Credit Repair and Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Texas
Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Texas
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box (start here)
- If you’re in danger of power shutoff or eviction: Call 2‑1‑1 (or 877‑541‑7905) and ask for “utility assistance” or “rental eviction help,” then apply with TDHCA’s providers and legal aid for an immediate plan. See TDHCA’s Help for Texans and Utility Bill Payment Assistance line 877‑399‑8939 for a direct referral. TDHCA Help for Texans (find help). (tdhca.state.tx.us)
- If collectors are calling: Tell them you want everything in writing, then send a written “debt validation” request and stop phone calls. Texas law forbids threats, harassment, or lies. You can also file a complaint with the Texas OAG and OCCC. OAG consumer line: 800‑621‑0508. OCCC helpline: 800‑538‑1579. Your Debt Collection Rights (Texas OAG), OCCC Complaint Help. (texasattorneygeneral.gov, occc.texas.gov)
- If you suspect identity theft or a data breach: Place a free credit freeze with all three bureaus and get a recovery plan at IdentityTheft.gov. Equifax 800‑685‑1111, Experian 888‑397‑3742, TransUnion 888‑909‑8872. FTC: Understanding Your Credit (freezes). (consumer.ftc.gov)
- To check or fix credit errors fast: Get free weekly credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com and dispute any errors. Phone to order by mail: 877‑322‑8228. FTC: Free weekly credit reports are permanent, FTC: Disputing Errors. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Need cash or coverage quickly: Check Texas TANF, One‑Time TANF, SNAP, WIC, Medicaid/CHIP, and Unemployment in the tables below for amounts, income limits, and timelines. Apply at YourTexasBenefits or call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2). HHSC programs hub. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Talk to a nonprofit credit counselor (no loans, no pressure): NFCC national hotline 800‑388‑2227 connects you to free/low‑cost Texas‑based counseling and debt‑management plans. NFCC Contact (official). (nfcc.org)
Emergency help in Texas (do this first)
- Call 2‑1‑1 or 877‑541‑7905 for a live screener who can connect you to immediate utility/rent help, local intake sites, and emergency shelters. Ask for “Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP), eviction prevention, or homeless services referrals.” TDHCA Help for Texans. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
- Apply for One‑Time TANF (crisis cash) and, if caring for kin, One‑Time TANF for Relatives: Standard crisis help is recurring yearly if needed; the relative caregiver option pays $1,000 once in a lifetime. Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com or by phone 2‑1‑1. HHSC: TANF Cash Help. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Utility shutoff notice in hand: Ask the provider about a payment arrangement and immediately contact CEAP via 877‑399‑8939 (landline directs you to the right county) or 2‑1‑1 for mobile callers. TDHCA CEAP. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
- Eviction filed: Do not skip court. Call legal aid now. TRLA intake 833‑329‑8752, Lone Star Legal Aid 800‑733‑8394, Legal Aid of Northwest Texas intake 214‑744‑5277 (Dallas). TRLA Announcement (universal numbers), LSLA Houston office page, LANWT contacts. (trla.org, lonestarlegal.org, txnd.uscourts.gov)
- Unemployment after job loss: Apply with TWC right away; weekly benefit range is 74–74–591 for claims with base periods starting October 6, 2024 or later. TWC Tele‑Center 800‑939‑6631. TWC Eligibility & Benefit Amounts. (twc.texas.gov)
What this guide includes that most search results miss
- Verified Texas‑specific numbers: Current SNAP maximums, TANF amounts, WIC cash value benefits, Medicaid/CHIP income charts, UI weekly benefit ranges, and exact state hotlines. All sourced to HHSC, USDA, HUD, TWC, OAG, OCCC, and TDHCA.
- Texas legal protections that affect debt and credit: Four‑year statute of limitations for most debts, very limited wage garnishment, homestead and property exemptions, and the rules Texas debt collectors must follow.
- Action‑first, with timelines and Plan B: Each section starts with the quickest step and ends with backup options if the first try doesn’t work.
- Inclusive routes to help: Kinship caregivers, LGBTQ+ parents, veterans, rural moms, immigrant families, and tribal citizens get tailored tips and contacts.
