Assistance for Rural Single Mothers in North Dakota
Assistance Programs for Rural Single Mothers in North Dakota
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help first
- Call 911: If you or your children are in immediate danger.
- Call or text 988: 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for mental health crises. Learn about 988 in ND. (myfirstlink.org)
- Dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898-211: FirstLink can quickly connect you to food, shelter, utility help, and local services anywhere in North Dakota. Get help now. Phone: 701-235-7335. (myfirstlink.org)
- Domestic/sexual violence support: Find a local advocacy center through CAWS North Dakota; help is available statewide, confidential, and free. Find help at CAWS ND. Statewide toll‑free: 888-255-6240; National DV Hotline 800-799-7233. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- North Dakota HHS Customer Support Center (applications and case help for SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, LIHEAP, Child Care): 866-614-6005 or 701-328-1000, email applyforhelp@nd.gov. Apply online. (hhs.nd.gov)
Quick help box
- Apply online fast: Use North Dakota’s Self‑Service Portal for SNAP, Medicaid/CHIP, LIHEAP (heating/cooling), TANF cash, and Child Care Assistance. Apply for Help. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Food today: Check the Great Plains Food Bank Mobile Food Pantry schedule and partner pantries. Phone: 701-232-6219. Find food and mobile pantry dates. (greatplainsfoodbank.org)
- Heating/cooling shut‑off notice or empty tank: Call HHS Customer Support Center now for LIHEAP emergency help: 866-614-6005. LIHEAP in ND. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Child care cost too high: Check Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and Working Parents Child Care Relief. Phone: 866-614-6005. CCAP details. (hhs.nd.gov)
- WIC for pregnant/postpartum and kids under 5: Income limits updated May 2025. WIC info: 800-472-2286 (state line) or use the ND WIC eligibility page. ND WIC eligibility. (hhs.nd.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Program | Who it helps | Key 2024–2025 amounts | How to apply / contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (food benefits) | Low‑income households buying and preparing food together | Max monthly benefit (contiguous US) for 1: 292∗∗;2:∗∗292**; 2: **536; 3: 768∗∗;4:∗∗768**; 4: **975 (Oct 2024–Sep 2025). | Apply online; help via HHS Customer Support Center 866-614-6005. ND SNAP page. (fns.usda.gov, nd.gov, hhs.nd.gov) |
| WIC | Pregnant/postpartum, infants, kids <5 | Monthly fruit/veg (CVB): child 26∗∗;pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**; pregnant/postpartum **47; breastfeeding $52 (FY 2025). | Contact local clinic; see ND WIC eligibility. WIC CVB FY2025; ND WIC income. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov) |
| CCAP child care | Working/in‑school parents | Income limits (monthly, Oct 2024–Sep 2025): 2: 5,231∗∗;3:∗∗5,231**; 3: **6,462; 4: 7,694∗∗;5:∗∗7,694**; 5: **8,924; 6: $10,155. | Apply online or call 866-614-6005. CCAP in ND. (hhs.nd.gov) |
| LIHEAP heating/cooling | Heating, cooling, furnace, weatherization | Income at/below 60% State Median Income; for a family of 4 annual 68,700∗∗(monthly∗∗68,700** (monthly **5,725) (Oct 2024–Sep 2025). | Apply year‑round; emergencies handled by HHS 866-614-6005. ND LIHEAP. (hhs.nd.gov) |
| Medicaid Expansion | Adults 19–64 | Up to 138% FPL; annual 1‑person 21,597∗∗;2:∗∗21,597**; 2: **29,187; 3: 36,777∗∗;4:∗∗36,777**; 4: **44,367 (effective Apr 1, 2025). | Apply online. ND Medicaid Expansion. (hhs.nd.gov) |
| Postpartum Medicaid | New moms | 12 months of continuous coverage after pregnancy. | Report pregnancy to HHS; apply online. ND postpartum extension. (hhs.nd.gov) |
| TANF cash | Families with a child or pregnancy | Eligibility tied to need standard (50% FPL); benefit varies by family size/income (ask HHS for current amounts). | Apply online or via local Human Service Zone; HHS 866-614-6005. ND TANF. (hhs.nd.gov) |
| Lifeline phone/internet | Low‑income or Tribal households | Discount up to 9.25∗∗/mo(upto∗∗9.25**/mo (up to **34.25 on Tribal lands). | Apply through USAC’s National Verifier. Get Lifeline. (lifelinesupport.org) |
Food assistance you can start today
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
Most important action: Apply online and ask for help with the application if you need it.
