — Child Support and confirm jurisdiction using §3255. (www1.maine.gov)

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Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Esta sección en español fue producida con herramientas de traducción asistida por IA. Verifique detalles clave por teléfono antes de aplicar.

• Protección inmediata contra abuso: Llame al 1-866-834-4357 (sordos/HH: 1-800-437-1220) por MCEDV y use los paquetes por correo electrónico en Tribunales de Maine — Cómo presentar. (mcedv.org)
• Soporte de manutención de menores: Contacte DSER al 1-800-371-7179; para revisar su orden, use Solicitar revisión. (www1.maine.gov)
• Corte de electricidad o gas: Pida un “Special Payment Arrangement” y llame a la PUC de Maine al 1-800-452-4699. Pregunte por AMP. (www1.maine.gov)
• Ayuda legal gratuita: PTLA y VLP ofrecen asesoría breve; para referencias, marque 211 Maine. (ptla.org)
• Intérpretes y ADA: Solicítelos gratis en Servicios de intérprete o ADA. (courts.maine.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Maine Judicial Branch — Abuse & Harassment and Family Matters and Divorce/Parental Rights. (courts.maine.gov)
• Maine DHHS — Office for Family Independence (OFI) and Child Support Services (DSER). (www1.maine.gov)
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance and Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project. (ptla.org)
• Maine PUC — Consumer Assistance and PUC FAQ. (www1.maine.gov)
• 211 Maine, MECASA, and MCEDV. (211maine.org)

Last verified: September 2025, next review January 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only, not legal advice. Laws, benefits, court rules, and local ordinances change. Call to confirm current availability before applying. Use the official links here to get the most recent forms and instructions from Maine Courts and program agencies like Maine DHHS or PUC. Funding limits and waitlists are common; appeal deadlines are short. If your safety is at risk, call 911 and your regional advocate via MCEDV. (courts.maine.gov)

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What’s Next?

If you want, tell me your town and the exact problem. I’ll list the closest offices, a step‑by‑step plan, and what to say on the phone.

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🏛️More Maine Resources for Single Mothers

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• 📋 Assistance Programs
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• 👨‍👩‍👧 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
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• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
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• 🤝 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
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery