Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Alabama

Last updated: September 2025

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Emergency help first

If you’re facing a shutoff, court date, or empty fridge this week, take these actions now.

• Power/water at risk: call your utility to set up a payment plan, then call the Alabama Public Service Commission Consumer Services line 1-800-392-8050 if you can’t resolve it. File a complaint online if needed. APSC Consumer Services page explains how complaints work. (psc.alabama.gov)
• No food: apply for expedited SNAP. Decisions can be made in 7 days for households with little or no income, otherwise within 30 days. Apply online via MyDHR Food Assistance or your county DHR office. Phone help: (833) 822-2202, Montgomery area (334) 242-0143, statewide (800) 382-0499. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Just lost your job or hours cut: file Alabama unemployment now. Weekly benefit is $45–$275, for 14–20 weeks depending on the unemployment rate. File online or call 1-866-234-5382. (uiclaimantportal.labor.alabama.gov)
• About to run out of baby formula or WIC foods: call WIC toll‑free 1-888-942-4673 or your county health department for a same‑week appointment. See ADPH WIC Apply. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
• Can’t pay heat/AC: contact your county Community Action Agency for LIHEAP; income up to 150% of FPL may qualify. Use the ADECA LIHEAP map and contact list. (adeca.alabama.gov)
• Scam or aggressive debt collector: use the CFPB’s sample letters to demand validation and control contact, and report to the Alabama Attorney General. AG consumer hotline 1-800-392-5658. See CFPB debt collector rights and letters and Alabama AG Consumer Interest. (consumerfinance.gov, alabamaag.gov)
• ID theft or benefits card skimmed: start a plan at IdentityTheft.gov and freeze your credit with each bureau. Weekly free credit reports are permanent at AnnualCreditReport.com. (consumer.ftc.gov)

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Quick help box

• SNAP expedited: decision in 7 days; standard in 30 days. Call (833) 822-2202 or apply at Food Assistance page. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Unemployment: $45–$275/week, typically 14–20 weeks. File immediately; back pay starts the prior Sunday. Call 1-866-234-5382. (uiclaimantportal.labor.alabama.gov)
• LIHEAP utility help: contact your county Community Action Agency via the ADECA LIHEAP list. (adeca.alabama.gov)
• WIC: call 1-888-942-4673; income up to 185% FPL and a nutritional risk required. See ADPH WIC. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
• Legal help: Legal Services Alabama intake 1-866-456-4995 (Spanish 1-888-835-3505). Offices statewide. (legalservicesalabama.org)
• Alabama AG consumer complaint: 1-800-392-5658. (alabamaag.gov)
• PSC utility complaints: 1-800-392-8050. (psc.alabama.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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What this guide adds that others miss

• Alabama‑specific dollar amounts, limits, and phone numbers in one place, with official links.
• Step‑by‑step application moves for SNAP, TANF, WIC, child care, and unemployment — plus realistic timelines and Plan B options.
• Debt and collections laws that affect your paycheck and bank account, including small‑claims limit and wage garnishment rules, with official sources.
• Utility shutoff escalation path through the Alabama PSC and Community Action LIHEAP contacts.
• Credit repair that works without paying a company, using free federal tools and clear Alabama points of contact.

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Your Alabama credit‑repair action plan

Pull your reports weekly and set alerts

• Where to start: get free weekly reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion at AnnualCreditReport.com. It’s permanently free to check weekly. (consumer.ftc.gov)
• Why this matters: catching errors early prevents denials and higher interest.
• If this doesn’t work: request your reports by phone 1-877-322-8228 or mail; report problems to the FTC via the same page. (consumer.ftc.gov)

Dispute errors the right way

• What to do first: send a written dispute to the credit bureau and the furnisher (bank/collector) with copies of proof. Bureaus generally must investigate within 30 days and report back. Use the CFPB’s plain‑language instructions and letter templates. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Addresses and phones:
  • Equifax: online dispute; phone (866) 349‑5191. (consumerfinance.gov)
  • Experian: online dispute; phone (888) 397‑3742. (consumerfinance.gov)
  • TransUnion: online or phone (800) 916‑8800. (consumerfinance.gov)
• If this doesn’t work: add a brief statement of dispute to your reports and file a complaint with the CFPB; consider free help from Legal Services Alabama (1-866-456-4995). (consumerfinance.gov, legalservicesalabama.org)

When collectors call, use your rights

• First move: within 30 days of the first collection notice, send a validation letter asking for proof of the debt and original creditor details. Use the CFPB sample letters to request validation, set contact limits, or stop calls. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Harassment is illegal: collectors can’t call before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m., threaten arrest, or call repeatedly to annoy you. (consumerfinance.gov)
• If this doesn’t work: report to the Alabama AG (1-800-392-5658) and CFPB; talk to Legal Services Alabama. (alabamaag.gov)

Avoid risky “credit repair” promises

• Key reality: Alabama does not have a separate “credit repair” statute; federal law (the Credit Repair Organizations Act) bans advance fees and false promises. If a company demands money upfront or “guarantees” a 700+ score, walk away and report it to the AG. See the AG’s enforcement on fraudulent credit repair. (alabamaag.gov)
• If this doesn’t work: use nonprofit credit counseling through national organizations or ask Legal Services Alabama about safer options.

Rebuild credit safely

• Most important: pay on time — even $10 minimums — and keep utilization below 30%. Set up autopay where possible.
• Starter tools: a secured card or credit‑builder loan you can actually afford.
• If this doesn’t work: focus on removing errors and settling collections for less in writing (no “pay to delete” guarantees); prioritize rent, lights, food first.

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Alabama debt, collections, and court basics

• Plan B if sued: show up; bring records; ask the judge for a payment plan or mediation; if the wrong person/debt, say so and demand proof. Use the Alabama courts’ small‑claims resources and Legal Services Alabama forms. (alabamalegalhelp.org)

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Stabilize your monthly budget with Alabama programs

SNAP food assistance

• Action: apply online or at your county DHR; use the official portal and phone lines for help: (833) 822‑2202, (800) 382‑0499, (334) 242‑0143. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Maximum monthly SNAP benefits (FY 2025):

  Household size	Max allotment
  1	$292
  2	$536
  3	$768
  4	$975
  5	$1,158
  6	$1,390
  7	$1,536
  8	$1,756
  Each add’l	$220

  Source: USDA FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
• Monthly gross income limits (130% FPL, FY 2025) — 48 states:

  HH size	Max gross monthly
  1	$1,632
  2	$2,215
  3	$2,798
  4	$3,380
  5	$3,963
  6	$4,546

  (Larger sizes add $583 each.) Source: USDA FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
• Timeline: decision in 7 days if very low income/resources; otherwise 30 days. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Tip: Alabama uses the ConnectEBT app for secure EBT access; it’s the only authorized app. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: call your DHR county office, then the Food Assistance Division. If benefits were skimmed, report immediately to DHR and follow IdentityTheft.gov steps. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)

• Action: eligible school‑aged kids may get $120 one‑time summer grocery benefits; some are auto‑enrolled; others must apply. Hotline 1-800-443-3536. Details at DHR’s Alabama SUN Bucks update. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your child’s school if your student appears on the direct certification list and apply if not; appeal decisions through DHR per program guidance. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Family Assistance (TANF cash)

• Action: apply at your county DHR or via the OneAlabama application link on DHR’s site. Phone (334) 242‑1950 for the state office. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Payment standards (Alabama FA, Oct 2023 pamphlet):

  Family size	Monthly payment standard
  1	$264
  2	$304
  3	$344
  4	$392
  5	$440
  6	$488
  7	$536
  8	$584