- How to apply: Use the Self‑Service Portal or call the HHS Customer Support Center (866-614-6005) for help. Great Plains Food Bank SNAP Outreach can help complete your application: 855-405-0000, SNAP@greatplainsfoodbank.org. ND SNAP page | SNAP Outreach help. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Income rules (Oct 2024–Sep 2025): North Dakota uses expanded categorical eligibility. Guidance shows gross monthly limits at 200% FPL for many households (e.g., 3 persons 4,304∗∗;4persons∗∗4,304**; 4 persons **5,200). See ND’s SNAP standards table for details. ND SNAP Appendix B standards. (nd.gov)
- Benefit amounts (max, Oct 2024–Sep 2025): 1: 292∗∗,2:∗∗292**, 2: **536, 3: 768∗∗,4:∗∗768**, 4: **975. USDA FY2025 SNAP COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
SNAP amounts are updated annually every October; the table below shows the current maximums:
| Household size | Max monthly SNAP |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| Each additional person | +$220 |
Sources: USDA FY2025 COLA and ND HHS SNAP Standards. (fns.usda.gov, nd.gov)
- Reality check: If you have very low income and little cash on hand, ask about expedited processing; standard decisions typically come within 30 days after you file a complete application (timelines vary with verification). Use your EBT card at participating grocers.
- Local, immediate food: Check Great Plains Food Bank’s mobile pantry routes and partner pantries statewide. Phone: 701-232-6219. Find food. (greatplainsfoodbank.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call FirstLink 211 for nearest pantry, hot meal, or church food shelf. FirstLink 211. (myfirstlink.org)
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
Most important action: Call your local WIC clinic and schedule a same‑week appointment if you’re pregnant or have a child under 5.
- Income limits (May 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026): For 4 people monthly 4,957∗∗(annual∗∗4,957** (annual **59,478). ND WIC income table. State WIC line: 800-472-2286. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Monthly fruit/vegetable benefit (CVB) through Sep 2025: child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 (USDA FY2025). USDA WIC CVB FY2025. (fns.usda.gov)
- How to apply: Contact a local WIC clinic via HHS or call the state line; bring ID, proof of ND residency, and proof of income.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the clinic about temporary formula options and referrals to food pantries; also use SNAP and school meals if eligible. ND WIC eligibility. (hhs.nd.gov)
Cash assistance and work support
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
Most important action: File the TANF application and ask about Diversion Assistance if you only need short‑term help.
- Who qualifies: A pregnant person or a family caring for a child under 18 (or 19 if finishing high school), with low income/assets and meeting program rules. ND TANF. (hhs.nd.gov)
- What you get: Monthly cash assistance on an Electronic Payment Card plus required participation in the JOBS employment program (unless exempt). TANF modernization update. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Eligibility and amounts: ND increased TANF’s “standard of need” to 50% of FPL and removed the “pay after performance” delay; exact monthly benefit depends on family size and countable income. Confirm current amounts with HHS. TANF info & publications. HHS Customer Support: 866-614-6005. (hhs.nd.gov)
- How to apply: Use the Self‑Service Portal or visit your Human Service Zone office; find zone contacts via HHS. Human Service Zones directory. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Realistic timelines: Initial decisions typically within 30 days after your complete application and verifications.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about one‑time Diversion Assistance (for short‑term crises) and ensure you’re screened for SNAP, LIHEAP, and CCAP. If denied, you can appeal; see appeal rights on the HHS TANF page. ND TANF. (hhs.nd.gov)
Child care cost relief
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
Most important action: Apply even if you think you’re over income—ND’s limits are higher than many expect.
- Income limits (max gross monthly, Oct 2024–Sep 2025): 2: 5,231∗∗;3:∗∗5,231**; 3: **6,462; 4: 7,694∗∗;5:∗∗7,694**; 5: **8,924; 6: $10,155. CCAP income limits. HHS Customer Support: 866-614-6005. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Working Parent Child Care Relief: Higher thresholds to help working families afford care; see HHS page for current limits and steps. Working Parents Child Care Relief. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Find a provider: Child Care Aware of ND offers licensed provider referrals and parent navigation. Parent referrals: 800-997-8515 (Option 1). Find child care. (ndchildcare.org)
- Copays and coverage: CCAP pays part of your bill directly to the provider; you pay a sliding fee copay. Bring pay stubs, child birth certificates, and provider info to speed up processing. CCAP overview. (hhs.nd.gov)
| Family size | Max gross monthly income (CCAP) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $5,231 |
| 3 | $6,462 |
| 4 | $7,694 |
| 5 | $8,924 |
| 6 | $10,155 |
Source: ND HHS CCAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Child Care Aware for help locating providers with openings, and ask your provider about multi‑child discounts or sliding fees. If denied due to income, see if Working Parent Child Care Relief applies. Child Care Aware of ND. (ndchildcare.org)
Health coverage and medical bills
Medicaid Expansion and children’s coverage
Most important action: If uninsured, apply for Medicaid Expansion; if pregnant, tell HHS immediately to lock in postpartum coverage.
