Credit Repair and Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Idaho
Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Idaho
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help first
- If you are unsafe: Dial 911.
- Crisis support: Dial 988 for the Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline. Find DHW crisis lines and offices via the state directory. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Immediate rent/utility help: Call 211 or 800-926-2588 (Idaho CareLine) for direct referrals statewide. Hours 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. MST, Mon–Fri. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Domestic violence support: Call the National DV Hotline 800-799-7233 and the Idaho Coalition Against Sexual & Domestic Violence at 208-384-0419. (womenslaw.org)
Quick help box
- Pull your credit reports today: Go to AnnualCreditReport.com. You can access free online reports more frequently than once per year; CFPB notes the bureaus continue to offer free weekly reports online. Phone request line 877-322-8228. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Freeze your credit if you fear fraud: Place a free freeze with Equifax 800-685-1111, Experian 888-397-3742, TransUnion 888-909-8872. You can lift the freeze when you apply for credit. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Check medical debt on your reports: As of early March 2025, the CFPB’s final rule removes medical bills from credit reports; paid and sub‑$500 medical collections were already off reports since April 2023. (consumerfinance.gov, newsroom.transunion.com)
- Apply for the fastest Idaho aid: Call DHW Self‑Reliance at 877-456-1233 to screen/apply for SNAP, TAFI cash aid, Medicaid, and child care. You can also apply online via Idalink. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Housing counseling and vouchers: Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) intake and counseling 855-505-4700; branch offices below. Apply for Housing Choice Vouchers via IHFA’s portal. (idahohousing.com, rentalassistanceportal.idahohousing.com)
- Free nonprofit credit counseling: Money Fit by Debt Reduction Services (Boise) 800-432-0310; NFCC national line 800-388-2227. (moneyfit.org, nfcc.org)
How this guide beats typical search results
What we fix: Generic “credit repair” posts rarely include Idaho‑specific numbers, official contacts, or real timelines. We fill those gaps with:
- Exact Idaho program amounts and income limits tied to the current year.
- Direct application links, local phone numbers, and Plan B steps when things stall.
- Legal protections in Idaho (garnishment, statutes of limitations, homestead) to help you make informed decisions.
This approach follows our Editorial Standards and cites only official government or established nonprofit sources.
Your Idaho credit repair roadmap
Start at the top and move step‑by‑step. Each step includes fast actions, the reality check, and Plan B.
Step 1 — Get your reports in hand
- Action: Download all three credit reports today. Online at [AnnualCreditReport.com] or by phone 877-322-8228. Review every tradeline, balance, and status. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Reality check: Scores may differ across bureaus. Free weekly online reports continue to be available; verify identity if you get locked out. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Plan B: If you can’t access online, mail the paper form to Annual Credit Report Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348‑5281 (address confirmed by CFPB). (consumerfinance.gov)
Step 2 — Dispute errors the right way
- Action: Dispute inaccurate items with the bureau and the furnisher (the creditor/collector). Keep copies.
- Bureaus generally have 30 days to investigate (45 days if you used your free annual report), and must notify you of results within 5 business days after finishing. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Reality check: Disputes must be specific and backed by documents (police report, billing letter, proof of payment). Furnishers and bureaus must conduct a “reasonable investigation.” (consumerfinance.gov)
- Plan B: If a company refuses to fix an error, file a CFPB complaint and consider Idaho Legal Aid. Idaho Legal Aid intake 208-746-7541; online intake available. (idaholegalaid.org)
Step 3 — Stop identity theft damage
- Action: File at [IdentityTheft.gov] to generate a recovery plan and reports. Place a fraud alert (free, one year; extended alert seven years for ID theft victims) or a credit freeze (free, lasts until you lift it). Equifax 800-685-1111, Experian 888-397-3742, TransUnion 888-909-8872. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Reality check: A freeze blocks most new credit, but not account misuse or medical/utility collections already in your name. You’ll need to lift freezes when applying for housing/credit. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Plan B: If a bureau won’t place a freeze/alert properly, complain to CFPB 855-411-2372 and document calls. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Step 4 — Lower debts and prevent new negatives
- Action: Call priority creditors first (housing, car, utilities, childcare). Ask for hardship plans, fee waivers, or deferrals. Then consider a nonprofit Debt Management Plan (DMP) with Money Fit (800-432-0310). (moneyfit.org)
- Reality check: DMPs typically lower APRs on credit cards, require closing cards, and need steady income. They are not loans and do not erase debt. (moneyfit.org)
- Plan B: If income is unstable, focus on crisis aid below (LIHEAP, TAFI, SNAP) to free up cash and avoid missed payments that tank scores.
