Credit Repair and Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Louisiana

Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Louisiana

Last updated: September 2025

Quick Help Box

Emergencies: Call 911 for immediate danger. For mental health crises, call/text 988 anytime for free, confidential support in Louisiana. See how 988 works statewide at the Louisiana Department of Health and Louisiana988.org. (ldh.la.gov, louisiana988.org)
One number to find local help now: Dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898-211 to get live help finding food, rent/utility aid, legal help, shelters, and more. Service is 24/7 with interpreters. (louisiana211.org)
Benefits applications (food, cash, child support): Apply online through LA CAFÉ. Phone help: 888-524-3578 (LAHelpU). Fax for SNAP/FITAP/KCSP docs: 225-663-3164. (dcfs.la.gov)
Free weekly credit reports: Get all three credit reports free every week at AnnualCreditReport.com—permanently. (investor.equifax.com, experianplc.com)
Debt collector won’t stop calling: You have federal rights to dispute within 30 days; collectors must stop until they verify. See FTC/CFPB guidance and use the sample dispute letter. (ftc.gov, consumerfinance.gov, consumer.ftc.gov)

What This Guide Covers That Others Miss

Most search results on this topic are generic lists or sales pitches. They rarely provide exact Louisiana dollar amounts, deadlines, state-specific legal protections, phone numbers you can call today, or Plan B steps when applications stall. This guide fills those gaps with:

Exact benefits amounts, income limits, and timelines for Louisiana programs (SNAP, FITAP, KCSP, CCAP, LIHEAP, UI, WIC, Medicaid). Citations included.
Louisiana-specific consumer protections that directly affect debt and credit (time limits to sue, wage garnishment caps, payday loan fee caps, homestead protection).
Step-by-step, do‑it‑today actions to fix credit errors, cut costs fast, and build credit safely without junk fees.
Plan B options at the end of each section if your first attempt doesn’t work.
A regional resource map via 211 and HUD PHA tools so you can reach the right office without hunting. (louisiana211.org, hud.gov)

First 24–48 Hours: Stabilize, Protect Your Credit, and Free Up Cash

Call creditors before you miss a payment: Ask for hardship options (payment deferral, interest reduction). Note the agent’s name, date, and terms.
Pull your credit reports for free: Go to AnnualCreditReport.com and download all three reports (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). Do this weekly until things stabilize. (investor.equifax.com, experianplc.com)
Dispute clear errors immediately: If you see wrong late payments, balances, or accounts, use the CFPB’s instructions and the FTC’s sample letter. Send by certified mail if you can, include proof, and keep copies. Bureaus generally must investigate within 30 days. (consumerfinance.gov, consumer.ftc.gov)
Stop unfair collector behavior: Within five days of first contact, collectors must send a written notice; you have 30 days to dispute and demand verification. During that time, they must pause collecting on disputed items. (ftc.gov, consumerfinance.gov)
Lower your bills fast:
- Food: Apply for SNAP right now—regular decisions take up to 30 days, but expedited cases can be faster. (dcfs.la.gov)
- Utilities: Ask your parish LIHEAP provider for help (cooling April–September, heating November–March; crisis help year-round). (lhc.la.gov)
- Child care: If you’re working, job‑seeking, or in school, apply for CCAP to reduce daycare costs. (doe.louisiana.gov)
If you’re overwhelmed or in crisis: Call/text 988 for emotional support; advocates can connect you to local help. For safety planning around abuse, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233. (ldh.la.gov, acf.hhs.gov)

Louisiana Credit Repair Playbook (Practical, No-B.S.)

Step 1 — Pull and organize your reports

Where: AnnualCreditReport.com (free weekly). (investor.equifax.com)
What to save: Your reports (PDF), dispute letters, certified mail receipts, and all responses.
Why weekly: To confirm fixes post‑dispute and catch new errors quickly.

