Credit Repair and Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in North Dakota
Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in North Dakota
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency Help First
- If you face an eviction or have a court hearing within 7 days: Call ND 211 at 2-1-1 right now and apply for North Dakota’s Eviction Prevention help if funding is open; it can pay a lump sum to stop the eviction and may include mediation. See the state’s Eviction Prevention page for application steps and income limits by county, then contact the program at 701-328-1907 or dhserb@nd.gov. (hhs.nd.gov)
- If your heat or power is being shut off: Ask your utility for a payment arrangement and apply for LIHEAP immediately. Year‑round LIHEAP can also help with furnace repair/replacement and cooling devices. Customer Support Center: 1-866-614-6005 or applyforhelp@nd.gov. (hhs.nd.gov)
- If you have no food: Apply for SNAP today via the Self‑Service Portal (SSP). If you qualify for expedited service, benefits can arrive in a few days. Customer Support Center: 1-866-614-6005; Great Plains Food Bank SNAP Outreach: 855-405-0000. (hhs.nd.gov)
- If wages are being garnished: North Dakota caps most garnishments at 25% of disposable earnings and reduces the cap by $20 for each dependent who lives with you. Ask HR for the dependent deduction form within 10 days. (ndlegis.gov)
- If you’re being sued or served court papers: Call Legal Services of North Dakota (under age 60: 1-800-634-5263; age 60+: 1-866-621-9886) or the ND Legal Self‑Help Center at 701-328-1852. (lsnd.org, ndcourts.gov)
Quick Help Box
- Pull free credit reports weekly: Go to AnnualCreditReport.com and get all three reports for free every week. It’s permanently free. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Dispute obvious errors: Use the CFPB’s dispute steps and sample letters; dispute with the bureaus and the creditor. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Apply for the biggest relief first: SNAP, WIC, LIHEAP, TANF, CCAP, and Unemployment Insurance (UI) each put cash or cash‑like help in your budget. Links and amounts are below with phones bolded.
- Stop identity theft fallout: Place a free fraud alert or credit freeze with each bureau; then file at IdentityTheft.gov if needed. (consumerfinance.gov)
- If a collector calls: Keep calls short. Ask for everything in writing. North Dakota law and federal law ban threats and harassment. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (North Dakota)
Program | Who it helps | Current dollar figures | Where to apply / call |
---|---|---|---|
SNAP (food) | Low‑ to moderate‑income families | Max monthly: 1 person 292∗∗;2∗∗292**; 2 **536; 3 768∗∗;4∗∗768**; 4 **975 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). Income screens shown below. | Apply in ND SSP • Support Center 1-866-614-6005 • SNAP Outreach 855-405-0000. (hhs.nd.gov) |
WIC | Pregnant/postpartum, infants/children under 5 | Monthly fruit/veg cash benefit: child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 (FY2025). | ND WIC info • General WIC policy (FNS). (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov) |
LIHEAP | Heat/cool, furnace, weatherization | Income ≤ 60% state median (table below). New policy aims for households not to pay > 6% of income for heat. | LIHEAP in ND • Support Center 1-866-614-6005 • Community Options 1-800-823-2417. (hhs.nd.gov) |
TANF cash | Families with children; pregnant moms | Standard of Need increased; benefit is difference between the state’s Standard of Need and countable income. Example shown below for a 3‑person case $492/mo after Oct 1, 2024 change. | TANF overview & apply • Support Center 1-866-614-6005. (hhs.nd.gov) |
CCAP child care | Working/going to school | Max monthly income (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025): 3‑person 6,462∗∗;4‑person∗∗6,462**; 4‑person **7,694 (85% SMI scale). | CCAP apply • Support Center 1-866-614-6005. (hhs.nd.gov) |
Unemployment Insurance | Recently lost work | Benefit = total of highest 2.5 base‑period quarters ÷ 65; duration 12–26 weeks; schedule resets July 6, 2025–July 4, 2026. | ND UI estimator + benefit chart • Claims 701-328-4995. (jobsnd.com) |
What top search results miss — and how this guide fills the gaps
- Outdated or generic info: Many “single mom help” pages list old numbers or 2022‑era WIC/SNAP limits, or they skip ND‑specific rules. We cite current FY2025 WIC cash values and ND’s 2024–2025 SNAP tables directly from official sources. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov, wealthysinglemommy.com, happysinglemommy.com)
- No dollar amounts or phones: State pages often require multiple clicks. Below, we put the key amounts, dates, and phone numbers in one place and show where to apply.
