Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in New Hampshire
Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in New Hampshire
Last updated: September 2025
If you’re a disabled single mom in New Hampshire, the programs below are built for you. This guide centers only on disability‑specific cash, health, housing, home‑care, legal, and work supports in New Hampshire. You’ll find exact phone numbers, timelines, and realistic next steps. Whenever you see a program name, tap the italic link to reach the official page directly.
According to state rules and current notices, key programs here include cash benefits for disabled adults, Medicaid pathways for disabled workers, in‑home care waivers, disability‑focused housing resources, medical shut‑off protections, legal advocacy, and mobility services. Please verify any income limits or wait times before applying, since they can change mid‑year when federal poverty guidelines update. (dhhs.nh.gov)
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Call for disability‑specific benefits screening right now: Contact the DHHS Customer Service Center at 1-844-ASK-DHHS and ask for screening for APTD, MEAD, QMB/SLMB, and the CFI waiver; they can also schedule a District Office interview. Use the online portal at NH EASY (apply for assistance) to submit forms the same day. For comprehensive options counseling, call ServiceLink (state ADRC) at 1-866-634-9412. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Stop any utility shutoff and stabilize power for medical needs today: Tell your utility you have a medical emergency household, ask for the “medical certification,” and request a hardship payment plan; then call the Public Utilities Commission Consumer Services at 603-271-2431 or 1-800-852-3793 if you hit a wall. Review the winter shutoff rules and programs like EAP/AMP on the PUC site. (puc.nh.gov)
- Get legal backup if housing or benefits are at risk: Apply with 603 Legal Aid (civil legal help) online or by phone 603-224-3333, and contact Disability Rights Center–NH (P&A) at 1-800-834-1721 for disability‑related legal issues, housing accommodations, or benefit denials. (603legalaid.org)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 at Your Fingertips
- DHHS Customer Service (benefits questions): 1-844-275-3447; apply via NH EASY portal; find offices at DHHS Locations. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- ServiceLink ADRC (aging & disability resource hub): 1-866-634-9412; see ServiceLink info; local lookup at ServiceLink contact page. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Adult Protective Services (if you or another vulnerable adult is being abused/exploited): 1-800-949-0470 or 603-271-7014; report at BAAS Adult Protection. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Public Utilities Commission Consumer Line (utility problems/shutoffs): 603-271-2431 or 1-800-852-3793; see PUC Consumer pages and Winter Rules. (puc.nh.gov)
- 211 NH (round‑the‑clock local resources and shelters): dial 211; web at 211 NH; statewide info via About 211 NH. (211nh.org)
Who this guide is for
This guide focuses on disability‑specific programs for disabled single mothers who live in New Hampshire and need fast, direct help. It links you to applications and agencies like NH DHHS, ServiceLink (ADRC), and New Hampshire Housing, plus legal protections through Disability Rights Center–NH. It avoids general‑population benefits unless there’s a disability pathway or protection attached. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Cash help built for disabled adults and parents
The fastest state cash options for disabled adults are Aid to the Permanently and Totally Disabled (APTD) and the State Supplement Program (SSP). Families can also qualify under Interim Disabled Parent (IDP) when a parent can’t work, even when standard TANF rules don’t fit.
- APTD (cash for disabled adults ages 18–64): Apply through NH EASY or at a District Office. APTD requires a disability that stops you from working and is expected to last at least 48 months; it also has income/resource limits ($1,500 resource cap) and can open Medicaid. Ask for hardship processing if you have shutoff, eviction, or urgent medical costs. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- SSP (State Supplement Program): If you get SSI/SSDI or meet APTD criteria, SSP may add a small state cash payment depending on living arrangement and income. Apply via Cash Assistance page or on your APTD/SSI application. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- IDP (Interim Disabled Parent) under FANF/TANF: If you’re parenting a child and a doctor says you can’t work due to disability, apply for IDP. It doesn’t require you to be on SSI/SSDI, and it recognizes disability as the reason you can’t meet work rules. File through TANF/FANF and tell the worker you need the IDP track. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- How to apply and timeline: File in one sitting at NH EASY (Form 800), upload doctor notes, and return calls from 1-844-ASK-DHHS promptly. Keep proof of rent and utilities ready. Expect about 10–15 business days for non‑crisis cases, faster if you document an emergency. For help, call ServiceLink for document checklists. (dhhs.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor callback; then request an Administrative Appeal in writing within the deadline on your notice. Get free help from 603 Legal Aid and disability‑specific advocacy from DRC‑NH. If you can’t wait, apply for town welfare under RSA 165 at your city/town hall; municipalities must provide general assistance when you’re destitute. Bring a doctor letter if you need disability accommodations. (603legalaid.org)
Quick table — disability‑specific cash programs (NH)
| Program | Who qualifies | Why it helps disabled single moms | Where to apply | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| APTD | Disabled 18–64; long‑term disability; low income/resources | Adds cash and usually opens Medicaid | APTD overview | ~10–15 business days (faster if crisis) |
| SSP | SSI/SSDI recipients or those meeting APTD criteria | Small state add‑on to income | SSP details (Cash Assistance) | Varies by case |
| IDP (FANF) | Parent medically unable to work | TANF‑type cash without work rules | TANF/FANF & IDP | Varies by district office |
Sources for table: DHHS program pages and policy manuals. Call to confirm current amounts. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Health coverage when you have a disability
- MEAD (Medicaid for Employed Adults with Disabilities): If you can work part‑time or remote but need Medicaid, MEAD lets you keep coverage at higher income and resource levels (net income up to 450% FPL in 2024; resource limits up to $35,758 for one, higher for two). You may owe a small premium. Apply at MEAD/MOAD eligibility or ask DHHS to evaluate you for MEAD if other categories fail. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QDWI) for disabled moms on Medicare: If you’re on Medicare due to disability, QMB can pay Part A/B premiums and most cost‑sharing; SLMB/SLMB135 can pay your Part B premium. Apply through Medicare Beneficiaries Savings Program or get help via ServiceLink SHIP counselors. Income limits update each spring—call to confirm. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Adult dental through NH Medicaid: As of April 2023, adults on full Medicaid get comprehensive dental (exams, fillings, extractions, and more), with dentures covered for those in DD/ABD/CFI waivers and nursing facilities. Transport to dental visits is covered; call CTS at 1-844-304-6630 for rides tied to the adult dental benefit. See NH Smiles Adult and keep the plan’s phone handy. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): If you’re in Fee‑For‑Service Medicaid, rides are through CTS at 1-844-259-4780; if you’re in Medicaid managed care, call the number on your plan card. Check the Medicaid Transportation page and your health plan’s member services. (dhhs.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DHHS to screen you across all Non‑MAGI categories (APTD/SSP, MEAD, CFI) and Medicare Savings Programs during one interview; request language access or TTY via Relay NH (711) as needed; and get unbiased help from ServiceLink (ADRC). (dhhs.nh.gov)
Table — Medicaid and related disability pathways (NH)
| Path | Key points for disabled single mothers | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| MEAD | Work and keep Medicaid with higher income/resource limits; may have premium | MEAD overview |
| CFI waiver | Home‑care, homemaker, adult family care, equipment, and supported employment if you meet nursing facility LOC | CFI details |
| MSP (QMB/SLMB) | Pays Medicare premiums; QMB also covers most cost‑sharing | Medicare Savings Programs |
Confirm current limits with DHHS, as figures adjust with federal poverty guidelines. (dhhs.nh.gov)
In‑home care, personal attendants, and daily living supports