The 48‑Hour Credit Triage (exact steps and timelines)
- Freeze your credit across all bureaus immediately: It’s free, lasts until you lift it, and blocks new accounts. Equifax 800‑685‑1111; Experian 888‑397‑3742; TransUnion 888‑909‑8872. Online forms are also available. FTC: Freezes and fraud alerts. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Pull all three credit reports for free each week: AnnualCreditReport.com or by phone 877‑322‑8228. Print/save PDFs. FTC: Free weekly reports are permanent. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Dispute errors in writing and by certified mail: Bureaus have 30 days to investigate after receiving your dispute. Include copies of proof and circle items on the report copy. FTC: Disputing Errors (timelines and addresses). (consumer.ftc.gov)
- If it’s identity theft: File at IdentityTheft.gov for a personalized recovery plan and sample letters to clear fraudulent accounts. FTC: Identity Theft. (consumer.ftc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate to the CFPB complaint portal and include your certified‑mail receipts and all attachments; continue monitoring free weekly reports for updates. If a bureau fails to place a freeze or alert properly, the FTC lists the complaint line 855‑411‑2372. FTC: New Credit Law FAQs. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Texas debt and credit rights that matter (read before you pay)
- Texas statute of limitations on most consumer debts is four years: After 4 years from default, most lawsuits to collect are time‑barred. Debt buyers in Texas cannot sue or start arbitration after the limitations period, and making a payment does not revive a time‑barred debt. Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code §16.004, Finance Code §392.307 (debt buyers). (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Wage garnishment is extremely limited in Texas: Wages generally cannot be garnished for consumer debts. They can be withheld for child support, federal taxes, and federal student loans. Texas OAG: Your Debt Collection Rights. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Your home and essential property are protected up to high limits: Texas homestead is protected from most creditors, with acreage caps of 10 urban acres or 200 rural acres for a family. Personal property exemptions are 100,000∗∗forafamilyand∗∗100,000** for a family and **50,000 for a single adult, covering vehicles, tools, furnishings, etc. Texas Constitution Art. XVI §51, Property Code §42.001–§42.002. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Debt collectors must follow Texas rules in addition to federal law: No threats of arrest, lies, or harassment. They must identify the creditor and obey validation rules. Finance Code Ch. 392. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re sued, file an answer before your deadline and consider free help from local legal aid or TexasLawHelp’s forms portal. For harassment or illegal threats, keep call logs and file complaints with OAG and the CFPB; OCCC can also help if the business is state‑licensed. Texas Courts Self‑Help, OCCC Complaint. (txcourts.gov, occc.texas.gov)
Table: Fast‑track benefits to stabilize your budget
| Program | Who qualifies (high‑level) | Key numbers | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (food) | Low‑income households | Max monthly for 48 states (Texas) household of 3: 766∗∗;4:∗∗766**; 4: **975; 5: $1,155. Income tests and deductions apply. | Apply at YourTexasBenefits, call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2), or visit an HHSC office. USDA FY2025 COLA, HHSC SNAP page. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.texas.gov) |
| TANF monthly cash | Very low‑income families with children | Max monthly TANF (one‑parent) for 3: 370–370–370+ per HHSC chart; see full table below. | YourTexasBenefits or 2‑1‑1. HHSC TANF, Texas Works Handbook C‑110. (hhs.texas.gov) |
| One‑Time TANF (crisis) | Families in crisis with children | Once per year (crisis) and $1,000 once‑in‑a‑lifetime for relatives caring for a TANF child. | YourTexasBenefits or 2‑1‑1. HHSC TANF. (hhs.texas.gov) |
| WIC | Pregnant/postpartum and kids <5 | Monthly fruits/veggies: children 26∗∗;pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**; pregnant/postpartum **47; fully/partially breastfeeding $52. | Apply online or call 800‑942‑3678. Texas WIC foods and CVB, Apply for WIC. (hhs.texas.gov, texaswic.org) |