Step 2 — Dispute errors the right way

Use official templates and rules: See CFPB’s step‑by‑step and the FTC’s sample letter. Include copies (not originals) of proof—police report for ID theft, payment confirmations, court orders, etc. (consumerfinance.gov, consumer.ftc.gov)
Deadline to investigate: Bureaus usually have 30 days (up to 45 if you add more info mid‑investigation). You’ll get results in writing. (consumerfinance.gov)

Step 3 — Time‑barred debt and Louisiana’s clock

Important legal protection: In Louisiana, most “open account” debts—like many credit cards and medical bills—have a three‑year prescriptive period (statute of limitations) to sue. That window usually runs from the date of your last charge or payment. (legis.la.gov, caselaw.findlaw.com)
Don’t restart the clock unknowingly: A small payment or written acknowledgment may reset prescription. Get legal advice before paying old debts. (caselaw.findlaw.com)

Step 4 — If a collector contacts you

Within five days: They must send a validation notice with key details.
Within 30 days: You can dispute in writing; they must stop collecting until they verify. Keep everything in writing and save proof of mailing. (consumerfinance.gov)

Step 5 — Avoid costly “credit repair” traps

Red flag: Up‑front fees to “erase” accurate negatives are illegal under the Credit Repair Organizations Act. Use free nonprofit counseling from NFCC (800‑388‑2227) or credit‑builder tools from local credit unions. (nfcc.org)

Table — Credit Dispute Essentials (What to send and when)

Step	What to include	Timeline
Dispute to bureau	Copy of report with items circled; ID; proof; explanation; request to correct/delete	Bureau investigates within about 30 days. (consumerfinance.gov)
Dispute to furnisher (lender/collector)	Same packet; send to address on your statements/collection letter	They must investigate and report back; corrections must be reported to all bureaus. (consumerfinance.gov)
If collector contacts you	Written dispute/verification request	Collector must pause collection until it verifies. (ftc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

Escalate complaints: File with the Louisiana Attorney General (800‑351‑4889) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (online portal). For payday lenders or licensed lenders, file with the Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions (225‑925‑4660 or 888‑525‑9414). (ag.louisiana.gov, ofi.la.gov)
Get legal help: Call civil legal aid (Southeast Louisiana Legal Services, Acadiana Legal Service Corp., Legal Services of North Louisiana). DCFS and LWC list numbers by region; start with SLLS Baton Rouge (225‑448‑0080), New Orleans (504‑529‑1000), and Acadiana (337‑237‑4320 / 800‑256‑1175). (www2.laworks.net)

Reduce Expenses With Louisiana Benefits (with Real Numbers)

SNAP (Food Assistance)

Maximum monthly SNAP for FFY 2025: Household of 1 $292 * *, 2 * *$ 536, 3 $768 * *, 4 * *$ 975; +$220 per additional person. Income thresholds vary; broad‑based categorical eligibility households may qualify up to 200% FPL. Apply through LA CAFÉ or call 888‑524‑3578. (dcfs.la.gov)
Timeline: DCFS must process within 30 days in most cases. (dcfs.la.gov)

Table — Louisiana SNAP Max Allotments (FFY 2025)

Household Size	Max SNAP
1	$292
2	$536
3	$768
4	$975
Each additional	$220

Source: Louisiana DCFS SNAP allotment table (FY25). (dcfs.la.gov)

How to apply: Online via LA CAFÉ; or call 888‑524‑3578; or mail/fax: DCFS Economic Stability, P.O. Box 260031, Baton Rouge, LA 70826; fax 225‑663‑3164. Interviews are by phone or in‑office. (dcfs.la.gov)
What to send: Proof of ID, income, expenses (rent, childcare, medical), and household size. (dcfs.la.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 for food banks; Second Harvest and other pantries can bridge you until SNAP is approved. Also, check your SNAP application status in LA CAFÉ and respond quickly to any “verifications needed” messages. (louisiana211.org)

WIC (Women, Infants, Children)

