Credit Repair and Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Indiana
Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Indiana
Last updated: September 2025
This is a no‑nonsense, step‑by‑step hub built for Indiana single moms who need fast answers, clear numbers, and real action steps. It follows our Editorial Standards and links directly to official state and federal sources.
Quick Help Box
- If utilities are at risk of shutoff: Apply to Indiana’s Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) immediately and tell your utility you applied to claim winter shutoff protection. Deadline is April 14, 2025 for PY2025. Call Indiana 211: 866‑211‑9966 or your Local Service Provider via IHCDA Energy Assistance Program. (in.gov)
- If you need food right now: Apply for SNAP and WIC; see income limits and benefit amounts below. For SNAP/TANF/Medicaid help call FSSA/DFR: 800‑403‑0864 or find your office via DFR County Offices map. (in.gov)
- If a collector is threatening garnishment: Indiana caps most garnishments at the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30× federal minimum wage; child support has higher limits. Consider free legal help through Indiana Legal Services: 844‑243‑8570 and see the law excerpt below. (codes.findlaw.com, indianalegalservices.org)
- If your credit report has errors: Pull your free weekly reports and dispute—agencies generally have 30 days to investigate. Use AnnualCreditReport.com and the CFPB dispute guidance. (consumer.ftc.gov, consumerfinance.gov)
- If you lost your job: Indiana UI max weekly benefit is $390; first payment typically in about 3 weeks if no issues. Call DWD UI: 800‑891‑6499 or apply via Indiana Unemployment. (in.gov)
- If you’re facing mortgage trouble: Call the Indiana Foreclosure Prevention Network: 877‑GET‑HOPE (877‑438‑4673) for HUD‑certified counseling. (877gethope.org)
- If you need consumer protection help or want to report a scam: Call the Indiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Division: 800‑382‑5516 and file a complaint online. (in.gov)
Emergency First Steps (Do These Today)
- Secure heat, lights, and food first: Submit an EAP application (winter moratorium protection triggers when you apply). Then submit SNAP and WIC. Keep confirmation pages. (in.gov)
- Stop avoidable damage to your credit: Pull your free weekly credit reports; freeze your credit if you suspect identity theft; start disputes with evidence (screenshots, bills, police report if needed). Use the FTC identity theft complaint and CFPB dispute letter. (consumer.ftc.gov, in.gov, consumerfinance.gov)
- Call the right hotlines for fast relief:
- Tell creditors what’s happening: Ask for hardship plans, payment pauses, or rate reductions. Document every call.
- Plan B if calls go nowhere: Ask a nonprofit credit counselor (NFCC member) for a same‑day phone session: 800‑388‑2227. They can set up a Debt Management Plan if appropriate. (nfcc.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Indiana 2025)
| Topic | You’ll likely qualify if… | Key amounts | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Income within FY2025 limits below | Max for 4 is $975/mo | FSSA SNAP page |
| TANF | Very low income with a child | Example: 3‑person max cash $513/mo | FSSA TANF |
| WIC | Up to 185% FPL | CVB per month: kids 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47 | Indiana WIC |
| EAP (LIHEAP) | Up to 60% State Median Income | One‑time benefit; winter moratorium applies | IHCDA EAP |
| Medicaid (HIP) | Adults ≤138% FPL | Income examples below | HIP/Medicaid Eligibility |
| Unemployment | Separated through no fault | Weekly max $390, up to ~26 weeks | Indiana Unemployment |
Figures and links below with details. (fns.usda.gov, in.gov)
Stabilize the Household Budget Before Tackling Credit
SNAP (Food Stamps) in Indiana
Most important action: Apply now—even if you think you’re slightly over; deductions often help families qualify.
- Eligibility & amounts: Indiana uses FY2025 federal COLA standards. Example maximum monthly benefit is $975 for a household of 4; see full table below. Apply through FSSA. (fns.usda.gov)
- Where to apply & help: Apply online or at your county DFR office. Phone: 800‑403‑0864. Office map below. (in.gov)
- What you need: ID, proof of Indiana residency, last 30 days of income, rent/utility costs, childcare costs, child support paid, medical expenses for elderly/disabled household members.
- Timeline: Interviews typically within 2 weeks; expedited SNAP can arrive within 7 days for very low incomes.