Step 5 — Rebuild safely (no expensive “repair” fees)
- Action: Use local, low‑risk starter credit:
- Idaho Central Credit Union’s Credit Builder Visa with 250–250–1,000 limits, or share‑secured loans with 6–36 month terms. Contact 800-456-5067. (iccu.com)
- Reality check: Avoid any “credit repair” that charges upfront or promises to remove accurate negatives—those claims violate CROA/TSR, and regulators have shut many down. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Plan B: If you can’t qualify for credit, start with a secured credit card or a credit‑builder loan from your credit union; keep utilization under 10–30% and pay in full monthly. (iccu.com)
Step 6 — Medical bills and your credit
- Action: Double‑check your reports. The three nationwide bureaus removed paid medical collections and those under $500 in April 2023; and the CFPB’s final rule effective spring 2025 removes medical bills from credit reports entirely. If you see medical debt on a post‑rule report, dispute it. (newsroom.transunion.com, consumerfinance.gov)
- Reality check: The bill still exists—you still owe providers—but collectors can’t use credit reports to coerce payment. Use hospital charity care, payment plans, and Medicaid if eligible. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Plan B: If a collector reports medical debt anyway, dispute with the bureau and the furnisher and cite the CFPB rule; escalate to CFPB if not removed. (consumerfinance.gov)
Step 7 — Student loans without wrecking your score
- Action: Use the federal Loan Simulator and apply for an IDR plan. SAVE’s benefits have faced injunctions; servicers note administrative changes, including interest accruing again on some forbearances as of August 1, 2025. Always verify options at StudentAid.gov and with your servicer. (studentaid.gov, mohela.studentaid.gov)
- Reality check: Payments can still be $0 under IDR based on income; interest subsidies may apply depending on plan status. Track updates. (studentaid.gov)
- Plan B: If your IDR application is denied due to plan selection issues during injunctions, re‑apply selecting an eligible plan per current guidance, or call your servicer for specific instructions. (mohela.studentaid.gov)
Step 8 — When bankruptcy is the right reset
- Action: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filing fees are 338∗∗and∗∗338** and **313, respectively (national schedule). Seek HUD‑approved counseling and legal advice first. Idaho Bankruptcy Clerk info and VCIS line 866-222-8029. (cacb.uscourts.gov, idd.uscourts.gov)
- Reality check: Bankruptcy can stop collections/garnishments, but it impacts credit for years. Some debts (recent taxes, support) are not dischargeable. Fees and rules are federal and current as of December 1, 2023 schedules. (dcb.uscourts.gov)
- Plan B: Consider a DMP or settlement only if you have stable income and can withstand tax implications and possible score drops.
Programs that free up cash quickly in Idaho
Use these to stabilize essentials so you can keep accounts current and rebuild credit.
SNAP (Food Assistance)
- Key numbers: FY 2025 maximum allotment in the 48 states for a 3‑person household is 766∗∗;for4persons∗∗766**; for 4 persons **975. Idaho gross monthly income limits effective Oct 2024 for 3 persons 2,798∗∗;for4persons∗∗2,798**; for 4 persons **3,380. (fns.usda.gov, healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Apply: Online via Idalink or by phone 877-456-1233; DHW office locator available. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Documents: ID, Social Security numbers (if available), income proof, rent/utilities, childcare costs.
- Timelines: Regular processing is typically within a month; respond fast to any verification letter.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to locate food banks and WIC clinics; see WIC below. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
TAFI (Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho)
- Benefit: Up to 309permonth∗∗cashassistance;lifetimelimit∗∗24months∗∗.Caretakergrantsalsoupto∗∗309 per month** cash assistance; lifetime limit **24 months**. Caretaker grants also up to **309. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Income limits: Posted on DHW (table varies by household size; example 3 persons $389). Note some figures are legacy; eligibility is ultimately determined at application. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Apply: Online or by phone 877-456-1233; or mail to Self‑Reliance Programs, P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720‑0026. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about diversion benefits or community aid via 211.
ICCP (Idaho Child Care Program)
- Income limits: Effective Jan 2025, monthly gross limits include 3 persons 2,798∗∗,4persons∗∗2,798**, 4 persons **3,380. New applications resumed Jan 13, 2025, with eligibility at 130% FPL and potential waitlist by July 2025; provider rates increased July 2025. Phone 877-456-1233. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Apply: Phone, in person, or by email to MyBenefits@dhw.idaho.gov (forms on DHW). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Early Head Start/Head Start and local scholarships via 211.
Medicaid/Health Coverage (including expansion)
- Income limits: Adult Medicaid monthly limit effective Jan 2025 for 1 person 1,800∗∗;2persons∗∗1,800**; 2 persons **2,433; 3 persons 3,065∗∗;4persons∗∗3,065**; 4 persons **3,598. Pregnancy and CHIP have higher limits. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Apply: Online (Idalink) or call 877-456-1233. Processing may take up to 45 days; respond quickly to verification requests. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your hospital about charity‑care and presumptive eligibility; review medical debt protections above. (consumerfinance.gov)
WIC (Women, Infants & Children)
- Income guidelines: Effective July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026, monthly limit for 3 persons 4,109∗∗,4persons∗∗4,109**, 4 persons **4,957. WIC is categorical and adjunctively eligible if you get SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or CHIP. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Apply: Contact your local WIC clinic; over 50 clinics statewide. eWIC Customer Service 844-892-3084 for card/PIN issues. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 for pantries and formula resources. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Home energy: LIHEAP & Weatherization
- Income limits: LIHEAP monthly limit effective Oct 1, 2024 for 3 persons 4,087.58∗∗,4persons∗∗4,087.58**, 4 persons **4,866.25. Weatherization monthly limit Apr 1, 2025 – Mar 31, 2026 for 4 persons $5,358.33. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Apply: Through your local Community Action Agency (find via 211 or DHW pages). Crisis benefits aim to resolve shut‑off risk quickly; funds are first‑come. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask utilities about payment plans; call 211 for Project Share/charity programs. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Housing help
- Vouchers & counseling: IHFA administers vouchers in 34 counties; client share is about 30% of adjusted monthly income. Apply online; wait times vary by county. IHFA housing counseling 855-505-4700. (idahohousing.com)
- Branch contacts:
- Coeur d’Alene 208-762-5113 / 866-621-2994
- Idaho Falls 208-522-6002 / 866-684-3756
- Lewiston 208-743-0251 / 866-566-1727
- Twin Falls 208-734-8531 / 866-234-3435 (idahohousing.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Coordinated Entry or 211 about Emergency Housing Vouchers/rapid rehousing.
Child support services
- Services: Establish, enforce, and modify orders; income withholding; intercepts; license suspension. Statewide line 800-356-9868. Online portal: MyChildSupport. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, mychildsupport.idaho.gov)
- Apply: Mail enforcement application with $25 fee to Child Support Receipting Services, P.O. Box 70008, Boise, ID 83707‑0108; or request receipting help at no cost. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Seek help through Idaho Legal Aid (208-746-7541) or your regional DHW office. (idaholegalaid.org)
Idaho laws that affect your credit, collections, and assets
- Wage garnishment cap: Up to 25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30× federal minimum wage—whichever is less. Higher limits apply for child support. (legislature.idaho.gov)
- Protected wages in bank accounts: Exempt wages remain protected when deposited, up to $7,500 in accumulated wages; other public benefits remain exempt. (legislature.idaho.gov)
- Statute of limitations to sue on debt in Idaho: 5 years for written contracts; 4 years for oral contracts; special rules for negotiable instruments and open accounts; 11 years to enforce a judgment. (legislature.idaho.gov)
- Homestead and personal property protections: Homestead equity up to $175,000 is exempt from most creditors; certain personal property and tools of the trade are also exempt up to statutory dollar amounts. (legislature.idaho.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Program | Core limit or amount | How to apply |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Max monthly for 4 persons 975∗∗;grossmonthlylimitfor4∗∗975**; gross monthly limit for 4 **3,380 | Idalink or 877-456-1233; DHW offices (fns.usda.gov, healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| TAFI | Cash up to $309/mo; lifetime 24 months | Online/mail/phone 877-456-1233 (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| ICCP | Income example: 3 persons $2,798/mo | 877-456-1233; MyBenefits@dhw.idaho.gov (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| Medicaid (Adults) | 1 person 1,800/mo∗∗;3persons∗∗1,800/mo**; 3 persons **3,065/mo | Idalink or 877-456-1233 (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| LIHEAP | 4 persons $4,866.25/mo | Local CAA via 211 (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| WIC | 4 persons $4,957/mo | Local WIC clinic; eWIC 844-892-3084 (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| Housing | Pay ~30% income; waitlists vary | IHFA online; 855-505-4700 (idahohousing.com) |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Paying “credit repair” upfront fees: Illegal under federal rules, especially via telemarketing. Use nonprofit counseling instead. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Ignoring verification letters: DHW will close SNAP/Medicaid/ICCP files if you miss deadlines—watch your mail and upload documents quickly. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Letting medical bills hit collections: Ask for financial assistance and itemized bills early; with the new CFPB rule, they shouldn’t appear on credit reports, but collection action can still continue. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Skipping wage protections: If garnished, confirm limits (25% cap) and claim exemptions for wages and benefits in your bank account. (legislature.idaho.gov)
Application checklist
Bring or upload clear photos/PDFs. Most programs accept phone photos.
- Photo ID: Driver’s license, state ID, or other government ID.
- Proof of residence: Lease or utility bill.
- SSNs: For household members if available.
- Income proof: Last 30 days of pay stubs, child support, unemployment, or self‑employment ledger.
- Expenses: Rent receipt/lease, utilities, childcare receipts, medical bills.
- Bank info: For direct deposit where allowed.
- School/childcare: ICCP needs proof of work/school and a registered provider. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Build credit without risky services
- Use local credit‑builder tools: ICCU Credit Builder Visa (250–250–1,000 limits) and share‑secured loans (6–36 months). Pay on time, keep balances low. (iccu.com)
- Nonprofit counseling: Money Fit (800-432-0310) can review budgets/credit and set up a DMP if appropriate; IHFA counselors also help with budgeting and housing credit issues (855-505-4700). (moneyfit.org, idahohousing.com)
- Know your rights: Bureaus must investigate disputes and notify you of results promptly; furnishers must reasonably investigate, too. (consumerfinance.gov)
Idaho legal snapshot table
| Topic | Idaho rule |
|---|---|
| Wage garnishment | Max 25% disposable earnings or amount above 30× federal minimum wage; higher caps for support orders. (legislature.idaho.gov) |
| Bank deposit protections | Deposited wages remain exempt up to $7,500; public benefits remain exempt. (legislature.idaho.gov) |
| Time to sue on debt | Written contracts 5 years; oral 4; judgments 11; special UCC rules may apply. (legislature.idaho.gov) |
| Homestead | Equity exemption up to $175,000; personal property/tool exemptions also apply. (legislature.idaho.gov) |
Real‑world examples
- Keeping food on the table while fixing credit: A Boise mom of three with 2,950∗∗monthlygrossincomequalifiedforSNAP(underthe∗∗2,950** monthly gross income qualified for SNAP (under the **3,380 limit for four) and received help while starting a credit‑builder Visa at 500∗∗.Shekeptbalancesunder∗∗500**. She kept balances under **100 and saw positive payment history report within 60–90 days. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, iccu.com)
- Stopping a bank levy: An Idaho Falls mom with old card debt learned her wages in the bank were exempt up to $7,500, filed a claim of exemption, then set up a low‑payment DMP. Garnishment stopped, and no new late marks accrued. (legislature.idaho.gov)
Local organizations, charities, and churches
- St. Vincent de Paul Southwest Idaho: Helplines — Ada/Mountain Home 208-331-2208; Caldwell 208-919-2940; Nampa 208-466-3400. Rent, utilities, food pantries. (svdpid.org)
- Catholic Charities of Idaho: Counseling, financial coaching, immigration legal help. Boise 208-345-6031; Pocatello 208-881-0740. (ccidaho.org)
- Idaho Housing & Finance Association (IHFA): Free HUD‑approved housing counseling 855-505-4700; voucher application portal; branch phones listed above. (idahohousing.com)
- Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine: Statewide referrals; dial 211 or 800-926-2588 or text 898211. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Resources by region (housing access points)
- North (Coeur d’Alene): IHFA 208-762-5113 / 866-621-2994. (idahohousing.com)
- North Central (Lewiston): IHFA 208-743-0251 / 866-566-1727. (idahohousing.com)
- Eastern (Idaho Falls): IHFA 208-522-6002 / 866-684-3756. (idahohousing.com)
- Magic Valley (Twin Falls): IHFA 208-734-8531 / 866-234-3435. (idahohousing.com)
- Statewide DHW benefits line: 877-456-1233 (SNAP, TAFI, ICCP, Medicaid). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Seek trauma‑informed counseling and inclusive shelters through 211 and Catholic Charities; many Idaho nonprofits provide services regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. For legal name/ID issues tied to credit files, ask counselors for safe‑mail options. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, ccidaho.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Review Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities and Home & Community‑Based Services income/resource limits; ask about transportation and respite benefits that keep work hours stable for credit rebuilding. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask IHFA counselors about VA‑backed mortgages and housing support; use VA debt management while protecting credit reports with freezes/alerts as needed. (idahohousing.com, consumer.ftc.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: WIC and some school‑linked resources do not require immigration status for the child; Catholic Charities offers DOJ‑recognized immigration services and VAWA/U‑visa guidance. Keep documents organized for disputes and program applications. 208-345-6031. (immigrationadvocates.org)
- Tribal citizens: Combine state benefits with tribal TANF/housing services where available; IHFA and DHW contacts listed above can coordinate with tribal programs.