- Adults 19–64 (Medicaid Expansion): Income up to 138% FPL; annual 1‑person 21,597∗∗,2‑person∗∗21,597**, 2‑person **29,187, 3‑person 36,777∗∗,4‑person∗∗36,777**, 4‑person **44,367 (effective Apr 1, 2025). Medicaid Expansion ND. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Children’s Medicaid/CHIP: Income thresholds vary by age group; effective Apr 1, 2025, ND lists monthly limits (e.g., child 6–18 in a family of 4 up to $3,698). See official table for your household size/ages. Medicaid eligibility page. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Postpartum coverage: ND Medicaid provides 12 months continuous coverage after pregnancy if you report your pregnancy to HHS before delivery. New moms coverage. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Where to get care: Use HRSA’s Find a Health Center to locate low‑cost clinics, and ask about sliding fees while your application is pending. (General federal resource; verify local availability.)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re over income for Medicaid, ask about medically needy (client share) options or Marketplace coverage with tax credits; confirm postpartum coverage rules if you were eligible during pregnancy. Medicaid eligibility. (hhs.nd.gov)
Heat, lights, and home repairs
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
Most important action: If you have a disconnection notice, call HHS now and upload your bill in the Self‑Service Portal.
- Eligibility (Oct 2024–Sep 2025): Income at/below 60% of ND median income. Examples—annual: 3 persons 57,708∗∗,4persons∗∗57,708**, 4 persons **68,700, 5 persons $79,692. ND LIHEAP. Customer Support: 866-614-6005. (hhs.nd.gov)
- What LIHEAP can pay for: A portion of heating costs (any fuel), furnace cleaning/repair/replacement, chimney cleaning, weatherization, emergency fuel, and some cooling device assistance (through Community Action when approved). LIHEAP services. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Cooling help: If you already have an open LIHEAP case, contact your local Community Action agency for air conditioner purchase/repair with your approval letter. Community Options application help: 800-823-2417. LIHEAP info. (hhs.nd.gov)
| Household size | Annual income limit | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $35,724 | $2,977 |
| 2 | $46,716 | $3,893 |
| 3 | $57,708 | $4,809 |
| 4 | $68,700 | $5,725 |
| 5 | $79,692 | $6,641 |
| 6 | $90,684 | $7,557 |
Source: ND HHS LIHEAP income chart (2024–25 season). (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your regional Community Action agency for Energy Share or emergency help; request a payment arrangement with your utility; dial 211 to find churches offering utility assistance. CAPND locations | FirstLink 211. (capnd.org, myfirstlink.org)
USDA Rural Development home repair (Section 504)
If you own and live in a rural home that needs health/safety repairs:
- Loans: Up to $40,000 at 1% over 20 years.
- Grants: Up to $10,000 (age 62+); must be repaid if you sell within 3 years.
- Combined assistance: Up to 50,000∗∗(or∗∗50,000** (or **55,000 in disaster areas).