SNAP FY2025 – Indiana Income Limits and Maximum Allotments
| Household size | Gross monthly limit | Net monthly limit | Max allotment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,632 | $1,255 | $292 |
| 2 | $2,215 | $1,704 | $536 |
| 3 | $2,798 | $2,152 | $768 |
| 4 | $3,380 | $2,600 | $975 |
| 5 | $3,963 | $3,049 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $4,546 | $3,497 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $5,129 | $3,945 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $5,712 | $4,394 | $1,756 |
| Each add’l | +$583 | +$449 | +$220 |
Source: FSSA SNAP income and allotments and USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA. (in.gov, fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a fair hearing if denied and you believe rules were misapplied; bring receipts for deductions. Call Indiana Legal Services: 844‑243‑8570 for advice. (indianalegalservices.org)
WIC for Pregnant/Postpartum Moms and Kids under 5
Most important action: Book a WIC appointment—benefits include formula, specific foods, and a monthly fruits & veggies cash value.
- Income: Up to 185% of FPL. 2025 Indiana WIC monthly income example: family of 3 up to 4,109∗∗;familyof4upto∗∗4,109**; family of 4 up to **4,957. (in.gov)
- Monthly Cash‑Value Benefit (CVB) through Sept 30, 2025: children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)
- Contact: Indiana WIC: 800‑522‑0874 and Eligibility & clinics. (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the clinic for a secondary nutrition risk assessment or call the state WIC office. Check if you qualify via adjunct eligibility (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid). (in.gov)
TANF Cash Assistance
Most important action: Apply if income is extremely low with a minor child in the home.
- Maximum monthly payments (children or child plus caretaker): for 1 248∗∗,2∗∗248**, 2 **409, 3 513∗∗,4∗∗513**, 4 **617, 5 721∗∗,6∗∗721**, 6 **825, etc. Assets generally ≤ $1,000 at application. Decision within about 60 days. Phone: 800‑403‑0864. (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a fair hearing within 33 days if denied; ask about diversion benefits or local trustee help. (in.gov)
Child Care Help (CCDF) and Pre‑K
Most important action: Apply for CCDF if work/school hours keep you from earning—this can unlock your ability to work.
- Income rules: Generally ≤ 150% FPL to start; remains eligible up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI) at redetermination; child care workers have special 85% SMI entry. (in.gov, secure.in.gov)
- How to apply: Use Indiana Carefinder – Child Care Assistance.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the CCDF eligibility office about waiting lists, sliding‑scale copays, and regional provider options. (in.gov)
Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP/EAP)
Most important action: Apply now if behind or you see a shutoff notice.
- Application window (PY2025): Opens October 1, 2024 and closes April 14, 2025 at 5 pm ET. Winter moratorium protection applies for eligible applicants during December 1–March 15. Typical determination up to 55 days; utility processing up to 30 additional days. (in.gov)
- Income: Up to 60% of State Median Income (table provided on IHCDA site). (in.gov)
- Where to apply: Use the county map on IHCDA EAP. In Marion County, see IndyEAP. (in.gov, indyeap.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for crisis assistance through your LSP, payment plan with the utility, and call Indiana 211: 866‑211‑9966 for local funds. (in.gov)
Medicaid and the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP)
Most important action: Check eligibility—medical bills can spiral credit problems fast; coverage frees cash for debt reduction.
- Adults (HIP Plus) monthly income limit examples, effective March 1, 2025: 1 1,800.25∗∗,2∗∗1,800.25**, 2 **2,433.15, 3 3,065.05∗∗,4∗∗3,065.05**, 4 **3,698.00. Members contribute 2% of income to POWER accounts (1–1–20 per month tier). (in.gov)
- Pregnant individuals and children: Higher income thresholds—see FSSA’s Eligibility Guide page for current monthly limits. (in.gov)
- Apply: Online via FSSA Benefits Portal or call 800‑403‑0864. (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request Presumptive Eligibility (pregnancy), contact a Navigator, or appeal a denial. (in.gov)
Unemployment Insurance (UI)
Most important action: File immediately after job loss; certify weekly.
