Child Support in New Hampshire
New Hampshire Child Support Guide for Single Mothers: Your Complete 2025 Handbook
Last updated: August 2025
If You Need Help Today
Emergency Situations:
- Domestic violence: Call New Hampshire Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-852-3388
- Immediate legal help: 603 Legal Aid at 1-800-639-5290
- Crisis assistance: 211 New Hampshire (dial 2-1-1)
- Emergency food: New Hampshire Food Bank Locator at nhfoodbank.org
Quick Action Steps:
- Apply for child support today: Call NH BCSS at 603-271-4427
- Calculate your potential support: Use the New Hampshire Child Support Calculator
- Get free legal help: Contact 603 Legal Aid
- Emergency financial assistance: Apply for SNAP benefits
Main Points
✅ New Hampshire uses the Income Shares Model – both parents’ incomes are considered for calculations¹
✅ MAJOR 2025 law changes – new shared parenting time presumptions can result in $0 child support²
✅ $35 annual service fee – deducted from payments after $550 received (waived for assistance recipients)³
✅ Two payment options: New Hampshire Debit MasterCard or direct deposit⁴
✅ Support continues until age 18 – or until high school graduation if child turns 18 while still in school⁵
✅ Free application for assistance recipients – no fees if you receive SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF⁶
Understanding New Hampshire’s Revolutionary 2025 Child Support Changes
Game-Changing Laws That Took Effect January 1, 2025
New Hampshire completely overhauled its child support laws effective January 1, 2025, with House Bill 1564 creating new presumptions around shared parenting time that can dramatically reduce or eliminate child support obligations. Here’s what changed and why it matters for single mothers:
Before January 2025: Shared parenting time alone couldn’t be used to deviate from standard child support calculations
Since January 2025: Specific parenting time percentages now create automatic presumptions
The New Shared Parenting Presumptions
The 2025 law introduces specific definitions for parenting time arrangements:
| Parenting Arrangement | Definition | Child Support Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Approximately Equal Parenting | Each parent has 40%+ of annual parenting time | Presumption of $0 support if incomes within 10% of each other |
| Substantially Shared Parenting | Each parent has 35%+ of annual parenting time | Presumption to deviate from standard guidelines when incomes substantially similar |
| Standard Arrangement | One parent has less than 35% time | Standard income-based calculations apply |
Reality Check for Single Mothers: These changes can significantly impact your support if the other parent pushes for more parenting time. Document actual time spent carefully – every overnight matters now.
What This Means in Real Numbers
Example: Sarah earns $3,000/month, her ex earns $3,200/month (within 10%)
- Before 2025: Standard calculation might result in $400/month child support
- After 2025: If he gets 40%+ parenting time, child support could be $0
Important: These are rebuttable presumptions, meaning you can still argue why the standard guidelines should apply despite shared parenting time.
How Much New Hampshire Child Support Can You Actually Get?
New Hampshire Income Shares Model Explained
New Hampshire calculates child support based on both parents’ incomes to determine what the child would have received if the parents stayed together. The process involves several steps:
| Step | What Happens | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Calculate Gross Income | Add all income sources before taxes | $3,500 + $2,500 = $6,000 combined |
| 2. Apply Deductions | Subtract taxes, other child support, health insurance | Combined adjusted income: $4,800 |
| 3. Find Base Support | Use guideline table for total support needed | $1,248 for 2 children |
| 4. Calculate Shares | Each parent pays proportional to their income | Higher earner pays 58% = $724 |
2025 New Hampshire Base Child Support Amounts
Based on the current New Hampshire Child Support Guidelines:
| Parents’ Combined Net Income | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children | 4+ Children |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,000 | $540 | $780 | $900 | $990 |
| $4,000 | $720 | $1,040 | $1,200 | $1,320 |
| $5,000 | $900 | $1,300 | $1,500 | $1,650 |
| $6,000 | $1,080 | $1,560 | $1,800 | $1,980 |
| $8,000 | $1,440 | $2,080 | $2,400 | $2,640 |
| $10,000 | $1,800 | $2,600 | $3,000 | $3,300 |
Reality Check: These are base amounts before splitting between parents. If you earn 30% of combined income, you’re responsible for 30% of this amount through direct care, while the other parent pays 70%.
Self-Support Reserve Protection
New Hampshire includes a “Self-Support Reserve” to ensure the paying parent retains enough income for basic living expenses, equal to 115% of the federal poverty level. This can reduce payments if the other parent has very low income.
Use the Official New Hampshire Child Support Calculator
The most accurate estimate comes from the New Hampshire Child Support Calculator provided by the state. The calculator can be challenging to use – you must enter all amounts with two decimal places (like “100.00” not “100”) or it will generate errors.
What You’ll Need:
- Both parents’ gross monthly income
- Monthly health insurance costs for children
- Monthly childcare expenses
- Number of children needing support
- Any other court-ordered support payments
Important: If your combined income exceeds $226,009 per month, the calculator won’t work – contact BCSS at 603-271-4427 for manual calculation.
How to Apply for New Hampshire Child Support Step-by-Step
Step 1: Determine If You Need to Apply or If You’re Automatically Enrolled
Parents receiving TANF assistance are automatically enrolled in the Child Support Program, and the state withholds collected support as reimbursement for TANF payments.
You need to apply if you:
- Are not receiving TANF benefits
- Want help establishing paternity
- Need help locating the other parent
- Want assistance enforcing an existing order
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, collect these documents:
- Child’s certified birth certificate
- Your photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Proof of income (3 recent pay stubs, tax returns, benefits statements)
- Information about the other parent:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and Social Security number (if known)
- Current and previous addresses
- Employer information
- Phone numbers and email addresses
- Any existing court orders (divorce decrees, custody orders)
- Medical insurance information for you and your child
Expert Tip: Even old information about the other parent can be valuable. BCSS has extensive location tools including employment databases and tax records.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You have three ways to apply for New Hampshire child support services:
Option 1: Online Application
- Visit the NH DHHS BCSS website
- Complete the electronic application
- Upload required documents
Option 2: Email Application
- Send an email with the subject “Application Request” to BCSS-CIU@dhhs.nh.gov
- Include your full name and mailing address in the email body
- BCSS will mail you the application packet
Option 3: Phone Application
- Call BCSS at 603-271-4427 or 1-800-852-3345 ext. 14427
- Request an application be mailed to you
Step 4: Understanding Fees and Costs
BCSS charges an annual $35 fee after disbursing $550 to the obligee.
You DON’T pay fees if you:
- Currently receive or have ever received TANF benefits
- Receive SNAP benefits
- Receive Medicaid coverage
- Are in the WIC program
Fee Schedule:
| Service | Cost | When Charged | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application | Free | N/A | No application fee in New Hampshire |
| Annual Service Fee | $35 | After $550 received annually | Per case, not per child |
| Genetic Testing | $0 | When paternity disputed | BCSS pays initial cost |
| Court Filing Fees | Varies | When court action needed | May be waived for low income |
Step 5: Work with Your BCSS Caseworker
Once BCSS receives your application, you’ll be assigned a caseworker who will:
- Review your case and contact you for additional information if needed
- Locate the other parent using state and federal databases
- Establish paternity if necessary through voluntary acknowledgment or genetic testing
- Petition the court to establish a child support order
- Begin enforcement once an order is in place
Timeline Expectations:
- Cooperative cases: 60-90 days for initial order
- Location needed: 3-6 months
- Paternity disputes: 6-12 months
- Interstate cases: 3-9 months depending on other state cooperation
How You’ll Receive Your New Hampshire Child Support Payments
New Hampshire offers two electronic payment methods through the state’s payment system:
Option 1: New Hampshire Debit MasterCard
The New Hampshire Debit MasterCard is a prepaid card where child support payments are automatically loaded as they become available.
How it works:
- No bank account or credit check required
- Payments loaded within 1-2 business days of collection
- Can be used anywhere MasterCard is accepted
- Default payment method unless you choose direct deposit
Services with NO fees:
- Making purchases with the card
- ATM withdrawals at participating locations
- Balance inquiries
- Customer service calls
Potential fees:
- Out-of-network ATM withdrawals
- Paper statements by mail
- Expedited card replacement
Option 2: Direct Deposit
Requirements:
- Active checking or savings account at any U.S. bank or credit union
- Completed direct deposit enrollment form
Setup process:
- Submit enrollment form to BCSS
- Allow 5-10 business days for processing
- Funds typically available same day as collection
Important: If your direct deposit is rejected for any reason (account closed, frozen, etc.), you’ll automatically receive the MasterCard instead.