| Medicaid (pregnant) | Pregnant Texans up to income limits | Sample monthly income caps: family of 3 4,261∗∗;4∗∗4,261**; 4 **5,148. 12‑month postpartum coverage. | YourTexasBenefits or 2‑1‑1. HHSC Medicaid Pregnant Women. (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Children’s Medicaid / CHIP | Children under 19 | Children’s Medicaid monthly limit family of 3 2,862∗∗;CHIPfor3∗∗2,862**; CHIP for 3 **4,325. CHIP fees are 50∗∗orless/year;co‑pays∗∗50** or less/year; co‑pays **3–$35. | YourTexasBenefits or 2‑1‑1. HHSC Children’s Medicaid & CHIP. (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Unemployment | Recently separated workers | Weekly benefit 74–74–591 based on prior wages. | Apply online or call 800‑939‑6631. TWC benefit amounts. (twc.texas.gov) |
SNAP details for Texas
- Most important step first: Apply online at YourTexasBenefits and upload pay stubs and ID immediately. If you apply after the 15th, HHSC may combine prorated first month with the next month to speed access. Texas Works Handbook A‑2322. (hhs.texas.gov)
- FY2025 maximum benefit amounts (48 states including Texas): Household of 1 291∗∗,2∗∗291**, 2 **535, 3 766∗∗,4∗∗766**, 4 **975, 5 1,155∗∗,6∗∗1,155**, 6 **1,386, 7 1,532∗∗,8∗∗1,532**, 8 **1,751; +$219 for each additional person. HHSC SNAP page (Texas amounts). (hhs.texas.gov)
- Key Texas income screens: See HHSC’s updated SNAP limits and deductions (standard deduction, shelter cap 712∗∗,homelessshelter∗∗712**, homeless shelter **190.30, SUA $434). Texas Works Handbook C‑120 (SNAP). (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2) or the HHSC Ombudsman 877‑787‑8999 for help; check if you qualify for the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP) for seniors/disabled households. HHSC SNAP. (hhs.texas.gov)
TANF and One‑Time TANF (cash help) — Texas amounts
Table: Maximum monthly TANF amounts (selected sizes, Oct. 1, 2024)
| Family size | Child‑only | 1 parent | 2 parents |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $121 | $147 | — |
| 2 | $174 | 320–320–305* | $234 |
| 3 | $243 | 370–370–353* | $386 |
| 4 | $290 | $424 | $434 |
| 5 | $372 | 494–494–471* | $503 |
*HHSC publishes full tables with “budgetary needs” and recognizable needs; see C‑110 for exact amounts and notes. Apply online, upload documents, and respond fast to requests. HHSC TANF page, Texas Works Handbook C‑110. (hhs.texas.gov)
- One‑Time TANF for relatives: Lump sum $1,000 (once in a lifetime) for eligible kinship caregivers. HHSC TANF. (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied for income/assets, ask about a child‑only TANF case or One‑Time TANF. If still stuck, contact your local legal aid or the HHSC Ombudsman 877‑787‑8999 for an appeal. (hhs.texas.gov)
WIC benefits you can use immediately
- Monthly cash value benefit for fruits and vegetables: children 26∗∗;pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**; pregnant/postpartum **47; fully/partially breastfeeding $52. Texas WIC: Food package chart and updates, Special WIC Food Updates. (hhs.texas.gov, texaswic.org)
- How to apply fast: Start online and a local clinic will call you, or call 800‑942‑3678. Apply for WIC. (texaswic.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re over income by a little, you may still qualify if you or your child gets Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF. Ask the clinic to pre‑screen again and check for WIC Farmers’ Market vouchers (where available). HHSC WIC general info (Spanish). (hhs.texas.gov)
Health coverage (Medicaid/CHIP) — income quick look
- Pregnant women Medicaid: Family of 3 up to 4,261/month∗∗;familyof4upto∗∗4,261/month**; family of 4 up to **5,148/month; 12‑month postpartum coverage. HHSC Medicaid Pregnant Women. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Children’s Medicaid and CHIP: Children’s Medicaid family of 3 up to 2,862/month∗∗;CHIPfamilyof3upto∗∗2,862/month**; CHIP family of 3 up to **4,325/month; CHIP enrollment fee 50∗∗orlessperfamilyperyear;typicalco‑pays∗∗50** or less per family per year; typical co‑pays **3–$35. HHSC Children’s Medicaid & CHIP. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Parents/Caretakers Medicaid is very limited: Texas publishes very low income thresholds (example chart on HHSC). If you’re denied, still enroll kids in Medicaid/CHIP. HHSC Medicaid for Parents & Caretakers. (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply anyway so you get a denial letter you can use for CHIP Perinatal or marketplace coverage decisions. Use 2‑1‑1 for plan selection help.