- Weekly benefit amount: up to $390; typical maximum duration up to 26 weeks; first payment often ~3 weeks after filing if no issues (waiting week applies). UI Phone: 800‑891‑6499. (in.gov)
- Apply: Indiana Unemployment hub (Uplink). (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit a WorkOne center, appeal promptly if denied, and consider part‑time work strategies that keep you eligible. (in.gov)
Indiana Credit Repair: What Works Now
Step 1 — Check and Organize Your Credit Reports
- Pull free weekly reports: Use AnnualCreditReport.com. This free weekly access is now permanent. Tip: Save PDFs and highlight errors. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Freeze your credit if needed: Consider a free freeze with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion if you suspect identity theft. Use the Indiana AG identity theft complaint as a paper trail. (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If online access fails, request by mail with copies of ID and utility bill; keep certified mail receipts. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Step 2 — Dispute Errors the Right Way
- Your rights: Credit bureaus generally must investigate within 30 days (up to 45 days in specific situations), then notify you within 5 business days of completion and send an updated report if changed. Furnishers must reasonably investigate disputes sent by a bureau. (consumerfinance.gov)
- How to dispute: Use the bureau’s online portals or mail the CFPB template letter with copies (not originals). Include account numbers, why it’s wrong, and your ask (delete/correct). (consumerfinance.gov)
- If they stall or stonewall: Bureaus and furnishers can’t set extra hoops that deter disputes. If information can’t be verified, it must be removed. File a complaint with the CFPB if needed. (consumerfinance.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Add a 100‑word statement to your file, then escalate with documented CFPB and AG complaints. (consumerfinance.gov, in.gov)
Step 3 — Prioritize Debts and Know Indiana Protections
- Wage garnishment caps: Most judgments are capped at the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30× federal minimum wage; courts can reduce to 10% for good cause. Child support withholding can reach 50–65% depending on circumstances. (codes.findlaw.com)
- Payday/small loans: Indiana’s “small loans” (often payday) are heavily regulated: finance charges are capped by tiers—15% on the first 250∗∗,13250**, 13% on **250–400∗∗,and10400**, and 10% on **400–550∗∗;totaloutstandingsmallloanscan’texceed∗∗550**; total outstanding small loans can’t exceed **550 across lenders. Verify any lender is licensed with the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). DFI consumer inquiries: 317‑232‑3955 or 800‑382‑4880. (codes.findlaw.com, in.gov)
- How to check a lender: Use DFI’s license lookup or “Licensed Small Lender” list. File complaints with DFI or the AG if you suspect violations. (faqs.in.gov, secure.in.gov)
- Medical/insurance disputes: For insurance claim denials, contact the Indiana Department of Insurance Consumer Services: 800‑622‑4461. (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Talk to a nonprofit credit counselor (NFCC 800‑388‑2227) about a temporary Debt Management Plan or ask an attorney about negotiating lump‑sum settlements on stale debts. (nfcc.org)
Step 4 — Add Positive Credit
- Rent reporting: If your landlord participates, positive rent payments can help build credit; late rent isn’t reported in Fannie Mae’s “positive‑only” programs. Some Indiana multifamily owners can enroll at no cost for a year through Fannie Mae’s pilot (extended through June 30, 2025). (multifamily.fanniemae.com, singlefamily.fanniemae.com)
- Student loans: If your loans were placed in SAVE Administrative Forbearance due to federal court actions, note that interest began accruing again on August 1, 2025. Use the Loan Simulator to choose a current repayment plan and recertify promptly to avoid spikes. Check updates with your servicer (e.g., MOHELA). (mohela.studentaid.gov)
- Credit‑builder tools: Consider a secured card or a credit‑builder loan from a local credit union; keep utilization under 30% and pay on time.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your landlord to enroll in rent reporting or consider becoming an authorized user on a trusted family member’s longstanding, low‑balance card.