- No credit repair steps tied to ND law: We pair national credit steps with North Dakota rules on garnishment and legal time limits to sue on debts. (ndlegis.gov)
Start Here: A 10‑Day Credit & Cash Flow Action Plan
Day | What to do | Where | ND‑specific tip |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Download your free credit reports (all three) and save PDFs. | AnnualCreditReport.com | Weekly reports are permanently free; schedule reminders. (consumer.ftc.gov) |
2 | Freeze your credit with Equifax, Experian, TransUnion. | Each bureau website | Free; stops new fraud accounts. |
3 | List every negative item: late pays, collections, medical debt. | Your reports | Flag medical collections; many lenders will delete after paid/settled; dispute true errors via CFPB guidance. (consumerfinance.gov) |
4 | Dispute errors in writing; attach proof. | Credit bureaus + the furnisher | Keep copies; send certified mail when possible. (consumerfinance.gov) |
5 | Stabilize food/heat/child care to free cash for debts. | Apply SNAP, LIHEAP, CCAP | Use the phones and portals below; approvals can cut expenses fast. (hhs.nd.gov) |
6 | Call priority creditors (rent, car, utilities) for hardship plans. | Landlord, lender, utility | In shutoff risk, mention LIHEAP application and ask to pause collection 7–14 days. (hhs.nd.gov) |
7 | Pick a debt strategy: DIY settlements, nonprofit debt management plan (DMP), or legal options. | NFCC‑member agency or legal aid | Ask any DMP about nonprofit status and fees; ND AG says services must be properly bonded. (nfcc.org, attorneygeneral.nd.gov) |
8 | Set up payment reporting: rent‑reporting or secured card. | Bank/fintech | Use low fees; keep utilization under 30%. |
9 | If unemployed, file UI immediately; build a job‑search plan. | Job Service ND (UI ICE) | UI WBA uses a specific formula; see ND chart for 7/6/2025–7/4/2026. (jobsnd.com) |
10 | Calendar reviews every payday to track balances and new approvals. | Your phone calendar | Re‑check reports monthly until fixed items update. |
Food Money You Can Spend: SNAP (EBT)
Why this matters: Groceries often crowd out debt payments. SNAP frees up cash.
- Eligibility basics: North Dakota uses expanded categorical eligibility up to 200% FPL for many households. For Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025, monthly gross income screens include 3‑person 4,304∗∗and4‑person∗∗4,304** and 4‑person **5,200; other thresholds exist for 130%/100% tests. Assets are higher for elderly/disabled households. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Maximum monthly allotments (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025) if you have no countable income: 1 292∗∗,2∗∗292**, 2 **536, 3 768∗∗,4∗∗768**, 4 **975, 5 1,158∗∗,6∗∗1,158**, 6 **1,390, 7 1,536∗∗,8∗∗1,536**, 8 **1,756. (hhs.nd.gov)
- How to apply: Use the ND SSP. Need help? Great Plains Food Bank SNAP Outreach can complete your application by phone 855-405-0000; ND Customer Support Center 1-866-614-6005. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Timeline: Standard processing is usually under 30 days; expedited SNAP (very low income/assets) can be 3–7 days.
- What to bring: ID, SSNs, income proof, rent and utility bills.