Apply year‑round through your local USDA Rural Development office. USDA Section 504 Home Repair. (rd.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Community Action about Weatherization Assistance and minor repairs; check with your county’s Housing Authority for rehab or accessibility grants. CAPND. (capnd.org)
Housing and rent
- HUD Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing: Vouchers and public housing are administered by local Housing Authorities. Use HUD’s list for North Dakota to find your local PHA and how to apply. Waitlists open/close periodically; apply to more than one authority if possible. HUD list of ND housing authorities. (hud.gov)
- State housing stabilization programs winding down: Pandemic‑era emergency rent help is ending in 2025; re‑housing for households currently experiencing homelessness stopped taking new applications Mar 14, 2025, and eviction prevention assistance is limited by funding and deadlines. Check the state portal for current status. ND Housing Stabilization updates. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Eviction prevention (if you have a court date): The state program may assist with a one‑time payment to your housing provider, mediation, and dismissal of proceedings if accepted by the landlord (funding‑limited). Apply via the portal’s eviction prevention page. Eviction Prevention details. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your local Community Action agency for rent/security‑deposit help, housing navigation, or motel vouchers when available; also call FirstLink 211 to locate shelters and rapid‑rehousing partners. CAPND agencies | FirstLink 211. (capnd.org, myfirstlink.org)
Transportation when you live far from town
- Statewide public transit in rural ND: ND DOT funds about 32 rural bus programs offering demand‑response rides (curb‑to‑destination), dial‑a‑ride/para‑transit, and regional medical trips. Use the interactive map to find a provider serving your county and schedule rides (often 24‑hour advance notice). NDDOT Statewide Transit. (dot.nd.gov)
- Veterans: Ask about free medical rides via the Highly Rural Transportation Grant program coordinated by the ND Department of Veterans Affairs; many rural transit providers participate. NDDOT transit page overview. (dot.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your Community Action agency; many operate volunteer driver or gas voucher programs for medical appointments. CAPND locations. (capnd.org)
Phone and internet discounts
- Lifeline: Federal discount of up to 9.25∗∗/month(upto∗∗9.25**/month (up to **34.25 on Tribal lands) for phone or internet service. Qualify by income (≤135% FPL) or participation in SNAP/Medicaid, etc. Apply through USAC’s National Verifier. Get Lifeline. (lifelinesupport.org)
- Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): The FCC announced April 2024 as the last fully funded month; ACP has ended unless Congress restores funding. Ask your provider about low‑cost plans and use Lifeline if eligible. FCC ACP wind‑down notice. (fcc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local telephone or broadband company about company‑run low‑income plans and check with your Tribal government for enhanced Lifeline options. USAC Lifeline. (lifelinesupport.org)
Child support services
- Apply, enforce, and get paid safely: North Dakota Child Support can help establish orders, enforce payments, withhold income, and set up direct deposit or smiONE debit card. Parent line: 800-231-4255 or 701-328-5440; email childsupport@nd.gov. ND Child Support contact. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Payment info 24/7: Automated line 800-231-4255 or log in to “My Child Support.” My Child Support. (childsupport.dhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a review/modification if your income changed; seek help from your Human Service Zone or legal aid clinic for custody/visitation questions.
Local organizations that really help in rural counties
Community Action agencies cover all 53 counties with emergency aid, weatherization, transportation help, Head Start, and more. Call the office for your region:
| Region | Counties (examples) | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Community Action Partnership – Williston | Divide, McKenzie, Williams | 701-572-8191 |
| Community Action Partnership – Minot | Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, Mountrail, Pierce, Renville, Ward | 701-839-7221 |
| Dakota Prairie CAA – Devils Lake | Benson, Cavalier, Eddy, Ramsey, Rolette, Towner | 701-662-6500 |
| Red River Valley CA – Grand Forks | Grand Forks, Nelson, Pembina, Walsh | 701-746-5431 |
| SENDCAA – Fargo | Cass, Ransom, Richland, Sargent, Steele, Traill | 701-232-2452 |
| CAP – Jamestown (Region VI) | Barnes, Dickey, Foster, Griggs, LaMoure, Logan, McIntosh, Stutsman, Wells | 701-252-1821 |
| CAP – Bismarck (Region VII) | Burleigh, Emmons, Grant, Kidder, McLean, Mercer, Morton, Oliver, Sheridan, Sioux | 701-258-2240 |
| CAP – Dickinson (Region VIII) | Adams, Billings, Bowman, Dunn, Golden Valley, Hettinger, Slope, Stark | 701-227-0131 |
