Credit Repair and Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Arizona

Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Arizona

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help at a glance

If you are in danger: Call 911.
24/7 mental health or suicidal crisis: Call 988.
Statewide resource and referral: Call 2‑1‑1 or 877‑211‑8661 (9 a.m.–7 p.m.). (211arizona.org)
Arizona Attorney General consumer complaints (fraud, debt scams): 602‑542‑5763 (Phoenix), 520‑628‑6648 (Tucson), 800‑352‑8431 (statewide). File online via the AG’s Consumer Complaint Portal. (azag.gov)
Child support questions (DES DCSS): 800‑882‑4151 or 602‑252‑4045 (Mon–Fri, 7:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.). (des.az.gov)

Quick help box

First 48 hours triage: Pull your free weekly credit reports, freeze your credit if needed, and list essential bills in survival order. See the step‑by‑step below.
Stop surprise garnishments: Arizona’s voter‑approved protections cap most wage garnishments for consumer debt at the lesser of 10% of disposable earnings or the amount above 60× the highest applicable minimum wage. Flagstaff has a higher local wage, which can further reduce garnishment. (azcourts.gov)
Fast cash‑flow lifelines: Check DES Cash Assistance (TANF), Short‑Term Crisis Services (STCS), SNAP, WIC, LIHEAP, and utility discounts (APS/SRP). Dollar amounts and income limits are listed with official links below. (des.az.gov, fns.usda.gov, aps.com, srpnet.com)
Medical coverage for you and kids: AHCCCS/KidsCare eligibility is at clear monthly dollar limits effective 02/01/2025—details below. (azahcccs.gov)
If credit bureaus or furnishers don’t fix errors: You have the right to a reasonable investigation within 30 days (sometimes 45). Escalate with CFPB if needed. (consumerfinance.gov)

How this guide helps

Who this is for: Single mothers in Arizona who need a no‑nonsense plan to repair credit, protect income, and stabilize household cash flow.

Why this works: Each section starts with the most urgent action, includes exact Arizona numbers when available, links to official sources, and ends with a Plan B if things don’t work the first time—because they often don’t.

Your first 48 hours: a focused action plan

Step 1 — Pull all three credit reports for free weekly and scan for damage.
Use the only authorized site, AnnualCreditReport.com. The three nationwide bureaus permanently allow free weekly online reports. Do not pay for add‑ons right now. (consumer.ftc.gov)

What to do: Request Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion reports. Circle any accounts you don’t recognize, late payments that seem wrong, duplicate collections, or mixed files (another person’s info on your report).
Tip: A credit score is not your report. Focus on the report details first. The score will follow once errors are fixed and balances improve. (consumerfinance.gov)

Step 2 — If you suspect fraud or stalking, place a free fraud alert or a credit freeze.
You can place a one‑year fraud alert with any bureau, or a free freeze with each bureau. If you are an identity‑theft victim, start at IdentityTheft.gov for a personalized recovery plan and official letters. (ftc.gov)

Step 3 — Stabilize the bills that keep the kids housed, fed, and safe.
Use this survival order: housing, power/cooling, food, transportation, childcare, then unsecured debts. See the program‑by‑program amounts and timelines below, including SNAP, LIHEAP, STCS, Cash Assistance, child support, and AHCCCS/KidsCare.

Step 4 — If a collector is calling, learn your rights before you call back.
In Arizona, most wage garnishments for consumer debts are capped at the lesser of 10% of disposable earnings or the amount above 60× the highest applicable minimum wage; courts may further reduce for hardship. Don’t authorize payments you cannot sustain. (azcourts.gov, azleg.gov)

Credit repair that actually works (Arizona‑ready)

Pull, dispute, and document

How to get your reports and dispute errors:

Reports: Request weekly reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Disputes: Credit bureaus generally must conclude investigations within 30 days (or 45 if you used your free annual report or if you submit new evidence mid‑investigation). They must share the results and send you a free updated report. (consumerfinance.gov)
No extra hoops: Bureaus and furnishers can’t demand special forms or refuse to review your evidence—regulators expect a reasonable investigation. (consumerfinance.gov)
If the bureau disagrees: You can add a short statement to your file, complain to the CFPB, or consult legal aid to consider litigation under the FCRA. (consumerfinance.gov)

What to include in a dispute letter:

Account in dispute: creditor name, account number, and why it’s wrong.
What you want: correction, deletion, or verification.
Evidence: police report or FTC Identity Theft Report if applicable, statements, emails, screenshots.
Keep records: certified mail receipts, dates, names, reference numbers.

What to do if this doesn’t work:
File a complaint with the CFPB, contact the Arizona Attorney General to report unfair practices, and consider free counsel from Community Legal Services (602‑258‑3434 / 800‑852‑9075). (consumerfinance.gov, azag.gov, clsaz.org)

Don’t get trapped by illegal “credit repair” promises

Your protections in Arizona:

No upfront fees: For‑profit credit repair outfits cannot collect payment before services are completed, and must provide disclosures and a 3‑day cancellation right. Arizona enforces both state Credit Services Organization laws and the federal Credit Repair Organizations Act. (azag.gov)
Licensing matters: Debt management companies that take your money to pay creditors must be licensed by Arizona DIFI. Ask for the company’s Arizona license and verify. (difi.az.gov)
Monthly fee caps (debt management): Arizona law caps certain fees (e.g., retainer $39, plus a small monthly percentage, etc.). If a plan is offered, compare it to these caps before signing. (law.justia.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Report scams to the AG Consumer Protection Office (602‑542‑5763 / 800‑352‑8431) and file a complaint with DIFI if a licensed debt management company violates Arizona rules. (azag.gov, difi.az.gov)

Know your Arizona protections if debt goes to collections

Statute of limitations for credit card/written contracts: Generally 6 years in Arizona (A.R.S. § 12‑548). Don’t restart the clock by making small “good‑faith” payments without a plan. (azleg.gov)
Wage garnishment cap for most consumer debts: Lesser of 10% of disposable earnings or the amount above 60× the highest applicable minimum wage; Flagstaff’s higher wage ($17.85 in 2025) may apply if you work there. Courts can reduce for hardship. (azcourts.gov, flagstaff.az.gov)
Minimum wage amounts that matter for garnishment: Arizona $14.70 * * s t a t e w i d e in 2025; Fl a g s t a ff * *$ 17.85 in 2025. (azica.gov, flagstaff.az.gov)
Homestead and property protections (Proposition 209): Arizona courts note increased exemption amounts, including a higher homestead exemption and higher personal property protections, adjusted annually for cost of living. Note that statutory codification shows both $250, 000 * * (A . R . S .§33‑1101) an d a se p a r a t esec t i o n re f l ec t in g * *$ 400,000 and COLA (A.R.S. § 33‑1101.01). Confirm with legal aid in your county how courts are applying this in practice. (azcourts.gov, azleg.gov, azleg.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
If served with a lawsuit, respond by the deadline. Contact Community Legal Services or your county legal aid immediately. Consider negotiating a consent judgment with a sustainable payment plan rather than risking a default judgment and garnishment. (clsaz.org)

Lifelines that protect cash flow (Arizona programs and exact numbers)

Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) in Arizona

Maximum monthly benefit (FY2025, 48 states): 1‑person $292 * *, 2‑ p erso n * *$ 536, 3‑person $768 * *, 4‑ p erso n * *$ 975, etc. (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). Arizona follows these federal maximums. (everycrsreport.com, des.az.gov)
Income tests (FY2026 start Oct 1, 2025): Gross (130% FPL) and net (100% FPL) limits update annually; check the USDA tables if applying after Oct 1, 2025. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
How to apply: Online through Health‑e‑Arizona Plus via DES’s Nutrition Assistance page. Decision timelines vary; DES posts COLA and verification notices on the site. (des.az.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask for an appeal if denied or if the benefit is miscalculated. If verification is hard to get, call the DES helpline listed on your notice and ask for help with verification options. (des.az.gov)

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

Monthly fruit/vegetable benefit (FY2025): Children $26 * *, p re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m * *$ 47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
Why this matters for credit: WIC frees up grocery cash so you can stay current on rent or utilities to avoid collections.

What to do if this doesn’t work:
If clinic appointments are booked out, ask about remote certification options or alternate clinics listed by your county WIC agency. (fns.usda.gov)

AHCCCS (Medicaid) and KidsCare

Adults (expansion group) gross monthly limit (effective 02/01/2025): 1‑person $1, 735 * *, 2‑ p erso n * *$ 2,345, 3‑person $2, 954 * *, 4‑ p erso n * *$ 3,564. (azahcccs.gov)
Caretaker relatives (parents raising minor children) monthly limit (106% FPL, effective 02/01/2025): 3‑person $2, 355 * *, 4‑ p erso n * *$ 2,840. (epm.azahcccs.gov)
Kids (Medicaid) monthly limits (effective 02/01/2025): age 6–18: 3‑person $2, 954 * *, 4‑ p erso n * *$ 3,564; age 1–5 and under age 1 have slightly higher thresholds (see AHCCCS charts). (azahcccs.gov)
KidsCare (CHIP) monthly limits (225% FPL, effective 02/01/2025): 3‑person $4, 997 * *, 4‑ p erso n * *$ 6,029; premiums capped at $50 * * f oro n ec hi l d or * *$ 70 per family. (test.azahcccs.gov)
Apply: Health‑e‑Arizona Plus or call 855‑HEA‑PLUS (855‑432‑7587). AHCCCS encouraged re‑applications after eligibility expanded. (azahcccs.gov)

DES Cash Assistance (TANF)

Payment standards (A1—has shelter cost): 1 person $204 * *, 2 * *$ 275, 3 $347 * *, 4 * *$ 418, 5 $489, etc. A2 standard is lower if no eligible shelter cost. (des.az.gov)
Needy family income test: Generally ≤100% FPL (or ≤130% FPL if a non‑parent relative applies only for the child). (des.az.gov)
Decision timeline: DES states decisions are made within 45 days at the latest. You may need a phone interview and to submit verification. (des.az.gov)
Ask about Grant Diversion: In some cases, you may receive one larger lump‑sum payment instead of monthly benefits. (des.az.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Request an appeal if denied; ask about domestic violence waivers for work requirements; and apply for STCS (below) through your local Community Action Agency. (des.az.gov)

Short‑Term Crisis Services (STCS)

What it pays: Emergency help to prevent homelessness or utility shutoff, deposits, and needs related to starting/keeping a job. Once every 12 months per household. (des.az.gov)
Income limit: Generally ≤125% FPL (or ≤150% FPL if a household member is elderly or has a disability). (azleg.gov)
Apply: Through your local Community Action Agency (CAA). Call 2‑1‑1 for your nearest office. (211arizona.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Funds can run out. Ask about county programs like Maricopa County Housing Stability Rental & Utility Assistance (limited, up to one month) or other CAA resources. Phone: 602‑506‑0589. (maricopa.gov)

Energy and cooling help

LIHEAP benefit matrix (effective 10/12/2024, subject to change): Households receive $160-$ 640 based on points for income, energy burden, and vulnerable members; an extra up to $500 crisis benefit may be available once per 12 months. Apply online or call 866‑494‑1981. (des.az.gov)
APS Energy Support discount: 25% off up to $95/ m o n t h * *, or * * 60$ 165/month, depending on income tier. Phone: 844‑309‑5655. (aps.com)
SRP Economy Price Plan: Current discount $23/ m o n t h * * (pl ann e d in cre a se t o * *$ 35 for 0–150% FPL and $10 for 151–200% FPL effective Nov 2025). Phone: 602‑236‑8888. (srpnet.com)
ACC summer relief (APS): The Arizona Corporation Commission approved approximately $23 * * inbi ll cre d i t s f ors u mm er 2025 (ab o u t * *$ 12 each for July and August). (azcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask APS about Project SHARE (up to $500 via Salvation Army) or payment arrangements up to 12 months. For SRP, ask Customer Resource Counselors about community referrals. (aps.com, srpnet.com)

Phone and internet

Lifeline: Up to $9.25/ m o n t h * * o ff p h o n eor in t er n e t; l a r g er T r iba l L i f e l in e b e n e f i t (* *$ 34.25/month) on qualifying Tribal lands. The separate ACP program ended in 2024 absent new funding. Apply via the National Verifier and ask your provider. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask your ISP for a low‑income plan; many kept $20-$ 30 offerings after ACP’s wind‑down. (fcc.gov)

Child support that pays forward

Contact DCSS: 800‑882‑4151 or 602‑252‑4045 for help establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support. You can submit documents by email and access the Child Support Portal online. A monthly state processing fee (often $8) may apply. (des.az.gov, courts.yavapaiaz.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
If orders are outdated or the other parent’s income changed, request a modification. If safety is a concern, ask about address confidentiality and payment routing through the Clearinghouse. (des.az.gov)

Unemployment Insurance (if you lost work)

Weekly benefit amount: Up to $320/ w ee k * *, ba se d o n 4$ 160 weekly without reducing your WBA. (des.az.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Appeal immediately if denied and keep certifying weekly. Ask the DES Client Advocate if you’re stuck. (des.az.gov)

Tables you can use today

Table 1. SNAP maximum allotments (FY2025)

Household size	Max monthly benefit
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 SNAP FY2025 COLA and DES NA FAQ. (fns.usda.gov, des.az.gov)

Table 2. AHCCCS/KidsCare monthly income limits (effective 02/01/2025)

Household	Adults (138% FPL)	Caretaker relatives (106%)	Kids 6–18 (133%)	KidsCare (225%)
1	$1,735	$1,383	$1,735	$2,935
2	$2,345	$1,869	$2,345	$3,966
3	$2,954	$2,355	$2,954	$4,997
4	$3,564	$2,840	$3,564	$6,029
5	$4,173	$3,326	$4,173	$7,060

Sources: AHCCCS income charts and KidsCare page. (azahcccs.gov, epm.azahcccs.gov, test.azahcccs.gov)

Table 3. LIHEAP benefits (effective 10/12/2024)

Points total	Regular benefit	Crisis benefit (extra)
1–4	$160
5–8	$320
9–12	$480
≥13	$640
Crisis (once/12 months)		Up to $500

Source: DES LIHEAP benefits page. (des.az.gov)

Table 4. APS vs. SRP bill discounts (2025)

Utility	Program	Monthly discount	Notes
APS	Energy Support	*Up to $95 * a t 25$ 165** at 60%	Income‑based; medical tier available; reapply every 24 months. (aps.com)
SRP	Economy Price Plan	*$23 * (in cre a se t o * $ 35* for 0–150% FPL; $10 for 151–200% FPL effective Nov 2025)	Ask about Weatherization and counseling. (srpnet.com)

Table 5. Bankruptcy means test median incomes (cases filed 04/01/2025–05/14/2025)

Household size	Arizona median income
1	$70,919
2	$85,476
3	$102,909
4	$113,286

Source: U.S. Trustee Program (DOJ). For cases filed on/after May 15, 2025, see the DOJ means testing page for the latest table. (justice.gov)

Housing and eviction triage

Start here:
If rent is past due or you have a notice, call 2‑1‑1 to identify your local CAA (for STCS), and check Maricopa County’s limited Housing Stability program (one month of help; priority at ≤200% FPL). Phone: 602‑506‑0589. (211arizona.org, maricopa.gov)

Arizona Rental Assistance (ARAP/ERAP) note:
Statewide COVID‑era ERAP is closed; the Arizona Rental Assistance Program ended August 2024. City/county programs vary. Always check your county’s human services page. (des.az.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask about legal help for eviction prevention from Community Legal Services; also ask your utility for medical or deferred payment accommodations while you stabilize rent. (clsaz.org)

Identity theft and safety planning

If someone opened accounts in your name: File at IdentityTheft.gov for an Identity Theft Report and recovery plan; place freezes with each bureau. Consider a police report if advised. (ftc.gov)
If you’re experiencing abuse or stalking: Use a P.O. Box for creditor mail, consider a freeze, and ask DCSS about address confidentiality on child support. If needed, request safe‑time communication limits from collectors. (des.az.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Escalate with the CFPB and the Arizona Attorney General; legal aid can write cease‑and‑desist letters to furnishers and debt collectors engaging in noncompliant behavior. (consumerfinance.gov, azag.gov)

Real‑world example: Turning the corner in 60 days

Profile: 2‑child household in Phoenix. Hours cut in June. Behind $900 on SRP; two collections showing for a medical bill you don’t recognize.

Week 1: Pull reports, spot duplicate collections, file disputes with both the bureau and the furnisher (clinic). Apply for LIHEAP (scores 9 points → $480 * *), e n ro ll in * * SRPE co n o m y * * (* *$ 23 off), and call 2‑1‑1 for STCS screening. (des.az.gov, srpnet.com, 211arizona.org)
Week 2: Apply for SNAP and AHCCCS for the family, and KidsCare for the child losing coverage (income now under limit). (des.az.gov, azahcccs.gov, test.azahcccs.gov)
Week 3: DES Cash Assistance approved at $347 (A1 for 3). SRP payment arrangement + LIHEAP covers arrears. APS customers could instead request 60% Energy Support if in APS territory. (des.az.gov, aps.com)
Week 6: Bureau deletes the duplicate collection after investigation; medical provider updates furnisher data. Score begins to rebound within 1–2 reporting cycles. (consumerfinance.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

Paying a collector before validating the debt — ask for validation first, especially if the account looks unfamiliar.
Restarting an old debt’s clock with a small “goodwill” payment when you can’t afford a settlement. Arizona’s 6‑year limit matters. (azleg.gov)
Ignoring a lawsuit — default judgments lead to garnishments despite Arizona caps. Respond before the deadline.
Missing utility discount re‑certifications — APS (every 24 months) or SRP annual checks can quietly drop you back to full rates. (aps.com)
Relying on the Affordable Connectivity Program — it wound down in 2024; switch to Lifeline and provider low‑cost plans now. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B playbook)

Denied for SNAP or Cash Assistance: Appeal immediately and request a conference. If proof is hard to obtain (e.g., lost paystubs), ask DES what alternative verification is acceptable. (des.az.gov)
Utilities still at risk: Ask APS about Project SHARE (up to $500) and 12‑month payment arrangements; ask SRP for counselor referrals and Weatherization. (aps.com)
Medical debt: Under Prop 209, Arizona caps medical debt interest rates; ask the provider to recalculate and set a no‑interest payment plan. (azcourts.gov)
Too many unsecured debts: Check a nonprofit, licensed debt management plan (verify with DIFI) or consult a bankruptcy attorney about Chapter 7/13 using DOJ median income tables. (difi.az.gov, justice.gov)

Diverse Communities

LGBTQ+ single mothers:
What to know: You are eligible for the same programs; some community agencies offer affirming services and privacy protections. Ask DES or your CAA for providers with LGBTQ+ competency training. Plan B: If you face discrimination, contact the Arizona Attorney General Civil Rights unit and consider switching providers. (azoca.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children:
What to know: STCS uses higher income limits (≤150% FPL) if someone is elderly/disabled; LIHEAP scoring gives extra points for disability; AHCCCS offers long‑term supports through ALTCS (special income rules). Plan B: Ask legal aid to address reasonable accommodations with DES or your utility. (azleg.gov)

Veteran single mothers:
What to know: Ask VA social work for referrals plus LIHEAP priority and county veteran services. Plan B: If child support intersects with VA benefits, ask DCSS how payments will be handled and whether modification is appropriate. (des.az.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms:
What to know: Mixed‑status families often have eligible members (e.g., U.S. citizen children). SNAP/AHCCCS rules are nuanced; KidsCare has clear income rules; some rental programs didn’t require SSNs during COVID‑era phases, but ARAP ended. Plan B: Use legal aid or community orgs for screening without jeopardizing immigration cases. (test.azahcccs.gov, des.az.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources:
What to know: Lifeline on Tribal lands offers $34.25/month; AHCCCS benefits and KidsCare premium exemptions apply for enrolled members. Plan B: Contact your Tribal social services for energy, housing, and childcare programs layered on top of state aid. (fcc.gov, test.azahcccs.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access:
What to know: Phone‑based applications are common—LIHEAP hotline 866‑494‑1981 and DES call centers can complete applications by phone. Plan B: Ask 2‑1‑1 about mobile enrollment events or library assistance. (des.az.gov)

Single fathers and kin caregivers:
What to know: This guide applies to you if you are the primary caregiver. AHCCCS caretaker relative and Cash Assistance rules include non‑parent relatives. Plan B: Apply as a kinship caregiver for Cash Assistance/childcare if the parent is not in the home. (epm.azahcccs.gov)

Language access:
What to know: DES, AHCCCS, and utility programs provide interpreter services; request them at application. Plan B: If you were denied due to language issues, file a complaint and ask for re‑evaluation with an interpreter. (des.az.gov)

Local organizations and trusted contacts

2‑1‑1 Arizona: Dial 2‑1‑1 or 877‑211‑8661 for referrals to food, housing, utility aid, and shelters. (211arizona.org)
Community Legal Services (civil legal aid): 602‑258‑3434 or 800‑852‑9075; apply online for help with debt collection, eviction, family law, benefits. (clsaz.org)
Maricopa County Community Services: Rent/utility help and referrals. 602‑506‑0589. (hsd.maricopa.gov)
DES Division of Child Support Services: 800‑882‑4151; online portal and document email. (des.az.gov)
Arizona Attorney General Consumer Protection: 602‑542‑5763 (Phoenix), 800‑352‑8431 (statewide). (azag.gov)

Quick reference cheat sheet

Fast steps

Pull free weekly reports at: AnnualCreditReport.com.
Dispute errors within: 30–45 days timeline; keep receipts. (consumerfinance.gov)
Stop garnishment surprises: Know Arizona’s 10% cap rule and minimum‑wage threshold math. (azcourts.gov)
Apply fast for: SNAP, WIC, AHCCCS/KidsCare, LIHEAP, STCS, Cash Assistance, and utility discounts. (des.az.gov, fns.usda.gov, azahcccs.gov, test.azahcccs.gov, aps.com, srpnet.com)

Application checklist

Photo ID and Social Security cards (or proof you applied), and proof of Arizona residency.
Income proof: last 30 days of pay stubs, benefits letters (UI, VA, SSA), child support printouts.
Housing: lease, ledger, or eviction/late notices.
Utilities: current bill and any disconnect notice.
Child info: birth certificates, custody/child support orders if applying for DCSS or Cash Assistance.
Medical: premiums, diagnoses (for disability‑related priority scoring).
Bankruptcy or court papers: if negotiating with collectors or facing suit—bring everything.

FAQs (Arizona‑specific)

What is the maximum SNAP I can get for a family of 3 in FY2025: $768/month if income‑eligible; amounts adjust each Oct 1. (everycrsreport.com)
How quickly does a credit bureau have to answer my dispute: Generally within 30 days (up to 45 in some cases). (consumerfinance.gov)
What’s Arizona’s current minimum wage that affects garnishment math: $14.70/ h o u r * * s t a t e w i d e in * * 2025 * *; Fl a g s t a ff i s * *$ 17.85. (azica.gov, flagstaff.az.gov)
How much can APS knock off my bill: Up to $95/ m o n t h * * a t 25$ 165/month at 60%, income‑based. (aps.com)
How much can SRP knock off right now: $23/month (increasing in Nov 2025 as approved). (srpnet.com)
Is the Affordable Connectivity Program still available: No—funding ended in 2024; use Lifeline ( $9.25/ m o n t h * *, hi g h ero n T r iba ll an d s a t * *$ 34.25/month). (fcc.gov)
What’s the Cash Assistance amount for a family of 3 with shelter costs: $347/month (A1 standard). (des.az.gov)
Can I get help with rent right now: State ERAP ended in Aug 2024; use STCS and county programs like Maricopa County Housing Stability (one month) depending on eligibility. (des.az.gov, maricopa.gov)
What’s the weekly benefit maximum for Arizona Unemployment: $320/week, with duration usually up to 24 weeks depending on unemployment rates. (des.az.gov)
What’s the statute of limitations for credit card suits in Arizona: Generally 6 years from default (A.R.S. § 12‑548). (azleg.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

How we work: We use only official sources (Arizona DES, AHCCCS, USDA, HUD, state courts, and recognized utilities) and we verify links and amounts at publication. See our full methodology and update policy in our Editorial Standards.

Independence: We are not affiliated with any agency and we do not accept payment from programs we list.

Verification schedule: Last verified September 2025, next full review April 2026.

Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org (we respond within 48–72 hours).

Disclaimer

Important: Program amounts, eligibility, and timelines change. Always verify details with the official agency or utility. We provide general information, not legal advice or case‑specific guidance. For legal help, contact a qualified attorney or Community Legal Services (602‑258‑3434 / 800‑852‑9075). To protect your privacy and security, use strong passwords, enable MFA, and avoid sharing sensitive data over public Wi‑Fi.

Citations (selected key sources)

SNAP FY2025 COLA and Arizona NA guidance: USDA FNS FY2025 COLA; DES NA FAQ. (fns.usda.gov, des.az.gov)
AHCCCS/KidsCare income limits (02/01/2025): AHCCCS Adults/Children/Caretaker pages; KidsCare income/premium info. (azahcccs.gov, epm.azahcccs.gov, test.azahcccs.gov)
DES Cash Assistance payment standards and rules: DES Cash Assistance Income Guidelines and Standards; application timelines. (des.az.gov)
STCS eligibility and scope: A.R.S. § 46‑241.02; DES STCS program page. (azleg.gov, des.az.gov)
LIHEAP benefits and income thresholds: DES LIHEAP pages (benefit matrix and hotline). (des.az.gov)
APS Energy Support; SRP Economy Price Plan: APS program page; SRP current and approved changes. (aps.com, srpnet.com)
ACC summer 2025 APS credits: Arizona Corporation Commission news. (azcc.gov)
WIC FY2025 CVB amounts: USDA FNS WIC Policy Memo 2024‑7. (fns.usda.gov)
Credit reports & disputes: FTC weekly free reports; CFPB dispute timelines and investigation standards. (consumer.ftc.gov, consumerfinance.gov)
Arizona minimum wages: Industrial Commission (state $14.70 * *); C i t yo f Fl a g s t a ff (* *$ 17.85). (azica.gov, flagstaff.az.gov)
Garnishment caps & Prop 209: Arizona Courts SS Center on Prop 209; A.R.S. § 33‑1131. (azcourts.gov, azleg.gov)
Statute of limitations: A.R.S. § 12‑548 (six years). (azleg.gov)
Unemployment Insurance amounts & duration: DES UI pages. (des.az.gov)
Bankruptcy median incomes: DOJ U.S. Trustee Program (table for 04/01/2025–05/14/2025; see DOJ site for updates after 05/15/2025). (justice.gov)
Child support contacts: DES DCSS contact page and online services. (des.az.gov)
Lifeline & ACP wind‑down: FCC ACP wind‑down; Lifeline program details. (fcc.gov)

If you need quick, personalized help, call 2‑1‑1 or your county’s Community Action Agency today, then work this plan in order. Every $25-$ 50 you free up with benefits and discounts is money you can redirect to keep rent, utilities, and childcare current—protecting both your family and your credit.

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