  (Table continues up to 16: see pamphlet.) Note: eligibility is based on net income below these standards and other rules; recipients must cooperate with child support and JOBS. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Timeline: DHR has up to 30 days to decide. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: request a conference and, if needed, a fair hearing within 60 days as outlined in the pamphlet; ask Legal Services Alabama for help. (dhr.alabama.gov)

WIC for women, infants, and children

• Action: call 1-888-942-4673 or your county health department; bring ID, address, and income or proof of Medicaid/SNAP/TANF. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
• Eligibility: income up to 185% of FPL plus a nutritional risk; participation in Medicaid/SNAP/TANF confers income eligibility. See ADPH WIC eligibility. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: ask for an earlier cancellation spot; if you moved, call to transfer your case to your new county clinic. (alabamapublichealth.gov)

Child care subsidy (DHR)

• Action: apply through your regional Child Care Management Agency; initial eligibility may extend up to 85% of State Median Income per program criteria; check DHR’s “Income Eligibility and Fee Criteria” and CMA contacts. Start at DHR Child Care Subsidy Overview. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your CMA about waitlists, priority categories, and transitional child care if you’re leaving Family Assistance. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Health coverage for you and your kids

• Pregnant: apply for Medicaid for Pregnant Women online or by phone 1-800-362-1504. Alabama Medicaid also participates in maternal health initiatives to improve care. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
• Children: apply for ALL Kids (Alabama CHIP). Customer service 1-888-373-5437; income guidelines are posted on ADPH’s site. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: call Medicaid Recipient Call Center 1-800-362-1504 for help with applications or All Kids 1-888-373-5437 for CHIP premium and renewal questions. (medicaid.alabama.gov, alabamapublichealth.gov)

Utilities and energy

• Action: apply for LIHEAP through your county Community Action Agency; use ADECA’s contact map. Many regions have call centers (numbers on ADECA page). (adeca.alabama.gov)
• If shutoff is close: call your utility’s customer service to request a payment arrangement and document the conversation; then, if unresolved, call APSC 1-800-392-8050. For Alabama Power residential help: 1-800-245-2244 and see payment assistance programs including Project SHARE (via Salvation Army). (psc.alabama.gov, alabamapower.com)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: escalate in writing through APSC’s online complaint form; keep copies of bills and notes of calls. (psc.alabama.gov)

Unemployment Insurance

• Action: file as soon as you’re separated or hours are reduced; your claim is effective the prior Sunday. Weekly benefits: $45–$275; weeks: typically 14–20. Call 1-866-234-5382 for help. (uiclaimantportal.labor.alabama.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: appeal any denial by the stated deadline on your determination; continue filing weekly certifications during the appeal. (uiclaimantportal.labor.alabama.gov)

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Taxes that put cash back in your pocket

• Earned Income Tax Credit (tax year 2024, filed in 2025): up to $7,830\ast \ast with3+kids,\ast \ast$6,960 with 2, $4,213\ast \ast with1,\ast \ast$632 with none; income limits vary by filing status and children (see IRS table). Alabama does not have a separate state EITC. Use free filing through VITA/TCE sites. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: if you missed EITC in a prior year, ask about filing an amended return to claim it retroactively within the IRS time limits. (irs.gov)

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Timelines you can expect

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Sending disputes without proof: include copies of statements, letters, police reports, or screenshots.
• Paying upfront to “fix” credit: advance fees for credit repair violate federal law.
• Ignoring court papers: even if wrong person, respond and ask for proof.
• Skipping income or expense details on applications: incomplete forms cause delays.
• Not protecting your EBT card: use the official ConnectEBT app and set PIN changes if you suspect skimming. (dhr.alabama.gov)

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Application checklist

• Identity and residency: photo ID, Social Security numbers, lease or bill with your address.
• Income: last 30 days of pay stubs, child support received, unemployment, any gig income.
• Expenses: rent, mortgage, utilities, child care, medical, child support paid.
• Special documents: school enrollment for older teens (TANF), pregnancy verification (WIC/Medicaid), job separation letter (UI).