When New Hampshire Child Support Payments Don’t Come: Enforcement Tools
What New Hampshire BCSS Can Do to Collect Support
BCSS has extensive enforcement powers under New Hampshire and federal law:
| Enforcement Method | How It Works | Requirements | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Income Withholding | Money taken directly from paychecks | Employment known | Most effective (80%+ success) |
| State Tax Intercept | State tax refunds seized | Past due support | Seasonal effectiveness |
| Federal Tax Intercept | Federal tax refunds seized | $500+ owed | Annual opportunity |
| License Suspension | Driver’s, professional, recreational licenses suspended | Past due support | High compliance rate |
| Credit Bureau Reporting | Reports to all major credit bureaus monthly | Past due support | Long-term impact |
| Asset Seizure | Bank accounts frozen and seized | Significant arrears | Very effective when assets located |
| Property Liens | Liens placed on real estate, vehicles | $500+ owed | Prevents sales/refinancing |
| Passport Denial | Prevents passport issuance/renewal | $2,500+ owed⁷ | Effective for international travel |
New Hampshire-Specific Enforcement Tools
Professional License Actions: New Hampshire can suspend licenses for healthcare providers, attorneys, real estate agents, and other licensed professionals.
Motor Vehicle Registration: BCSS can prevent vehicle registration renewal for parents owing significant back support.
Lottery and Gaming Intercepts: Winnings from New Hampshire lottery and casino operations can be intercepted.
What You Can Do to Help Enforcement
- Keep detailed payment records with dates, amounts, and method of payment
- Report changes immediately in the other parent’s employment, address, or financial situation
- Document lifestyle inconsistencies if they claim inability to pay while showing wealth
- Stay in contact with your caseworker monthly if payments are inconsistent
- Use social media carefully – avoid posting about the other parent, but screenshot evidence of undisclosed income
Reality Check: Enforcement takes time. Even with wage withholding, it can take 30-60 days to start after the order is entered. Don’t expect overnight results.
Special Situations and Inclusive Support
LGBTQ+ Single Mothers in New Hampshire
New Hampshire child support laws apply equally regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Key considerations:
Same-sex couples who were married: Both parents listed on birth certificates or adoption papers may have support obligations under New Hampshire law.
Assisted reproduction cases: Legal parentage must be established before support can be ordered. This may require:
- Voluntary acknowledgment of parentage
- Court determination of parental rights
- Review of sperm/egg donor agreements
Discrimination concerns: If you face discrimination in the child support process, contact:
- ACLU of New Hampshire: 603-224-5243
- 603 Legal Aid: 1-800-639-5290 for legal advocacy
Additional Resources:
- Seacoast Outright: LGBTQ+ support in Portsmouth area
- New Hampshire Freedom to Marry Coalition: Legal resources and advocacy
Rural Families with Limited Access
Transportation challenges to BCSS offices:
- Phone consultations available: Call 603-271-4427 to arrange
- Video conferencing: Some offices offer virtual meetings
- Documents by mail/email: Most paperwork can be submitted remotely
Internet access limitations:
- Public libraries: Free internet and computer access for online services
- BCSS phone support: 603-271-4427 for assistance with online applications
- Local town offices: Many provide public computer access
Transportation assistance:
- New Hampshire 211: Dial 2-1-1 for local transportation resources
- Community Action Program: Transportation assistance for low-income families
- Rural Transit Programs: Available in some counties
Single Fathers Seeking Child Support
Single fathers have identical rights under New Hampshire child support law. The application process, fees, and enforcement methods are the same regardless of gender.
Specific considerations for single fathers:
- May face different social attitudes but legal rights are identical
- Same services and support available through BCSS
- Equal access to legal aid and advocacy services
Additional Resources:
- National Center for Fathering: Resources and support groups
- Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups
New Hampshire Organizations and Programs That Provide Support
New Hampshire Bureau of Child Support Services (BCSS)
What they do: BCSS is a division within the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services that helps establish paternity, create and modify child support orders, collect and distribute payments, and enforce support obligations. They work in partnership with federal agencies to provide comprehensive child support services including parent location services, genetic testing coordination, and court order establishment.
Services provided: Locate non-custodial parents using state and federal databases, establish paternity through voluntary acknowledgment or court-ordered genetic testing, create new child support orders and modify existing ones, collect payments through wage withholding and other methods, distribute payments via direct deposit or prepaid debit card, and enforce orders through license suspension, asset seizure, and tax intercepts.
Who qualifies: Any parent or caretaker with physical custody of a minor child where the other parent doesn’t live in the household, regardless of income level or marital status.