Housing and utilities
- Rental aid status in Texas: The Texas Rent Relief portal closed to new applications in March 2023, but TDHCA still coordinates short‑term rent/eviction relief via local providers and legal aid. Use TDHCA’s “Help for Texans” to find current options, including Emergency & Homeless Services. Main consumer line 800‑525‑0657. TDHCA Pandemic Help and Help for Texans, TDHCA Contacts. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
- Utility help (CEAP): Income‑eligible households can get payment assistance and crisis help. Call 877‑399‑8939 (landline) or 2‑1‑1 (mobile) to reach your county provider. TDHCA CEAP. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
- Internet bill discounts: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended in June 2024. Ask your provider about low‑income plans and still check Lifeline for phone/voice discounts through the Texas PUC. FCC: ACP has ended, Texas PUC Lifeline info. (fcc.gov, puc.texas.gov)
- Know typical rents (for budgeting or vouchers): HUD publishes Fair Market Rents (FMRs) annually; use the FY2025/2026 HUD FMR tool to check your metro/county and bedroom size. HUD FMR Documentation System. (huduser.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call legal aid for eviction defense and ask your court about mediation. For shutoffs, request a medical or extreme‑weather hold where applicable and seek CEAP crisis assistance the same day.
Table: Credit dispute and debt timelines that affect Texas moms
| Issue | The key deadline | Notes and source |
|---|---|---|
| Credit report dispute | Bureau must investigate within 30 days of receiving your dispute | Put disputes in writing with proof; keep receipts. FTC: Disputing Errors. (consumer.ftc.gov) |
| Place/ lift credit freeze | Online/phone freeze placed within 1 business day and lifted within 1 hour | Free for you and your kids’ files. FTC: Freezes. (consumer.ftc.gov) |
| Texas debt lawsuit window | Most contract “debt” claims barred after 4 years | Debt buyers cannot sue or arbitrate after SOL and payment does not revive it. CPRC §16.004; Finance Code §392.307. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov) |
| Unemployment processing | Benefits payable weekly after initial determination (varies) | WBA 74–74–591. Answer identity/wage verifications quickly. TWC. (twc.texas.gov) |
If you’re being sued for a debt (Texas‑specific moves)
- File an answer before your deadline: Missing it can lead to default judgment. Justice courts (small claims) handle many consumer suits; check your county JP Court and filing fees page. Texas Courts Self‑Help and Justice Courts resources. (txcourts.gov)
- Assert statute of limitations if it applies: If >4 years since default, raise SOL in your answer. CPRC §16.004. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Ask for proof: Debt buyers must prove they own the debt and amount. Texas Finance Code bans deceptive practices in collection. Finance Code Ch. 392. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call legal aid quickly with your court date and paperwork. Consider nonprofit counseling via NFCC 800‑388‑2227 to negotiate affordable plans that stop collection calls. (nfcc.org)
Bankruptcy is a last resort — know Texas exemptions
- Homestead protection: Up to 10 urban acres or 200 rural acres for a family is protected, regardless of value (with limited exceptions like mortgages and taxes). Texas Constitution Art. XVI §51. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Personal property exemptions: Up to 100,000∗∗(family)or∗∗100,000** (family) or **50,000 (single) in covered property (furnishings, one vehicle per licensed household member, tools of trade, etc.). Property Code §42.001–§42.002. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need legal advice, speak to a Texas consumer/bankruptcy attorney or legal aid for a free screening. Ask about Chapter 7 vs. 13 and whether your assets are fully exempt.
Build or rebuild credit on a tight Texas budget
- Start with on‑time payments and low utilization: Aim to keep balances under 30% of limits; pay on or before the due date.
- Consider secured products and rent reporting carefully: Compare fees; avoid “credit repair” promises that charge high upfront fees. Texas “credit services organizations” must register with the Secretary of State and provide required disclosures; waivers of your rights are void. Finance Code Ch. 393. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Get free, nonprofit help: NFCC hotline 800‑388‑2227 to review budgets, options, and (if appropriate) a creditor‑approved debt‑management plan that can reduce interest and stop fees. NFCC Contact. (nfcc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: File formal disputes for inaccurate tradelines; keep paying essential bills first (housing, lights, car for work). Avoid high‑cost payday/title loans; contact OCCC for help or complaints. OCCC helpline 800‑538‑1579. OCCC Consumers. (occc.texas.gov)
Table: Utility and communications shortcuts
| Need | Where to call or click | What to say |
|---|---|---|
| Electric/gas bill shutoff | 877‑399‑8939 (landline) or 2‑1‑1 | “CEAP crisis assistance for disconnect/shutoff.” TDHCA CEAP. (tdhca.state.tx.us) |
| Phone/internet discount | Ask about “Lifeline” (state/federal) | ACP ended; ask carrier for low‑income plans. FCC ACP ended, PUC Lifeline page. (fcc.gov, puc.texas.gov) |
| Rental help and legal aid | 2‑1‑1, TDHCA “Help for Texans” hub | “Emergency rent, eviction diversion, legal aid referral.” TDHCA. (tdhca.state.tx.us) |
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Free weekly credit reports: AnnualCreditReport.com or 877‑322‑8228. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Freeze your credit: Equifax 800‑685‑1111, Experian 888‑397‑3742, TransUnion 888‑909‑8872. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Report ID theft & get a plan: IdentityTheft.gov. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Texas benefits & status: 2‑1‑1 (Option 2) or 877‑541‑7905. (hhs.texas.gov)
- SNAP/TANF/WIC/Medicaid/CHIP: Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Unemployment: 800‑939‑6631. (twc.texas.gov)
- Child support (OAG): 800‑252‑8014; pay options and modifications online. Texas OAG Child Support. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Credit counseling (nonprofit): NFCC 800‑388‑2227. (nfcc.org)
Application Checklist (documents that speed approvals)
- Proof of identity and residency: Driver’s license or state ID; lease or utility bill.