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Quick tables you can skim

SNAP maximums and income limits (FY 2025)

Source: USDA FY 2025 COLA memo and tables. (fns.usda.gov)

Alabama TANF (Family Assistance) payment standards

Source: DHR Family Assistance summarized eligibility pamphlet, Oct 2023. (dhr.alabama.gov)

Utility and phone help

Debt and court quick facts

Key phone numbers

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Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: ask clinics and agencies for respectful, affirming services during WIC/Medicaid enrollment. Tip: when applying online, use inclusive options for family members where offered; if you face discrimination, file a civil rights complaint through the agency’s posted nondiscrimination process.
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: request reasonable accommodations on DHR or ADPH forms if a disability makes it hard to meet normal requirements (appointments, documents, communication). Phone: Medicaid Recipient Call Center 1‑800‑362‑1504 can arrange alternate communication formats. (medicaid.alabama.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: coordinate VA benefits with SNAP and Medicaid; bring VA award letters to appointments to document income correctly. The Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs county offices can help with claims, while DHR handles state aid.
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: many programs require certain statuses, but eligible non‑citizens and U.S.‑citizen children can qualify. Tip: applying for your U.S.‑citizen child does not make you apply for yourself; you can choose “non‑applicant” for parents on forms.
• Tribal‑specific resources: if your child is a member or eligible for membership in a federally recognized tribe, ask your caseworker about any tribal coordination and protections in child and family programs. For TANF, some tribes operate their own programs (national list on ACF’s site). (acf.hhs.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited internet: use phone hotlines for SNAP ((833) 822‑2202), WIC (1‑888‑942‑4673), and Medicaid (1‑800‑362‑1504). Alabama Power also supports phone and in‑person options for account help at authorized locations. (alabamapower.com)
• Single fathers: many of the same benefits apply if you have custody. DHR programs are gender‑neutral.
• Language access: DHR and ADPH provide free communication assistance; ask for interpreters at no cost for eligibility interviews. See DHR’s free communication assistance notice on program pages. (dhr.alabama.gov)

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Local organizations and where to start

• Community Action Agencies: these are your LIHEAP hubs and often offer budget counseling. Use the ADECA map to find the office and phone for your county. (adeca.alabama.gov)
• Legal Services Alabama: debt collection defense, garnishment exemptions, and benefits denials. Intake 1‑866‑456‑4995 (Spanish 1‑888‑835‑3505). (legalservicesalabama.org)
• Alabama Public Service Commission: escalates unresolved regulated utility issues. 1‑800‑392‑8050. (psc.alabama.gov)

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Program‑by‑program “Plan B”

• SNAP: if delayed beyond 30 days or denied, ask for a supervisor call‑back and a fair hearing. Escalate through the Food Assistance Division. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• TANF: request a conference and then a state hearing within 60 days; ask for childcare help through Transitional Child Care if you start working. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• WIC: ask for an earlier clinic cancellation slot or a different clinic if transportation is hard. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
• LIHEAP: if lines are full, ask about emergency slots for shutoff notices and bring the actual disconnect letter. (adeca.alabama.gov)
• Unemployment: file your weekly certifications on time while you appeal; missing weeks may forfeit pay. (uiclaimantportal.labor.alabama.gov)

