Credit Repair and Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Arkansas

Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Arkansas [2025 Hub]

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help first

If you or your children are in immediate danger: Call 911 now.
Mental health crisis: Dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7 in Arkansas. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Food not lasting or power shutoff notice in hand: Call the DHS Access Arkansas Call Center at 1‑855‑372‑1084 to ask about SNAP/expedited SNAP and other benefits, or visit Access Arkansas online. (access.arkansas.gov)
EBT card problems: Call the Arkansas EBT Help Desk at 1‑800‑997‑9999. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Consumer or debt-collection scams: Call the Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection line at 1‑800‑482‑8982 or file a complaint online. (arkansasag.gov)

Quick help box

Freeze your credit: Place a free credit freeze with all three bureaus online before you do anything else. Then unfreeze temporarily when you need to apply for safe, lower‑cost credit. See dispute and contact info below. (Free weekly credit reports are now permanent.) (consumer.ftc.gov)
Pull your free reports weekly: Go to AnnualCreditReport.com (official portal). Review every line for errors and late payments. Mark anything you don’t recognize.
Dispute errors the right way: File disputes online or by mail with each bureau. They generally have 30 days to investigate and respond. See the addresses and links below and the FTC’s step‑by‑step guidance. (consumerfinance.gov)
Prioritize the bills that protect your family: Housing, utilities, transportation to work/childcare, and food. Use safety‑net programs (SNAP, WIC, TEA, LIHEAP, Unemployment) immediately. Links and dollar amounts below. (fns.usda.gov, casetext.com, adeq.state.ar.us, wioaplans.ed.gov)
Watch for “credit repair” traps: Up‑front fees and “we erase negatives” promises are major red flags. Federal and Arkansas law restrict these practices—report violators. (consumerfinance.gov, arkansasag.gov, law.justia.com)

How credit repair really works in Arkansas

The non‑negotiables: Under federal law (the Fair Credit Reporting Act), you can dispute inaccurate information on your credit reports for free. Under the Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA) and the Telemarketing Sales Rule, companies can’t charge advance fees for telemarketed credit‑repair and must give specific disclosures and contracts. Arkansas adds its own protections. (consumerfinance.gov)

Arkansas‑specific rule: If a credit‑repair company wants any payment before finishing work, Arkansas requires a $10,000 surety bond and a trust account in the state, plus strong disclosures and a written contract with a 3‑day cancellation right. When in doubt, walk away and report it. (codes.findlaw.com, law.justia.com)

Reality check: No one can legally remove accurate negative items. What works is (1) fixing errors, (2) paying on time, (3) lowering balances, (4) adding on‑time accounts (secured card, credit‑builder loan), and (5) letting time age the negatives. The FTC, CFPB, and Arkansas AG all warn about fake “guarantees.” (ftc.gov, arkansasag.gov)

Arkansas safety nets that put money back in your budget (with real 2025 numbers)

Start with the programs that free up the most cash for food, utilities, transportation, and basic needs. Apply online at Access Arkansas (official portal) or by phone at 1‑855‑372‑1084. (access.arkansas.gov)

SNAP (food help)

What you can get: These are the federal FY 2025 maximum monthly SNAP amounts for the 48 states (Arkansas uses these amounts). Amount is based on household size and countable income. Effective October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)

Household	Max SNAP amount (per month)
1	$292
2	$536
3	$768
4	$975
5	$1,158
6	$1,390
7	$1,536
8	$1,756
Each add’l	$220

Income rules (most households, 130% FPL): 1 person $1, 632 * *, 2 * *$ 2,215, 3 $2, 798 * *, 4 * *$ 3,380 gross monthly, etc. Net income limit is 100% FPL (for many households). Asset limits for most households are $3, 000 * * (or * *$ 4,500 if someone is 60+ or disabled). (fns.usda.gov)

How to apply: Apply online via Access Arkansas or call 1‑855‑372‑1084. For EBT card issues, call 1‑800‑997‑9999. (access.arkansas.gov, humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Important Arkansas update: USDA approved a waiver allowing Arkansas to restrict certain “sugary” foods with SNAP starting July 1, 2026; it does not affect current 2025 benefits. (arkansasadvocate.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DHS about expedited SNAP if you have very low income/cash or a shutoff/eviction notice. If your case stalls, call DHS Customer Assistance 1‑800‑482‑8988 or contact Legal Aid of Arkansas 1‑800‑952‑9243. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, arlegalaid.org)

WIC (pregnant/postpartum, infants, and kids under 5)

Monthly fruit & vegetable benefit (CVV) for FY 2025: Children $26 * *; P re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m * *$ 47; Fully/mostly breastfeeding $52. Effective Oct. 1, 2024 – Sept. 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)

How to apply: Contact your local WIC clinic through the Arkansas Department of Health, or ask at your county health unit. Bring ID, proof of residency, and income. (WIC works alongside SNAP.) See full FY 2025 WIC memo for details. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a clinic is full, ask to be wait‑listed and call another nearby county clinic; you can also re‑check after the 1st of the month when slots may open.

TEA Cash Assistance (Arkansas TANF) + Work Pays

Maximum monthly TEA cash benefit: Family of 1 $81 * *, 2 * *$ 162, 3 $204 * *, 4 * *$ 247, 5 $286 * *, 6 * *$ 331, 7 $373 * *, 8 * *$ 415, 9+ $457 (maximums before income calculations). (casetext.com)

Time limit: Arkansas reduced TEA cash assistance to up to 12 total months (policy updated 2024). Apply through DHS. (casetext.com)

Work Pays bonuses (if employed and meeting work rules): $400 * * a t 3 m o n t h s; * *$ 600 at 9 months; $800 * * e x i t b o n u s a t 12 m o n t h s; pl u s a * *$ 1,200 earnings bonus if income exceeds 150% FPL within the 12‑month limit. (casetext.com)

How to apply: Use Access Arkansas or your local DHS office. For questions, call DHS 1‑800‑482‑8988. (access.arkansas.gov, humanservices.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about a TEA “diversion” payment if a small one‑time cash help could keep you off ongoing TEA; if denied or delayed, call Legal Aid (1‑800‑952‑9243). (arlegalaid.org)

LIHEAP (help with heating/cooling bills)

When to apply: Typically January–April 30 and July–September 30 each year. Applications go through community‑based organizations (CBOs) that serve your county (not the state office). (adeq.state.ar.us)

Income screen (FFY 2025 – maximum monthly countable income): 1 person $2, 251 * *; 2 * *$ 2,944; 3 $3, 636 * *; 4 * *$ 4,329. Add $672 for each extra household member. (adeq.state.ar.us)

Typical benefit examples (FFY 2025, Regular benefits, selected rows):

Electric service: For 1–2 people with very low monthly income (MCI 0–69), benefit $242 * *; 3-4 p eo pl e * *$ 288; 5+ $344. Benefits decrease as income rises and vary by household size. (adeq.state.ar.us)
Natural gas (winter‑only): For 1–2 people with MCI 0–69, benefit $308 * *; 3-4 p eo pl e * *$ 366; 5+ $437. Benefits scale down as income increases. (adeq.state.ar.us)

Use the full FFY 2025 benefit matrices to find your bracket and amount.

How to apply: Find your county’s CBO contact and application instructions on the Arkansas Energy Office LIHEAP page. For program questions, the state office lists Phone: 501‑682‑0744 and Toll‑free: 888‑233‑0326. (adeq.state.ar.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the CBO about “crisis” benefits (to stop a disconnection or restore service) and local church/charity utility funds. If denied, request a LIHEAP appeal hearing from the Arkansas Energy Office page. (adeq.state.ar.us)

Unemployment Insurance (UI)

How it pays: Your weekly benefit amount (WBA) is about 1/26 of your wages in the base period, with a minimum $81 * * an d ma x im u m * *$ 451 per week (set by Arkansas law and tied to the state average weekly wage). Arkansas currently allows up to 12 weeks of regular UI for initial claims filed on/after Jan. 1, 2024. (law.justia.com, wioaplans.ed.gov)