- Proof of income: Last 30–60 days of pay stubs, self‑employment logs, award letters (UI, child support).
- Expenses: Child care receipts, rent ledger/lease, utility bills, medical bills.
- Citizenship/immigration (where required): Birth certificates or eligible non‑citizen documents.
- Upload or submit immediately: Use YourTexasBenefits to upload, or mail to HHSC Document Processing Center, P.O. Box 149027, Austin, TX 78714‑9027, fax 877‑447‑2839. (hhs.texas.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Paying a debt without validating it first: You may restart activity on valid debts that could be negotiated more cheaply. Always request validation.
- Missing court dates or answer deadlines: Even if you owe, answering preserves defenses and opens settlement doors.
- Trusting “credit repair” promises with big upfront fees: In Texas, credit services organizations must register and give written disclosures; you have strong cancellation rights under federal law, and waivers are void. Finance Code Ch. 393. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Ignoring student loan updates: Legal rulings changed parts of SAVE and IDR processing in 2024‑2025; check your servicer dashboard for current status. MOHELA SAVE updates. (mohela.studentaid.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask legal aid about name/gender marker issues affecting credit files and ID matches and seek inclusive counseling via NFCC. For safety planning and child support, the OAG provides family‑violence safeguards during support cases. OAG family violence info. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Check Medicaid Buy‑In for Children and HHSC disability services; ask for reasonable accommodations at hearings and for benefits interviews by phone. HHSC Children’s programs. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Use TWC veteran specialists and OAG’s HEROES program for child support navigation while serving or transitioning. OAG HEROES, TWC Veterans Directory (local contacts list). (texasattorneygeneral.gov, twc.texas.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many benefits for your U.S.‑citizen children are still available. For WIC and school meals, immigration status is not requested for the child’s eligibility; Medicaid/CHIP Perinatal can cover pregnancy care for those who don’t qualify for Medicaid. CHIP Perinatal info. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Ask about Indian Health Service supports plus mainstream programs. Use 2‑1‑1 for area‑specific referrals.
- Rural single moms with limited access: Use phone‑first options (2‑1‑1, NFCC 800‑388‑2227, TWC Tele‑Center 800‑939‑6631) and ask for mail/phone interviews and local Workforce Solutions virtual kiosks where available. TWC office directory. (apps.twc.texas.gov)
- Single fathers and non‑custodial parents: This playbook still applies; OAG can modify child support if income changes and link you to job services. OAG Get Back on Track. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Language access: HHSC offers free interpreter services; call 2‑1‑1 or 877‑541‑7905 and request your language. (hhs.texas.gov)
Local organizations and statewide contacts (high‑value numbers)
- 2‑1‑1 Texas / HHSC benefits help: 2‑1‑1 or 877‑541‑7905 (Option 2). (hhs.texas.gov)
- TDHCA Utility Bill Payment Assistance: 877‑399‑8939. TDHCA CEAP. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
- Texas OAG Child Support: 800‑252‑8014; e‑Pay (Smart e‑Pay) support 855‑853‑8286. OAG pay online/phone. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Texas Workforce Commission unemployment: 800‑939‑6631. TWC benefits. (twc.texas.gov)
- Legal aid (by region): TRLA 833‑329‑8752 (South/Border/Central), LSLA 800‑733‑8394 (East/Houston), LANWT 214‑744‑5277 (Dallas intake, plus regional offices). (trla.org, lonestarlegal.org, txnd.uscourts.gov)
- Nonprofit credit counseling: NFCC 800‑388‑2227. (nfcc.org)
Table: Texas child support and wage protections that affect credit and cash flow
| Topic | What Texas does | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Wage garnishment | Not allowed for consumer debts; allowed for child support, federal taxes, federal student loans | Texas OAG: Your Debt Collection Rights. (texasattorneygeneral.gov) |
| OAG enforcement | License suspensions, liens, passport denial for past‑due support | OAG How We Enforce. (texasattorneygeneral.gov) |
| Payment help | Payment options (Smart e‑Pay), modification if income drops | OAG Pay Online or By Phone, OAG Get Back On Track. (texasattorneygeneral.gov) |
Work and childcare supports
- Unemployment benefits: Weekly 74–74–591; certify weekly and report part‑time work honestly. TWC. (twc.texas.gov)
- Child Care Services (CCS) subsidies: Check your local Workforce Solutions board for waitlists, income caps (BCY25), and co‑pays. TWC Child Care Data, Reports & Plans (BCY25 income/co‑pays). (twc.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about priority populations (teen parents, families experiencing homelessness, or protective services cases) and for a temporary child care scholarship from local nonprofits while waiting.