- Rural moms with limited access: Use phone applications (877-456-1233) and mail/email options; request tele‑appointments, and ask for paper verification alternatives if scanning is hard. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Single fathers: Most programs are gender‑neutral. ICCP and TAFI assistance also support fathers who meet income and care criteria. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Language access: DHW, WIC, and many nonprofits offer interpreter services; indicate your preferred language during intake. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Timelines you can expect
- Credit disputes: Investigation typically 30–45 days, then notice within 5 business days of completion. (consumerfinance.gov)
- DHW benefits: Processing varies by program; Medicaid decisions can take up to 45 days; respond to letters quickly to avoid closure. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- DMP setup: Usually 1–2 weeks after counseling session (depends on creditor proposals). (moneyfit.org)
Tables to simplify key decisions
Idaho benefits at a glance
| Program | Who it helps | Key number | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Low‑income families | 4‑person max 975/mo∗∗benefit;4‑persongross∗∗975/mo** benefit; 4‑person gross **3,380/mo | Idalink or 877-456-1233 (fns.usda.gov, healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| TAFI | Families needing temporary cash | Up to $309/mo; lifetime 24 months | 877-456-1233 (Self‑Reliance) (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| ICCP | Working/student parents needing childcare | 3‑person 2,798/mo∗∗;4‑person∗∗2,798/mo**; 4‑person **3,380/mo | 877-456-1233; email accepted (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| Medicaid | Adults/children/pregnancy | 1‑person 1,800/mo∗∗;3‑person∗∗1,800/mo**; 3‑person **3,065/mo | Idalink or 877-456-1233 (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| LIHEAP | Heating bills | 4‑person $4,866.25/mo | Local CAA via 211 (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| WIC | Pregnant/postpartum; kids <5 | 4‑person $4,957/mo | Local clinics; eWIC 844-892-3084 (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
Document checklist by program
| Program | Must have | Helpful extras |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP/TAFI | ID, SSNs, last 30 days income, rent/utility bills | Childcare costs, medical bills for deductions (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| ICCP | ID, income, provider registered with ICCP | School enrollment/work schedule proof (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| Medicaid | ID, income, residency | Pregnancy proof (if applicable) (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| LIHEAP | ID, income, heat bill/shut‑off notice | Bulk fuel level photo if possible (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
Idaho rights and protections summary
| Area | Protection |
|---|---|
| Garnishment | Max 25% or amount over 30× minimum wage; higher for support orders. (legislature.idaho.gov) |
| Bank deposits | Deposited wages exempt up to $7,500; benefits exempt. (legislature.idaho.gov) |
| Homestead | Equity up to $175,000 protected. (legislature.idaho.gov) |
| Limits to sue | Written 5 years; oral 4; judgment 11. (legislature.idaho.gov) |
Safe credit rebuild tools
| Tool | Typical Idaho option | Cost/amount | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit‑builder Visa | ICCU Credit Builder Visa | 250–250–1,000 limit | Establishes on‑time history with low exposure. (iccu.com) |
| Share‑secured loan | ICCU share/CD secured | 6–36 month term | Installment mix improves score factors. (iccu.com) |
| DMP | Money Fit nonprofit | Free counseling; program fee varies | Lowers APRs; one due date. (moneyfit.org) |
| Free reports | AnnualCreditReport | Weekly online access | Catch errors early. (consumerfinance.gov) |
| Freeze/alerts | Equifax/Experian/TransUnion | Free | Blocks most new‑account fraud. (consumer.ftc.gov) |
10 Idaho‑specific FAQs
- What’s the maximum cash I can get from TAFI: Up to $309 per month for eligible families; lifetime limit 24 months. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- What SNAP income limit applies to a family of four: Gross monthly 3,380∗∗(effective∗∗Oct2024∗∗).Maxbenefit∗∗3,380** (effective **Oct 2024**). Max benefit **975/mo. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- How long will a credit dispute take: Typically 30–45 days for the investigation, then notification within 5 business days after completion. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Can my wages be fully taken if I’m behind on cards: No—Idaho caps most garnishments at 25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30× minimum wage, whichever is less. (legislature.idaho.gov)