How to apply: Call 603-271-4427 or 1-800-852-3345 ext. 14427, email BCSS-CIU@dhhs.nh.gov with “Application Request” in subject line, or visit local DHHS offices in all counties.
603 Legal Aid (formerly NH Legal Assistance)
What they do: 603 Legal Aid provides free civil legal services to low-income New Hampshire residents, including comprehensive family law representation for child support, custody, domestic violence, and divorce cases. They offer both direct representation by attorneys and self-help resources to ensure equal access to justice regardless of income level.
Services provided: Full legal representation in family court proceedings, advice and consultation for child support issues, assistance with modification requests, help with enforcement problems when BCSS efforts aren’t successful, domestic violence legal advocacy including protective orders, and extensive online self-help resources with forms and guides.
Who qualifies: Households with incomes below federal poverty guidelines, with priority given to cases involving domestic violence, children, elderly persons, and housing issues.
How to apply: Call 1-800-639-5290 or 603-224-3333 from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, Monday through Thursday, or apply online at 603legalaid.org.
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
What they do: NH DHHS administers multiple assistance programs for families, including SNAP food assistance, TANF cash aid, Medicaid health coverage, and childcare assistance. They coordinate closely with BCSS for automatic child support referrals when families receive certain benefits and provide comprehensive support services to help families achieve self-sufficiency.
Services provided: SNAP food assistance providing monthly benefits for grocery purchases, TANF cash assistance up to 60 months lifetime, Medicaid and NH Health Plan coverage, childcare assistance for working parents, WIC nutrition program for pregnant women and children under 5, and energy assistance through LIHEAP.
Who qualifies: Eligibility varies by program based on income, family size, and specific circumstances, with most programs serving families at or below 130-185% of federal poverty level.
How to apply: Online at NH Easy for multiple programs, visit local DHHS offices in all counties, or call the main line at 603-271-9700.
New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence
What they do: The Coalition coordinates 12 member programs across New Hampshire providing services to all victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence, human trafficking, stalking, and child abuse. They provide comprehensive support services including safety planning, legal advocacy, emergency shelter, and specialized support for child support cases involving domestic violence.
Services provided: 24/7 crisis helpline support, emergency shelter and transitional housing, legal advocacy for protective orders and family court matters, safety planning for child support cases, counseling and support groups, and specialized services for children exposed to violence.
Who qualifies: All victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking, regardless of income, immigration status, or other factors.
How to contact: 24/7 Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline at 1-866-644-3574, or visit nhcadsv.org to find local member programs.
Frequently Asked Questions: New Hampshire Child Support for Single Mothers
About the 2025 Law Changes and Parenting Time
Q: How do the 2025 law changes affect my existing child support order? A: The 2025 changes can be grounds for modification if your parenting arrangement qualifies for the new shared parenting presumptions. If the other parent now has 35%+ parenting time and your incomes are substantially similar, they may petition for a reduction or elimination of support.
Q: What exactly counts as “parenting time” under the new law? A: Parenting time is defined as “the period of time when a parent has physical responsibility for their children,” and courts will now count actual hours more carefully than before. Every overnight matters – document your actual schedule carefully.
Q: Can I challenge the new shared parenting presumptions? A: Yes. These are “rebuttable presumptions,” meaning you can present evidence why the standard guidelines should still apply despite shared parenting time. Factors might include the other parent’s higher income, different living standards, or domestic violence concerns.
Q: What if the other parent is pushing for more time just to avoid child support? A: Document any sudden changes in the other parent’s interest in parenting time that coincide with child support proceedings. Courts consider the child’s best interests, not just support avoidance. The new law may create dangers in domestic violence situations where ongoing contact for expense sharing could enable continued abuse.
About Applying and Eligibility
Q: Do I have to be a New Hampshire resident to get child support through New Hampshire? A: You don’t have to be a New Hampshire resident to apply, but at least one parent or the child must have a connection to New Hampshire. BCSS can work with other states if the non-custodial parent lives elsewhere.
Q: What if I don’t know where my child’s father is? A: BCSS has extensive location tools including employment databases, tax records, Social Security records, motor vehicle registrations, and credit reports. Provide any information you have, even if it’s years old – previous addresses, employers, relatives’ names, or social media profiles.
Q: Can I apply for child support if I was never married to the father? A: Absolutely. Marriage is not required for child support obligations. BCSS can help establish paternity through voluntary acknowledgment or genetic testing if needed.
Q: What if the father claims he can’t afford to pay? A: New Hampshire courts can “impute income” based on earning capacity if someone is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed. Support can be based on what they could earn with their education, training, and experience.