10 Texas‑specific FAQs
- How fast can I get SNAP once I apply: In emergencies, households with very low income/assets may get expedited SNAP within 7 days; upload proof and respond to calls quickly. HHSC SNAP basics. (hhs.texas.gov)
- What are the exact SNAP maximums I can expect: For a family of 4, the FY2025 maximum is $975/month; see full chart above. USDA FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
- Is there any cash help right away: Check One‑Time TANF crisis help and One‑Time TANF for Relatives ($1,000 for eligible kinship caregivers). HHSC TANF. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Can a collector take my paycheck for a credit card: Generally no in Texas; wages are protected from consumer debt garnishment. OAG. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- How long can old debts follow me: Most debt lawsuits are barred after 4 years from default; watch for time‑barred collection. CPRC §16.004; Finance Code §392.307. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Where do I check my credit for free weekly: AnnualCreditReport.com or 877‑322‑8228; disputes are free and must be investigated within 30 days. FTC. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- What if my power’s about to be shut off: Call your provider and CEAP at 877‑399‑8939 or 2‑1‑1 for a crisis pledge. TDHCA CEAP. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
- Does Texas have rent help now: Texas Rent Relief is closed to new applications, but TDHCA funds short‑term rental/eviction relief via local partners; find your county resources under “Help for Texans.” TDHCA. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
- How can I get child support safely if I have safety concerns: Tell OAG about family violence; they can add safeguards and handle contact with the other parent. OAG line 800‑252‑8014. OAG. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Where can I get trustworthy debt advice without a sales pitch: NFCC nonprofit counseling at 800‑388‑2227 connects you to Texas‑based agencies. (nfcc.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Texas Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, 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
Content purpose: Education and navigation support for Texas families — not legal, financial, or tax advice.
Policy changes: Program rules, amounts, and eligibility can change quickly. Always verify with the agency before acting.
Security: For your privacy, avoid sharing full SSNs or case numbers in emails or public forms. Use official portals or phone numbers listed above.
Sources cited in this guide (selected)
- SNAP FY2025 figures and deductions: USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA; HHSC SNAP page; Texas Works Handbook C‑120 and A‑2322. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.texas.gov)
- TANF and One‑Time TANF amounts: HHSC TANF Cash Help and Texas Works Handbook C‑110. (hhs.texas.gov)
- WIC CVB amounts and application: HHSC WIC foods and packages; Texas WIC apply page. (hhs.texas.gov, texaswic.org)
- Medicaid/CHIP income charts: HHSC pages for Pregnant Women Medicaid and Children’s Medicaid/CHIP. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Unemployment benefit range: TWC Eligibility & Benefit Amounts. (twc.texas.gov)
- Debt and collection rights: Texas CPRC §16.004; Texas Finance Code Ch. 392 and §392.307; OAG consumer guidance. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov, texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Homestead and personal property exemptions: Texas Constitution Art. XVI §51; Texas Property Code §42.001–§42.002. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Identity theft, credit freezes, disputes: FTC guidance on free weekly reports, freezes, and error disputes. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- TDHCA contacts and CEAP: TDHCA Help for Texans; CEAP program pages. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
- ACP status: FCC notices confirming program end. (fcc.gov)
- NFCC counseling: NFCC official contact page. (nfcc.org)
If you need a personalized walk‑through of any step above, tell me your county and your top two goals (for example, “stop a shutoff this week” and “fix a collection error”), and I’ll map the fastest sequence for you with the right phone numbers.
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- 📋 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