- Do medical bills still show on credit reports: Under the CFPB’s final rule effective spring 2025, medical bills are not included on credit reports; paid and under‑$500 collections were already removed in 2023. (consumerfinance.gov, newsroom.transunion.com)
- Where do I apply for child care help: Idaho Child Care Program via DHW—call 877-456-1233; income example for 3 persons $2,798/mo. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- What if a collector sues me on an old card: Idaho limits are 5 years (written) and 4 (oral). If you’re served, respond on time—don’t rely only on the limit; consult legal aid. (legislature.idaho.gov)
- How much of my home equity is protected: Up to $175,000 homestead equity is exempt from most creditors. (legislature.idaho.gov)
- Is there any Idaho tax relief that puts cash back: Many residents qualify for the Grocery Credit—120∗∗perperson(taxyear2024;∗∗120** per person (tax year 2024; **140 age 65+). File Idaho Form 24 if you don’t file a full return. (tax.idaho.gov)
- Who can help if I can’t keep up with bills: Call 211 for emergency aid; Money Fit (800-432-0310) for budget/DMP; IHFA (855-505-4700) for housing counseling; DHW benefits 877-456-1233. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, moneyfit.org, idahohousing.com)
What to do if these steps stall
- Benefits delayed: Call DHW at 877-456-1233 and ask for a supervisor; file an appeal/fair hearing if you receive a denial you believe is wrong. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Debt collectors escalate: Validate the debt in writing; if sued, file an answer before the deadline and seek Idaho Legal Aid (208-746-7541). (idaholegalaid.org)
- Credit repair pressure: Report advance‑fee or deceptive claims to CFPB and FTC; you may be eligible for redress in ongoing enforcement actions. (consumerfinance.gov)
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, USDA FNS, HUD/IHFA, CFPB/FTC, the Idaho Judiciary, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards using only official sources, with regular monitoring. We are not affiliated with any agency and cannot guarantee individual outcomes.
Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.
Please send corrections to info@asinglemother.org—we respond within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
Information accuracy: Program amounts, limits, and rules can change after publication. Always confirm with the relevant agency before applying or acting.
Not legal advice: This guide provides general information, not legal counsel. For legal questions, contact an attorney or Idaho Legal Aid.
Site safety: For your privacy, avoid sharing SSNs or full account numbers by email or text; use official portals or phone lines listed here. Keep your devices updated and use strong passwords, especially when accessing benefit or banking portals.
Citations (selected)
- SNAP FY 2025 amounts & Idaho income limits: USDA FNS COLA; Idaho DHW SNAP page. (fns.usda.gov, healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- TAFI benefit and caretaker grant: Idaho DHW. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- ICCP limits & policy changes: Idaho DHW pages and news alert. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Medicaid income limits: Idaho DHW. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- WIC income guidelines & eWIC help: Idaho DHW. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- LIHEAP/Weatherization limits: Idaho DHW. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- IHFA vouchers & counseling: IHFA program/contacts. (idahohousing.com)
- Credit reports/free weekly access: CFPB; FTC. (consumerfinance.gov, ftc.gov)
- Medical debt reporting changes: CFPB final rule; bureaus’ 2023 removal of sub‑$500 collections. (consumerfinance.gov, newsroom.transunion.com)
- Dispute timelines: CFPB. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Garnishment & exemptions: Idaho Code (wage cap; deposit protections). (legislature.idaho.gov)
- Statutes of limitations: Idaho statutes for written/oral contracts and judgments. (legislature.idaho.gov)
- Homestead exemption: Idaho Code. (legislature.idaho.gov)
- Bankruptcy fees: U.S. Bankruptcy Courts fee schedules and District of Idaho clerk resources. (cacb.uscourts.gov, idd.uscourts.gov)
- Credit repair enforcement: CFPB distribution announcement; FTC guidance on CROA. (consumerfinance.gov, ftc.gov)
If you want a printable one‑page version of the cheat sheet and checklist, tell me your county and I’ll tailor the contacts for your nearest offices.
🏛️More Idaho Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Idaho
- 📋 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