- Choices for Independence (CFI) Waiver (age 18+): If disability meets nursing facility level‑of‑care, CFI can fund in‑home personal care, homemaker help, adult family care, respite, supported employment, and limited home mods/equipment so you can stay home with your kids. Apply through BEAS/BAAS CFI or ask ServiceLink to set up an options counseling call. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Area Agencies (for adults with DD or Acquired Brain Disorder): If your disability is developmental or from brain injury, Area Agencies coordinate services under the DD or ABD waivers—case management, personal care, employment, assistive tech, respite, and mods. Find your local agency via Area Agencies finder or learn more at Developmental Services. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Consumer‑directed care through Granite State Independent Living (GSIL): If you qualify for CFI and can self‑direct, GSIL’s Personal Care Service Provider (PCSP) model lets you hire/train attendants for bathing, dressing, transfers, light housekeeping, and errands. Start with GSIL PCSP or call 603-228-9680; request referrals from your CFI case manager. (gsil.org)
Real‑world example: A Manchester mom with MS got CFI for 18 hours/week of attendant care and homemaker help, while GSIL helped her recruit a caregiver who could work around school pickup. She used the program’s participant‑directed option and scheduled care in short blocks around her symptoms. You can do the same by asking your case manager to include “PCSP through GSIL” in your service plan. (dhhs.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a new functional assessment if your condition worsened, and request a copy of your service plan. Contact DRC‑NH if home‑care hours were cut without proper notice or if you need help asserting your right to community‑based services. (drcnh.org)
Table — Waivers and community supports
| Waiver | Target population | Examples of services | Where to learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| CFI | Adults (18+) meeting nursing facility level‑of‑care | Personal care, homemaker, adult family care, supported employment, equipment/home mods | CFI program |
| DD | Adults with developmental disabilities | Service coordination, day/vocational, assistive tech, crisis supports | DD services (BDS) |
| ABD (brain injury) | Adults with acquired brain disorder | Community supports, personal care, rehab‑related services | ABD waiver |
Waiver access depends on clinical eligibility and funding; ask your Area Agency or BEAS for current slots. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Housing with disability preferences
- Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) and Mainstream (non‑elderly disabled) vouchers: Apply with New Hampshire Housing. NH Housing operates special sub‑lists, including “Mainstream” vouchers for disabled adults under 62. Expect a long wait—currently estimated at 7–9 years for standard vouchers—so add all disability sub‑lists you qualify for and keep your contact info current for reasonable accommodation letters. (nhhfa.org)
- Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA): Provides project‑based apartments paired with services for extremely low‑income adults with disabilities. In New Hampshire, 811 PRA focuses on adults with serious mental illness via DHHS. Ask your mental health provider or check NH Housing 811 PRA. (nhhfa.org)
- Fair housing & legal help: If a landlord denies a reasonable accommodation (service animal, parking, transfer to accessible unit), get help from 603 Legal Aid (Fair Housing) or file with the NH Commission for Human Rights and HUD. For emergencies, dial 211 NH to locate shelter or prevention funds. (603legalaid.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask NH Housing for portability if you already have a voucher and need to move closer to doctors or family supports; see Portability rules. For eviction threats, promptly apply at 603 Legal Aid and consider court mediation options through the NH Judicial Branch. (nhhfa.org)
Table — disability‑related housing options in NH
| Option | Best for | Why it helps | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| HCV + Mainstream | Disabled adults under 62 | Portable voucher with disability sub‑lists | Apply for HCV/Mainstream |
| Section 811 PRA | Extremely low‑income adults w/ disabilities | Project‑based units + services | 811 PRA overview |
| Assisted housing directory | Search properties with subsidies | Find accessible units by county | NH Housing Directory |
How to stop a utility shutoff in New Hampshire today
- First call your utility, then call the PUC if needed: Ask for a 12–24 month payment plan and late‑fee waiver if you have financial hardship; request a medical emergency hold if someone in the home relies on electricity/heat for health. Keep a log of names/dates. Read the winter protections (Nov 15–Mar 31) and the medical certification rules. If you can’t resolve it, contact the PUC Consumer Services unit. (puc.nh.gov)
- Apply for discounts and assistance that consider disability: Ask your utility and CAP agency about the Electric Assistance Program (EAP) and Gas Assistance Program (natural gas), and note how EAP interacts with “competitive supplier” choices. If you use medical devices, ask to be on any “medical needs” customer list and file the clinician form right away. (puc.nh.gov)
- Plan your backup: Get a letter from your doctor specifying the health risk if disconnected, the needed service (electricity or gas), and length of time. Share it with the utility and PUC if required; bring it to town welfare if you need one‑time help with a payment. (gc.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the PUC at 603-271-2431 or 1-800-852-3793 and email puc@puc.nh.gov with your account number and notes. Ask about mediation options. If your service is already off, ask for the minimum payment to restore under hardship rules and apply for EAP/Gas Assistance the same day. (puc.nh.gov)
Table — utility protections and programs
| Protection/Program | What it does | Where to read more |
|---|---|---|
| Winter disconnection rules | Extra protections Nov 15–Mar 31; hardship and medical emergency rules | PUC Winter Rules |
| Electric Assistance Program | 8%–76% bill discount based on income | PUC EAP info |
| Gas Assistance Program | 60% discount on delivery portion for eligible customers | PUC Gas Assistance |
Transportation and mobility (wheelchairs, rides, and ADA)
- Medicaid transportation: Fee‑for‑Service rides go through CTS at 1-844-259-4780 (48‑hour notice); managed care plan members should call the number on the back of the card. See Medicaid transportation guide. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- ADA paratransit and regional ride help: Public transit providers must offer ADA paratransit if you can’t use fixed routes. Find local transit/RCC contacts via NHDOT regional councils and review options through NHCarePath transportation. (dot.nh.gov)
- Disabled parking placard/plates: Apply for walking disability plates or a hanging placard at the DMV; your clinician must sign the form (RDMV 130). See DMV disability placards and DMV Forms. (dmv.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your care manager or ServiceLink to help with medical necessity documentation for rides; request ADA eligibility appeal with your local transit provider; and call the Governor’s Commission on Disability for ADA guidance. (disability.nh.gov)
Assistive technology and refurbished equipment
- Try‑before‑you‑buy + device loans: The statewide Assistive Technology program can demo and loan devices (communication, mobility, learning, low‑vision) and connect you to reuse equipment. Start with ATinNH (UNH) and the AT4All NH exchange. (iod.unh.edu)
- Refurbished Equipment Marketplace (REM): For discounted wheelchairs, lifts, and other DME, check the REM partners listed on ATinNH’s reuse page; many devices are cleaned, repaired, and warrantied. See ATinNH Equipment Reuse. (iod.unh.edu)
- Home care and home mods through GSIL: If you have CFI, ask for personal care and home access supports; GSIL can also coordinate attendants under a consumer‑directed model. Visit GSIL and ask your case manager to include PCSP in your plan. (gsil.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinician to write a letter of medical necessity for devices; appeal denials through your Medicaid plan; and contact DRC‑NH if medically necessary equipment is denied or delayed. (drcnh.org)
Work, income, and disability rights on the job
- Vocational Rehabilitation (VR New Hampshire): If you want to start/keep a job with accommodations, apply with VR New Hampshire. Find your regional office and ask about supports like job coaching, training, and equipment. As of 2024, NH VR was not operating under Order of Selection, meaning more applicants can be served. (education.nh.gov)
- Medicaid + work through MEAD: MEAD lets you work and keep Medicaid with higher income/resource allowances. Pair MEAD with part‑time or remote work and reasonable accommodations. See MEAD policy updates. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML): If your employer enrolled, or you signed up during the individual open enrollment, you may get up to 6 weeks of paid leave at 60% wage replacement for your own serious health condition, caregiving, or bonding. Learn about coverage and enrollment at NH PFML and review worker details at PFML for Workers. (paidfamilymedicalleave.nh.gov)
- Enforce your rights (ADA/State Human Rights Commission): If you need accommodations or face discrimination, contact the NH Commission for Human Rights and consider an EEOC intake with the EEOC Boston Area Office. For ADA technical help, call the Governor’s Commission on Disability. (nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask VR for an expedited planning meeting; request ADA accommodations in writing with your job’s essential functions attached; and consult 603 Legal Aid or DRC‑NH for advocacy and appeal routes. (603legalaid.org)
Property tax relief and paperwork that affects daily life
