Legal Help for Single Mothers in Vermont
Legal Help for Single Mothers in Vermont
Last updated: September 2025
This hub pulls together fast, no‑nonsense help from Vermont’s official agencies and trusted nonprofits. Every program, office, and tip below links straight to the source so you can act now.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Stop a shutoff today: Call your utility and ask for a “reasonable payment arrangement” under Vermont rules, then call the state consumer office for backup through the utility help pages at the Department of Public Service and use winter protections under PUC Rule 3.300.
- Protect yourself and your kids: File for a Relief From Abuse order 24/7 using the court’s after‑hours line 1-800-540-9990 and the step‑by‑step tool at VTLawHelp RFA Roadmap, and get an advocate through the statewide Vermont Network. (vtlawhelp.org)
- Get food in 7 days or less if you qualify: Apply for 3SquaresVT (SNAP) online with myBenefits and ask for “expedited” if you meet the federal hardship test; if groceries can’t wait, use the “Find a Food Shelf” tool at Vermont Foodbank. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Quick help box — phone numbers and links to keep handy
- DCF Benefits Service Center: 1-800-479-6151 for 3SquaresVT, Reach Up, Fuel; upload documents through the Document Uploader and apply on myBenefits. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Emergency Housing line: 1-800-775-0506 (hotel/motel program & shelter triage) and after hours dial 2‑1‑1 via Vermont 211; see rules on DCF Emergency Housing. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Vermont Health Connect (Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur/plan help): 1-855-899-9600; find an assister and report changes at Vermont Health Connect. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
- Legal intake for civil problems: 1-800-889-2047 via Legal Services Vermont / Vermont Legal Aid; private attorney match 1-800-639-7036 through Vermont Bar Association LRS. (vtlawhelp.org)
- Crisis Fuel (winter heat emergencies): Apply at your Community Action Agency or call 1-800-479-6151; weekend/holiday line as posted at Crisis Fuel Assistance. (dcf.vermont.gov)
How to stop utility shutoff in Vermont today
- Call your utility and set a plan: Under Vermont rules, utilities must offer “reasonable” payment arrangements; use the state’s overview at Disconnection & Financial Assistance and ask about budget billing on the same page at the Department of Public Service site. If you’re medically fragile, ask your provider to hold disconnection with a 30‑day “medical note”. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
- Use winter protections: From November 1–March 31, extra rules apply before a shutoff; providers must give added notice and observe temperature safeguards under PUC Rule 3.304 and LII’s summary. (regulations.justia.com)
- Lower the bill fast: Enroll in the state’s energy discounts — 25% off for Green Mountain Power households and 20% off for Vermont Gas customers; apply by phone or the posted application. Pair this with Crisis Fuel if you’re out of heating fuel per the Crisis Fuel dates. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint and ask for help through the Department of Public Service consumer pages; also bring an advocate from your local Community Action Agency to negotiate a better plan with the utility. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
Fast legal safety: Relief From Abuse (RFA), child support, and custody basics
- File an RFA now: Use the step‑by‑step instructions and after‑hours email/phone at VTLawHelp’s RFA Roadmap and submit forms the easy way with VTCourtForms; courts accept after‑hours calls at 1-800-540-9990 and provide interpreters upon request. Advocates are available via the Vermont Network hotlines and LGBTQ+ support is through Pride Center SafeSpace. Expect a quick temporary order and a hearing usually within days. (vtlawhelp.org)
- Get child support set up or changed: Vermont’s Office of Child Support provides free services to establish, enforce, or modify orders; call 1-800-786-3214 or use the online payment system. The child support calculator shows current guideline inputs (Self‑Support Reserve $1,565 effective Feb 3, 2025) and FICA rates for 2025. If income changed 10% or more, ask OCS about modification per 15 V.S.A. § 660. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- If violence is a factor: You can pursue support safely. See Safely Pursuing Child Support for waivers when you get Reach Up and safety planning with OCS; also ask about address protection with Safe at Home info on VTLawHelp’s page. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the statewide legal helpline 1-800-889-2047 through Vermont Legal Aid/Legal Services Vermont; if you need a private lawyer quickly, use the VBA Lawyer Referral Service (first 30 minutes ≤ $25). (vtlawhelp.org)
Food help that actually stretches your budget