How to apply: File an initial claim online through EZARC (see “Unemployment Claims” page) and then file weekly claims via ArkNet or by phone with ArkLine at 501‑907‑2590. For UI questions, call the UI Service Center 1‑844‑908‑2178. (dws.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you receive a denial, appeal promptly—get the Appeal Tribunal number (501‑682‑1063) or Board of Review (501‑683‑4300) from the UI page, or get free advice from Legal Aid (1‑800‑952‑9243). (dws.arkansas.gov, arlegalaid.org)

Child support (OCSE)

Application fee: $25 (waived if you receive SNAP, TEA, or certain Medicaid/ARKids benefits). Expect contact within about 30 days after a completed application. Apply online or by mail; you can also request an application by phone at 501‑682‑8398. Track your case in the OCSE “MyCase” portal; customer service numbers include 501‑683‑7911 (Little Rock) or 1‑866‑428‑8382 (toll‑free). (dfa-site.ark.org)

Child support amount basics: Arkansas uses Administrative Order No. 10 (income‑shares model). Use the official Arkansas Child Support Calculator to estimate your order. (arcourts.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t connect with your local OCSE office or need legal advice, call Legal Aid (1‑800‑952‑9243). (arlegalaid.org)

Arkansas money law essentials that protect you

Minimum wage: Arkansas’s minimum wage is $11.00/ h o u r * *, co v er in g m os t e m pl oyers w i t h 4 + e m pl oyees (u n c han g e d s in ce 2021) . T i pp e d c a s h w a g e i s * *$ 2.63/hour (tips must bring you to at least $11.00). If your pay is short, the Department of Labor and Licensing explains your rights. (labor.arkansas.gov)

Interest‑rate cap under Arkansas Constitution (Amendment 89): For most consumer loans (outside bank preemptions), the maximum lawful rate is 17% APR. Contracts above that cap are void as to principal and interest. This is one reason high‑fee payday lending can’t legally operate the way it does in other states. (codes.findlaw.com)

Fixing your credit: a 30‑, 60‑, and 90‑day action plan

First 30 days: Pull, freeze, and dispute

Pull all three credit reports (free every week): Use AnnualCreditReport.com. Look line‑by‑line for wrong late payments, duplicate debts, incorrect balances, or accounts you don’t recognize. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Freeze your credit: Do it with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion online (free, reversible). This blocks new accounts in your name while you stabilize your budget.
Dispute errors online or by mail:
- TransUnion by mail: TransUnion Consumer Solutions, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016‑2000; phone 800‑916‑8800; you can also dispute online. (transunion.com)
- Experian by mail: Experian, P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013; online dispute also available. (experian.com)
- Equifax: Dispute online or request your Equifax report by mail at Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374‑0241; phone 1‑866‑349‑5191. (Equifax publishes mail details for reports; for disputes, their online portal is fastest.) (investor.equifax.com)
Identity theft: If a fraud account appears, file an FTC identity theft report and ask each bureau/creditor to block the item.
Budget reset: List housing, utilities, car/insurance, childcare, food as “must pay.” Push other creditors to the background until essentials are covered (use hardship/forbearance options).
Reality check: If a collector threatens or harasses you, document it and complain to the Arkansas AG Consumer Protection Division (1‑800‑482‑8982). (arkansasag.gov)

Days 31–60: Add positive data and cut balances

Add a starter tradeline: If your reports are clean of fraud and you can budget $200-$ 300 safely, consider a low‑fee secured card; use <10% of the limit and pay in full monthly. Avoid cards with annual fees >$49 or setup fees.
Report what you already pay: Some landlords/utilities will report on‑time payments. Ask first; don’t pay steep third‑party fees.
Snowball or “avalanche”: Target one debt at a time—start with past‑due utilities/auto (to protect housing/work), then the highest‑interest credit card (Arkansas’s 17% cap doesn’t stop bank‑issued cards from higher APRs due to federal preemption).
Medical bills: Ask the hospital for financial assistance/charity care and a zero‑interest plan. Don’t put medical bills on a credit card if you can get 0% from the provider.