- Property tax disability exemption (RSA 72:37‑b): If you own your home and receive SSDI/SSI (or have a comparable medical affidavit), towns that adopt this exemption must offer a yearly break up to the amount set locally, with income/asset limits. Apply at your town Assessor by April deadlines and bring award letters. Read the law at RSA 72:37‑b. (gc.nh.gov)
- Exemption for access improvements (ramps, lifts): You can exclude the value of disability‑related home improvements from property assessment. See RSA 72:37‑a and DRA rules at Rev 411 (Disabled). (gc.nh.gov)
- Vital records & IDs (names/markers and REAL ID): For official record changes, see NH Vital Records corrections and REAL ID tips at NH DMV REAL ID. Bring disability accommodation requests to DMV staff if you need longer appointments or help reading forms. (sos.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your town for an assessor meeting and bring your SSA award and doctor’s affidavit; file a local property tax appeal on time; and contact 603 Legal Aid for help with municipal appeals. (603legalaid.org)
Legal help and advocacy that understands disability
- Disability Rights Center–NH (Protection & Advocacy): For disability‑related legal barriers—community services denials, accessibility, work accommodations—contact DRC‑NH at 1-800-834-1721. They are the state’s P&A system. (drcnh.org)
- 603 Legal Aid and NH Legal Assistance (civil legal): Apply with 603 Legal Aid (603-224-3333). Depending on your case, you may be referred to NH Legal Assistance for representation in housing, benefits, and fair housing matters. Courts list these as the main legal aid gateways. (603legalaid.org)
- Human Rights and EEOC: File disability discrimination complaints in employment, housing, or public accommodations at the NH Commission for Human Rights and cross‑file with EEOC Boston when needed. (nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request reasonable accommodation for your disability in the legal process (e.g., extra time to respond). For court ADA accommodations, email the judiciary ADA coordinator listed at NH Courts ADA. (courts.nh.gov)
Diverse Communities — tailored notes and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask providers for chosen‑name/respectful‑care flags in NH Medicaid, and seek ADA/anti‑bias help via the NH Commission for Human Rights. For legal questions about ID changes and discrimination, contact 603 Legal Aid and the ADA guidance team at the Governor’s Commission on Disability. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Get a benefits review with the state’s Division of Veterans Services (DMAVS) at 603-624-9230, and ask about VA caregiver stipends and VASH vouchers. For housing rights, also contact NH Housing and 603 Legal Aid. (dmavs.nh.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Language access is your right—ask DHHS for interpreters at every step. Connect with the NH Refugee Program for RCA/RMA and employment supports, and call ServiceLink for ADRC help in your language. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: New Hampshire has no federally recognized tribes in‑state, but Native families can still access federal civil rights and ADA supports through DRC‑NH (P&A) and fair housing with HUD FHEO Boston. For healthcare and benefits navigation, also reach out to DMAVS Veterans Services if you are an American Indian veteran. (drcnh.org)
- Rural single moms (North Country, Carroll, Grafton, Sullivan): Use the NHDOT Regional Coordinating Councils for ride options, and request home‑based CFI services through ServiceLink/BAAS. Ask DHHS for phone/video interviews if travel is a barrier. (dot.nh.gov)
- Single fathers with disabilities: You can use all disability programs listed here. If you have custody of minor children, ask about IDP and child‑care accommodations. Get legal help through 603 Legal Aid and disability support at DRC‑NH. (603legalaid.org)
- Language access & accessibility: Request free interpreters at DHHS and courts, ask for large‑print forms, and use Relay NH 711 for TTY. See Medicaid contacts with TDD relay and ADA help at the Governor’s Commission on Disability. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Resources by Region (start here, then localize)
| Region | Key disability hubs | Transit/ADA info |
|---|---|---|
| North Country / Coös & Grafton | ServiceLink locator; Area Agencies map | RCC list (find Region 1) |
| Lakes & Carroll / Belknap | ServiceLink locator; Area Agencies map | RCC list (find Region 2) |
| Capital/Merrimack & Sullivan | ServiceLink locator; Area Agencies map | RCC list (Region 3/4) |
| Monadnock / Cheshire | ServiceLink locator; Area Agencies map | RCC list (Region 5) |
| Southern NH / Hillsborough & Rockingham | ServiceLink locator; Area Agencies map | RCC list (Region 7/8/10) |
Use the ServiceLink map to pick your closest office, and call ahead if you need ASL, Spanish, or phone‑based appointments. Waiver case managers can meet you at home if mobility is a barrier. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups
- Granite State Independent Living (GSIL): Consumer‑directed home care, employment supports, and peer mentoring for adults with disabilities. Start at GSIL or ask your CFI case manager for a referral to PCSP. (gsil.org)
- 211 NH (24/7 directory for community help): Find disability‑friendly churches offering food or utility funds, ride programs, and local support groups by dialing 211 or searching 211 NH. You can also ask for shelters with accessible rooms. (211nh.org)
- HUD NH field resources: Use HUD NH page to find housing counseling, fair housing contacts, and homeless provider lists; pair this with New Hampshire Housing to search accessible rentals. (hud.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask ServiceLink for faith‑based contacts in your town (many churches keep one‑time funds for shutoffs); ask your utility for a list of local charities; and call the PUC to verify any program the utility suggests. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing disability‑specific tracks: If you’re a parent with a medical inability to work, say “I want the IDP track” during your TANF/FANF intake. Don’t let your case default to standard work rules. Use FANF info to point staff to the right category. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Not asking for MEAD: If earnings disqualify you from regular Medicaid, ask DHHS to evaluate for MEAD (working disabled), which uses higher income/resource limits. Save paystubs and proof of employment. Check MEAD policy notice. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Losing EAP by switching suppliers: EAP discounts can be affected if you choose a competitive electric supplier. Confirm the impact before switching. Review PUC supplier tips. (puc.nh.gov)
- Waiting for help without appealing: If you get denied or stuck in a backlog, file an appeal right away and call 603 Legal Aid. Appeals protect your timelines and sometimes keep benefits going while you wait. (603legalaid.org)
Reality check — delays, denials, and funding shortages
- Voucher waits are long: Expect multi‑year waits for HCV; use disability sub‑lists (Mainstream) and consider project‑based or 811 PRA. Keep your mailing address current for accommodation notices. (nhhfa.org)
- Waiver capacity varies by region: CFI, DD, and ABD services depend on state budgets and provider capacity. If you qualify but hours are low, ask for interim services and a reassessment. Check BDS/DD info and CFI details. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Utility help is finite: EAP and Gas Assistance funding is limited; submit early each season and set up payment plans to avoid shutoff. See PUC assistance programs. (puc.nh.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Apply for disability cash and Medicaid: NH EASY and 1-844-275-3447; ask about APTD, SSP, MEAD, QMB/SLMB, and CFI. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Get options counseling: ServiceLink ADRC at 1-866-634-9412. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Stop a shutoff: Read PUC Winter Rules; call PUC at 603-271-2431 after contacting your utility. (puc.nh.gov)
- Transportation: Medicaid rides via CTS/Medicaid Transportation; local ADA transit via RCCs. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Legal help: 603 Legal Aid and DRC‑NH. (603legalaid.org)
Application Checklist (printable/screenshot‑friendly)
- Photo ID or alternative ID: bring any state ID, passport, or documents for REAL ID proof list. (dmv.nh.gov)
- Social Security numbers: you can still apply if you’ve requested a replacement via SSA forms page. (ssa.gov)
- Medical proof of disability: doctor letter, diagnosis, list of meds, and limits on work or ADLs; use this for APTD, IDP, MEAD, and medical shutoff protections; see APTD rules. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Income proofs: last 30 days of paystubs, SSA/SSDI/SSI letters, child support orders; see Medicaid adult eligibility. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Rent/utility proof: lease or landlord letter, latest bills; use for EAP/Gas Assistance per PUC programs. (puc.nh.gov)
- Child documents: birth certificates (get copies via NH Vital Records) and school letters when needed for IDP/TANF. (sos.nh.gov)
- Accommodations: ask for interpreter/TTY (Relay 711) and large print; see Medicaid contacts (TDD relay). (dhhs.nh.gov)
If your application gets denied (troubleshooting)
- Read the notice carefully: It will list the reason, the appeal deadline, and how to ask for a Fair Hearing. For medical or cash denials, call 1-844-ASK-DHHS and request continued benefits where allowed. Use NH EASY to upload missing proofs. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- File the appeal immediately: Keep a copy; ask for ADA accommodations for your hearing (virtual/phone, extra time). For legal backup, apply at 603 Legal Aid and call DRC‑NH if the case involves disability rights. (603legalaid.org)
- Escalate town welfare issues: Bring RSA 165 printouts to your appointment if needed; towns must help eligible poor residents. See RSA 165:1. (gc.nh.gov)
FAQs (New Hampshire—disability‑specific)
- How fast can I get disability‑based cash if I can’t work right now?