- Common mistakes: Missing a phone interview or forgetting to upload pay stubs.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Request an appeal (SFN 162) right away; or reapply if income dropped this month. ND SNAP contact: 1-866-614-6005. (hhs.nd.gov)
Nutrition Support: WIC
- Cash‑value benefit for fruits/veggies (FY2025): child 26∗∗/mo;pregnantorpostpartum∗∗26**/mo; pregnant or postpartum **47/mo; breastfeeding $52/mo. These amounts are set in USDA’s 2025 policy memo. (fns.usda.gov)
- Income update: As of May 1, 2025, a 4‑person family can earn up to $59,478/year for ND WIC screening (additional rules apply). (hhs.nd.gov)
- How to apply: Call 800-472-2286 or use ND WIC’s site to find a clinic. Bring ID, proof of income/address, and children’s immunization records. (hhs.nd.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about SNAP or Summer EBT for kids through the Department of Public Instruction; households under posted limits can apply online. (nd.gov)
Heat, Power, Furnace: LIHEAP
- Eligibility: For the 2024–2025 season (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025), income must be ≤ 60% of ND median. Examples monthly: 3‑person 4,809∗∗,4‑person∗∗4,809**, 4‑person **5,725, 5‑person $6,641. (hhs.nd.gov)
- What you can get: Payments to your vendor for heating fuel/electricity, plus weatherization, furnace clean/repair/replace, chimney work, cooling device help, and emergency assistance. ND policy now aims so qualifying households don’t pay over 6% of income for heating. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Apply: Year‑round via SSP or call 1-866-614-6005; for application help at home call Community Options 1-800-823-2417. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Timeline: Heating benefits typically issue starting October 1; emergency cases are handled as needed.
- Common mistakes: Not submitting last 12 months’ utility expenses; not providing landlord/utility account info.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your CAP agency about Energy Share or local church funds; request a payment plan from your utility while your LIHEAP is pending. (hhs.nd.gov)
Cash Assistance While You Reset: TANF
- How TANF pays: ND calculates a Standard of Need and pays the difference between that and your countable income. ND increased the Standard of Need in its TANF modernization, and removed “pay after performance.” For example, a single mom of two working at 7.25/hour∗∗couldreceive∗∗7.25/hour** could receive **492/month after the Oct 1, 2024 increase (illustrative family of 3 example). (hhs.nd.gov)
- Who can apply: Pregnant moms or households with children under 18 (19 if graduating HS), meeting income and asset rules. Apply in SSP or at your Human Service Zone. Processing is within 30 days. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Required documents: ID, SSNs, proof of relationship, proof of income/assets, proof of ND residency, and child support cooperation (with good‑cause domestic violence exception). (hhs.nd.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Diversion/one‑time help (if available locally), SNAP, and CCAP; call the Customer Support Center 1-866-614-6005 for a case review. (hhs.nd.gov)
Child Care So You Can Work: CCAP
- Income limits (max monthly, Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025): 2 5,231∗∗,3∗∗5,231**, 3 **6,462, 4 7,694∗∗,5∗∗7,694**, 5 **8,924, 6 $10,155. Co‑pays are sliding‑scale; there’s also a Child Care Workforce Benefit that can waive co‑pays for employees of licensed providers. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Apply: ND SSP or call the Support Center 1-866-614-6005. Upload work/school schedule, pay stubs, and provider info. (hhs.nd.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider about state max rate, quality bonuses, and temporary approvals; check Head Start/Early Head Start and school‑based programs.
