Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in New Jersey

Last updated: September 2025

---

Emergency help now

If you’re facing shutoffs, eviction, court deadlines, or immediate safety issues, act first and sort out the paperwork after. Use these numbers and links right away.

• Shutoff or high utility bill crisis: Call the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities Customer Assistance at 1-800-624-0241. Ask about the Winter Termination Program (Nov 15–Mar 15) and year‑round payment plans. See details and programs list at the NJBPU site. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
• Homelessness, rent, food, or other urgent basics: Dial 2‑1‑1 or call 1‑877‑652‑1148 (24/7). Ask for emergency shelter or housing navigation and utility assistance referrals; you can also text your ZIP to 898‑211. (nj211.org)
• Legal deadlines, collections, or court papers: Call Legal Services of New Jersey’s statewide hotline at 1‑888‑LSNJ‑LAW (1‑888‑576‑5529) (M–F). They handle debt collection, utility shutoff defenses, housing, and more. (lsnjlaw.org)
• Medical bills or hospital debt: Ask the hospital’s financial office for New Jersey’s “Charity Care” program application; you can qualify for free or reduced hospital bills based on income and assets. For questions, call 1‑866‑588‑5696. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
• Student loan crisis (NJCLASS or federal): For NJCLASS help, call HESAA Customer Care at 1‑800‑792‑8670 or 609‑584‑4480; ask about RAP/HIARP payment relief and default options. (hesaa.org)

---

Quick help box

Use these fast wins to protect your credit and cash flow this week.

• Freeze your credit: It’s free and stops new accounts opened in your name. Place freezes with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Start with the NJ Department of Banking & Insurance instructions and addresses. (nj.gov)
• Pull all three credit reports weekly for free: Use AnnualCreditReport.com to get Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion reports. Weekly access is now permanent. (consumer.ftc.gov)
• Dispute errors fast: Send disputes to the bureaus and the furnisher. NJ Department of Banking & Insurance has step‑by‑step guidance and explains what stays on reports and for how long. (nj.gov)
• Medical debt on credit reports: As of 2025, the CFPB finalized a rule to remove medical bills from credit reports and bar lenders from using them. Effective 60 days after Federal Register publication; check if it’s already in force for you. Also, the bureaus already removed paid medical collections and those under $500. (consumerfinance.gov, newsroom.transunion.com)
• Stop collector harassment and verify the debt: Use the CFPB’s validation/verification letter tools and their debt‑collection rule summary. You generally have 30 days from first contact to request validation. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Screen and apply for NJ benefits online: Use NJ’s portal to apply for SNAP and WFNJ/TANF; if you need in‑person help, contact your county social services office (numbers below). (nj.gov)

---

Why this guide is different

Most search results for “credit repair” are ads or generic checklists, few include New Jersey‑specific numbers, utility shutoff protections, real benefit amounts, exact county contacts, or state debt‑collection limits. This guide closes those gaps with:

• Concrete dollar amounts, income limits, and phone numbers from official NJ and federal sources.
• State laws that actually protect your paycheck and timeline, like wage garnishment limits and statutes of limitation.
• Action‑first steps and Plan B options at the end of each section.

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

---

Step‑by‑step: Fix credit and stabilize cash flow in New Jersey

1) Protect your credit file today

• Freeze your credit at all three bureaus: It’s free and the strongest protection against new fraudulent accounts. NJ DOBI’s guide lists mailing addresses and steps; you can also place freezes online. Keep your PINs secure. Why now: landlords, insurers, employers, and lenders often pull credit. A freeze stops thieves, not legit checks you approve. (nj.gov)
• Pull and review all three reports weekly: Thanks to a permanent change, you can get free weekly reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion via AnnualCreditReport.com. Set a 30‑minute weekly appointment with yourself to review new entries. (consumer.ftc.gov)
• Dispute errors in writing with proof: Send disputes to both the credit bureau and the furnisher (bank, collector, utility). Keep copies. NJ DOBI explains what can stay on reports (e.g., most negatives for 7 years, Chapter 7 for 10). Tip: Mail certified if it’s serious; keep your green card. (nj.gov)
• About medical debt on reports: The three bureaus removed paid medical collections and those under $500. In 2025, the CFPB finalized a rule to remove medical bills from credit reports and bar lenders from using them; it takes effect 60 days after Federal Register publication. Check your reports and dispute any medical lines that remain once the rule is in force. (newsroom.transunion.com, consumerfinance.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Contact LSNJ at 1‑888‑576‑5529 for help disputing stubborn errors and debt‑collector issues, or file a complaint with the CFPB if a bureau or collector won’t fix clear mistakes. (lsnjlaw.org)

2) Stop harassment and control collections

• Use the CFPB’s debt‑validation tools: Within the first 30 days after a collector contacts you, send a validation/verification letter asking for proof it’s your debt and the amount is accurate. Collectors must pause collection until they respond. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Know the New Jersey lawsuit deadlines (statutes of limitation):
  • Most consumer debts and written contracts: 6 years (N.J.S.A. 2A:14‑1).
  • Retail store‑only credit cards (e.g., a store card used only at that store): 4 years (Midland Funding LLC v. Thiel, published Appellate Division). (law.justia.com)
• Understand NJ wage garnishment caps: If your income is at or below 250% of the federal poverty level, wage executions are generally limited to 10% of gross wages. Above that, the federal 25% disposable‑income cap can apply. If someone tries to garnish more, object in court. (pub.njleg.gov)
• Post‑judgment interest in NJ: For 2025, NJ courts set post‑judgment interest at 5.5% for Special Civil Part‑sized judgments and 7.5% for larger judgments. This matters when negotiating payment plans. (njcourts.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask LSNJ to review your case (service of process, time‑barred debt, wrong person, or identity theft). If a wage execution is already in place, you can seek a modification based on hardship and income level. NJ Courts explain wage execution procedures. (njcourts.gov)

3) Rebuild credit the safe, low‑cost way

• Start with on‑time payments and low balances: The CFPB’s rebuild‑credit guide recommends keeping credit use low (aim under 30% of limits), paying on time, and avoiding too many new accounts. Use a secured card from your bank or credit union if needed. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Report rent when it helps you: Fannie Mae’s Desktop Underwriter now considers positive 12‑month rent payment history (via bank data or credit report) to expand mortgage eligibility—positive‑only, late rent isn’t counted against you. If homebuying is a goal, tell your lender to include it. (singlefamily.fanniemae.com)
• Avoid paid “credit repair” traps: Federal law (CROA) bans advance fees and false promises; in NJ you can file complaints with the Division of Consumer Affairs if a company takes money without providing lawful services. Real credit repair = you + disputes + time; don’t pay for what you can do with free tools above. (njconsumeraffairs.nj.gov, njconsumeraffairs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
If you can’t get a bank to approve a secured card, talk to a HUD‑approved housing/credit counselor or call LSNJ for nonprofit referrals. Keep using free weekly reports to track progress. (lsnjlaw.org)

---

Build breathing room: the most valuable NJ benefits for single moms

SNAP (food benefits) — fastest cash‑flow relief

• Action first: Apply online and request expedited service if you have very low cash or urgent need; some households qualify to receive benefits within 7 days.
• Income screen: New Jersey uses an initial gross income standard of 185% of FPL (valid Oct 2024–Sept 2025). Example: household of 3 up to $3,981\ast \ast /month;4upto\ast \ast$4,810/month. Households with elderly/disabled members may qualify even if above the chart. (nj.gov)
• Benefit amounts: For FY2025, a 4‑person household’s maximum federal SNAP is $975\ast \ast /month;NJalsoguaranteesa\ast \ast stateminimumof$95 per household—if your federal amount is below $95,NJtopsitupto\ast \ast$95**. (fns.usda.gov, nj.gov)
• How to apply: Apply via NJ SNAP or your County Social Service Agency. For help, call 1‑800‑687‑9512 or use a SNAP Navigator (FoodBank/YMCA/UW partners) who will help complete the application for free. (nj.gov)
• Required documents: ID, proof of NJ address, income, rent/mortgage, utilities, child care costs, and child support paid.

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Call your county board and ask for an interview as soon as possible; if denied, request a fair hearing by the deadline printed on the notice.

LIHEAP + USF (energy bills) — steady monthly savings

• Action first: Apply through the [DCAid portal] for both programs with one form. Ask your utility for a deferred payment plan while your application is pending. (nj.gov)
• Who qualifies: Households up to 60% of NJ’s state median income; for FY2025, that’s $92,108/year\ast \ast forafamilyof4(monthly\ast \ast$7,676). See full table below. (nj.gov)
• Year‑round protection: If you’re in LIHEAP/USF (or TANF/SSI/PAAD/Lifeline), the Winter Termination Program blocks shutoffs from Nov 15 to Mar 15—call your utility to invoke the protection, then NJBPU if issues persist. (nj.gov)
• USF benefit levels: The BPU approved improvements that raise the minimum monthly credit from $5\ast \ast to\ast \ast$20, and the max combined monthly credit to $200, set to take effect Oct 1, 2025. If you enroll now, you’ll be positioned to benefit when the change activates. (nj.gov)

LIHEAP/USF FY2025 income limits (selected sizes)

Source: NJ DCA announcement, FY2025 USF/LIHEAP limits. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Call NJBPU Customer Assistance at 1‑800‑624‑0241 to escalate utility payment plans or wrongful shutoff notices; ask about Comfort Partners (free energy efficiency), PAGE, Fresh Start, and any one‑time credits. (nj.gov)

WFNJ/TANF (cash assistance) — bridge money plus child care and work supports

• Action first: Apply via NJHelps (MyNJHelps) and ask about “immediate need” if you face loss of shelter, food, or utilities. Most decisions are within 30 days; immediate‑need cases are triaged faster. (nj.gov)
• Cash amounts (Schedule II maximums):
  • 1 person: $214
  • 2 people: $425
  • 3 people: $559
  • 4 people: $644
  • Add $66 for each additional person. (law.cornell.edu)
• Work rules and bonuses: TANF households generally complete 35 hours/week of approved work activities; when you get a job, NJ “ignores” a large share of new earnings for a period, and a Supplemental Work Support can add $200/month for up to 24 months if you close your case and keep working. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
• Where to apply in person: Find your County Social Service Agency (phones and addresses listed by county on NJ DFD’s page). (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Call your caseworker’s supervisor; if still stuck, call your county board director’s office or LSNJ for advocacy on denials or sanctions.

Unemployment Insurance (UI), Temporary Disability (TDI) and Family Leave (FLI) — when work stops

• Key 2025 amounts: Max weekly UI $875\ast \ast ;TDI/FLImax\ast \ast$1,081; base week earnings $303\ast \ast ;alternativeearningstest\ast \ast$15,200. (nj.gov)
• Timelines: Apply for UI as soon as you’re separated. For TDI/FLI, file promptly and upload medical/employer forms as required.

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Request a monetary review if wages are missing; appeal determinations by the deadline. NJDOL provides calculators and guidance. (nj.gov)

Charity Care (hospital bills) — avoid collections and protect credit

• What it covers: Medically necessary inpatient and outpatient services at NJ acute care hospitals for eligible residents; free or reduced charges based on income and assets. Apply at the hospital where you received care. Program help line: 1‑866‑588‑5696. (nj.gov)
• Why it matters for credit: Approved Charity Care reduces or eliminates the balance that might otherwise go to collections—protecting your credit while the CFPB’s rule removes medical debt lines from reports. (consumerfinance.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
If denied, ask the hospital for a written explanation and appeal; get help from LSNJ if a collector pursues a bill that should be covered.

---

New Jersey laws that really matter for your credit

Wage garnishment limits (NJ)

• General cap: No more than 10% of gross wages if your income is at or below 250% of FPL for your family size. Courts can allow a higher percent only if you’re above that threshold, and never more than the federal limit (generally 25% of disposable income). (pub.njleg.gov)
• How to use it: If a creditor seeks a wage execution that exceeds these limits, file an objection; NJ Courts’ self‑help explains wage execution steps and how to object. (njcourts.gov)

Statutes of limitation (how long creditors can sue)

• Most contracts/credit cards: 6 years from default or last charge (not counting some resets). (law.justia.com)
• Retail‑only store cards: 4 years, per Midland Funding LLC v. Thiel (published). (law.justia.com)
• Judgments: Creditors can pursue collection for many years; lien rules and renewals apply. Ask a legal aid attorney if a very old judgment resurfaces.

Post‑judgment interest

• 2025 rates: 5.5% for judgments within the Special Civil Part limit; 7.5% for larger judgments—use this when negotiating balance reductions. (njcourts.gov)

---

Tables you can use

Table A — SNAP income screen (Oct 2024–Sept 2025)

Source: NJ DHS SNAP eligibility chart (valid through Sept 2025). (nj.gov)

Table B — SNAP maximum monthly allotments (FY2025)

Note: USDA set the 4‑person max at $975\ast \ast forFY2025;exactper‑sizevaluesareinUSDA’sCOLAmemo.NJalsoguaranteesatleast\ast \ast$95 per household/month via a state supplement. (fns.usda.gov, nj.gov)

Table C — WFNJ/TANF maximum cash grant (Schedule II)

Source: N.J.A.C. 10:90‑3.3 (Schedules I & II). (law.cornell.edu)

Table D — Energy help snapshot (FY2025)

Sources: NJ DCA and NJBPU announcements. (nj.gov, nj.gov)

Table E — Work‑stop benefits (2025)

Source: NJDOL 2025 benefits press release. (nj.gov)

---

Real‑world examples (New Jersey)

• Example 1 — Atlantic County mom with a warehouse job: Hours were cut; she applied for SNAP with income just under the 3‑person limit (gross $3,981\ast \ast ).Thehouseholdlanded\ast \ast$270 in federal SNAP plus NJ’s $95\ast \ast minimumsupplement,freeing\ast \ast$365/month for other bills. (nj.gov)
• Example 2 — Newark renter behind on PSE&G: She applied for USF/LIHEAP (family of 4; income $7,200\ast \ast /mo,underthe\ast \ast$7,676 cap). USF added monthly credits and kept service during WTP while the payment plan got set up. (nj.gov)
• Example 3 — Camden County medical bill: After a C‑section, the hospital helped apply for Charity Care; the bill dropped to zero, so nothing hit collections while the new CFPB rule removes medical debt lines from credit reports. (nj.gov, consumerfinance.gov)

---

Common mistakes to avoid

• Relying on paid “credit repair” promises: Advance fees and “guarantees” are red flags. Use free weekly reports and CFPB tools first. (consumer.ftc.gov, consumerfinance.gov)
• Ignoring court papers: If sued, you usually have a short window to answer—missing it can lead to default judgment, wage execution, and bank levies.
• Paying a small amount on very old debt without advice: In NJ, payments may affect the timeline; get legal advice first, especially if the debt might be time‑barred (6 years; 4 for retail‑only cards). (law.justia.com)
• Not invoking Winter Termination protections: If you qualify, call the utility right away; then call NJBPU to resolve disputes. (nj.gov)
• Skipping Charity Care or hospital assistance: Don’t wait—apply early to reduce balances and avoid collections. (nj.gov)

---

Application checklist (have these ready)

• Photo ID and Social Security numbers (or documents for eligible immigrants)
• Proof of address (lease, utility bill, or letter from shelter)
• Proof of income (last 4–6 weeks’ pay stubs, child support received, unemployment, etc.)
• Bills (rent/mortgage, utilities, child care, medical)
• Bank statements (usually last 30–60 days)
• Any court or collection letters (to protect your rights on timelines)

---

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Escalate benefits issues by contacting your County Social Service Agency director’s office or the state hotline tied to that program.
• File consumer complaints with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs if a business—including a “credit repair” company—breaks the rules. Online complaint form is available. (njconsumeraffairs.nj.gov)
• Ask legal aid (LSNJ) to review time‑barred debt, identity theft, or wage execution hardships. Phone: 1‑888‑576‑5529. (lsnjlaw.org)

---

Diverse communities: tailored help in New Jersey

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Seek confidential assistance and benefits help through NJ 2‑1‑1 for local affirming providers. Credit and benefits rules are the same; ask for name and gender marker‑respecting services. Tip: If domestic violence or stalking is involved, ask about address confidentiality and safer communication options. (nj211.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: When your household includes a person with a disability, some SNAP budgeting rules are more flexible; Medicaid programs like NJ FamilyCare/ABD have different income/resource limits. Charity Care and utility protections also apply. Use NJ 2‑1‑1 to find disability‑specific supports. (nj211.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask about veteran‑specific legal help and utility protections; be sure to disclose VA benefits when applying for SNAP/LIHEAP/USF. Use NJ 2‑1‑1 for veteran resources and county VSOs. (nj211.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many benefits are still available depending on status (e.g., SNAP for U.S. citizen kids, WIC/Charity Care policies at hospitals, LIHEAP/USF in many cases). If a collector threatens deportation, that’s illegal—document it and seek help from LSNJ. (lsnjlaw.org)
• Tribal citizens: Use NJ 2‑1‑1 for connections to tribal and regional services and federal programs that can stack with state aid. (nj211.org)
• Rural single moms (limited transport/web): Apply by phone or in person at your county board; ask a Navigator to meet at a library, clinic, or pantry event. NJ SNAP and LIHEAP partners hold mobile events—call in advance. (nj.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs above apply if you’re the custodial parent; child support and case rules are the same.
• Language access: Ask for interpreters on every call and application; agencies must provide language assistance at no cost.

---

Resources by region (selected)

• Essex/Hudson/Passaic: Community FoodBank of New Jersey SNAP Navigators 1‑908‑838‑4831; county boards of social services handle SNAP/TANF cases. (nj.gov)
• Monmouth/Ocean: Fulfill SNAP line 1‑732‑643‑5888; Ocean County Board of Social Services 732‑349‑1500. (nj.gov)
• Burlington/Camden/Gloucester/Salem: Food Bank of South Jersey SNAP help 1‑856‑324‑5173. (nj.gov)
• Mercer: United Way of Greater Mercer County 609‑637‑4915 for SNAP enrollment. (nj.gov)
• Statewide legal help: LSNJ hotline 1‑888‑576‑5529 (M–F). (lsnjlaw.org)

---

New Jersey‑specific FAQs

• Q: How fast can I get SNAP when money’s tight?
  A: Expedited SNAP can arrive within 7 days if you meet emergency criteria; ask during your interview or in your online application. (nj.gov)
• Q: My power is about to be shut off in February. What can I say on the phone?
  A: Tell the utility you qualify for the Winter Termination Program, give your aid program (e.g., USF/LIHEAP/TANF/SSI/PAAD), and request a deferred payment plan while you apply for USF/LIHEAP. If denied, call NJBPU at 1‑800‑624‑0241. (nj.gov)
• Q: Can a credit card lawsuit take more than 10% from my pay?
  A: If your income is at or below 250% FPL, NJ law generally limits wage execution to 10%. Over that, the federal cap (usually 25% of disposable earnings) can apply. Object if an order exceeds the limit. (pub.njleg.gov)
• Q: What’s the time limit to sue me for a store‑only card in NJ?
  A: 4 years (retail‑only cards), per the published Midland Funding v. Thiel decision; general‑purpose cards and most contracts are 6 years. (law.justia.com)
• Q: I found a hospital bill on my credit report—what now?
  A: Check if it’s paid or under $500 (should have been removed). The CFPB finalized a rule to remove medical bills from credit reports—watch the effective date and dispute any remaining items once it’s in force. (newsroom.transunion.com, consumerfinance.gov)
• Q: How much cash help does TANF actually pay?
  A: A 3‑person TANF unit can receive up to $559\ast \ast /mo;4‑personupto\ast \ast$644/mo (before earnings disregards). (law.cornell.edu)
• Q: What are the 2025 UI/TDI maximum weekly amounts?
  A: UI max $875\ast \ast ;TDI/FLImax\ast \ast$1,081 per week. (nj.gov)
• Q: Where do I get free weekly credit reports?
  A: Use AnnualCreditReport.com; weekly access is now permanent under the bureaus’ policy (FTC announcement). (consumer.ftc.gov)
• Q: I’m being chased for an old debt—should I make a small “good faith” payment?
  A: Not before getting legal advice—payments can affect timelines. Check if the claim might be time‑barred (4 or 6 years). (law.justia.com)
• Q: Who can help me one‑on‑one for free?
  A: Start with NJ 2‑1‑1 (1‑877‑652‑1148) for local referrals and LSNJ (1‑888‑576‑5529) for legal advice on debt and benefits. (nj211.org, lsnjlaw.org)

---

NJ taxes and credits that put cash back

• New Jersey Child Tax Credit: For Tax Year 2024, up to $1,000 per child age 5 or younger, phased by taxable income, and refundable. File an NJ‑1040 to claim it; see the official chart for exact amounts by income. (nj.gov)

---

Student loans: NJCLASS and federal

• NJCLASS: If you’re struggling, call HESAA at 1‑800‑792‑8670 and ask about RAP (Repayment Assistance Program) and HIARP (Household Income Affordable Repayment Plan). Avoid default to protect your credit; if you’re already in default, ask about settlement and steps to resolve collection litigation and credit reporting. (hesaa.org, he7606.hesaa.org)
• Federal loans: Consider income‑driven repayment at [StudentAid.gov]; if you’re newly delinquent, act quickly to prevent negative credit marks.

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask LSNJ about student‑loan defenses, disability discharge options, and credit‑report dispute strategies.

---

County contacts: where to go in person

Use NJ DFD’s county list to find addresses, hours, and phone numbers for your local board of social services (SNAP/TANF/GA). Example: Ocean County BSS: 732‑349‑1500; Somerset County BSS: 908‑526‑8800. Confirm hours before visiting. (nj.gov)

---

About medical debt and your credit in 2025

• Under‑$500 medical collections were removed in 2023.
• Paid medical collections are not reported.
• CFPB 2025 final rule removes medical bills from credit reports and bars lenders from using them; effective 60 days after publication—watch your reports and dispute anything that remains. (newsroom.transunion.com, consumerfinance.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from New Jersey Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, NJBPU/NJDCA, NJ Courts, NJ DOH, NJDOL, HESAA, CFPB, and established nonprofits. 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. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

---

Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, and timelines change. Always confirm with the agency or court handling your case. This guide offers general information, not legal advice or tax advice. For legal help, contact Legal Services of New Jersey at 1‑888‑576‑5529. We keep our website secure with HTTPS and never ask for your SSN or full account numbers in comments or forms. Do not share private information on public Wi‑Fi or in unsecured emails.

---

Sources (selected)

• SNAP amounts and income standards: USDA FY2025 COLA; NJ SNAP 185% chart; NJ $95 state minimum benefit. (fns.usda.gov, nj.gov)
• LIHEAP/USF limits and USF enhancements: NJ DCA; NJBPU press release (June 18, 2025). (nj.gov, nj.gov)
• Winter Termination protections: NJ DCA WTP page; NJBPU reminder (Mar 14, 2025). (nj.gov, nj.gov)
• WFNJ/TANF amounts and process: N.J.A.C. 10:90‑3.3; NJ WFNJ application guidance. (law.cornell.edu, nj.gov)
• UI/TDI/FLI 2025 rates: NJDOL press release (Dec 17, 2024). (nj.gov)
• Wage garnishment limit: N.J.S.A. 2A:17‑56; NJ Courts wage execution overview. (pub.njleg.gov, njcourts.gov)
• Statutes of limitation: N.J.S.A. 2A:14‑1; Midland Funding LLC v. Thiel (App. Div., published). (law.justia.com)
• Post‑judgment interest (2025): NJ Courts notice. (njcourts.gov)
• Free weekly credit reports: FTC Consumer Advice. (consumer.ftc.gov)
• Medical debt reporting: TransUnion newsroom (under‑$500 removal); CFPB final rule (Jan 7, 2025). (newsroom.transunion.com, consumerfinance.gov)
• Charity Care: NJ DOH overview and contact. (nj.gov)
• NJ Child Tax Credit (2024): NJ Treasury page and amounts. (nj.gov)
• HESAA (NJCLASS): Contact and RAP/HIARP info; default page. (hesaa.org, he7606.hesaa.org)

---

Final reality check

Recovering credit as a single mom in New Jersey is a series of small wins: stopping shutoffs, getting the benefits you qualify for, challenging wrong items on your reports, and choosing repayment plans that fit your budget. Use this guide as a checklist. When you hit a wall, call NJ 2‑1‑1 or LSNJ and keep going.

---

🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey

• 📋 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