Credit Repair and Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Maine

Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Maine

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help first

If you are in immediate danger: Call 911.
24/7 Maine domestic abuse help: 1-866-834-HELP (voice) or 1-800-437-1220 (TTY/Deaf/HoH). Confidential and local advocates. Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence — statewide hotline info. (mcedv.org)
Mental health crisis: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Spanish press 2; LGBTQ+ under 25 press 3; ASL videophone available; 240+ languages by interpreter. Free and confidential. 988 Lifeline — how it works and language access. (988lifeline.org)
Not sure where to start: Dial 211 (or text your ZIP to 898‑211) to reach 211 Maine for statewide referrals to housing, utilities, legal help, and more. 211 Maine — contact options. (211maine.org)

Quick help box

Order all three credit reports for free, weekly: Go to AnnualCreditReport.com — official free reports portal or call 877-322-8228. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Shut down identity theft fast: Place a no‑cost credit freeze with Equifax 1‑800‑685‑1111, Experian 1‑888‑397‑3742, TransUnion 1‑888‑909‑8872. FTC credit freeze basics. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Stop illegal collection tactics or sue‑on‑old‑debt: Maine limits collection lawsuits on consumer debts to 6 years from last activity; paying later does not restart the clock. Get help or file a complaint with the Maine Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection (BCCP) at 800‑332‑8529 or 207‑624‑8527. Maine statute and BCCP contacts, BCCP complaint page. (legislature.maine.gov, maine.gov)
Behind on heat or lights: Apply for HEAP fuel help through your local Community Action Agency; ask about electric bill LIAP credits and the AMP forgiveness program. Start at MaineHousing — HEAP and Maine PUC — electricity help. (mainehousing.org, maine.gov)
Need cash, food, or child care help now: TANF, SNAP, and the Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP) have updated benefit levels and simpler rules in 2025. Apply at My Maine Connection or call 855‑797‑4357. SNAP & TANF — DHHS OFI, TANF program page, CCAP overview. (maine.gov)

Quick reference cheat sheet

Program	What you get	Who to call/apply	Typical timeline
SNAP (Food Supplement)	Monthly EBT for groceries; max for 4 is $975	Apply online via My Maine Connection; OFI 855‑797‑4357	7–30 days; expedited in 7 days for urgent need
TANF cash assistance	Monthly cash; family of 3 (adult included) up to $895	OFI 855‑797‑4357; apply online/mail/phone	Often 2–4 weeks
CCAP child care	Sliding‑scale copay; eligible up to 125% of Maine SMI	CCAP 877‑680‑5866 or 207‑624‑7999	2–3 weeks after documents
HEAP (fuel)	One‑time heating benefit; income‑based	Apply via Community Action Agency	Seasonal; varies; waitlists common late winter
LIAP (electric)	Monthly on‑bill credit (avg varies)	Apply via utility or CAA; PUC help 800‑452‑4699	1–2 billing cycles
AMP (electric arrears)	Forgiveness up to *$6, 000 , u pt o $ 500/month*	CMP/Versant or CAA	12 months to complete
Unemployment	Up to *$623/ w ee k * (+ * $ 25/dependent); max 26 weeks*	File at Maine DOL Unemployment	First payment often 2–3 weeks

Sources: USDA/FNS COLA; DHHS rule and program pages; OCFS CCAP; MaineHousing/PUC; Versant/CMP AMP terms; Maine DOL. (fns.usda.gov, maine.gov, mainehousing.org, versantpower.com)

What this guide adds that others miss

Maine‑specific numbers and laws (not generic advice).
Direct application links, phones, and timelines so you can act today.
Plan B guidance at the end of every section.
Compliance with Maine rules on debt collection, wage limits, and exemptions.

We base every fact on official sources and update promptly when policies change. See our Editorial Standards at ASingleMother.org — Editorial Policy. This page is current through August–September 2025. (mainehousing.org)

A 30‑day, Maine‑ready credit repair plan

Week 1 — Pull reports, freeze, and triage

Order all three reports (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) for free weekly: Use AnnualCreditReport.com — official site or phone line or call 877‑322‑8228. Save PDFs to a password‑protected folder. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Place free credit freezes to stop new accounts: Equifax 1‑800‑685‑1111, Experian 1‑888‑397‑3742, TransUnion 1‑888‑909‑8872. Freezes are placed within 1 business day online/phone and lifted within 1 hour. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Mark errors and time‑barred debts in a separate list: Maine bars collection lawsuits after 6 years from your last activity on the debt; payments do not restart it. If a collector threatens to sue on an expired debt, that violates Maine law. (legislature.maine.gov)
If a collector contacts you: Request validation within 30 days; keep it in writing. If they sue, go to court; judgments can last up to 20 years in Maine, so don’t ignore it. Pine Tree Legal — debt collection in Maine. (ptla.org)

Week 2 — Dispute and document

Dispute errors with each bureau online or by mail: Attach proof (police report, payment receipts, court orders). Keep copies and track USPS certified numbers.
Medical or utility collections: Ask for itemized statements; verify charity‑care eligibility and billing accuracy before paying. If a debt is wrong or older than 6 years, cite Maine’s limitation and ask for deletion/closure. (legislature.maine.gov)

Week 3 — Cut balances and protect income

Target highest‑interest balances first while keeping all minimums current.
Open a “bill‑only” checking account so basic expenses aren’t disrupted. Maine protects up to $3,000 in cash or bank balances from attachment; wages have federal/state caps (see below). Maine exemptions — cash/bank and homestead. (legislature.maine.gov)
If income dropped: Apply for SNAP, TANF, CCAP, HEAP, LIAP/AMP now (details below). These benefits stabilize essentials so you can stay current on debts. (maine.gov, mainehousing.org)

Week 4 — Build positive history

Ask your utility and cell carrier if they report on‑time payments to credit bureaus or offer programs that can help (on‑time payments help).
Use one small secured card or a credit‑builder loan from a local credit union; charge a small recurring bill and pay in full monthly.
Set calendar reminders for annual recertifications (SNAP/TANF/CCAP/LIAP), dispute follow‑ups at 30/45 days, and any court dates.

Your rights in Maine that change the math

Statute of limitations on debt lawsuits: 6 years from last activity; payments do not revive expired debt. Debt collectors may not sue on time‑barred debt. 32 M.R.S. §11013(8). (legislature.maine.gov)
Wage garnishment limits: Courts cap weekly withholding at the least of
- 25% of disposable earnings, or
- Amount above 40× the higher of the federal or Maine minimum wage.
  Maine’s state minimum wage is $14.65/hour in 2025. 14 M.R.S. §3126‑A; MDOL wage update. (legislature.maine.gov, maine.gov)
Property and bank account protections: Homestead equity up to $80, 000 * * (or * *$ 160,000 for qualifying seniors/disabled) and up to $3,000 in cash/bank accounts are exempt. 14 M.R.S. §4422. (legislature.maine.gov)
Credit‑repair businesses are regulated “loan brokers”: They must be licensed/bonded and use written agreements. Check a license at BCCP — licensee search. Don’t pay upfront fees. (legislature.maine.gov)
Help with student loans: Maine’s Student Loan Ombudsman can intervene with servicers. Call 800‑332‑8529 or 207‑624‑8527. BCCP Student Loan Resources. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with BCCP online; consider free legal help via Pine Tree Legal Assistance for collection/eviction issues. (maine.gov, ptla.org)

Stabilize your budget with Maine benefits

Start with the biggest wins first so you can keep up with current bills and stop new negatives.

SNAP (Food Supplement Program)

Why this matters first: SNAP frees cash for rent/utilities so you can stay current on debts.
Maximum monthly benefit (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025): Household of 1 $292 * *, 2 * *$ 536, 3 $768 * *, 4 * *$ 975, 5 $1, 158 * *, 6 * *$ 1,390, 7 $1, 536 * *, 8 * *$ 1,756; add $220 per extra person. USDA FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
Maine income screen and amounts shown by OFI: Maine displays 200% FPL gross income screens and the same maximums above (effective dates noted). Maine DHHS SNAP page. (maine.gov)
How to apply: My Maine Connection, phone 855‑797‑4357, or in person at DHHS district offices. Apply and contact options. (www11.maine.gov)
Timeline: 7–30 days (expedited within 7 days for very low income/assets).
Documents: ID, proof of address, income, childcare costs, rent, and utilities.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call OFI 855‑797‑4357 to request an expedited interview; ask 211 for local food pantry and Maine Harvest Bucks locations while you wait. (www11.maine.gov, 211maine.org)

Table — SNAP quick facts (FY2025)

Household size	Max monthly SNAP
1	$292
2	$536
3	$768
4	$975
5	$1,158
6	$1,390
7	$1,536
8	$1,756
Each add’l	+$220

Source: USDA FNS FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

TANF cash assistance (plus work/education supports)

Why this matters second: Cash for essentials can prevent utility shutoff/eviction and stop new collections.
Current maximum monthly grants (FFY 2025; adult included):
Household of 1 $425 * *; 2 * *$ 669; 3 $895 * *; 4 * *$ 1,127; 5 $1, 352 * *; 6 * *$ 1,580. Maine law increased TANF by 20% and ties future increases to SSA COLA; effective October 1, 2024. Adopted TANF rule with grant chart (Appendix page). (maine.gov)
Special housing allowance: Up to $300/month for TANF families with shelter costs ≥ 50% of income. 22 M.R.S. §3762. (legislature.maine.gov)
How to apply: Online, mail, email, fax, phone 855‑797‑4357, or at DHHS offices. TANF — application options. (maine.gov)
Timeline: Often 2–4 weeks after interview and verification.
PaS/ASPIRE supports: Education/training, mileage reimbursement up to $20/day (rate follows state mileage rate). TANF Rule 122A. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask OFI about General Assistance at your town office and emergency fuel help through ECIP; GA hotline 800‑442‑6003. GA overview and hotline. (maine.gov)

Table — TANF maximum grants (FFY 2025, adult included)

Household size	Max grant
1	$425
2	$669
3	$895
4	$1,127
5	$1,352
6	$1,580

Source: DHHS TANF Rule 121A, Appendix Chart (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (maine.gov)

Child care help (CCAP)

Why this matters: Reliable child care unlocks work/school and stops missed‑work income shocks.
Eligibility: Income up to 125% of Maine State Median Income; families under 30% SMI pay $0 copay; others pay 1–10% of gross weekly income. OCFS CCAP page. (maine.gov)
Income guideline snapshot (effective Oct 19, 2024):
2‑person $8, 022/ m o n t h * *, 3‑ p erso n * *$ 9,910/month, 4‑person $11,798/month. Full chart below. CCAP income guidelines PDF. (maine.gov)
How to apply: Online via Baxter portal; or call 877‑680‑5866 / 207‑624‑7999. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for Head Start/Early Head Start openings and sliding‑fee programs while CCAP is pending. (211maine.org)

Table — CCAP 125% SMI income limits (effective Oct 19, 2024)

HH size	Monthly income
1	$6,134.86
2	$8,022.51
3	$9,910.16
4	$11,797.81
5	$13,685.46
6	$15,573.11

Source: OCFS income guidelines. (maine.gov)

WIC: food for moms, babies, and kids under 5

Cash value benefit (CVB) for fruits/veggies per month: Child $26 * *; p re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m * *$ 47; fully/partially breastfeeding $52. Maine CDC WIC benefits page. (maine.gov)
How to apply: Contact your local WIC clinic; download the WICShopper app for store help. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for SNAP and ask your pediatrician or clinic about formula/diaper banks via 211. (211maine.org)

Heat, lights, and phone — keep services on

HEAP (fuel/heat): Income‑based help toward heating costs; 2024–25 program saw waitlisting late season and closed May 30, 2025; future seasons reopen in summer. Always apply early. MaineHousing HEAP news and page. (mainehousing.org)
HEAP income limits (2024–25 example): 4‑person $67,955/year (12‑month). HEAP income chart. (mainehousing.org)
LIAP (electric bill credit): On‑bill credit based on income/usage; eligibility often auto‑linked to HEAP/means‑tested benefits. Apply via your utility or CAA; PUC Consumer Assistance 800‑452‑4699. MPUC LIAP overview. (maine.gov)
AMP (arrearage forgiveness): For past‑due electric bills ≥ $500 * * an d * * \geq 90 d a ys * * o v er d u e; f or g i v es u pt o * *$ 6,000 at up to $500/month with on‑time payments for 12 months. Versant AMP, and CMP AMP has similar terms. (versantpower.com, cmpco.com)
Lifeline phone/internet discount: $9.25/ m o n t h * * o ff ser v i ce (u pt o * *$ 34.25 on Tribal lands). Apply through the national portal and then pick a provider. USAC Lifeline — get started. (lifelinesupport.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your town’s General Assistance office about crisis fuel or utility vouchers; GA hotline 800‑442‑6003. (maine.gov)

Table — Utility help at a glance

Program	Benefit	Where to apply
HEAP	One‑time fuel help	Your Community Action Agency (CAA)
LIAP	Monthly bill credit	Utility or CAA
AMP	Forgiveness up to $6,000	CMP/Versant or CAA
Lifeline	$9.25 off phone/internet	USAC Lifeline portal

Sources: MaineHousing, MPUC, Versant/CMP, USAC. (mainehousing.org, maine.gov, versantpower.com, lifelinesupport.org)

Unemployment insurance (if you lost work)

Weekly benefit amount: Minimum $108 * *; ma x im u m * *$ 623 for claims filed on/after June 1, 2025; add $25/week per dependent (cap applies). Max duration 26 weeks. Maine DOL — claimant FAQ. (maine.gov)
How to apply: File online at Maine Unemployment; first payment usually 2–3 weeks after filing and weekly certifications. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit a CareerCenter for job search help and training; ask about WorkShare and partial benefits.

Tax credits that put cash back

Maine Earned Income Credit: 25% of your federal EITC (and 50% if you have no qualifying children). Refundable for residents. MRS EIC page. (maine.gov)
Maine Dependent Exemption Tax Credit: Up to $300 per qualifying child/dependent; refundable starting tax year 2024 for residents. MRS dependent credit. (maine.gov)
Property Tax Fairness Credit (renters/homeowners): Refundable if rent/property taxes exceed a set share of income; file Schedule PTFC/STFC. MRS PTFC overview. (maine.gov)
Free tax filing help: **CA $H M ain e * * V I T A s i t ess t a t e w i d e f or h o u se h o l d s u n d er p ro g r am l imi t s; t h eyc h ec k E I TC / CTC / PTFC e l i g ibi l i t y . F in d a s i t e an d b oo k . [C A$ H Maine — free tax prep](https://www.cashmaine.org/free-tax-prep/). (cashmaine.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File with an IRS VITA partner online (GetYourRefund) through CA$H Maine; call 211 to locate a site. (cashmaine.org, 211maine.org)

Maine debt collection, garnishment, and exemptions — plain‑English guide

If sued on an old debt: Check the “last activity” date. If it’s over 6 years, raise Maine’s time‑bar defense and ask the court to dismiss. A collector cannot legally sue you on such debt. 32 M.R.S. §11013(8). (legislature.maine.gov)
If a judgment is entered: Maine can order wage withholding, but caps apply. With a $14.65 minimum wage, the “40× wage” test protects more of low paychecks. 14 M.R.S. §3126‑A; MDOL minimum wage 2025. (legislature.maine.gov, maine.gov)
What you can keep: Homestead equity up to $80, 000 * * (or * *$ 160,000 for seniors/disabled), $3,000 in cash/bank, and protected benefits (Social Security, TANF, SNAP). 14 M.R.S. §4422. (legislature.maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Pine Tree Legal about disclosure hearings and hardship; they have Maine‑specific guides for responding to debt lawsuits. (ptla.org)

Rebuild credit safely in Maine

Use licensed help only: Maine requires debt management providers and loan brokers (including “credit repair”) to be licensed/registered. Verify a company in NMLS Consumer Access from the BCCP site. BCCP license search. (maine.gov)
Beware of upfront fees or “guarantees”: Maine regulates loan brokers; you should get a written agreement and clear disclosures. Title 9‑A, Article 10 — Loan Brokers. (legislature.maine.gov)
DIY that works:
- Keep utilization under 30% on each card.
- Pay on time — set autopay for minimums, then snowball extra on the highest APR.
- Consider one secured card or credit‑builder loan through a local credit union.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Free nonprofit counseling is available (many national NFCC members serve Maine remotely). Confirm any “debt management plan” provider is registered with Maine BCCP. Debt Management Service Providers — licensing page. (maine.gov)

Housing stability tools

Eviction Prevention Program: State‑funded help prioritized for non‑payment evictions; ran on a waitlist and closed to new applications June 27, 2025 due to demand. Watch for updates and ask Quality Housing Coalition at 207‑274‑1240. MaineHousing EPP page. (mainehousing.org)
Know your rights: Read The Rights of Tenants in Maine (Pine Tree Legal). If served court papers, go to court and bring proof of any payments or aid pending. (mainehousing.org)
Foreclosure help: MaineHousing lists HUD‑approved housing counselors; MaineHousing’s HOPE program may assist MaineHousing borrowers facing job loss. Call MaineHousing 800‑452‑4668. Mortgage help page. (mainehousing.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 for emergency shelter, apply for GA, and ask your court for mediation/continuances while aid is pending. (211maine.org, maine.gov)

Student loans — protect your credit and options

Get free state help: Maine’s Student Loan Ombudsman can resolve servicer issues and explain repayment and forgiveness options. Call 800‑332‑8529 or 207‑624‑8527. BCCP Student Loan Resources. (maine.gov)
STEM workers: The Alfond Leaders program has offered up to $60,000 in loan repayment for eligible STEM workers in Maine; 2025 cycles were paused, so check back for updates. FAME — Alfond Leaders. (famemaine.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If servicer errors persist, file a complaint with BCCP and the federal StudentAid Ombudsman; consider income‑driven repayment to stop delinquencies while complaints proceed. (maine.gov)

Bankruptcy in Maine — last‑resort reset

Court filing fees: Chapter 7 $338 * *; C ha pt er 13 * *$ 313 (installments or waiver may be available). Maine Bankruptcy Court: Portland 207‑780‑3482; Bangor 207‑945‑0348. U.S. Bankruptcy Court — District of Maine fees and FAQs. (meb.uscourts.gov)
Before filing: You must complete approved credit counseling; the court offers eSR (online petition prep) for self‑represented filers. Maine Bankruptcy Court eSR. (meb.uscourts.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Talk to a legal aid attorney about options like lump‑sum settlements or defending lawsuits based on Maine’s 6‑year limit or documentation issues. (ptla.org)

Diverse communities — targeted tips and resources

LGBTQ+ single mothers: For crisis mental health support, call or text 988 and press #3 for LGBTQI+ youth/young adults; ask local shelters about inclusive policies; 211 can identify affirming services. 988 info on specialized services. (988lifeline.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask DHHS about disability‑related deductions for HEAP and higher SNAP shelter deductions; Maine exemptions protect disability income from most collections. HEAP deductions; exemptions statute, 14 M.R.S. §4422. (mainehousing.org, legislature.maine.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Use the 988 Veterans Crisis Line by pressing 1, and connect with VA for VA‑backed mortgage options and utility hardship protections; ask BCCP’s Student Loan Ombuds about military‑related relief. (988lifeline.org)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: CCAP and WIC have clear citizenship/qualified non‑citizen rules for children; 211 has interpretation and can find low‑cost immigration legal aid. CCAP eligibility overview. (maine.gov)
Tribal citizens: Lifeline has enhanced discounts up to $34.25/month on Tribal lands; CAAs and Tribal TANF/LIHEAP programs may have separate application routes — ask 211 to connect you directly with your Tribal office. USAC Lifeline — Tribal. (lifelinesupport.org)
Rural moms with limited internet/phones: Request paper applications (SNAP/TANF) by mail or apply by phone; use 211 to locate nearby libraries, CAAs, or DHHS offices with public computers and scanners. DHHS district office contacts. (maine.gov)
Single fathers and kin caregivers: All programs above are gender‑neutral; CCAP allows retired legal guardians to qualify. CCAP overview. (maine.gov)
Language access: State agencies offer interpretation at no cost; 988 offers Spanish and 240+ languages via interpreters. (988lifeline.org)

Application checklist — print and use

ID for all adults/kids: State ID, birth certificates, Social Security numbers.
Proof of address: Lease, utility bill, landlord letter.
Income proofs (last 30 days or 12 months as needed): Pay stubs, unemployment, child support, Social Security, TANF, self‑employment logs.
Bills/expenses: Rent, utilities, child care, medical bills, insurance.
Bank statements: Last 2–3 months.
For HEAP: Fuel type and recent bills; highlight medical expenses and court‑ordered child support paid (possible deductions). MaineHousing HEAP prep list. (mainehousing.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

Waiting until shutoff/eviction: Many programs have seasonal deadlines or waitlists; apply early.
Paying a “credit repair” company upfront: In Maine, providers must be licensed and must use written agreements — verify first. BCCP license search. (maine.gov)
Ignoring court papers: Even weak cases can become 20‑year judgments if you don’t show up. Ask Pine Tree Legal about defenses. (ptla.org)
Missing recertification dates: Put reminders for SNAP/TANF/CCAP/LIAP renewals so your benefits don’t lapse.
Not contesting time‑barred debts: Maine’s 6‑year limit protects you; don’t make a small “good‑faith” payment that could complicate your defense. 32 M.R.S. §11013(8). (legislature.maine.gov)

Real‑world examples

Portland mom of two, hours cut: She applied for SNAP ( $536 * * f or a 2‑ p erso nh o u se h o l d) an d L I A P; e n ro ll e d in A MPt o f or g i v e * *$ 1,800 in arrears over 12 months while keeping current bills paid. Result: no shutoffs and current on other bills within 60 days. (maine.gov, versantpower.com)
Bangor pregnant student: She qualified for TANF ( $425 * * f oro n e) l a t e in p re g nan cy, W I C (* *$ 47 CVB), and CCAP at $0 copay during school. These supports prevented new collections and kept credit utilization in check. (maine.gov)

Region‑by‑region: where to start

Find your DHHS district office or call OFI: 855‑797‑4357. DHHS district offices. (maine.gov)
Find your Community Action Agency for HEAP/LIAP/AMP applications: Use the MaineHousing agency finder on the HEAP page. (mainehousing.org)
Call 211 for local eviction prevention, food, diaper banks, free tax prep, and domestic violence programs near you. Dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898‑211. (211maine.org)

Frequently asked questions (Maine‑specific)

How long does a debt stay on my credit report: 7 years for most negatives; 10 years for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Pull free weekly reports to track corrections. FTC credit report guidance. (consumer.ftc.gov)
What’s Maine’s minimum wage and why does it matter for garnishments: $14.65/hour in 2025; the higher minimum wage increases the “40× wage” protection in Maine’s garnishment formula. MDOL wage update. (maine.gov)
Can a collector sue me on an old credit card from 2016: Maine’s limit is 6 years from last activity; if more than 6 years, raise the defense and demand dismissal. 32 M.R.S. §11013(8). (legislature.maine.gov)
How much SNAP can a family of four get in 2025: Up to $975/month; income rules apply. USDA FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
What’s the current TANF amount for a family of three: Up to $895/month (adult included). TANF Rule Appendix. (maine.gov)
Do I have to pay for credit repair: No. You can DIY for free. If you hire help, verify Maine registration and don’t pay upfront. BCCP license search. (maine.gov)
Can I get help with a huge past‑due electric bill: Yes. AMP can forgive up to $6,000 while you make on‑time payments. Versant AMP. (versantpower.com)
Is there phone or internet help now that the ACP ended: Yes, Lifeline gives $9.25/month off service; more on Tribal lands. USAC Lifeline. (lifelinesupport.org)
What’s the current unemployment maximum: $623/ w ee k * * pl u s * *$ 25 per dependent; up to 26 weeks. MDOL claimants FAQ. (maine.gov)
Where do I report a predatory lender or harassing collector: Maine BCCP complaint line 800‑332‑8529 or 207‑624‑8527. BCCP complaint. (maine.gov)

Quick tables you can screenshot

Table — Maine wage garnishment quick math

Input	Amount
Weekly pay (example)	$700
40 × Maine minimum wage ($14.65)	$586.00
Amount above threshold	$114.00
25% of disposable earnings (example)	$175.00
Max garnishment = lesser of the two	$114.00

Statutes and wage level as of 2025. (legislature.maine.gov, maine.gov)

Table — WIC monthly fruit/vegetable CVB

Participant	Monthly CVB
Child	$26
Pregnant/postpartum	$47
Fully/partially breastfeeding	$52

Source: Maine CDC WIC. (maine.gov)

Table — HEAP income snapshot (2024–25)

HH size	12‑month income limit
1	$35,336
2	$46,209
3	$57,082
4	$67,955

Source: MaineHousing HEAP income chart. (mainehousing.org)

Plan B options — when applications stall

Escalate and document: Keep a folder of application receipts, case numbers, and emails.
Call consumer assistance lines: PUC 800‑452‑4699 (utilities), OFI 855‑797‑4357 (SNAP/TANF), CCAP 877‑680‑5866. (maine.gov, www11.maine.gov)
Ask for interim help: 211 can locate emergency food, fuel deliveries, and local charities while your case is pending. (211maine.org)
Appeal decisions: Most programs allow appeals; deadlines are short — mark your calendar when you apply.

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

What we did: We used official Maine and federal sources (DHHS/OFI, OCFS, MaineHousing, MPUC, Maine DOL, Maine Legislature, USDA/FNS, USAC/988 Lifeline, Maine BCCP) and verified amounts, phone numbers, and timelines current through August–September 2025. We link directly to application portals and official rule pages.

Our standards: This guide follows our Editorial Standards — official sources only, links tested, and updates tracked. We are researchers, not a government agency. We correct verified errors fast.

Last verified: September 2025, next review April 2026. Email info@asinglemother.org with corrections; we respond within 48–72 hours.

Disclaimer

Program amounts, rules, and timelines change: Always confirm the latest details with the official agency or court. We provide direct links and phone numbers to help you verify before you act.

Security note: For your safety, avoid sharing sensitive personal information over public Wi‑Fi. Use official portals we link to and monitor your accounts after applying for benefits or disputing debts.

Sources cited and dated

USDA FNS — SNAP FY2025 COLA (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
Maine DHHS OFI — SNAP and TANF program pages and contact lines. (maine.gov)
Maine DHHS Rule — TANF Maximum Benefit chart (effective Oct 1, 2024). (maine.gov)
OCFS — CCAP rules and income guidelines (effective Sept–Oct 2024). (maine.gov)
MaineHousing — HEAP program page and income chart; news on waitlists (2025). (mainehousing.org)
MPUC — Electricity help, LIAP info; PUC Consumer Assistance number. (maine.gov)
Versant AMP and CMP assistance pages (AMP forgiveness up to $6,000). (versantpower.com, cmpco.com)
Maine DOL — Minimum wage ( $14.65 * * in * * 2025 * *), U n e m pl oy m e n t W B A (* *$ 108– $623 * * pl u s * *$ 25/dependent). (maine.gov)
Maine Legislature — 6‑year debt collection limit; exempt property and garnishment statutes. (legislature.maine.gov)
BCCP — Complaint process, license search, Student Loan Ombudsman contacts. (maine.gov)
Maine CDC WIC — current CVB amounts. (maine.gov)
211 Maine — contact and referral info. (211maine.org)
988 Lifeline — how to access in Spanish/ASL, what to expect. (988lifeline.org)
U.S. Bankruptcy Court (District of Maine) — fees and eSR information. (meb.uscourts.gov)
CA$H Maine — free tax prep statewide. (cashmaine.org)

Final reality check

This playbook is designed so you can open tabs, make calls, and move forward today. If a step stalls, pivot to the “What to do if this doesn’t work” note in each section, keep records, and escalate. Small wins — one benefit approved, one collection corrected — add up to restored credit and breathing room.

🏛️More Maine Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maine