Unemployment Insurance (UI) if You Lost Work
- Weekly Benefit Amount: Add your highest 2.5 quarters of base‑period wages and divide by 65. Benefits last 12–26 weeks depending on your earnings ratio. See the ND benefit chart effective July 6, 2025–July 4, 2026 to estimate your WBA and duration. (jobsnd.com)
- Apply: File immediately at UI ICE; backdating is not allowed. Claims/help: 701-328-4995. (jobsnd.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal your Monetary Determination if wages are missing; keep certifying weekly while pending. (jobsnd.com)
Eviction Prevention & Housing Stabilization
- Eviction Prevention: The state program can make a one‑time payment to your landlord to stop the eviction, depending on funding and an active court date. Apply through the Housing Stabilization portal; quick links list income limits and steps. For program questions call 701-328-1907 or email dhserb@nd.gov. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Re‑housing assistance ramp‑down: ND has ended new re‑housing Letters of Commitment for households experiencing homelessness (as of March 14, 2025) and ended renewals due to expiring federal funds; staff can still help connect you to other resources. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Plan B: Apply for HUD housing vouchers or public housing through your local housing authority; use ND Housing Stabilization “North Dakota Housing Authorities” link to find current lists and openings. Call 2‑1‑1 for local shelter/rapid rehousing leads. (hhs.nd.gov)
Child Support: Modifications and Payment Options
- If your income dropped: Request a review; Child Support can review an order every 18 months (or sooner in some exceptions). Contact ND Child Support at 701-328-5440 or 1-800-231-4255; email childsupport@nd.gov. (hhs.nd.gov, childsupport.dhs.nd.gov)
- Online case access: Check balances, update contact info, enroll in direct deposit or the smiONE debit card. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Guidelines and calculator: ND Admin. Code ch. 75‑02‑04.1 and the official calculator were updated (calculator refreshed July 18, 2025). (hhs.nd.gov)
Your Rights With Collectors, Garnishment, and Old Debts in North Dakota
- Harassment is illegal: Collectors cannot threaten arrest or call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.; for complaints, file with the CFPB. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
- Garnishment cap: The maximum is the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or amounts above 40× the federal minimum wage, and ND reduces the max by $20 per dependent living with you. (ndlegis.gov)
- Statute of limitations to sue on most debts: ND’s time limit to file a lawsuit on most contracts (including credit cards) is 6 years from when the claim accrues; 10 years for judgments and certain mortgage actions. Don’t restart the clock by making a small payment without a plan. (ndlegis.gov)
- Check a company’s bonding: Before paying any debt relief or credit counseling firm, the ND Attorney General says to verify it’s properly bonded in ND. Call Consumer Protection 701-328-3404. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
Fixing Credit the Right Way (and Avoiding Scams)
- Dispute errors correctly: Use the CFPB’s step‑by‑step dispute guide and send to both the bureau and the creditor (the “furnisher”). Keep copies; bureaus must investigate. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Build positive history: Consider a secured card with a small limit or rent‑reporting. Keep utilization under 30% and pay on time.
- Get nonprofit help: Find National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) agencies that serve ND by phone/video; ask about Debt Management Plans (DMPs) and fee caps. NFCC number 855-939-0724. (nfcc.org)
- Red flags: Companies promising a “new credit file,” asking for big upfront fees, or telling you to stop paying creditors are high‑risk; walk away.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing interviews or uploads in SNAP/CCAP/LIHEAP and getting denied over paperwork.
- Ignoring a Summons for debt: that’s the fastest way to a default judgment and wage garnishment.
- Restarting old debts by paying without checking the statute of limitations first.
- Paying for “credit repair” before checking nonprofit counseling options and your free DIY dispute rights.
- Not reporting income changes to programs; this can cause overpayments.
Program Details and How to Apply
SNAP in North Dakota — At a glance
Household size | 200% gross monthly screen |
---|---|
1 | $2,510 |
2 | $3,408 |
3 | $4,304 |
4 | $5,200 |
5 | $6,098 |
6 | $6,994 |
7 | $7,890 |
8 | $8,788 |
Apply via the SSP; support center 1-866-614-6005; SNAP Outreach 855-405-0000. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: File an appeal (SFN 162) and request a fair hearing; keep benefits pending if eligible. (hhs.nd.gov)
WIC — What you get and how much
- Monthly fruit/vegetable benefit: child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 (FY2025). Call 800-472-2286. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the clinic about temporarily switching to formula/food package options or referrals to local pantries and breastfeeding support.
LIHEAP — Income limits (2024‑2025)
Household | Annual income | Monthly income |
---|---|---|
1 | $35,724 | $2,977 |
2 | $46,716 | $3,893 |
3 | $57,708 | $4,809 |
4 | $68,700 | $5,725 |
5 | $79,692 | $6,641 |
6 | $90,684 | $7,557 |
Apply online or call 1-866-614-6005; for help at home, call 1-800-823-2417. Policy aims to keep heating costs ≤ 6% of income. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask CAP about Energy Share; request a medical need accommodation with your utility if someone in the home is medically fragile.
TANF — Reality check and example
- Reality: TANF is time‑limited (up to 60 months) and requires work activities unless exempt. ND increased the Standard of Need and removed pay‑after‑performance, making help more immediate. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Example from ND: A single mom of two at 1,160/mo∗∗grosscouldget∗∗1,160/mo** gross could get **492/mo TANF after Oct 1, 2024 changes. Your exact benefit depends on household size and countable income. (hhs.nd.gov)
Apply via SSP; help line 1-866-614-6005.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Diversion help if you need a short‑term bridge, and combine with SNAP/LIHEAP.
CCAP — Income caps and extras
- Max monthly income: 3‑person 6,462∗∗;4‑person∗∗6,462**; 4‑person **7,694 (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). Co‑pays scale with income; some provider quality bonuses increase paid rates. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Child Care Workforce Benefit: If you work for a licensed provider ≥ 25 hours/week, your co‑pay may be waived and payments can go up to the full‑time state max rate. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Check Head Start/Early Head Start, school‑based pre‑K, and employer child care stipends.
Unemployment Insurance — Key numbers
- WBA formula: (Highest 2.5 quarters) ÷ 65; weeks payable 12–26 per the benefit chart effective July 6, 2025–July 4, 2026. File at UI ICE; claims 701-328-4995. (jobsnd.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal your Monetary Determination and keep certifying. (jobsnd.com)
Debt Options at a Glance (Choose One Path)
Option | What it does | Typical cost | Best when |
---|---|---|---|
DIY snowball/avalanche | You self‑pay highest interest or smallest balance first | $0 | You can make at least the minimums and have steady income |
Nonprofit DMP | One payment to an NFCC agency; creditors often cut rates/waive fees | Setup 0–0–75, monthly 20–20–50 (ask your agency) | You have credit card debt and want structure without new loans (nfcc.org) |
Settlement (negotiate) | Pay a reduced lump sum after delinquency | Varies; beware high fees | You have cash to settle and accounts are charged off |
Bankruptcy | Court relief; Ch. 7 (faster) or Ch. 13 (repayment) | Filing fees and attorney fees vary | You can’t afford even reduced payments and need protection |
ND legal help: Legal Services of ND (under 60: 1‑800‑634‑5263; 60+: 1‑866‑621‑9886). Lawyer referral: 1‑866‑450‑9579. (lsnd.org, sband.org)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask caseworkers to note preferred name and gender; programs cannot deny benefits based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Plan B: If you encounter bias, document it and contact the ND HHS Ombudsman via the Customer Support Center 1‑866‑614‑6005 and Legal Services ND. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: You may qualify for higher SNAP asset allowances and disability‑related deductions; WIC and CCAP have accommodations. Ask about medical offsets in LIHEAP. Plan B: Request reasonable accommodations in writing to your local Human Service Zone. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Pair state help with VA benefits; ask Legal Services ND about discharge upgrades or overpayment defenses on VA debts. Plan B: Call 2‑1‑1 to locate county veterans service officers.
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Some programs are open regardless of immigration status for your U.S.‑born kids. ND’s SNAP page notes that getting SNAP for eligible family members doesn’t harm future citizenship applications. Plan B: Call the Support Center 1‑866‑614‑6005 for screening. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Tribal citizens: If you live on reservation land, tribal LIHEAP or TANF may apply; ask your tribal social services and the state LIHEAP office which program should process your case. Plan B: If you’re off‑reservation, apply through the state portals and flag your tribal enrollment. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Rural moms with limited internet: You can request mailed applications for SNAP/TANF/LIHEAP and complete phone interviews. Use Community Options 1‑800‑823‑2417 for LIHEAP application assistance. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Single fathers: These programs are gender‑neutral; the same rules and income limits apply. Call the same numbers and use the same portals listed here.
- Language access: ND websites offer translation, but the English version controls. Ask for an interpreter on calls; it’s free. (jobsnd.com)
Application Checklist (Use for SNAP/TANF/LIHEAP/CCAP/UI)
- Photo ID and SSNs for all applying household members.
- Proof of North Dakota residency: lease, utility bill, or mail.
- Income proof: last 30 days of pay stubs, child support, UI, or self‑employment logs.
- Expenses: rent/lease, utilities, child care bills, medical bills (elderly/disabled SNAP), child support paid.
- Bank and asset info where required (TANF & CCAP rules vary). (hhs.nd.gov)
Resources by Region (One‑call shortcuts)
- ND HHS Customer Support Center: 1‑866‑614‑6005 (SNAP, TANF, LIHEAP, CCAP help line; also fax 701‑328‑1006). (hhs.nd.gov)
- Great Plains Food Bank SNAP Outreach: 855‑405‑0000. (hhs.nd.gov)
- ND Housing Stabilization / Eviction Prevention: Program line 701‑328‑1907; email dhserb@nd.gov. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Job Service North Dakota (UI): Claims 701‑328‑4995; appeal line 1‑800‑351‑9098. (jobsnd.com)
- ND Child Support: 701‑328‑5440 or 1‑800‑231‑4255; childsupport@nd.gov. (childsupport.dhs.nd.gov)
- Legal Services of North Dakota: Under 60 1‑800‑634‑5263; 60+ 1‑866‑621‑9886. (lsnd.org)
- ND Attorney General Consumer Protection: 701‑328‑3404 (check bonding; consumer complaints). (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
Frequently Asked North Dakota Questions (Single‑Mom Focused)
- Do SNAP limits really go up to 200% FPL in ND: Yes. ND’s SNAP uses expanded categorical eligibility up to 200% FPL for many households; the state posts the 200%, 130%, and 100% monthly tables. (hhs.nd.gov)
- How fast can I get SNAP if I have almost no money: If you have less than $150 in monthly income and limited cash on hand, you may qualify for expedited benefits within about 3–7 days after interview. (hhs.nd.gov)
- What’s the current WIC fruit/vegetable amount: Child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 per month through Sep 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
- What is the LIHEAP income cut‑off for a family of four: 68,700/year∗∗(about∗∗68,700/year** (about **5,725/month) for the 2024–2025 season. (hhs.nd.gov)
- How does ND calculate Unemployment benefits: WBA = highest 2.5 quarters of base‑period wages ÷ 65; weeks 12–26; see the chart effective July 6, 2025–July 4, 2026. (jobsnd.com)
- Can a debt collector take more than 25% of my paycheck in ND: Generally no; 25% is the cap, reduced by $20 per dependent. Child/spousal support orders can be higher. (ndlegis.gov)
- How long can they sue me for a credit card in ND: Usually 6 years from when the claim accrues; 10 years for judgments and some mortgage actions. (ndlegis.gov)
- Can I get my child support lowered if I lost my job: Request a review; ND allows reviews every 18 months or sooner if certain exceptions apply. Use the official calculator first. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Is Eviction Prevention still available: As of 2025, eviction prevention can still accept emergency cases depending on funds; re‑housing subsidies ramped down due to expiring federal funds. Call 701‑328‑1907. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Where can I get free help disputing credit report errors: Use the CFPB’s dispute templates and instructions; you can also submit a complaint to CFPB if a bureau or lender won’t fix verified errors. (consumerfinance.gov)
A Real‑World Example: Turning the Corner in 60 Days
- Week 1: Mom of two in Minot applies for SNAP and WIC; expedited SNAP starts at $768 for a 3‑person household based on zero countable income while waiting for UI. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Week 2: Files UI and sets a budget; calls the utility and applies for LIHEAP to stop a shutoff.
- Week 3: Pulls free credit reports, disputes a paid medical collection, and starts a DMP consult with an NFCC agency.
- Week 6: Receives LIHEAP help and a CCAP approval that cuts child care by $300+/mo; now cash flow can go to the DMP.
- Week 8: The disputed tradeline updates; credit score ticks up; she sets auto‑pay on all active accounts and keeps balances under 30%.
Plan B When a Program Says No
- Ask for a supervisor callback and a written denial.
- Appeal on time; ND provides appeal forms (e.g., SFN 162 for hearings). Keep documents and upload them again if needed. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Try another lane: If TANF says no, try Diversion (if available), SNAP, and CCAP. If Eviction Prevention is closed, ask your housing authority and call 2‑1‑1 for local funds. (hhs.nd.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from North Dakota Health and Human Services, USDA, Job Service North Dakota, and the ND Attorney General. It follows our Editorial Standards and is updated on a regular schedule. We verify amounts and contact info from primary sources and link you directly to the state portals.
Last verified: September 2025 • Next review: April 2026
If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll investigate within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
Information only: This guide shares current public program rules and consumer tips for North Dakota. It is not legal advice, financial advice, or a guarantee of individual outcomes. Program rules and amounts can change at any time; always verify with the relevant agency before you act. We link to official sources and keep our site security‑updated to protect your privacy, but never email or text full SSNs, bank numbers, or account logins.
Sources
- SNAP ND: income limits, max allotments, contacts, and SSP links (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (hhs.nd.gov)
- SNAP Appendix B standards (supporting income tables). (nd.gov)
- WIC FY2025 CVB amounts (USDA policy memo). (fns.usda.gov)
- ND HHS WIC income update (May 1, 2025). (hhs.nd.gov)
- LIHEAP ND: income limits and services; 6% affordability change announced Sep 26, 2024. (hhs.nd.gov)
- TANF ND: program overview; modernization and Standard of Need increase; example benefit for a 3‑person family ($492/mo post‑Oct 1, 2024). (hhs.nd.gov)
- CCAP ND: 2024–2025 income limits and Workforce Benefit. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Unemployment Insurance ND: WBA formula; benefit chart schedule 7/6/2025–7/4/2026. (jobsnd.com)
- ND Child Support: contacts, calculator, guidelines (updated tools July 18, 2025). (childsupport.dhs.nd.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
- Eviction Prevention / Housing Stabilization: program details and ramp‑down notices. (hhs.nd.gov)
- CFPB & FTC: credit reports weekly free; dispute process and sample letters. (consumer.ftc.gov, consumerfinance.gov)
- ND Attorney General: consumer rights and credit counseling bonding note. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
- ND Century Code: garnishment cap with $20/dependent reduction; 6‑year contract limit; 10‑year judgment limit. (ndlegis.gov)
What this guide changed versus typical search results
- Up‑to‑date amounts tied to FY2025 state/federal tables and current ND benefit schedules.
- Direct, clickable apply links plus bold phones in one place.
- ND‑specific legal rights on garnishment and time limits.
- Action steps first with realistic timelines and Plan B paths.
If you need a human to walk you through an application, call the ND Customer Support Center at 1‑866‑614‑6005 and say which program you’re applying for; they can also mail you forms on request. (hhs.nd.gov)
🏛️More North Dakota Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Dakota
- 📋 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