About Calculations and Amounts
Q: How does my income affect what the other parent pays? A: New Hampshire uses the Income Shares Model where both incomes are combined to determine total support needed, then each parent pays their percentage share. If you earn 30% of combined income, you provide 30% through direct care while the other parent pays 70%.
Q: Can I get retroactive child support for years before I applied? A: Retroactive support may be ordered back to when you first filed your petition, but typically not for years before that unless special circumstances exist. The sooner you apply, the sooner support can begin.
Q: What counts as “income” for New Hampshire child support calculations? A: Income includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, overtime, tips, self-employment income, rental income, unemployment benefits, Social Security benefits, retirement benefits, and most other regular income sources.
Q: Is there a maximum amount of child support in New Hampshire? A: There’s no specific cap, but the online calculator only works up to $226,009 monthly combined income – higher amounts require manual calculation by BCSS.
About Payments and Problems
Q: How long does it typically take to receive my first child support payment? A: Timeline varies significantly:
- Wage withholding cases: 4-8 weeks after order entered
- Cases requiring parent location: 3-6 months
- Paternity disputes: 6-12 months
- Interstate cases: 3-9 months depending on cooperation
Q: What if my child now spends more time with the other parent than when we got the original order? A: Under the 2025 law changes, if the other parent now has 35%+ parenting time, this may qualify for the new shared parenting presumptions and could significantly reduce support. You’ll need to petition for modification.
Q: Can I choose between the MasterCard and direct deposit? A: Yes. You can switch payment methods by completing a new enrollment form. Direct deposit requires 5-10 business days to set up, while the MasterCard is the default option.
Q: What should I do if I receive a child support payment that seems wrong? A: Contact BCSS immediately at 603-271-4427. Keep detailed records of all payments received. If you receive money you’re not entitled to, you’ll be asked to return it, but BCSS will work with you on repayment terms.
About Enforcement and Legal Issues
Q: What if the other parent quits their job to avoid paying child support? A: BCSS can pursue multiple enforcement tools beyond wage withholding, including tax intercepts, license suspension, asset seizure, and credit bureau reporting. Job changes must be reported to the New Hampshire New Hire Registry, making it difficult to avoid detection.
Q: Can BCSS help with custody or visitation issues? A: No. BCSS only handles financial and medical support. For custody or visitation, contact 603 Legal Aid at 1-800-639-5290 or file directly with family court.
Q: What happens to child support if the other parent moves to another state? A: BCSS can work with child support agencies in all 50 states under federal law. Your New Hampshire order remains enforceable, and the other state will assist with enforcement.
Q: Does child support automatically stop if the other parent goes to jail? A: No. Incarceration doesn’t automatically terminate child support obligations. The obligation continues to accrue, though the incarcerated parent may petition for a temporary modification based on inability to pay.
About Modifications and Appeals
Q: How do I modify my child support order if circumstances change? A: Contact BCSS at 603-271-4427 to request a review. Modifications may be granted for:
- Significant income changes (typically 20% or more)
- Changes in parenting time (especially under the new 2025 law)
- Changes in childcare or health insurance costs
- Every 3 years since the last review
Q: What if I disagree with the child support amount the court ordered? A: You have the right to appeal within 30 days of the order. Contact 603 Legal Aid at 1-800-639-5290 for assistance with appeals, or consult with a private family law attorney.
Q: Can child support debt be forgiven if the other parent can’t pay? A: Child support debt (arrears) generally cannot be waived or forgiven, even by agreement between parents. Only the court can modify future payments, and past-due support typically remains collectible even after the child reaches adulthood.