Monthly fruit/vegetable benefit (FY 2025): Children $26 * *, p re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m * *$ 47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 * *; in f an t s 6-11 m o n t h ss u b s t i t u t i o n * *$ 11/$22. Louisiana WIC confirms these values and offers clinic finder and updates. (fns.usda.gov, louisianawic.org)
How to apply: Start at LouisianaWIC.org; clinic finder and online interest form; WIC is adjunct‑income eligible if you already get SNAP/TANF/Medicaid. (louisianawic.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic for a same‑day phone appointment or call a nearby clinic from the WIC map for the soonest slot. (louisianawic.org)

FITAP (Cash Assistance) and Kinship Care (KCSP)

FITAP grant amounts: 1 $244 * *, 2 * *$ 376, 3 $484 * *, 4 * *$ 568, 5 $654 * *, 6 * *$ 732, 7 $804 * *, 8 * *$ 882, 9 $954 per month (before countable income). Applications and full rules at DCFS. (dcfs.la.gov)
Kinship Care Subsidy Program: $450 per month per eligible child living with a qualified relative (not a parent). Apply via LA CAFÉ or call 888‑524‑3578. (dcfs.la.gov)

Table — FITAP Monthly Cash Assistance

Household	Max Monthly
1	$244
2	$376
3	$484
4	$568
5	$654
6	$732
7	$804
8	$882
9	$954

Source: Louisiana DCFS FITAP. (dcfs.la.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your FITAP/KCSP case is delayed, call LAHelpU 888‑524‑3578 and use their keypad shortcuts listed on the DCFS page to reach a live rep faster; or ask your state legislator’s office for case assistance. (dcfs.la.gov)

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

Who qualifies: Parents working 20+ hours/week, in school/training, actively seeking work, or experiencing homelessness; income under published monthly thresholds (examples: 2 persons $4, 187 * *, 3 * *$ 5,173, 4 $6,158). Apply online; hotline 877‑453‑2721. (doe.louisiana.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: There may be a waitlist; ask your local Child Care Resource & Referral agency for temporary sliding‑scale options and Head Start/Early Head Start placements. (doe.louisiana.gov)

LIHEAP (Utility Assistance)

Seasons: Cooling April 1–September 30; Heating November 15–March 15; Crisis year‑round. Louisiana Housing Corporation lists 2025 income limits (60% SMI). Contact your parish provider. LHC main line 225‑763‑8700, toll‑free 888‑454‑2001. (lhc.la.gov)

Table — 2025 LIHEAP Income Limits (60% State Median Income)

Household	Annual Limit
1	$29,889
2	$39,086
3	$48,283
4	$57,480
5	$66,676
6	$75,873

Source: Louisiana Housing Corporation (Energy Assistance). (lhc.la.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your electric/gas utility about payment plans and hardship funds. Entergy’s customer service is 800‑368‑3749; they also partner with nonprofits via “The Power to Care” for seniors and customers with disabilities. (entergylouisiana.com, entergy.com)

Unemployment Insurance (UI)

Weekly benefit range in Louisiana: Minimum $35 * *, ma x im u m * *$ 275 per week. For new claims filed on/after January 5, 2025, duration depends on the state unemployment rate (between 12–20 weeks). LWC UI phone 866‑783‑5567. (laworks.net)

Table — Louisiana UI Duration (Claims filed Jan 5, 2025 or later)

Avg State Unemployment Rate at filing	Max Weeks
≤ 5.0%	12
> 5.0% to < 5.5%	13
≥ 8.5%	20

Source: Louisiana Workforce Commission UI FAQ (2025 changes). (laworks.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your claim is denied, appeal by the deadline on your notice. For help, contact legal aid (numbers in the LWC list) or dial 211 to find a local workers’ rights clinic. (www2.laworks.net)

Medicaid, LaMOMS, LaCHIP

Income limits (effective 3/1/2025): Medicaid Expansion adults (19–64) and Take Charge Plus family planning show monthly limits such as 1 $1, 800 * *, 2 * *$ 2,433, 3 $3, 065 * *, 4 * *$ 3,698; LaCHIP children and LaMOMS (pregnancy) have higher thresholds. To check your family size, use LDH’s 2025 chart. Medicaid helpline 888‑342‑6207. (ldh.la.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied, ask for a fair hearing by the date on your notice. In the meantime, call 211 for low‑cost clinics and prescription help. (louisiana211.org)

Louisiana Laws That Protect Your Paycheck, Home, and Credit

Time limit to sue on many debts: Most “open account” debts (credit cards, many medical bills) carry a three‑year prescriptive period to bring suit (La. Civil Code art. 3494). (legis.la.gov)
Wage garnishment limits: Generally, up to 25% of disposable earnings or the amount over 30× the federal minimum wage (currently $7.25)—whichever is less. Child support orders have different caps. (La. R.S. 13:3881). (law.justia.com)
Homestead protection: Up to $35,000 in home equity is exempt from seizure, with special protection for catastrophic/terminal illness debts (La. R.S. 20:1). (legis.la.gov)
Payday loans (deferred presentment/small loans): Borrow up to $350 * *; f ees g e n er a ll y * *$ 20 per $100 * * pl u s * *$ 10 documentation fee (total fee cap $55 * * f or * *$ 220–$350 loans). If unpaid after maturity, lenders may charge up to 36% APR for one year, then 18% APR. Regulators: Office of Financial Institutions (225‑925‑4660 / 888‑525‑9414). (ofi.la.gov, law.justia.com)

Table — Louisiana Consumer Protections at a Glance

Topic	Key Louisiana Protection
Lawsuits on credit card/medical debt	Typically 3 years (open accounts). (legis.la.gov)
Wage garnishment cap	Up to 25% or over 30× $7.25/hr—whichever is less. (law.justia.com)
Payday loan fee cap	About $20 p er$ 100 + $10 doc fee; extra interest if unpaid. (ofi.la.gov)
Homestead exemption	$35,000 equity (special rule for catastrophic illness debts). (legis.la.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re sued, don’t ignore court papers—talk to legal aid immediately about defenses (e.g., time‑barred debt, identity theft, improper service). Use the AG’s Consumer Protection hotline (800‑351‑4889) and OFI complaint process for abusive lenders. (ag.louisiana.gov, ofi.la.gov)

Child Support, Taxes, and Student Loans

Child Support Enforcement (DCFS)

Get help opening or enforcing a case: Apply via LA CAFÉ; IVR/Customer Service: 888‑524‑3578 (message your worker through CAFÉ). DCFS also offers a public Child Support Estimator to preview guideline amounts (not legal advice). (dcfs.louisiana.gov, webapps.dcfs.la.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your parish District Attorney’s child support office about enforcement; or contact SLLS/ALSC/LSNL for legal help (intake lines listed in LWC’s legal aid directory). (www2.laworks.net)

Taxes — Earned Income Tax Credit (Federal + State)

Louisiana EITC: State credit equals 5% of your federal EITC through tax years ending Dec. 31, 2030; it’s refundable. Claim it even if you don’t owe tax. (law.justia.com, codes.findlaw.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use free tax prep (VITA) during filing season via 211 or the IRS VITA locator; EITC can create a large refund that stabilizes your budget. (louisiana211.org)

Student Loans — Where Things Stand in 2025

Fresh Start ended: The U.S. Dept. of Education confirms the Fresh Start program ended October 2, 2024; it no longer enrolls new borrowers. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
IDR/SAVE and litigation: IDR options have faced court‑related pauses during 2025; check the official Federal Student Aid site for current availability before applying or recertifying. If you are in default now, ask servicers about rehabilitation or consolidation options still available outside Fresh Start. (studentloanborrowerassistance.org, edcapny.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Default Resolution Group 800‑621‑3115 and ask which option (rehabilitation or consolidation) gets you out of default fastest—so your wages and tax refunds aren’t garnished. (pew.org)

Build Credit Safely in Louisiana (No Junk Fees)

Open a “Bank On”-certified checking account through regional Bank On coalitions (Northeast & Northwest Louisiana) to avoid overdraft and monthly fee traps. Use these accounts with a secured credit card or credit-builder loan at a local credit union (e.g., Pelican State CU’s free counseling). (unitedwaynela.org, unitedwaynwla.org, pelicanstatecu.com)
Use NFCC‑certified counseling (800‑388‑2227) if you’re juggling multiple credit cards; you may qualify for a creditor‑supported Debt Management Plan with lower interest. (nfcc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If banks declined you due to ChexSystems, ask about “second‑chance” accounts listed by your local Bank On coalition, then try a secured card that reports to all three bureaus.

Housing, Rent, and Section 8 Tools

Find public housing agencies: Use HUD’s “Find Your Local PHA” directory to locate the phone number and application status for your parish or city. LHC also publishes its voucher admin plans and contacts. (hud.gov, lhc.la.gov)
Find affordable rentals: Use LAHousingSearch.org via LHC to search open units statewide. LHC directory main line: 225‑763‑8700, toll‑free 888‑454‑2001. (lhc.la.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for emergency housing resources and ESG‑funded programs in your parish, especially if you’re at risk of homelessness. (louisiana211.org)

Local Organizations and Hotlines (Statewide Gateways)

Louisiana 211: Dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898‑211 for food, rent, shelter, child care, legal aid, and more—available 24/7 statewide with multilingual support. (louisiana211.org)
Consumer protection & complaints: Louisiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Hotline 800‑351‑4889; Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions (payday/finance/licensees) 225‑925‑4660 or 888‑525‑9414. (ag.louisiana.gov, ofi.la.gov)
Utility assistance: Louisiana Housing Corporation (LIHEAP) 225‑763‑8700 / 888‑454‑2001; Entergy customer assistance 800‑368‑3749. (lhc.la.gov, entergylouisiana.com)
Legal aid hubs: LWC’s legal aid directory lists SLLS (e.g., Baton Rouge 225‑448‑0080, New Orleans 504‑529‑1000), ALSC (337‑237‑4320 / 800‑256‑1175), and LSNL (318‑222‑7186 / 800‑826‑9265). (www2.laworks.net)
Domestic violence: National Domestic Violence Hotline 800‑799‑7233 with Louisiana referrals; Louisiana AG Fair Housing/related hotlines listed on AG site. (acf.hhs.gov, ag.louisiana.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

SNAP max for 3 people: $768; decision in about 30 days; apply via LA CAFÉ or call 888‑524‑3578. (dcfs.la.gov)
FITAP cash for 1 parent + 2 kids (3 people): about $484 if eligible. (dcfs.la.gov)
KCSP per child with qualified relative: $450/month. (dcfs.la.gov)
WIC fruit/veg monthly: child $26 * *, p re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m * *$ 47, breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)
LIHEAP income (3 people, 2025): up to $48,283/year; seasons posted by LHC. (lhc.la.gov)
UI weekly benefit cap: $275; duration 12–20 weeks for 2025 claims. (laworks.net)
Credit reports: free weekly at AnnualCreditReport.com. (investor.equifax.com)
Collector deadlines: 30 days to dispute; must pause collection until verifying. (ftc.gov)

Application Checklist (Use for SNAP/FITAP/KCSP/CCAP/LIHEAP)

Photo ID and SSNs (or proof applied) for all household members when required.
Income proofs (last 30 days of pay stubs, unemployment letter, benefit letters).
Expenses (rent/lease, utilities, child care bills, medical expenses, child support paid).
Special documents (custody/kinship papers for KCSP; school/training verification for CCAP; utility bills for LIHEAP).
Contact info: A working phone and mailing address. If you lack one, tell the agency; many will use email or allow alternate contacts.
Pro tip: Upload documents directly in LA CAFÉ to speed things up; if faxing, put your name, DOB, and last four of SSN on every page. (dcfs.la.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Waiting to apply: Benefits start from your application date. File now, upload documents later if needed. (dcfs.la.gov)
Not answering unknown numbers: Caseworkers often call from blocked or unfamiliar numbers. Keep your voicemail box clear.
Missing re‑certification dates: Put reminders in your phone calendar two weeks ahead.
Paying up‑front for “credit repair”: Don’t. Use NFCC (800‑388‑2227) or your credit union’s free counseling. (nfcc.org)
Restarting a time‑barred debt: A small payment or written promise can reset Louisiana’s 3‑year prescription for many open‑account debts. Get advice first. (caselaw.findlaw.com)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Pointers

LGBTQ+ single mothers: 988 remains available to everyone; Louisiana routes calls to VIA LINK/LACG for culturally competent care. For domestic violence services inclusive of LGBTQ+ survivors, start with the National Hotline 800‑799‑7233 and request local referrals. (ldh.la.gov, acf.hhs.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask WIC/Medicaid about extra supports; CCAP prioritizes children with documented special needs (IEP/IFSP or doctor’s statement). For accessible housing modifications and rights, call HUD Fair Housing via Louisiana AG 800‑273‑5718. (doe.louisiana.gov, ag.louisiana.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Dial 988, then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line; for housing and benefits, your local PHA and VA resources can coordinate. (ldh.la.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many programs are available based on the child’s eligibility even if the parent is not eligible. Use 211 for immigrant‑friendly legal clinics and WIC/Medicaid enrollment help. (louisiana211.org)
Tribal citizens: Ask 211 for tribal housing/LIHEAP providers and Indian Health Service links; WIC and SNAP are available if eligibility is met. (louisiana211.org)
Rural single moms: Use 211 for mobile food pantries and telehealth options; request phone interviews for SNAP/FITAP to avoid travel. (dcfs.la.gov)
Single fathers: All programs here apply if you meet eligibility. Child support help and the DCFS estimator are for both parents. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
Language access: 211 offers interpretation in over 160 languages; DCFS/LDOE provide Spanish/Vietnamese forms and phone interpreter services. (louisiana211.org, louisianabelieves.com)

Frequently Asked Questions (Louisiana‑Specific)

How fast can I get SNAP if I have almost no money?
Timeline: DCFS processes most applications in 30 days; some cases qualify for expedited service sooner. Submit your application now and upload documents quickly. (dcfs.la.gov)
What is the current SNAP max for three people in Louisiana?
Amount: $768 per month in FFY 2025 if you qualify for the maximum. Most households get less based on income/expenses. (dcfs.la.gov)
What cash help is available if I’m not living with the child’s other parent?
FITAP pays about $244-$ 954 monthly depending on size; KCSP pays $450 per eligible child with a qualified relative caregiver. Apply via LA CAFÉ. (dcfs.la.gov, dcfs.la.gov)
What’s the LIHEAP income limit for a family of three in 2025?
Limit: $48,283 per year (60% SMI). Apply through your parish provider. (lhc.la.gov)
How long can I get unemployment benefits in 2025?
New claims filed January 5, 2025 or later last 12–20 weeks depending on the state unemployment rate. Weekly benefits cap at $275. (laworks.net)
Is there a time limit for collectors to sue me on credit card debt in Louisiana?
Yes. Most “open accounts” have a three‑year prescriptive period, often from your last payment/charge date. Don’t restart it accidentally—get advice first. (legis.la.gov)
How much of my paycheck can a creditor take?
Generally no more than 25% of disposable earnings or the amount above 30× $7.25/hr, whichever is less (child/spousal support rules differ). (law.justia.com)
Are payday loans regulated in Louisiana?
Yes. Max loan $350 * * w i t h f ees a ro u n d * *$ 20 per $100 * * pl u s * *$ 10 documentation fee (capped). If unpaid after maturity, extra interest can apply. Complaints go to OFI (225‑925‑4660). (ofi.la.gov)
Can I still use Fresh Start for student loans?
No. The program ended October 2, 2024. Ask the Default Resolution Group 800‑621‑3115 about rehab or consolidation. (fsapartners.ed.gov, pew.org)
Where can I get trustworthy, low‑cost help with debt and budgeting?
Call NFCC 800‑388‑2227 for a nonprofit counselor; many Louisiana credit unions offer free financial wellness sessions. (nfcc.org, pelicanstatecu.com)

What to Do If Applications Stall (Plan B — Every Time)

Call the right line at the right time: DCFS recommends calling 888‑524‑3578 early (7:30–8:30 a.m.) or late (5–6 p.m.) to reduce hold times. Fax docs to 225‑663‑3164 with your info on each page. (dcfs.la.gov)
Use 211 while you wait: They can locate interim help (food boxes, one‑time rent/utility aid) and the nearest free tax or legal clinics. (louisiana211.org)
Ask for a supervisor or submit a written inquiry: Keep it short, list missing items, and attach proof. Save copies.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services, Louisiana Department of Health, Louisiana Housing Corporation, Louisiana Workforce Commission, USDA FNS, HUD, the Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions, and the Louisiana Attorney General.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.

Disclaimer

Information changes: Benefit amounts, eligibility, and timelines can change. Always confirm details using the official links and phone numbers provided.

No legal/medical advice: This guide provides general information and is not legal or medical advice. For legal questions, contact a licensed attorney or legal aid. For health crises, call 911 or 988.

Site security: We strive to keep this website secure and up‑to‑date. If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it promptly.

Sources (selected)

SNAP amounts and process: Louisiana DCFS SNAP allotment and FAQs; LA CAFÉ “How to Apply.” (dcfs.la.gov)
FITAP/KCSP: DCFS FITAP benefits; DCFS Kinship Care Subsidy Program details. (dcfs.la.gov, dcfs.la.gov)
WIC CVB amounts: USDA FNS FY 2025 memo; Louisiana WIC program pages. (fns.usda.gov, louisianawic.org)
LIHEAP: Louisiana Housing Corporation Energy Assistance page (2025 SMI table and seasons); LHC contact. (lhc.la.gov)
UI benefits: LWC UI FAQ (WBA min/max; new duration rules effective 2025). (laworks.net)
Medicaid/LaMOMS/LaCHIP: LDH 2025 income limits; Medicaid Expansion. (ldh.la.gov)
Credit reports & disputes: Equifax/Experian press releases on weekly free reports; CFPB “How to dispute”; FTC sample letter. (investor.equifax.com, experianplc.com, consumerfinance.gov, consumer.ftc.gov)
Debt collection rights: CFPB Regulation F and FDCPA text. (consumerfinance.gov, ftc.gov)
Louisiana consumer laws: Civil Code art. 3494 (3‑year prescription/open accounts); R.S. 13:3881 (wage exemptions); R.S. 20:1 (homestead); OFI payday loan FAQs and statute. (legis.la.gov, law.justia.com, legis.la.gov, ofi.la.gov)
EITC: Louisiana R.S. 47:297.8 (5% of federal EITC through 2030). (codes.findlaw.com)
Hotlines and 211: Louisiana 211; LDH’s Louisiana 988 hub; National DV Hotline. (louisiana211.org, ldh.la.gov, acf.hhs.gov)
Bank On and nonprofit counseling: Bank On coalitions; NFCC contact; Pelican State Credit Union counseling. (unitedwaynela.org, nfcc.org, pelicanstatecu.com)

If you need anything clarified or a personalized action plan for your parish, reply with your parish name and the type of bill or debt you’re dealing with, and I’ll help you plan next steps today.

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