Days 61–90: Recheck and plan six months ahead

Re‑pull reports: Confirm your disputes are marked “resolved” or “deleted”. If an error remains, re‑dispute with better documentation and complain to the CFPB.
Build cushion: Aim for $300-$ 600 emergency fund (even $20/week matters).
Plan for larger fixes: If you’re drowning in multiple collections or lawsuits, talk to a legal aid attorney about defenses, settlements, or whether bankruptcy is a fit (see below). (arlegalaid.org)

Tables you can scan fast

Quick program snapshot (Arkansas 2025)

Program	Who it helps	Key 2025 figures	Where to apply
SNAP	Low‑income families for food	Max for 4: *$975 * / m o; 130$ 3,000** (most)	Access Arkansas / 1‑855‑372‑1084 (fns.usda.gov, access.arkansas.gov)
WIC	Pregnant/postpartum + kids <5	Fruits/veg CVV: *$26 * (c hi l d), * $ 47* (preg/post), $52 (breastfeeding)	Contact local health unit (state WIC) (fns.usda.gov)
TEA	Cash + work support	Max grant: $81-$ 457 (by family size), time‑limit 12 months, Work Pays bonuses up to *$1, 200 * + * $ 400/ $600/$ 800*	Access Arkansas / DHS (casetext.com)
LIHEAP	Utility bills	Windows: Jan–Apr 30 and Jul–Sep 30; benefit amount varies by income/household/energy	Find your county’s CBO on AEO site / 501‑682‑0744 (adeq.state.ar.us)
UI	Job loss	Weekly $81-$ 451 for up to 12 weeks (if eligible)	EZARC/ArkNet; UI Service Center 1‑844‑908‑2178 (law.justia.com, wioaplans.ed.gov)

SNAP income guide (gross monthly, 130% FPL, FY 2025)

HH size	Max gross income
1	$1,632
2	$2,215
3	$2,798
4	$3,380
5	$3,963
6	$4,546
7	$5,129
8	$5,712
Each add’l	+$583

TEA maximum cash grant by family size (Arkansas)

Family size	Max monthly TEA
1	$81
2	$162
3	$204
4	$247
5	$286
6	$331
7	$373
8	$415
9+	$457

LIHEAP example benefits (FFY 2025 Regular)

Fuel	HH 1–2 very low MCI	HH 3–4 very low MCI	HH 5+ very low MCI
Electric	$242	$288	$344
Natural gas (winter)	$308	$366	$437

UI essentials (Arkansas)

Item	Amount/limit
Weekly Benefit Amount	$81-$ 451 (based on wages)
Max weeks (regular UI)	12 weeks for claims filed on/after Jan 1, 2024
File weekly claims	ArkNet or ArkLine 501‑907‑2590
Help line	1‑844‑908‑2178 UI Service Center

Debt collectors and scams: how to stay safe in Arkansas

File complaints and get help: The Arkansas Attorney General mediates many consumer complaints and chases deceptive practices under state law. Use the online complaint form or call 1‑800‑482‑8982. (arkansasag.gov)

Watch for illegal credit‑repair behavior: No advance fees, no “guarantees,” and you must get written disclosures and a 3‑day cancellation window. In Arkansas, anyone taking prepayment must have a $10,000 bond and a trust account. Report violators to the AG and the CFPB. (arkansasag.gov, codes.findlaw.com)

Important case: In 2024–2025 the CFPB announced $1.8 billion in redress for illegal advance fees by large credit‑repair companies (e.g., Lexington Law/CreditRepair.com) and a 10‑year telemarketing ban—strong proof to avoid high‑fee credit‑repair pitches. (consumerfinance.gov)

If bills are piling up: real options (including bankruptcy)

Try hardship programs first: Ask lenders for forbearance/deferrals and zero‑interest utility payment plans. Use LIHEAP for heating/cooling and TEA/Work Pays as a bridge back to work.