Apply for APTD and IDP (FANF) at the same time through NH EASY. If you have a documented emergency, ask for expedited handling and provide medical proof. Follow up at 1-844-ASK-DHHS. (dhhs.nh.gov) - Can I work part‑time and still keep Medicaid due to disability?
Yes—ask about MEAD, which allows higher income/resource limits for working disabled adults and may charge a small premium. (dhhs.nh.gov) - I’m on Medicare due to disability and can’t afford premiums—help?
Apply for QMB/SLMB (Medicare Savings Programs) and get free counseling from ServiceLink SHIP. (dhhs.nh.gov) - Adult dental—what’s covered for disabled adults on Medicaid?
The NH Smiles Adult program covers exams, cleanings, fillings, extractions, and more, plus dentures for CFI/DD/ABD waiver members and nursing facility residents; transport is available. (dhhs.nh.gov) - How do I get in‑home help so I can keep parenting?
Ask for the CFI waiver and request consumer‑directed services through GSIL PCSP. Start with ServiceLink for an options counseling call. (dhhs.nh.gov) - Are there housing vouchers for disabled adults under 62?
Yes—the HCV waiting list has a Mainstream (non‑elderly disabled) sub‑list. Apply online and check your status monthly. Waits can be long; also look at 811 PRA. (nhhfa.org) - My power is about to be disconnected but I use medical equipment—what now?
Request a medical emergency certification and a hardship payment plan with your utility; if blocked, call the PUC Consumer line and review Winter Rules. (puc.nh.gov) - Where can I test or borrow assistive tech?
Check ATinNH for device demos/loans and Equipment Reuse for refurbished equipment. (iod.unh.edu) - Who helps with disability‑related job accommodations?
Start with VR New Hampshire. For discrimination issues, contact the NH Commission for Human Rights and EEOC Boston. (education.nh.gov) - Is there a single number to find services fast?
Yes—dial 211 NH 24/7 for food, housing, disability supports, and more, and contact ServiceLink ADRC at 1-866-634-9412 for disability‑specific options counseling. (211nh.org)
Spanish summary (Resumen en español)
Esta guía se enfoca en programas para madres solteras con discapacidad en New Hampshire. Para aplicar a efectivo y Medicaid (APTD, SSP, MEAD, CFI), use NH EASY o llame al 1-844-275-3447. Para asesoría gratuita sobre opciones, contacte ServiceLink (ADRC) al 1-866-634-9412. Para ayuda legal, vaya a 603 Legal Aid (603-224-3333) y a Disability Rights Center–NH (1-800-834-1721). Para evitar cortes de luz/gas, consulte reglas de invierno de la PUC y llame a 603-271-2431. Traducción realizada con herramientas de IA; verifique la información y pida intérprete cuando aplique. (dhhs.nh.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- NH Department of Health and Human Services (NH DHHS)
- ServiceLink (New Hampshire’s ADRC)
- New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority
- New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (PUC)
- Disability Rights Center–NH (P&A)
- VR New Hampshire (NH DOE)
- Governor’s Commission on Disability (ADA resource)
- NH Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML)
- ATinNH (UNH Institute on Disability)
- Social Security Administration (SSA)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. 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 content is for general information and is not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules, income limits, and availability can change during the year. Always confirm with the agency website or by phone before applying, and request reasonable accommodations (interpreters, large print, TTY) if you need them. For immediate threats to safety or health, call 911; for crisis counseling, dial 988; for community resources, dial 211. (211nh.org)
Tips to use this hub: Save the links for NH EASY and ServiceLink on your phone home screen; keep PUC Winter Rules bookmarked; and add 603 Legal Aid and DRC‑NH to your contacts so you can get fast help when something breaks. (dhhs.nh.gov)
🏛️More New Hampshire Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Hampshire
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural 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
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