Indiana Benefits and Credit‑Impacting Programs: Details and Links
Division of Family Resources (DFR) Contacts
- How to apply/manage multiple benefits: Online via the Benefits Portal or in person. DFR Phone: 800‑403‑0864; find offices on the county map below. Mail docs to FSSA Document Center, PO Box 1810, Marion, IN 46952. (in.gov)
Child Support
- Need help with orders or payments: Call KIDSLINE: 800‑840‑8757 for case info and local office contacts; calculate or modify orders using the Indiana Judicial Branch’s online calculator. (in.gov, secure.in.gov)
- When child support and garnishments collide: Child support withholding takes priority over most other garnishments. (secure.in.gov)
Tax Credits That Put Cash Back
- Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Tax Year 2024 (filed in 2025): Up to $7,830 with three or more children; see income limits below. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Indiana Earned Income Credit: Indiana’s EIC equals 10% of your federal EITC. (Indiana DOR change announced for 2023; still in effect.) (events.in.gov)
- Child Tax Credit (CTC) 2024: Up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchildunder17;refundableupto∗∗2,000** per qualifying child under 17; refundable up to **1,700 via Additional CTC. (turbotax.intuit.com)
- Where to file for free: VITA sites—dial 211 or visit IRS VITA Locator. (content.govdelivery.com)
EITC 2024: Income Limits and Maximums
| Qualifying children | Max income (Single/HoH) | Max income (MFJ) | EITC range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | $18,591 | $25,511 | 2–2–632 |
| 1 | $49,084 | $56,004 | 9–9–4,213 |
| 2 | $55,768 | $62,688 | 10–10–6,960 |
| 3+ | $59,899 | $66,819 | 11–11–7,830 |
Source: IRS EITC for 2024; investment income cap $11,600. (eitc.irs.gov)
Tables You Can Use
Indiana TANF Maximum Monthly Cash Assistance
| Assistance group | Max payment |
|---|---|
| 1 | $248 |
| 2 | $409 |
| 3 | $513 |
| 4 | $617 |
| 5 | $721 |
| 6 | $825 |
| 7 | $929 |
| 8 | $1,033 |
| 9 | $1,137 |
| 10 | $1,241 |
Medicaid/HIP Adult Income Limits (Monthly, effective March 2025)
| Household | HIP Plus limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,800.25 |
| 2 | $2,433.15 |
| 3 | $3,065.05 |
| 4 | $3,698.00 |
| 5 | $4,329.90 |
Source: FSSA Eligibility Guide. (in.gov)
EAP (LIHEAP) Key Dates (PY2025)
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | October 1, 2024 |
| Notices/appointments begin | November 1, 2024 |
| Winter moratorium | December 1–March 15 |
| Application deadline | April 14, 2025, 5 pm ET |
Source: IHCDA EAP. (in.gov)
Credit Dispute Timelines
| Action | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Bureau investigation | 30 days (up to 45 days in certain cases) |
| Notice of results | Within 5 business days after completion |
| Furnisher duty | Must conduct a reasonable investigation; cannot ignore disputes forwarded by a bureau |
Source: CFPB AskCFPB pages and circular. (consumerfinance.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not applying because you “think” you’re over income: SNAP and CCDF use deductions; many families qualify.
- Missing a benefits deadline: Mark April 14, 2025 for EAP. Set calendar alerts. (in.gov)
- Talking to collectors without notes: Keep a call log with dates, names, and promises. Ask for everything in writing.
- Paying unlicensed lenders: Verify licensing with DFI; avoid triple‑digit APR loans that blow up budgets. (in.gov)
- Ignoring student loan notices: With SAVE in flux and interest accruing again for some, log in monthly and use the Loan Simulator. (mohela.studentaid.gov)
Application Checklist
- Identity and residency: State ID, lease or utility bill.
- Income proof: Last 30–90 days pay stubs, child support received, self‑employment ledger.
- Expenses: Rent, utilities, childcare receipts, child support paid, medical bills for elderly/disabled members.
- Banking: Statements if requested (certain programs).
- Special docs: Pregnancy statement for WIC/Medicaid; disconnect/eviction notices for EAP/crisis help.
Dealing with Debt Collectors in Indiana
- Know your rights: The FDCPA bars harassment, odd‑hour calls, and misrepresentation; request written validation within 30 days of the first notice. See CFPB resources. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Garnishment limits: Courts can’t order more than the state caps. If a garnishment would leave you unable to meet essentials, ask the court to reduce toward 10%. (codes.findlaw.com)
- Where to complain:
- Attorney General Consumer Protection: 800‑382‑5516—file online. (in.gov)
- DFI (lenders/credit services): license lookup, complaints. (secure.in.gov)
- Insurance issues: 800‑622‑4461 (IDOI). (in.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Indiana Legal Services: 844‑243‑8570 or check IndianaLegalHelp.org for forms and housing/legal navigator chat. (indianalegalservices.org, indianalegalhelp.org)
Build Back Better Credit (Practical Moves)
- Auto‑pay on essentials: Put utilities and phone on auto‑pay if possible to avoid missed payments that can land in collections.