When bankruptcy is on the table:

Chapter 7 can clear many unsecured debts in a few months; filing fee is $338.
Chapter 13 reorganizes debts over 3–5 years to protect assets like a car or home; filing fee is $313.
Fees are set by federal law; courts also offer installment plans and limited fee waivers based on income. Talk to Legal Aid or a qualified bankruptcy attorney. (cacb.uscourts.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Legal Aid of Arkansas (1‑800‑952‑9243) about defenses if you’re sued for a debt or to discuss bankruptcy pros/cons. (arlegalaid.org)

Diverse communities: tailored tips and doors to knock on

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask DHS for a caseworker who respects your family structure and language preference. The AG’s Consumer Protection team accepts complaints from all Arkansans and can mediate with businesses at 1‑800‑482‑8982. (arkansasag.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Ask DHS about disability‑related SNAP/WIC accommodations and higher SNAP resource limits ($4,500 for households with someone 60+ or disabled). When debt collectors ignore disability‑related hardship, document and complain to the AG. (fns.usda.gov, arkansasag.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Check Unemployment (UI) first if recently separated from work, then ask OCSE about enforcing child support. Legal Aid can help with consumer and benefit problems (1‑800‑952‑9243). (wioaplans.ed.gov, arlegalaid.org)
Immigrant/refugee single moms (eligible for services): WIC eligibility is not tied to immigration status; some benefits vary—ask your county health unit. Access Arkansas offers multilingual help and hotlines in Spanish (1‑866‑656‑1842) and Marshallese (1‑479‑365‑6625). (access.arkansas.gov)
Tribal citizens: Apply for state benefits you qualify for and also contact your tribal office for additional programs (education, housing, nutrition). Use state programs like SNAP/WIC as needed; they are open to eligible tribal members living in Arkansas. (fns.usda.gov)
Rural single moms with slow internet: File weekly UI claims by phone with ArkLine 501‑907‑2590 and apply for benefits by phone (1‑855‑372‑1084) if the website is hard to use. (dws.arkansas.gov, access.arkansas.gov)
Single fathers raising kids: Every program here applies to you, too—SNAP, WIC (if eligible), TEA, LIHEAP, and UI. OCSE serves both custodial and non‑custodial parents; use MyCase for updates. (dfa-site.ark.org)
Language access: Access Arkansas provides Spanish and Marshallese support; DHS also offers TTY/TDD lines—English 1‑800‑285‑1131, Spanish 1‑866‑656‑1842, Marshallese 1‑479‑365‑6625. (access.arkansas.gov)

Local and statewide organizations you can call

Arkansas Attorney General Consumer Protection: 1‑800‑482‑8982 — mediation/complaints on scams, debt collectors, unfair practices. (arkansasag.gov)
Legal Aid of Arkansas Helpline: 1‑800‑952‑9243 — free civil legal help for eligible households (debt, collections, benefits, housing). (arlegalaid.org)
Arkansas Energy Office LIHEAP: 501‑682‑0744 or 888‑233‑0326 — find your county’s CBO and learn required documents. (adeq.state.ar.us)
Access Arkansas Call Center: 1‑855‑372‑1084 — SNAP/TEA/Medicaid/WIC application support. (access.arkansas.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Freeze credit at all three bureaus: Do it online first.
Free weekly credit reports: AnnualCreditReport.com — pull all three, every week if needed. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Dispute errors by mail/online:
- TransUnion: P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016‑2000; 800‑916‑8800; dispute online. (transunion.com)
- Experian: P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013; dispute online. (experian.com)
- Equifax (reports & support): P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374‑0241; 1‑866‑349‑5191 (use Equifax’s online dispute center for fastest results). (investor.equifax.com)
SNAP: Max for 4 is $975; apply via Access Arkansas 1‑855‑372‑1084. (fns.usda.gov, access.arkansas.gov)
LIHEAP windows: Jan–Apr 30 and Jul–Sep 30; benefits vary; call 501‑682‑0744. (adeq.state.ar.us)
UI: $81-$ 451/week up to 12 weeks; ArkLine 501‑907‑2590; UI Center 1‑844‑908‑2178. (wioaplans.ed.gov)

Application checklist (print this)

Proof of identity: Driver’s license or state ID for you; birth certificates for kids (or other identity docs).
Proof of Arkansas residency: Lease, current utility bill.
Proof of income: Last 30 days of pay stubs; award letters (child support, UI); if no income, a statement explaining situation.
Social Security numbers: For all household members applying (where applicable).
Bills: Latest electric, gas, water bills; disconnect/shutoff notices for LIHEAP crisis benefits.
Childcare/school costs: If asking for help or showing hardship.
Banking: Voided check or account/routing numbers for direct deposit (UI/TEA).
Any court orders: Custody/child support orders (for OCSE or when income/household is verified).