- 3SquaresVT (SNAP) — who qualifies & how much: Most households qualify if gross income is ≤ 185% FPL with net income under 100% FPL (standard SNAP rules apply), with special expanded options listed on 3SquaresVT and the state’s income guidelines page. Maximum monthly SNAP benefits in FY2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025) for the 48 states are 292(1person)upto292 (1 person) up to 975 (4 people), with +$220 per extra person per USDA SNAP COLA; Vermont follows these maximums. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Apply fast + timelines: Apply online with myBenefits or call 1-800-479-6151; ESD may schedule an interview quickly (you can also call the interview line 1-877-403-7668). Expect decisions within 30 days and as quickly as 7 days if expedited; older Vermonters can get cash deposit options per 3SquaresVT for Older Vermonters. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- More local food while you wait: Use Vermont Foodbank’s Find a Food Shelf and look for Farm to Family summer coupons described on DCF’s Farm to Family; Burlington families can go to Feeding Chittenden for groceries and meals. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a benefits navigator at your local Community Action Agency to review denials and help with fair hearings; legal appeals help is available through Vermont Legal Aid. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Table — SNAP at a glance (FY2025)
| Program | Who qualifies | How to apply | Max monthly benefit (48 states) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3SquaresVT (SNAP) | Income tests posted at the state’s page; special rules for households with older adults or disabled members | Online via myBenefits, phone interview 1-877-403-7668 | 1: 292;2:292; 2: 536; 3: 768;4:768; 4: 975; add $220 per person |
Sources: 3SquaresVT and USDA FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
Heat, power, and fuel — what you can actually get
- Seasonal Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP): If gross income ≤ 185% FPL, apply with DCF Fuel Assistance and list your certified fuel dealer; active Fuel households also qualify for free Weatherization. For FY2025, the LIHEAP Clearinghouse reports Vermont heating benefits of roughly 21minimumand21 minimum and 1,843 maximum; crisis grants max around $1,664, depending on fuel and situation. Always call to confirm amounts in your district. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Crisis Fuel (winter only): If you’re out of fuel or facing a no‑heat emergency and income ≤ 200% FPL, apply through your local Community Action Agency; weekend/holiday phone intake is available per Crisis Fuel. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Utility bill discounts: If you get power from Green Mountain Power you may get 25% off usage charges; Vermont Gas offers 20% off; eligibility is typically ≤ 185% FPL. Pair these with Lifeline phone/internet via the state’s Lifeline page. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a same‑day appointment with your Community Action fuel office shown under Coordinated Entry leads; if denied, review options with VTLawHelp Energy Assistance guide. (vtlawhelp.org)
Table — Vermont LIHEAP snapshot (FY2025)
| Benefit type | Typical season | Vermont min–max (FY2025) | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seasonal Fuel (heating) | Fall–Spring | ~21to 21 to ~1,843 | DCF Fuel page & myBenefits |
| Winter Crisis Fuel | Late Nov–Apr (by fuel type) | Up to ~$1,664 | Community Action Agency intake |
Source: LIHEAP Clearinghouse Vermont profile and DCF Fuel & Crisis Fuel pages. Amounts vary by fuel, vendor, and funding. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Cash aid, work supports, and child care
- Reach Up (Vermont’s TANF): Cash support plus a case manager; ask about automatic child support case opening and safety waivers via Reach Up; apply by phone 1-800-479-6151 or online alongside other benefits at myBenefits. If your case closes, you may shift to Reach Ahead incentives automatically. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP): Vermont expanded income eligibility under Act 76; as of March 23, 2025 the guidelines updated to 2025 FPL levels and the cap remains high (final stage of expansion to 575% FPL was implemented in late 2024). Apply through your Community Child Care Support Agency or online via CDDIS Parent Portal. Family shares range from $0 to capped weekly amounts per DCF updates. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Tax credits that put cash back: Vermont’s refundable EITC equals 38% of your federal EITC per 32 V.S.A. § 5828b, and the state Child Tax Credit provides up to $1,000 per qualifying child age ≤5 (state law § 5830f; Department of Taxes confirms amounts for TY2024/TY2025). See the Department of Taxes guidance for filing help. (legislature.vermont.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied Reach Up or CCFAP, call the benefits center 1‑800‑479‑6151 and request a fair hearing; consider free legal help through Vermont Legal Aid’s helpline and ask your case manager to review for child support safety waivers if needed. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Table — Child care & work supports
| Resource | What changed | Where to apply | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCFAP | Eligibility expanded; 2025 FPL updates live Mar 23, 2025 | Local child care support agency or CDDIS Parent Portal | Service need + income; some families have $0 family share |
| Reach Up | Case management + cash; safety waivers possible | District office or myBenefits | Pairs with OCS services unless waived |
| VT EITC & VT CTC | 38% of federal EITC; $1,000/child ≤5 | Department of Taxes filing | Refundable; file even with low income |
Sources: DCF CCFAP updates and VT Department of Taxes. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Health coverage and WIC
- Medicaid, Dr. Dynasaur, and QHPs: Start with Vermont Health Connect; call 1-855-899-9600 for language help and find an in‑person assister. Pregnant Vermonters, infants, and children have higher income limits, and renewals happen year‑round with instructions at DVHA’s renewal page. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
- WIC (Women, Infants & Children): Apply online, text APPLY to 1‑844‑TEXT‑WIC, or call 1‑800‑464‑4343 through the Vermont Department of Health WIC; eligibility pages are updated as of August/September 2025 on WIC Eligibility and Shopping with WIC. (healthvermont.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the Access and Resource Center (ARC) for help with appeals, or call WIC at 1‑800‑464‑4343 for a supervisor; ACA appeals and expedited reviews are outlined on Vermont Health Connect Appeals. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
Housing support you can actually reach
- Emergency housing (hotel/motel program): Call 1‑800‑775‑0506 and apply through DCF Emergency Housing. The state uses an 80‑day rolling limit outside winter, room caps, and vulnerable‑household carve‑outs; rules shift with funding and season, so confirm current policy when you call. Local news coverage documented resets after winter and spring extensions in 2025. Also use Vermont 211 after hours. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Coordinated Entry (shelter and housing navigation): Call your region’s lead agency from DCF’s Coordinated Entry list (e.g., CVOEO in Chittenden, Groundworks in Brattleboro, Capstone in Barre); this is the path to HUD‑funded programs and local shelters. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Section 8 (Housing Choice Vouchers): The Vermont State Housing Authority waitlist closed Jan 31, 2025 and new voucher issuance is constrained; watch VSHA news updates and use the AffordableHousing.com portal on VSHA’s application page to manage your status. Local reporting in May 2025 noted voucher freezes due to funding limits—plan for a long wait. (vsha.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for diversion help at Upper Valley Haven or your regional lead, and consider the Homeless Prevention Center (Rutland) or Groundworks (Windham) via the Coordinated Entry list. For eviction defense and “rent into court” issues, use VTLawHelp eviction steps. (vtlawhelp.org)
Table — Coordinated Entry and Community Action by region
| Region | Lead agency & phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chittenden / Franklin / Grand Isle | CVOEO – 802-863-6248 | Also runs Feeding Chittenden food shelf |
| Washington / Lamoille / Orange | Capstone – 1-800-639-1053 | Fuel/benefit navigation |
| Windham / Windsor | SEVCA – 800-464-9951 | Crisis Fuel & housing support |
| Rutland / Bennington | BROC – 800-718-2762 | Tenant‑landlord mediation and fuel aid |
| NE Kingdom (Caledonia/Essex/Orleans) | NEKCA – 802-334-7316 / 802-748-6040 | Coordinated Entry access |
Sources: DCF Coordinated Entry list and agency contact pages. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Unemployment and job loss
- Start or reopen a claim: Call 1‑877‑214‑3330 to open with the Vermont Department of Labor; file weekly at 1‑800‑983‑2300 or online. The maximum weekly benefit is currently $705 per VDOL benefits page. (labor.vermont.gov)
- Timelines and tips: File in the first week you work <35 hours as noted on VDOL’s guidance; keep your PIN private and call the claimant assistance line 1‑877‑214‑3332 if you’re stuck. (labor.vermont.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If the phones are busy, keep calling right at open per Vermont Foodbank’s UI tips and ask Legal Services Vermont about appeals through VTLawHelp. (vtlawhelp.org)
Phone, internet, and digital access
- Lifeline phone/internet discounts: Apply via USAC and see Vermont details at the Department of Public Service Lifeline page, including participating providers and the state’s Universal Service Fund booster for voice. Survivors can use Lifeline’s new Survivor Benefit Program to get service safely. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
- Broadband buildout + where to ask questions: Track coverage testing and BEAD plans at PSD mobile drive tests and the BEAD program page; digital skills and device help roll out under the Digital Empowerment Plan. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 to locate community computer labs and free Wi‑Fi, then ask your library and Community Action for device loans and printing; if you are Deaf/Hard‑of‑Hearing, use “711” to reach Vermont Relay. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
Local organizations and faith‑based help
- Community Action Agencies: Contacts above connect you to fuel aid, benefits help, and limited rent or utility crisis support; find your region on DCF’s Coordinated Entry list and check agency sites like CVOEO. (cvoeo.org)
- Food and essentials: Use Vermont Foodbank’s finder and, in Burlington, Feeding Chittenden; the City’s page lists more outreach like Joseph’s House. (vtfoodbank.org)
- Transportation to work/child care: Ask Good News Garage in Burlington about low‑cost vehicles and Ready‑to‑Go rides; also ask your case manager about DCF or VDOL mileage programs. (goodnewsgarage.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial Vermont 211 for a full list of local churches and nonprofits that can help with diapers, gas cards, or a one‑time bill; ask for your county’s “financial assistance” and “basic needs” listings.
Diverse Communities — tailored help and rights
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Get confidential advocacy, safety planning, and court accompaniment with Pride Center of Vermont’s SafeSpace (support line 802‑863‑0003); domestic and sexual violence hotlines are statewide via the Vermont Network. Courts provide free interpreters and accommodations per language access info and state statute. (pridecentervt.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Call Vermont Center for Independent Living for access, home modifications, and equipment; legal protection is available through Disability Rights Vermont. For relay calls and captioning at hearings, use the state’s Telecommunications Relay Service and CART rights under 1 V.S.A. § 332. (vcil.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Call the VA White River Junction main line (find care via VA locator), ask Coordinated Entry about SSVF slots (veteran homelessness), and check the state’s veteran benefits through the VT Office of Veterans Affairs; also ask VSHA about veteran‑linked vouchers (availability varies).
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Connect with USCRI Vermont for case management and with AALV for multilingual support. Use the DCF interpretation line 1‑855‑247‑3092 listed on Contact ESD to request free phone interpreters. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Vermont recognizes four Abenaki tribes; find the state’s commission and contacts at the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs and local tribal info via the Nulhegan Band site. For DV support, also use StrongHearts Native Helpline listed on OCS’s safety page. (vcnaa.vermont.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Ask Pride Center Rural Resources if you’re LGBTQ+; for connectivity, call about Digital Empowerment grants and check mobile coverage updates at PSD’s drive tests. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
- Single fathers: All programs above apply equally; for parenting and custody forms, use the court’s Access and Resource Center (ARC) and the VTCourtForms portal; child support services are free through OCS. (vtlawhelp.org)
- Language access: Ask courts for interpreters and CART per 1 V.S.A. § 332; agencies must provide TTY/Relay access (dial 711) as posted across Vermont Health Connect and WIC pages. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
Resources by Region
- Burlington / Chittenden County: Coordinated Entry via CVOEO (802‑862‑2771); food through Feeding Chittenden; domestic violence support from Steps to End Domestic Violence and LGBTQ+ SafeSpace. (cvoeo.org)
- Rutland / Bennington: Call BROC Community Action (800‑718‑2762); shelter navigation through the Homeless Prevention Center (Rutland); legal help via Vermont Legal Aid Rutland. (vermontcap.org)
- Brattleboro / Windsor–Windham: Use SEVCA (800‑464‑9951) for fuel and benefits; DV services at Women’s Freedom Center; Coordinated Entry via Groundworks. (cars.sevca.org)
- Barre / Washington / Lamoille / Orange: Contact Capstone Community Action (800‑639‑1053); court self‑help at ARC; fuel discounts and shutoff protections via PSD consumer pages. (capstonevt.org)
- Northeast Kingdom: Call NEKCA (Newport 802‑334‑7316; St. J 802‑748‑6040); tribal cultural contacts via VCNAA; 3SquaresVT help through DCF Benefits Center. (dcf.vermont.gov)
County‑specific notes that matter
- Eviction timelines vary, but the notice to terminate for nonpayment is 14 days: See 9 V.S.A. § 4467 and the VTLawHelp eviction steps. Some courts schedule “rent into court” hearings quickly under 12 V.S.A. § 4853a; file an Answer on time to avoid default. (legislature.vermont.gov)
- Utility winter protections apply statewide: Different utilities may have different repayment plan styles, but all must follow PUC Rule 3.300; use your county’s Community Action to negotiate. (regulations.justia.com)
- VSHA voucher access: As of Jan 31, 2025, the main HCV list is closed and issuance is limited; some project‑based properties and special preferences may still accept applications—watch VSHA news and your email for list purges from AffordableHousing.com. (vsha.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing interviews or documents: After you apply for 3SquaresVT or Reach Up, call 1‑877‑403‑7668 and finish your interview quickly; use the Document Uploader to submit photos of pay stubs and IDs. (vtfoodbank.org)
- Letting a shutoff notice sit: Call your utility immediately and ask for a repayment plan per PSD guidance; if you need time, have a provider fax a “medical note”. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
- Not asking for expedited help: If you’re out of food or heat, say so—Crisis Fuel and SNAP expedited processing can cut wait times; for court safety, call 1‑800‑540‑9990 after hours per the RFA Roadmap. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Reality Check: delays, denials, and funding gaps
- Funding shifts happen: Seasonal LIHEAP and hotel/motel shelter rules change mid‑year; confirm current status each time you apply by checking DCF news or calling the line posted on Emergency Housing. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Waitlists are real: VSHA vouchers are constrained in 2025; use Coordinated Entry for near‑term housing and stay reachable for list “purges” from AffordableHousing.com. (vsha.org)
- Court moves fast: Eviction “rent into court” orders and RFA hearings come up quickly; use ARC and VBA Lawyer Referral to prepare. (vtlawhelp.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- EBT/food: Apply 3SquaresVT; FY2025 max for 4 = $975 per USDA.
- Heat/fuel: Fuel Assistance + Crisis Fuel; winter shutoff rules in PUC Rule 3.304.
- Cash & child support: Reach Up + OCS; calculator and payments at OCS tools and EZPay4Kids.
- Health & WIC: Vermont Health Connect and WIC.
- Legal & safety: Legal Services Vermont/Vermont Legal Aid; Vermont Network hotlines; after hours RFA 1‑800‑540‑9990.
Application Checklist (printable)
- Photo ID documents: License, state ID, or other as requested by DCF, plus kids’ IDs or birth records for OCS.
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, unemployment printouts from VDOL, child support orders from OCS.
- Expenses: Rent/lease, utilities, child care bills for 3SquaresVT and CCFAP deductions; medical costs if age 60+ or disabled.
- Housing docs: Eviction notices, WRIT dates, and any rent ledgers for court; shelter verification for Coordinated Entry via your region’s lead.
- Safety documents (if needed): Police reports, texts, photos for RFA filings; safe mailing address setup through court/ARC.
If your application gets denied — troubleshooting
- Read the notice closely: Deadlines to appeal vary; health coverage appeals timelines are on Vermont Health Connect Appeals; SNAP fair hearings track federal timeframes (ask ESD).
- Appeal and keep benefits going if allowed: Ask if you can keep benefits during appeal; get help through the Vermont Legal Aid helpline.
- Escalate urgent errors: For ESD delays in a crisis, use the complaints channel listed under Economic Services Contacts and ask your Community Action worker to call with you. (dcf.vermont.gov)
Real‑world examples
- Burlington: Keisha used CVOEO Coordinated Entry to get a prevention grant while she waited on 3SquaresVT; she also joined Feeding Chittenden grocery distribution to close the gap.
- Rutland: Ana called BROC for a furnace repair after hours using their posted emergency line and asked ESD for Crisis Fuel the next morning.
- Newport: Roxanne applied for Fuel Assistance and used Lifeline to cut her phone bill so she could keep internet for her child’s schoolwork; she used WIC to stretch the grocery budget.
Frequently asked questions (Vermont‑specific)
- How long does 3SquaresVT take and can I speed it up: Standard processing is up to 30 days; ask for “expedited” if you meet hardship tests and complete the interview via 1‑877‑403‑7668. Apply on myBenefits and use the Document Uploader to avoid mail delays. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- What’s the maximum SNAP for my family right now: FY2025 maximums are 292(1person),292 (1 person), 536 (2), 768(3),768 (3), 975 (4) through Sep 30, 2025 per USDA; Vermont follows these. (fns.usda.gov)
- How do I stop a winter shutoff if I have a child with asthma: Ask your provider to hold disconnection with a 30‑day medical note and set a payment plan under PSD’s rules page; winter restrictions are in PUC Rule 3.304. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
- Is Vermont still placing families in motels: Yes, with limits and seasonal rules; call 1‑800‑775‑0506 and review DCF Emergency Housing. Winter policy and room caps can change; local reporting in 2025 tracked major resets. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Can I get child care help if I earn “too much” for old rules: Possibly yes—Vermont raised CCFAP income limits and updated family shares in March 2025; see CCFAP page and the March 2025 update. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- How do I set up or change child support safely: Contact OCS at 1‑800‑786‑3214 and ask about DV safety and waivers under Safely Pursuing Child Support; use the calculator to estimate amounts. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- What if my landlord gives me a 14‑day notice for rent: You can “cure” by paying through the current rental period; if served with a court complaint, file an Answer and get help through VTLawHelp eviction steps and consider the VBA Lawyer Referral Service for low‑cost advice. (legislature.vermont.gov)
- Where can I find help in another language: Ask for a free interpreter at ESD (1‑855‑247‑3092) and in court per language access/ARC; Deaf/Hard‑of‑Hearing callers can use 711 per Vermont Relay. (dcf.vermont.gov)
- Can I afford a lawyer if LSV/VLA can’t take my case: Try the VBA Lawyer Referral Service (first 30 minutes ≤ $25) and ask about the Modest Means panel; also use Vermont Free Legal Answers for online questions. (vtbar.org)
- What cash help exists besides Reach Up: File taxes to get the VT EITC and the VT Child Tax Credit; for rent, see Renter Credit limits if you’re a renter. (legislature.vermont.gov)
Table — Key emergency and legal contacts
| Need | Who to call | Where to click |
|---|---|---|
| DV/SV help | 1‑800‑228‑7395 DV; 1‑800‑489‑7273 SV | Vermont Network |
| RFA after hours | 1‑800‑540‑9990 | RFA Roadmap |
| Legal intake | 1‑800‑889‑2047 | VTLawHelp |
| Benefits line | 1‑800‑479‑6151 | ESD Contacts |
| Emergency housing | 1‑800‑775‑0506 | DCF Emergency Housing |
Table — Quick program timelines
| Program | Typical processing | Crisis/expedited |
|---|---|---|
| 3SquaresVT | Up to 30 days | 7 days if expedited |
| Fuel Assistance | 10–15 business days | Same‑day/next‑day via Crisis Fuel |
| RFA | Same day temporary order possible | After‑hours line available |
| UI claim | Same week if filed promptly | Call claims line to escalate |
Sources: program pages above; always call to confirm current timelines.
Spanish summary — Resumen en Español
Traducción realizada con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre detalles por teléfono y en los sitios oficiales.
- Comida: Solicite 3SquaresVT por internet y use el Localizador de Despensas del Vermont Foodbank para ayuda inmediata.
- Calor y electricidad: Pida Asistencia de Combustible y Crisis Fuel; llame a su compañía para un plan de pago bajo las reglas del Departamento de Servicio Público.
- Vivienda: Llame 1‑800‑775‑0506 para Alojamiento de Emergencia; inscríbase con su agencia Coordinated Entry.
- Salud y WIC: Llame a Vermont Health Connect (1‑855‑899‑9600) y solicite WIC.
- Asesoría legal y seguridad: Llame 1‑800‑889‑2047 a Vermont Legal Aid; para violencia doméstica, llame a Vermont Network y para orden de protección use el RFA Roadmap.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF)
- Vermont Department of Public Service (PSD)
- Vermont Health Connect / Department of Vermont Health Access
- Vermont Department of Labor
- Vermont State Housing Authority
- Vermont Legal Aid / Legal Services Vermont
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service
- LIHEAP Clearinghouse
Last verified September 2025, next review April 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.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information and links to official resources. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney‑client relationship. Program amounts, eligibility rules, and timelines change based on funding and law. Always confirm with the official agency or a qualified attorney before acting. For emergencies, call 911 or a 24/7 hotline listed above.
🏛️More Vermont Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Vermont
- 📋 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
- 🧠 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
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