Complete New Hampshire Child Support Resources and Contact Information
New Hampshire BCSS Main Contacts
Statewide Services:
- Main BCSS Line: 603-271-4427 or 1-800-852-3345 ext. 14427
- Central Information Unit: BCSS-CIU@dhhs.nh.gov
- Main Website: dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/childcare-parenting-childbirth/child-support-services
- Mailing Address: NH DHHS – BCSS, 129 Pleasant Street, Concord, NH 03301
Legal Help and Advocacy
Free Legal Services:
- 603 Legal Aid: 1-800-639-5290 or 603-224-3333 | 603legalaid.org
- New Hampshire Bar Association Lawyer Referral: 603-224-6942
- NH Court Self-Help: courts.nh.gov/self-help
Domestic Violence Legal Support:
- NH Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence: 1-866-644-3574 (24/7 helpline)
- Legal advocacy through local crisis centers
Financial Assistance Programs
State Benefits:
- NH DHHS Main Line: 603-271-9700
- NH Easy (Online Benefits): nheasy.nh.gov
- SNAP Hotline: 1-800-852-3345
- WIC Program: 1-800-942-4321
- New Hampshire 211 (Local Resources): Dial 2-1-1 or nh211.org
Energy and Housing Assistance:
- LIHEAP (Energy Assistance): Contact local Community Action Program
- New Hampshire Housing: nhhfa.org | 603-472-8623
- Homeless Prevention: nhceh.org | 603-226-9614
Emergency Help and Crisis Support
Immediate Safety:
- NH Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-852-3388
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Child Services:
- NH Child Protection Services: 1-800-894-5533 (24/7 hotline)
- Department of Health and Human Services: 603-271-9700
Online Tools and Calculators
Official New Hampshire Resources:
- Child Support Calculator: business.nh.gov/dhhs_Calculator
- Child Support Guidelines: dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/childcare-parenting-childbirth/child-support-services/child-support-guidelines
- NH Court Forms: courts.nh.gov/forms
- New Hampshire Bar Association Resources: nhbar.org/nh-child-support-guidelines
Benefits Screening:
- NH Easy Benefits Portal: nheasy.nh.gov
- SNAP Eligibility Screener: snapscreener.com/guides/new-hampshire
Accessibility Services
Language Support:
- Translation services available through BCSS: Request when calling 603-271-4427
- Spanish-speaking staff available at most offices
Disability Accommodations:
- New Hampshire Relay Service: 711
- Disability Rights Center: 1-800-834-1721 | drcnh.org
- Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation: 603-271-3471
Regional BCSS Office Locations
Northern Region:
- Berlin Office: 961 Central Ave, Berlin, NH 03570
- Conway Office: 73 Locust St, Conway, NH 03818
- Littleton Office: 80 North Littleton Rd, Littleton, NH 03561
Central Region:
- Concord Office: 129 Pleasant St, Concord, NH 03301
- Franklin Office: 6 Blackwater St, Franklin, NH 03235
- Lebanon Office: 2 Whipple Pl, Lebanon, NH 03766
Southern Region:
- Manchester Office: 1050 Perimeter Rd, Manchester, NH 03103
- Nashua Office: 2 Executive Dr, Nashua, NH 03062
- Portsmouth Office: 145 Dennison St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.
This New Hampshire guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the child support system. We verify information with official sources including New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, New Hampshire Bureau of Child Support Services, 603 Legal Aid, USDA, and HHS to ensure accuracy.
Information compiled from official New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, New Hampshire Bureau of Child Support Services, New Hampshire Courts, 603 Legal Aid, and federal sources. Last verified: August 2025.
The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about New Hampshire child support law and procedures as of August 2025. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and program details can change, and individual situations vary significantly.
Always:
- Verify current information with the New Hampshire Bureau of Child Support Services at 603-271-4427
- Consult with an attorney for legal advice specific to your unique situation
- Keep detailed records of all communications, payments, and missed payments
- Report changes in your circumstances to BCSS promptly
- Document actual parenting time carefully, especially with the 2025 law changes
The information in this guide:
- Is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional legal advice
- May not apply to every individual situation or case
- Is subject to change without notice as laws and regulations are updated
- Should be verified with official sources before making legal or financial decisions
Limitation of liability: While we strive for accuracy, this guide cannot cover every possible scenario or exception to New Hampshire child support law. The 2025 law changes are particularly complex and their full implications are still being determined through court cases. For the most current information and case-specific guidance, always contact New Hampshire BCSS directly or consult with a qualified family law attorney.
For the most current information, contact New Hampshire BCSS at 603-271-4427 or visit dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/childcare-parenting-childbirth/child-support-services.
Footnotes and Sources
¹ New Hampshire Child Support Guidelines, effective April 1, 2025
² New Hampshire House Bill 1564, effective January 1, 2025
³ New Hampshire Bureau of Child Support Services Fee Schedule
⁴ New Hampshire DHHS Payment Options Information
⁵ New Hampshire RSA 461-A:14(IV)
⁶ New Hampshire BCSS Fee Waiver Criteria
⁷ Federal Passport Denial Program, 42 U.S.C. § 652(k)
🏛️More New Hampshire Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Hampshire
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- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
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- ⚡ Utility Assistance
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- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
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- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