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Alabama‑specific FAQs

1. How fast can SNAP be approved in an emergency: 7 days if your household has very little income/resources; otherwise 30 days. (dhr.alabama.gov)
2. What is the TANF cash amount for a family of three: Alabama’s payment standard for 3 is $344/month (eligibility depends on net income and other rules). (dhr.alabama.gov)
3. How much unemployment can I get: $45–$275 per week for 14–20 weeks if eligible. File right away. (uiclaimantportal.labor.alabama.gov)
4. What if a collector calls about an old debt: ask for validation in writing; don’t pay until you see proof. Use CFPB sample letters. (consumerfinance.gov)
5. Can my whole paycheck be garnished: for most consumer debts, no — up to 25% may be garnished, and none if your take‑home is under about $217.50/week. Child support and taxes have different rules. (alabamalegalhelp.org)
6. Where do I complain about a utility shutoff threat: call APSC 1‑800‑392‑8050 after you’ve tried the utility. (psc.alabama.gov)
7. How do I get kids’ health coverage: apply to ALL Kids (CHIP) at 1‑888‑373‑5437 or online; Medicaid has 1‑800‑362‑1504. (alabamapublichealth.gov, medicaid.alabama.gov)
8. Is there phone/internet help now that ACP ended: yes — Lifeline provides up to $9.25/month if you qualify. Call (800) 234‑9473. ACP ended June 1, 2024. (usac.org, fcc.gov)
9. Are weekly credit reports still free: yes, weekly at no cost via AnnualCreditReport.com. (consumer.ftc.gov)
10. My child’s school talks about Summer EBT: Alabama SUN Bucks provides $120 once per eligible student; some families must apply. Hotline 1‑800‑443‑3536. (dhr.alabama.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

Methodology: we use official state and federal sources, plus established nonprofits, and link directly to applications, forms, and hotlines. See our Editorial Standards for verification, updates, and correction policies.

Source focus: Alabama Department of Human Resources, Alabama Department of Public Health, Alabama Department of Labor, USDA FNS, ADECA, Alabama PSC, Alabama Attorney General, CFPB/FTC, IRS.

Maintenance: we monitor policy changes and update within 48 hours of confirmed changes; links are checked regularly.

Verification window: last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

Contact: send corrections to info@asinglemother.org and we respond within 48 hours.

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Disclaimer

Important: program amounts, eligibility, and processes can change after this publication. Always verify with the relevant agency before you apply or act. This guide is for general information — not legal, financial, or tax advice — and does not guarantee individual outcomes. We take care to keep this website secure, but you should avoid sending private data through unencrypted email and always use official government portals for applications.

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Sources cited

• USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA memo and tables: maximum SNAP benefits and income standards effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
• Alabama DHR Food Assistance: how to apply, timelines, and contact numbers; ConnectEBT app announcement. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Alabama DHR Family Assistance: eligibility, processing time, and payment standards (Oct 2023 pamphlet). (dhr.alabama.gov)
• Alabama DHR Child Care Subsidy: overview and CMA contacts. (dhr.alabama.gov)
• ADPH WIC: apply steps, eligibility, and statewide hotline 1‑888‑942‑4673. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
• ADECA LIHEAP: program overview, 150% FPL limit, and county contacts. (adeca.alabama.gov)
• Alabama PSC: consumer hotline 1‑800‑392‑8050 and complaint process. (psc.alabama.gov)
• Alabama UI: benefit range $45–$275, weeks 14–20, and filing guidance. (uiclaimantportal.labor.alabama.gov)
• CFPB/FTC credit and debt: dispute process, sample letters, weekly free credit reports. (consumerfinance.gov, consumer.ftc.gov)
• IRS EITC (TY 2024): amounts and income limits. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
• Lifeline: benefit amount and support center number. (usac.org)
• ACP wind‑down: ACP ended June 1, 2024. (fcc.gov)
• Alabama AG Consumer Interest: hotline and enforcement against fraudulent credit repair. (alabamaag.gov)
• Small‑claims jurisdiction: Ala. Code § 12‑12‑31. (legislature.state.al.us)
• Legal Services Alabama: statewide contact numbers and offices. (legalservicesalabama.org)

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What to do next

• Pick one: apply for SNAP, TANF, or WIC today — whichever brings relief fastest.
• Set up: weekly credit report checks and a simple folder (paper or phone) for documents.
• Plan: call your utility, get a LIHEAP appointment, and note the APSC complaint number in your phone.

You’ve got this — one form, one call, one bill at a time.

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🏛️More Alabama Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Alabama

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ 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