Common mistakes to avoid

Paying a credit‑repair company up front: Illegal under federal law, and Arkansas adds a $10,000 bond requirement for any prepayment. Don’t risk it. (consumerfinance.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
Not checking reports weekly while disputing: Free weekly reports mean you can monitor changes and re‑dispute quickly. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Letting utilities get disconnected: Call the utility early and apply for LIHEAP; “crisis” funds can stop a shutoff if you act before the meter goes dark. (adeq.state.ar.us)
Missing UI weekly claims: Even one missed week can delay payments; file via ArkNet or ArkLine every week you’re unemployed. (dws.arkansas.gov)
Ignoring debt‑collector lawsuits: You can lose by default. Call Legal Aid 1‑800‑952‑9243 as soon as you’re served. (arlegalaid.org)

What to do if a program says “no” or you hear nothing back

Ask for the appeal steps: Every program here has an appeal or fair‑hearing process (DHS programs, LIHEAP, UI).
Escalate politely: Keep a call log with dates, names, and what was said. Ask for a supervisor or caseworker email.
Get help: Call Legal Aid 1‑800‑952‑9243 or the AG at 1‑800‑482‑8982 for unfair practices or stonewalling. (arlegalaid.org, arkansasag.gov)

10 Arkansas‑specific FAQs

How fast can I get SNAP in an emergency: DHS may issue expedited SNAP if you have very little cash/income and urgent need. Apply online/phone and ask for “expedited” screening at 1‑855‑372‑1084. (access.arkansas.gov)
What are the exact SNAP numbers for 2025: For a family of four, the max is $975 * * / m o; minim u mb e n e f i t f or 1-2 i s * *$ 23/mo. Income limits and deductions for 2025 are listed in USDA’s FY 2025 memo. (fns.usda.gov)
Do SNAP rules in Arkansas change what I can buy: A USDA‑approved waiver will restrict some sugary items starting July 1, 2026. It does not affect current 2025 purchases. (arkansasadvocate.com)
What’s the WIC monthly fruit/vegetable amount right now: Children $26 * *, p re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m * *$ 47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 (FY 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
How much TEA cash could my family get: Max is $81 * * f or 1 u pt o * *$ 457 for 9+, before income calculations. Time‑limit is 12 months (with Work Pays bonuses up to $1, 200 * * pl u s * *$ 400/ $600/$ 800 milestones). (casetext.com)
When does LIHEAP accept applications: Typically Jan–Apr 30 and Jul–Sep 30; benefits vary by income/household/fuel. Use the county map on the Energy Office site. (adeq.state.ar.us)
What’s the UI benefit range and duration: $81-$ 451/week, up to 12 weeks for new claims since Jan 1, 2024. File weekly via ArkNet/ArkLine 501‑907‑2590. (law.justia.com, wioaplans.ed.gov)
How do I apply for child support services and what’s the fee: Apply online or by mail; fee is $25 (waived if you receive SNAP/TEA/Medicaid/ARKids). For help, call 501‑682‑8398 or use MyCase. (dfa-site.ark.org)
Is “credit repair” with up‑front fees legal in Arkansas: Not without a $10,000 surety bond and a trust account—and federal law bans advance fees for telemarketed credit repair. Be cautious and report scams. (codes.findlaw.com, consumerfinance.gov)
What’s Arkansas’s minimum wage in 2025: $11.00/ h o u r * * (m os t e m pl oyers w i t h 4 + e m pl oyees); t i pp e d ba se i s * *$ 2.63/hour. (labor.arkansas.gov)

About phone numbers and deadlines in this guide

Phone numbers, dollar amounts, and dates: We verified the numbers in this guide against official Arkansas or federal sources between August–September 2025. Programs can change mid‑year; always check the linked official page or call the listed number to confirm current details.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This hub uses official sources from Arkansas Department of Human Services, the Arkansas Energy Office, USDA, and established nonprofits and agencies listed above.