- Rent reporting: Ask your landlord to enroll with a Positive Rent Payment vendor (Esusu, Jetty, Entrata) or consider a program that reports on‑time rent; Fannie Mae covers cost for some owners through June 30, 2025. (multifamily.fanniemae.com)
- Nonprofit counseling: NFCC counselors can set up a plan that may reduce interest on credit cards and stop collection calls. NFCC: 800‑388‑2227; agencies like GreenPath and Apprisen serve Indiana statewide by phone. (nfcc.org, greenpath.com, apprisen.com)
Diverse Communities
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for name and gender‑respectful service; WIC, SNAP, Medicaid, and CCDF have the same eligibility regardless of orientation or gender identity. Indiana Legal Services’ Immigrants’ and Language Rights Center also handles language access and discrimination issues. Phone: 844‑243‑8570. (indianalegalservices.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Keep documentation of disability‑related expenses—many count as deductions for SNAP and can reduce net income used to calculate benefits. For Medicaid waivers, start with FSSA and ask a Navigator to help. (in.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Indiana Legal Services’ Military Assistance Project hosts VA clinic days and offers targeted legal help. Phone: 844‑243‑8570. Use 877‑GET‑HOPE if a VA loan is at risk. (indianalegalservices.org, 877gethope.org)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: WIC often helps mixed‑status families; child eligibility rules apply. The ILS Immigrants’ and Language Rights Center offers free intake. Phone: 844‑243‑8570. (indianalegalservices.org)
Tribal citizens: You may qualify for the same state programs; check if your tribe offers additional emergency grants or housing support through its social services office.
Rural single moms with limited access: Use Indiana 211 to locate mobile food pantries and nearby LSPs for EAP; ask about phone appointments or mail‑in packets. Phone: 866‑211‑9966. (in.gov)
Single fathers: Most programs are gender‑neutral—if you have custody, apply the same way. Child support calculators, WIC for kids under 5, and CCDF apply.
Language access: Ask any agency for free interpreter services; the state provides language assistance on major hotlines (DFR, 211, DWD). (in.gov)
Resources by Region (selected)
- Statewide hotlines:
- Indiana 211: 866‑211‑9966 (24/7 connection to local help). (in.gov)
- DFR Benefits: 800‑403‑0864 (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid). (in.gov)
- Unemployment (DWD): 800‑891‑6499. (in.gov)
- KIDSLINE: 800‑840‑8757. (in.gov)
- Attorney General Consumer Protection: 800‑382‑5516. (in.gov)
- Foreclosure Prevention (IFPN): 877‑438‑4673. (ifpn.tgfi.net)
- Indianapolis/Marion County: EAP at IndyEAP; multiple DFR offices; Indiana Legal Services main office 317‑631‑9410 (apply via 844‑243‑8570). (indyeap.org, indianalegalhelp.org)
- Fort Wayne/Allen County, Evansville/Vanderburgh, South Bend/St. Joseph, Gary/Lake County: Use 211 for nearest food, rent, and utility help; DFR offices are in every county; legal help through ILS regional offices (apply via 844‑243‑8570). (in.gov, indianalegalservices.org)
10 Indiana‑Specific FAQs
- Q: How fast can I get SNAP if I have zero income?
A: Expedited SNAP can be issued in about 7 days if you meet criteria. Apply through DFR and answer calls quickly. (in.gov) - Q: Can I keep lights on this winter while my EAP is pending?
A: If you are EAP‑eligible and apply, state law protects from shutoff during the December 1–March 15 moratorium. Inform your utility after you submit. (in.gov) - Q: What’s the max Indiana Unemployment weekly amount?
A: $390 per week; typical first payment around 3 weeks if no issues. (in.gov) - Q: What are Indiana’s garnishment limits?
A: The lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30× federal minimum wage; child support can be 50–65%. Courts may reduce to 10% for hardship. (codes.findlaw.com) - Q: Are payday loans legal here?
A: Yes, but highly regulated—loan size generally ≤ $550, with tiered finance charges (15%/13%/10%). Verify any lender’s license with DFI. (codes.findlaw.com) - Q: How much is TANF cash in Indiana?
A: A 3‑person assistance group max is $513 per month; see full table above. (in.gov) - Q: Can rent payments help my credit?
A: Yes—many landlords can report positive rent; Fannie Mae’s pilot (through June 30, 2025) is positive‑only (no late marks). (multifamily.fanniemae.com) - Q: What’s the Indiana state Earned Income Credit?
A: Indiana EIC equals 10% of your federal EITC. (events.in.gov) - Q: What proof do I need for WIC?
A: Identity, residency, income (or adjunct eligibility via SNAP/TANF/Medicaid), and a brief nutrition assessment. 2025 income for 4 is up to $4,957/mo. (in.gov) - Q: Who can help if a collector breaks the rules?
A: File complaints with the CFPB and Indiana AG, and talk to Indiana Legal Services: 844‑243‑8570. (in.gov)
Step‑By‑Step: If You’re Behind on Bills
- Make a triage budget: List essentials (housing, utilities, food, transport, childcare). Cut or pause nonessentials for 60–90 days.
- Negotiate smarter: When you call creditors:
- Ask for: hardship program, interest reduction, fee waivers.
- Say: a specific amount you can pay; ask them to note “temporary hardship.”
- Use benefits to free cash: SNAP/WIC/EAP can free 300–300–700 per month combined for many families. Redirect those dollars to priority debts.
- Consider a Debt Management Plan (DMP): A nonprofit can often reduce credit‑card APRs and simplify payments. NFCC: 800‑388‑2227. (nfcc.org)
- Plan B: If offers are poor and the debt is old, ask a consumer attorney about settlement strategies and statute‑of‑limitations concerns on certain contracts; every case is fact‑specific. (General legal references: Indiana cases and code excerpts linked above.) (caseclips.courts.in.gov)
Your Rights With Student Loans (2025 Snapshot)
- SAVE plan status: Parts were enjoined; many borrowers placed into Administrative Forbearance experienced 0% interest for a period, but interest resumed August 1, 2025 per servicer guidance. Check your account and choose an eligible IDR plan now. (mohela.studentaid.gov)
- Action: Use the federal Loan Simulator on StudentAid.gov; avoid selecting “lowest monthly payment” only—servicers note that applications must select a specific plan under current rules. (mohela.studentaid.gov)
- Plan B: If you’re stuck, call your servicer and ask for a short‑term hardship forbearance while you sort out IDR recertification.
Finding Legit Help (and Avoiding Scams)
- Check licenses: Lenders and debt managers must be licensed or registered with DFI. Use the lookup and file complaints there. (in.gov, secure.in.gov)
- Use official hotlines:
- Nonprofit counseling only: NFCC agencies like GreenPath/Apprisen provide counseling by phone statewide. GreenPath: 866‑648‑8117; Apprisen: 800‑355‑2227. (greenpath.com, apprisen.com)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Our dedicated benefits researchers use only official sources and maintain guides across all 50 states.
Research & Source Policy: We verify details on Indiana Department of Family and Social Services, Indiana Department of Workforce Development, Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority, Indiana Department of Health (WIC), USDA/FNS, IRS, CFPB/FTC, Indiana Department of Financial Institutions, Indiana Attorney General, Indiana Department of Insurance, and the Indiana Judicial Branch. See citations throughout.
Methodology: Eligibility rules, dollar amounts, and deadlines link directly to official agency pages; we avoid quoting fixed benefit dollars that change unless the agency publishes them. We provide calculators and up‑to‑date program memos when official numbers are time‑bound (e.g., SNAP FY2025 COLA). (fns.usda.gov, in.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
Maintenance cadence: We monitor policy updates and revise guides within 48 hours of confirmed changes per our Editorial Standards. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org
Disclaimer
Accuracy & changes: Program rules, amounts, and timelines change. Always verify details with the relevant agency before acting.
No legal advice: This guide provides general information and links to official resources. It is not legal or tax advice. For legal help, contact Indiana Legal Services: 844‑243‑8570 or a licensed attorney. (indianalegalservices.org)
Security note: Use secure networks when uploading documents to portals. If you suspect identity theft, freeze your credit and file an identity theft complaint with the Indiana AG and FTC. (in.gov)
What to Do Next
- Apply for SNAP, WIC, and EAP today.
- Pull your free weekly credit reports and file any disputes with documentation.
- Call one hotline that matches your situation (DFR, 211, UI, AG, ILS).
- Pick one credit‑building move (rent reporting, secured card, or credit‑builder loan).
Your first three wins—keeping the lights on, getting food benefits, and correcting credit errors—make the biggest difference fast.
🏛️More Indiana Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Indiana
- 📋 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