Source and full addresses: Community Action Partnership of North Dakota – locations. (capnd.org)
Also connect with Great Plains Food Bank for food resources and SNAP help. Phone: 701-232-6219 (main) or SNAP help 855-405-0000. Great Plains Food Bank. (greatplainsfoodbank.org, greatplainsfoodbank.org)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Call 211 for affirming local services and counseling; ask clinics about telehealth options. For safety planning around intimate partner violence, contact the National DV Hotline 800-799-7233 and request LGBTQ‑competent advocacy; CAWS ND centers can connect you locally. CAWS ND centers. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child: Apply for Medicaid and medically‑needy options (client share) if income is too high for standard Medicaid; ask about transportation through rural transit and Community Action. Medicaid eligibility ND | NDDOT rural transit. (hhs.nd.gov, dot.nd.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask about free veteran medical transportation via NDVA’s Highly Rural Transportation program and check VA benefits for dependents. Use NDDOT’s transit map for scheduling. NDDOT transit. (dot.nd.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can apply for SNAP, WIC, and Medicaid if you meet status and income rules; WIC and SNAP list clear protections for mixed‑status families (U.S.‑born children remain eligible). Use community health centers and interpretation services where available. See ND HHS program pages for eligibility details. ND SNAP | ND WIC. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Call StrongHearts Native Helpline 844-762-8483 for DV/SA support. Many tribes coordinate with ND HHS and CAP agencies; for housing, look at Tribal Housing authorities and HUD/USDA rural rentals. CAWS ND center directory (includes tribal programs). (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Single fathers: These programs are available regardless of gender—apply for SNAP, WIC (for your child), CCAP, LIHEAP, and TANF if you meet the rules; contact Child Support for custody and payment support. Child Support ND. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Language access: HHS and many partners offer interpretation; ask for language services when you call or visit. FirstLink 211 offers phone interpretation via texting your ZIP to 898‑211. FirstLink 211. (myfirstlink.org)
Regional resource map (how to find your local office)
- Human Service Zones: Find your county Zone office (formerly county social services) for in‑person help with applications and verifications. Find your Zone office. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Transit: Use the NDDOT map to find your rural bus provider and medical ride options. Statewide Transit. (dot.nd.gov)
Tables you can scan and save
Medicaid Expansion: income thresholds (effective April 1, 2025)
| Household | Annual income at 138% FPL |
|---|---|
| 1 | $21,597 |
| 2 | $29,187 |
| 3 | $36,777 |
| 4 | $44,367 |
Source: ND Medicaid Expansion page. (hhs.nd.gov)
WIC income guidelines (May 1, 2025–June 30, 2026)
| HH size | Monthly income |
|---|---|
| 2 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $4,957 |
| 5 | $5,805 |
| 6 | $6,653 |
Full chart and weekly/biweekly equivalents: ND WIC eligibility. (hhs.nd.gov)
LIHEAP income limits (2024–2025 heating/cooling season)
| HH size | Annual | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | $57,708 | $4,809 |
| 4 | $68,700 | $5,725 |
| 5 | $79,692 | $6,641 |
Source: ND LIHEAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
CCAP income limits (Oct 2024–Sep 2025)
| Family size | Max gross monthly income |
|---|---|
| 3 | $6,462 |
| 4 | $7,694 |
| 5 | $8,924 |
| 6 | $10,155 |
Source: ND HHS CCAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
SNAP maximum allotments (Oct 2024–Sep 2025)
| HH size | Max monthly allotment |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
Source: USDA FY2025 SNAP COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
Application checklist (print or screenshot)
- Personal IDs: Driver’s license or other photo ID; Social Security numbers (if available).
- Residence: Lease, utility bill, or a letter proving where you live.
- Income: Last 30 days pay stubs, self‑employment records, child support received, unemployment benefit letters, VA benefits, or Social Security.
- Expenses: Child care receipts, medical bills, child support paid, rent and utilities, and fuel/propane invoices (for LIHEAP).
- Household: Birth certificates for kids, proof of pregnancy (if applicable).
- Program‑specific: For CCAP—provider information; for LIHEAP—current heating/cooling bill; for TANF—bank statements and any current benefits letter.
- Tip: Upload documents to the Self‑Service Portal to speed up processing. SSP help. (hhs.nd.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing verifications: If you can’t get a document quickly, submit the application first and tell HHS what’s coming; don’t wait to file.
- Not reporting pregnancy: Reporting it early can secure 12 months of postpartum Medicaid. ND Medicaid new moms. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Overlooking LIHEAP cooling help: Even in summer, LIHEAP can help with air conditioner purchase/repair when approved. ND LIHEAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Giving up on child care help: CCAP limits are higher than many assume; apply and let HHS calculate your copay. CCAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Not calling 211: One call can reveal local churches, township funds, or civic groups that don’t show up on Google. FirstLink 211. (myfirstlink.org)
What to do if you hit a wall (Plan B options)
- Denied or delayed: Ask HHS Customer Support (866-614-6005) what’s missing; you can request an appeal/hearing if you disagree. Apply for Help contact. (hhs.nd.gov)
- No ride to town: Call your rural transit provider through NDDOT’s map; many offer demand‑response trips. NDDOT transit. (dot.nd.gov)
- Safety concerns at home: Contact your local CAWS ND center or the National DV Hotline (800-799-7233); you can ask about safe hotel shelter or relocation help. CAWS ND directory. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
10 North Dakota‑specific FAQs
- How fast can SNAP start? Many families get a decision within 30 days of a complete application; expedited service is available for very low‑income households. Apply online and call 866-614-6005 if you need help. ND SNAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Can I get WIC if I already get SNAP or Medicaid? Yes—WIC has its own rules, but being on SNAP/Medicaid can make income screening easier. ND WIC eligibility. (hhs.nd.gov)
- What if I use propane or wood for heat? LIHEAP can help with deliverable fuels like propane and wood, not only natural gas/electric. ND LIHEAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
- I’m working part‑time—can I get CCAP? Yes, CCAP covers employment and certain education/training; income must be within limits. CCAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
- I don’t have child care while I job hunt—any help? HHS recognizes homelessness/job search as a temporary allowable activity for CCAP; ask how to document it. CCAP policy highlights. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Are there phone or internet discounts after ACP ended? Yes, Lifeline still offers 9.25∗∗(or∗∗9.25** (or **34.25 Tribal). Apply via USAC. Get Lifeline. (lifelinesupport.org)
- Do I have to be a U.S. citizen? Many qualified non‑citizens qualify for SNAP/Medicaid; children born in the U.S. may qualify even if a parent does not. Ask HHS to screen your family. ND SNAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Does Medicaid cover me after the baby is born? If you reported your pregnancy to HHS, ND provides 12 months postpartum Medicaid coverage. New moms coverage. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Who can help me find licensed child care near me? Child Care Aware of ND offers free referrals. Phone: 800-997-8515 (Option 1). Find child care. (ndchildcare.org)
- Where do I get in‑person help applying for benefits? Visit your county’s Human Service Zone office or call HHS Customer Support (866-614-6005). Zone finder. (hhs.nd.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet (print this)
- SNAP: Apply online; max for 4‑person household $975; HHS help 866-614-6005.
- WIC: Fruit/veg CVB—child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52; ND WIC 800-472-2286.
- CCAP: For 4‑person family, gross monthly up to $7,694; call 866-614-6005.
- LIHEAP: 4‑person annual up to $68,700; crisis help via 866-614-6005.
- Medicaid Expansion: 1‑person annual 21,597∗∗;4‑person∗∗21,597**; 4‑person **44,367.
- Lifeline: 9.25∗∗/modiscount(∗∗9.25**/mo discount (**34.25 Tribal) for phone/internet.
Real‑world examples
- Rural groceries and gas: A mom in Mountrail County used SNAP within a week (expedited) and picked up produce/meat at a Mobile Food Pantry stop while waiting for her first EBT issuance. She called 855-405-0000 for SNAP application help and used the pantry’s same‑day distribution. SNAP help & mobile pantry | GPFB Mobile Pantry. (hhs.nd.gov, greatplainsfoodbank.org)
- Keeping the lights on: A renter in Bowman County got LIHEAP emergency help after a disconnect notice and later had her furnace serviced before winter using her approval letter. ND LIHEAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Child care while starting a job: A part‑time CNA in Bottineau qualified for CCAP with a modest copay; Child Care Aware found a licensed provider with openings near her route to work. CCAP | Child Care Aware. (hhs.nd.gov, ndchildcare.org)
If you need legal or safety help
- CAWS ND statewide advocacy network: Use the center directory; many centers can help with protection orders, safety planning, and shelter. Toll‑free: 888-255-6240. CAWS ND. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- ALL ND Victims legal help tool: Quick questionnaire produces a tailored list of legal resources. Help line: 701-223-7610. ALL ND Victims. (allndvictims.org)
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from North Dakota Health and Human Services, USDA, HUD, USAC, NDDOT, and established nonprofits such as Community Action Partnership of North Dakota, Great Plains Food Bank, and CAWS ND. It follows our published editorial standards emphasizing primary sources, cross‑verification, and prompt updates. Editorial Standards. This guide is not legal advice and is not affiliated with any government agency.
Last verified: September 2025; next review: April 2026.
Corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org and we will investigate within 48–72 hours per our policy. (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov, greatplainsfoodbank.org, capnd.org)
Disclaimer
Important: Program rules, amounts, and income limits change. Always confirm with the relevant agency before making decisions. Health coverage and benefits are time‑sensitive—missing a deadline can delay help. We work to keep our site secure and current, but you should avoid sharing private information on public Wi‑Fi and always use official portals for applications.
🏛️More North Dakota Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Dakota
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