How we research: Primary sources only (state/federal websites, official memos, and rules). We cross‑verify numbers (for example, SNAP COLA and income standards from USDA and Arkansas DHS program pages). We archive sources, test links at publication, and track policy changes. See our full standards. (fns.usda.gov, adeq.state.ar.us)

Independence and accuracy: We do not accept payment from programs we mention. We correct verified errors promptly. Email info@asinglemother.org with updates.

Last verified: September 2025; Next scheduled review: April 2026.

Disclaimer

General information only: This guide is not legal advice and does not guarantee any outcome. Program rules, dollar amounts, and timelines can change; always confirm with the relevant agency using the official links and phone numbers provided.

Privacy & security: When applying online, use secure networks and official .gov sites. If you suspect identity theft, freeze your credit immediately and file with the FTC. Keep your devices updated and use strong, unique passwords.

Sources (selected)

USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA (benefit amounts, income limits, deductions): policy memo and tables. (fns.usda.gov)
USDA WIC FY 2025 CVV amounts. (fns.usda.gov)
Arkansas Energy Office LIHEAP: application windows, county CBOs, income chart and benefit matrices. (adeq.state.ar.us)
DHS Access Arkansas contact and hotlines. (access.arkansas.gov, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
TEA & Work Pays amounts/time limits (Arkansas Administrative Code updates). (casetext.com)
Arkansas UI: 12‑week duration change; claim/weekly filing contacts. (wioaplans.ed.gov, dws.arkansas.gov)
Arkansas AG Consumer Protection (complaints/scams). (arkansasag.gov)
CROA/CFPB enforcement: advance‑fee ban and 2024‑2025 credit‑repair redress. (consumerfinance.gov)
Arkansas credit‑repair state requirements (bond/trust and contract disclosures). (codes.findlaw.com)
Arkansas minimum wage. (labor.arkansas.gov)
Arkansas SNAP waiver on sugary items (effective 2026). (arkansasadvocate.com)
UI weekly claims by phone (ArkLine). (dws.arkansas.gov)
Bankruptcy filing fees (federal). (cacb.uscourts.gov)

Plan B by section (quick recap)

SNAP: Ask for expedited SNAP; contact DHS Customer Assistance 1‑800‑482‑8988; call Legal Aid 1‑800‑952‑9243. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, arlegalaid.org)
WIC: Try a neighboring county clinic; re‑check after the 1st of the month.
TEA/Work Pays: Request diversion help; escalate to a supervisor; call Legal Aid if sanctioned or denied unfairly. (casetext.com)
LIHEAP: Ask about “crisis” funds; request an appeal hearing; talk with the utility about a payment plan backed by LIHEAP pledge. (adeq.state.ar.us)
UI: Appeal fast; call the Appeal Tribunal/Board of Review; keep filing weekly during appeal. (dws.arkansas.gov)
Credit disputes: Re‑dispute with more documentation; file complaints with the CFPB and Arkansas AG; consider a nonprofit credit counselor (avoid any that want up‑front fees). (consumerfinance.gov, arkansasag.gov)

Final word

Your next three moves:

Apply for SNAP and LIHEAP today: Free up food and utility money this month. SNAP max for 4 is $975; LIHEAP has crisis help if you’re facing shutoff. (fns.usda.gov, adeq.state.ar.us)
Freeze your credit and dispute errors: Use the addresses and links above; it’s free and effective. (transunion.com, experian.com, investor.equifax.com)
If income dropped: File UI now and keep filing weekly; if working again, look at TEA/Work Pays to bridge to steady pay. (wioaplans.ed.gov, casetext.com)

You’ve got the official numbers, the right links, and realistic timelines. Use them—one step at a time.

🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas