Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Vermont

Last updated: September 2025

---

Emergency help first

If you’re facing danger, loss of heat, or an imminent eviction, act now. Use the fastest option below.

• Call 911: Life-threatening emergencies.
• Call or text 988: Mental health, substance use, or emotional crisis—24/7.
• Call 2‑1‑1 (Vermont 211): Statewide 24/7 referrals to shelters, emergency fuel/utility help, food, and local aid. Alternate lines: 802‑652‑4636 or 866‑652‑4636. (vermont211.org, vermont211.org)
• DCF Benefits Service Center: Apply for Emergency/General Assistance (motel vouchers in some cases), Fuel Assistance, 3SquaresVT (SNAP), Reach Up cash aid. Phone: 1‑800‑479‑6151. After hours for emergency housing, call 2‑1‑1. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Legal help right now: Vermont Legal Aid/Legal Services Vermont hotline 1‑800‑889‑2047 (debt, utility shutoffs, evictions). (vtlawhelp.org)
• Utility shutoff warning: Vermont has extra winter protections (Nov 1–Mar 31). If you got a shutoff notice, call your utility immediately to set a payment plan and ask about protections. Details below. (casetext.com, regulations.justia.com)

---

Quick help box

• Get your free credit reports weekly: Use AnnualCreditReport.com to pull Equifax, Experian, TransUnion for free every week—now permanent. Set a monthly reminder. (kiplinger.com)
• Freeze your credit (free): Place a security freeze at all three bureaus to block new accounts. Online/phone freezes take effect within 1 business day; lifts take ~1 hour. (consumerfinance.gov, usa.gov)
• Dispute errors fast: Mail or submit disputes online to each bureau; they typically must finish in 30 days (up to 45 if you add info during the investigation). Keep copies. (bankersonline.com)
• Cut utility bills today: Apply for Green Mountain Power’s 25% discount or Vermont Gas’s 20% discount, and Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP). Phone for energy discounts: 1‑800‑775‑0516. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Boost food budget immediately: Apply for 3SquaresVT (SNAP). Many households qualify at gross income up to 185% FPL. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Claim tax credits/refunds: Vermont EITC equals 38% of your federal EITC; Vermont Child Tax Credit is up to $1,000 per child under age 6. File even with little/no income. (tax.vermont.gov, taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org)
• Child support enforcement: Office of Child Support phone 1‑800‑786‑3214 (apply, modify orders, and enforce). (dcf.vermont.gov)

---

Why this guide is different

Most search results on “credit repair” list generic tips or pitch paid services. What they usually miss for Vermont:

• Exact Vermont program amounts, phones, and deadlines (you’ll find them below, with links).
• State‑specific debt protections (winter shutoff rules, small‑claims limits for consumer/medical debts, Vermont wage‑garnishment limits).
• Fast, realistic timelines for disputes, utility arrangements, and benefit decisions.
• Trusted, free local help you can call today (Community Action Agencies, Legal Aid, AG’s Consumer Assistance Program).

This guide follows verified, official sources and is maintained on a predictable review schedule. See “About This Guide” at the end. (dcf.vermont.gov)

---

Credit triage: fix errors, stop damage, and set priorities

Start with actions that stop harm and put points back on your score.

Step 1 — Pull all three credit reports and freeze your credit

• What to do: Pull Equifax, Experian, TransUnion; set a freeze with each bureau (free), then thaw only when you need new credit.
• Timing: Reports are available weekly; freeze is effective in 1 business day online or by phone. Lifts process in about 1 hour online/phone.
• Links: How to place or lift a credit freeze (USAGov). (usa.gov)
• Why it matters: A freeze blocks new‑account fraud without hurting your score. (consumerfinance.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t verify your identity online, mail your request with ID copies. If a bureau refuses to freeze, file a complaint with the CFPB and the Vermont AG Consumer Assistance Program at (800) 649‑2424. (consumerfinance.gov, uvm.edu)

Step 2 — Dispute mistakes with clear evidence

• What to do: Dispute with the credit bureau(s) and the furnisher (lender/collector). Include your contact info, report confirmation number, each item disputed, why it’s wrong, and copies (not originals) of proof. Keep a paper trail. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Deadlines: Bureaus generally must finish within 30 days; if you submit extra documents during the review, they may take up to 45 days. A furnisher responding directly to you must follow the same timeline and send corrections to all bureaus. (bankersonline.com, consumerfinance.gov)
• Identity theft: If fraud is involved, create a plan at IdentityTheft.gov and request a block of fraudulent items under FCRA §605B. (consumerfinance.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Send a second, concise dispute with new documentation. If the bureau or furnisher ignores a reasonable dispute or demands extra paperwork not required by law, cite CFPB Circular 2022‑07 and escalate to the CFPB complaint portal. (consumerfinance.gov)

Step 3 — Prioritize essential bills (heat, power, housing) and set up Vermont‑specific help

• Utilities: Ask for a payment plan and apply for discounts immediately.
  • Green Mountain Power Energy Assistance: 25% monthly discount; income ≤ 185% FPL. Utility phone: 888‑835‑4672. Apply through DCF: 1‑800‑775‑0516. (greenmountainpower.com, dcf.vermont.gov)
  • Vermont Gas Energy Assistance: 20% discount; income ≤ 185% FPL. Phone: 1‑800‑639‑8081. Apply through DCF: 1‑800‑775‑0516. (dcf.vermont.gov)
  • Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP): Help with heat (oil, propane, wood, electricity). Typical eligibility ≤ 185% FPL. Apply online, by mail, or at a district office; phone 1‑800‑479‑6151. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Winter shutoff protections (Nov 1–Mar 31): Extra notice, outreach requirements, temperature thresholds; households with a member 62+ get added protection when temps forecast below 32°F. Ask for a reasonable payment plan; utilities must offer one and restore service within 24 hours after payment arrangements. (casetext.com, regulations.justia.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Vermont Department of Public Service Consumer Affairs (via 2‑1‑1 for referral) and Vermont Legal Aid 1‑800‑889‑2047 for help negotiating or appealing a disconnection. (vermont211.org, vtlawhelp.org)

Step 4 — Use income supports that free up cash for debt priorities

Focus on programs that can start paying quickly or reduce big bills (food, child care, rent, medical).

• 3SquaresVT (SNAP), WIC, Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur, Reach Up cash aid, Child Care Financial Assistance, Renter Credit, LIHEAP, Energy Assistance, Vermont EITC, Vermont CTC—full details below with amounts and how to apply.

---

Credit dispute and protection timeline (quick reference)

---

Vermont benefits that raise credit health by lowering monthly pressure

Small changes—more food benefits, lower child care costs, a rent credit—reduce balances, late fees, and credit utilization. Here are the programs most single mothers use, with current numbers.

3SquaresVT (SNAP)

• Who qualifies: Most households under Vermont’s expanded gross income test of 185% FPL; net income test 100% FPL after deductions. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• How much: Federal maximum monthly SNAP allotments (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025) for the 48 states/DC:
  • 1 person $292\ast \ast ;2\ast \ast$536; 3 $768\ast \ast ;4\ast \ast$975; 5 $1,158\ast \ast ;6\ast \ast$1,390; 7 $1,536\ast \ast ;8\ast \ast$1,756; add $220\ast \ast perextraperson.Minimumbenefit\ast \ast$23. (nasdaq.com)
• How to apply: Online (myBenefits), by mail, or at a district office. Benefits Service Center 1‑800‑479‑6151. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• 2024–25 income guide (gross, 185% FPL) (Oct 2024 table):

See full 1–10 table on DCF. (dcf.vermont.gov)

• Timeline: Application decisions often within 30 days; expedited SNAP may be 7 days.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal with DCF; call Vermont Legal Aid 1‑800‑889‑2047 if denied or delayed. (vtlawhelp.org)

WIC (Women, Infants & Children)

• Who qualifies: Pregnant, postpartum, infants, and children under 5 with income ≤ 185% FPL or adjunct eligibility (Medicaid/3SquaresVT/Reach Up). (healthvermont.gov)
• 2025–26 income limits (effective Jul 1, 2025):

Source: USDA WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines (2025–26). (federalregister.gov)

• Apply: Start online or text “Apply” to 1‑844‑839‑8942; WIC phones 800‑464‑4343 or 802‑863‑7200. (healthvermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask WIC about remote appointments and adjunct eligibility if you already have Medicaid/3SquaresVT. (healthvermont.gov)

Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur (health coverage)

• Who qualifies (monthly limits; 2025):
  • Adults 19–64: 138% FPL (e.g., 1 person $1,800\ast \ast /mo;2\ast \ast$2,432).
  • Pregnant: 213% FPL (e.g., 2 people $3,754\ast \ast /mo;3\ast \ast$4,730).
  • Children under 19 (Dr. Dynasaur): up to 317% FPL (e.g., 4 people $8,493/mo).

  Phone for Vermont Health Connect/DVHA: 1‑855‑899‑9600. (vtlawhelp.org, dvha.vermont.gov)

• How to apply: Vermont Health Connect online or call; you can also use DVHA’s secure document uploader. (dvha.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a fair hearing through DVHA if denied; contact Vermont Legal Aid health team via 1‑800‑889‑2047. (vtlawhelp.org)

Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP)

• Why it matters: Lower child care bills free cash to pay debts.
• Eligibility: Up to 575% FPL (as fully implemented under Act 76; phased in by Oct 2024). Family share ranges $0–$250/week based on income. Apply via your local Community Child Care Support Agency or online through the Parent Portal. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• How to apply: See CCFAP for families and connect with your regional agency. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a reassessment if your hours or income changed; talk to your Community Action Agency for bridge support. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Reach Up (Vermont TANF)

• What it provides: Monthly cash plus case management toward work/education goals; Reach First (short‑term), Reach Ahead (work support), and Child‑Only options exist. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Amounts: Grants vary by family size, housing costs, and a “ratable reduction” set in rule; maximums are limited and often under $1,000/mo for a family of four based on legislative testimony. To get your exact amount, complete an application interview. Apply via DCF Benefits Service Center 1‑800‑479‑6151. (goldendomevt.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisory review of your budget calculation; if your need is short‑term, ask about Reach First. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) and Crisis Fuel

• Seasonal Fuel Assistance: Eligibility usually ≤ 185% FPL; pays part of your primary heat bills.
• Crisis Fuel: For heating emergencies in winter; generally ≤ 200% FPL and out of fuel or shutoff‑level low.
• Apply/Info: DCF 1‑800‑479‑6151; your Community Action Agency can also process crisis fuel. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 to find churches or local funds that can bridge a delivery. (vermont211.org)

Energy Assistance discounts (electric and gas)

Vermont Renter Credit (refundable)

• What it is: A refundable state tax credit for renters (formerly “Renter Rebate”). You can file even if you don’t owe tax.
• Eligibility: Vermont resident all year; rented in Vermont at least 6 months; income within county‑specific limits by family size. Claim by April 15, with late filing allowed until October 15 (late fee may reduce credit). (tax.vermont.gov, ptaconsumers.aarpfoundation.org)
• How to file: Submit Form RCC‑146 with your return or alone via myVTax. Tax Department help: (802) 828‑2865 or (866) 828‑2865. Use the official calculator and income tables by county. (tax.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Department of Taxes if you can’t locate your SPAN or if a landlord won’t cooperate; AARP/VITA sites can file claims for free. (tax.vermont.gov)

Vermont EITC and Vermont Child Tax Credit (refundable)

• Vermont EITC: 38% of the federal EITC; available to eligible filers and, in Vermont, filers without an SSN can still claim the state EITC. File a return to get it. (taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org, publicassets.org)
• Vermont Child Tax Credit: Up to $1,000 per child under age 6; fully refundable; file your Vermont return to claim. (tax.vermont.gov)
• Free filing help (VITA/AARP): Many single moms qualify for free in‑person tax prep. Scheduling info: call 2‑1‑1, or see Community Action VITA pages. (tax.vermont.gov, cvoeo.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If past years were missed, ask VITA about back filing; you can often claim credits for up to 3 prior years. (irs.gov)

---

Vermont‑specific debt protections that matter

Debt collection, harassment, and scams

• Vermont AG Consumer Assistance Program (CAP): Get help with collectors, unfair practices, and mediation. Phone (800) 649‑2424; email AGO.CAP@vermont.gov. (uvm.edu)
• Vermont debt collection rules (CP 104) ban threats, harassment, false claims, adding illegal fees, or contacting your employer/family except as allowed. Keep notes and save voicemails/letters. (uvm.edu)
• Credit repair advance fees are illegal: Under federal law, companies can’t take payment before they deliver results, especially via telemarketing—major firms were penalized for this. Avoid big upfront fees and promises to remove accurate negatives. (consumerfinance.gov, ftc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File complaints with the CFPB and Vermont CAP; consider Vermont Legal Aid for abusive collection behavior. (uvm.edu)

Wage garnishment limits (Vermont)

• Most judgments: You keep the greater of 75% of weekly disposable earnings or 30× the federal minimum wage.
• Consumer credit debts: You keep the greater of 85% of weekly disposable earnings or 40× the federal minimum wage.
• If your reasonable household expenses are higher, the court can protect more of your pay. Employers can’t fire you over a wage garnishment. See 12 V.S.A. §3170. (legislature.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a hearing to adjust the order based on necessary expenses; get help from Legal Aid. (vtlawhelp.org)

Statutes of limitations (how long creditors can sue)

• Most credit card/contract debts: 6 years from when the claim accrues (12 V.S.A. §511).
• Sale of goods (UCC): 4 years.
• Negotiable instruments/notes: Generally 6 years (UCC 3‑118). Don’t reset the clock by making a small payment or written promise without advice. (legislature.vermont.gov)

Small claims court (useful leverage)

• Jurisdiction: Up to $10,000\ast \ast (butconsumercreditormedicaldebtcollectionclaimsarecappedat\ast \ast$5,000). Filing fee $65\ast \ast (claims<\ast \ast$1,000) or $90\ast \ast (\ge \ast \ast$1,000). (legislature.vermont.gov, vtlawhelp.org)
• Where to file: Vermont Superior Court, Small Claims.
• Tip: If you’re sued, respond on time. Ask for a payment plan you can keep and document any unlawful collection conduct.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a judgment enters, ask for an affordable pay order; Vermont’s wage protections still apply. (legislature.vermont.gov)

---

Power, heat, and housing arrears: Vermont rules and realistic steps

1. Call your utility immediately to set up a no‑interest payment plan; ask about budget billing to flatten spikes. GMP customer care 888‑835‑4672. Vermont law requires utilities to offer repayment plans and to restore service within 24 hours after arrangements and first payment. (greenmountainpower.com, casetext.com)
2. Apply the discounts (GMP 25%, VGS 20%) and Fuel Assistance to drop the bill right away. DCF energy line 1‑800‑775‑0516; Benefits Service Center 1‑800‑479‑6151. (dcf.vermont.gov)
3. Know winter rules (Nov 1–Mar 31): extra contacts required; no shutoff when forecast is below 10°F, or below 32°F if someone 62+ lives there (with notice). (casetext.com, regulations.justia.com)
4. Emergency shelter: During policy changes, access runs through DCF Economic Services and Vermont’s CoC lead agencies (regional Community Action). When GA Emergency Housing is limited or capped, your regional lead agency helps with shelter and housing navigation; use the lead list and 2‑1‑1 for after‑hours. (vlct.org, helpingtohousevt.org)

Plan B: Call 2‑1‑1 for church/charity fuel funds; contact your Community Action Agency (numbers below) for arrears relief and weatherization. (vermont211.org)

---

Child support, custody‑related credit hits, and income stability

• Vermont Office of Child Support (OCS) can open or modify orders, enforce, and help locate a non‑paying parent. Customer Service: 1‑800‑786‑3214. If you fear harm, ask Reach Up or OCS about a good‑cause waiver before pursuing support. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Wage withholding rules follow federal protections; arrears surcharges can apply but courts can reduce them for good cause. (legislature.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Talk with Legal Aid about modifying an order after a job loss; consider mediation for parenting‑time changes that affect child care and work hours. (vtlawhelp.org)

---

Local organizations single mothers actually use

• Community Action Agencies (free financial coaching, tax prep, fuel help, housing services)
  • BROC Community Action (Rutland/Bennington): 802‑775‑0878, 1‑800‑717‑2762
  • Capstone Community Action (Central VT): 802‑479‑1053, 1‑800‑639‑1053
  • CVOEO (Addison/Chittenden/Franklin/Grand Isle): 802‑862‑2771, 1‑800‑287‑7971
  • NEKCA (Northeast Kingdom): 802‑334‑7316 (Newport) / 802‑748‑6040 (St. J)
  • SEVCA (Southeast VT): 802‑722‑4575, 1‑800‑464‑9951 (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Vermont AG Consumer Assistance Program (debt/credit scams): (800) 649‑2424. (uvm.edu)
• Vermont 211: 24/7 navigation to local help; text your ZIP to 898211. (vermont211.org)
• Free tax filing (VITA/AARP): Call 2‑1‑1 to schedule, or see CVOEO Tax Preparation. (tax.vermont.gov, cvoeo.org)
• U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Vermont: Info line 802‑657‑6400, toll‑free 844‑644‑7459; locations in Burlington and Rutland. Filing fees: Chapter 7 $338\ast \ast ;Chapter13\ast \ast$313. (vtlawhelp.org, vtb.uscourts.gov, cacb.uscourts.gov)
• Unclaimed property (found money): Vermont Treasurer’s Office search and claims; phone 802‑828‑2407 or 800‑642‑3191 (VT only). (vermonttreasurer.gov)

---

Quick reference cheat sheet (Vermont)

---

Application checklist (print and reuse)

• Photo ID and Social Security numbers (if any) for household members.
• Proof of Vermont residency (lease, mail).
• Last 30 days of income (paystubs, benefit letters, self‑employment records).
• Child care bills and proof of training/work schedule (for CCFAP).
• Utility bills and shutoff/fuel notices.
• Landlord info and SPAN (for the Renter Credit). (tax.vermont.gov)
• Bank statements only if requested (some programs don’t count assets).
• Any letters from collectors (for Legal Aid/CAP help).

---

Vermont utility and housing rules, summarized

---

Debt, court, and wage protections in practice

---

Diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for gender‑affirming name and pronoun use on case files and appointments. Vermont 2‑1‑1 can connect you to LGBTQ‑friendly clinics, shelters, and legal support, and VITA sites that offer safe, confidential service. Call 2‑1‑1 to get matched with welcoming providers near you. (vermont211.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Dr. Dynasaur covers children to 317% FPL, with no Rx copays; CCFAP can approve subsidy for caregiving or training needs; utilities must consider medical certificates in shutoff cases. Ask DVHA about continuous Medicaid coverage for kids and special needs supports. Phone: 1‑855‑899‑9600. (vtlawhelp.org, casetext.com)
• Veteran single mothers: You may qualify for VA health care, crisis lines, and rent/utility help. For tax season, VITA sites assist veterans and can help claim credits. Dial 2‑1‑1 to locate veteran‑specific financial assistance in your county. (vermont211.org)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: Many programs accept mixed‑status households—children who are citizens may qualify even if you don’t. WIC and some child care supports rely on income/residency, not immigration status. Ask your agency about language access; Vermont 2‑1‑1 offers telephonic interpretation. (healthvermont.gov, vermontpublic.org)
• Tribal citizens: You can use 2‑1‑1 to find tribal or culturally specific services, fuel help, and legal support, and to connect with Vermont housing lead agencies for your region. (helpingtohousevt.org)
• Rural single moms: If transportation is a barrier, ask for phone appointments (WIC/DCF allow remote options), use DVHA’s Document Uploader, and request mailed EBT cards. (dvha.vermont.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs listed are gender‑neutral; fathers caring for children can apply for 3SquaresVT, Reach Up, WIC (for kids), and CCFAP. Check eligibility just as above. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Language access: Ask every office for free interpreter services; many Vermont agencies must provide them on request. Vermont 2‑1‑1 also supports multiple languages. (vermontpublic.org)

---

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting to dispute because you’re gathering “perfect” proof. Send a clear dispute now; you can add documents later (the timeline can extend to 45 days). (bankersonline.com)
• Paying a “credit repair” company upfront. Upfront fees are illegal in many cases; DIY disputes are free and effective. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Ignoring utility notices in winter—thinking they can’t disconnect. They can, with extra steps; call and set up a plan. (casetext.com)
• Skipping tax filing when you “owe nothing.” Filing is how you get the VT EITC, VT Child Tax Credit, and the Renter Credit. (taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org, tax.vermont.gov)
• Letting a collector pressure you into admitting or paying an old debt you can’t afford. Even a small payment can restart the statute of limitations in some contexts. Get advice first. (legislature.vermont.gov)

---

Real‑world examples (Vermont scenarios)

• Utility arrears + SNAP: A mom in Washington County owed $600\ast \ast toGMPandwasfacingdisconnection.Shecalled\ast \ast 888‑835‑4672\ast \ast tosetaplan,appliedforthe\ast \ast 25$60–$80, and the payment plan prevented shutoff. (greenmountainpower.com, dcf.vermont.gov)
• Rent jump: A renter in Chittenden County filed the Renter Credit by April 15 and got a refund despite no state tax due, then increased 3SquaresVT to redirect cash to credit cards. (tax.vermont.gov)
• Score bump without loans: By removing one fraudulent collection (30‑day dispute window) and adding a freeze, a single mom avoided new fraud and improved approvals for a safer apartment. (bankersonline.com)

---

Frequently asked questions (Vermont‑specific)

1. How fast can a credit dispute be resolved: Bureaus have 30 days, up to 45 if you add info; you’ll get results by mail/email. (bankersonline.com)
2. Is there any downside to freezing my credit: No score impact; you just need to lift it temporarily for new credit. Free to freeze/unfreeze; online/phone lifts in ~1 hour. (consumerfinance.gov)
3. What’s the current SNAP max for four in Vermont: $975/month through September 30, 2025; actual amount depends on your net income and deductions. (nasdaq.com)
4. What are the 3SquaresVT income limits: Vermont uses expanded gross 185% FPL screening (with net test at 100% FPL); see the DCF table. (dcf.vermont.gov)
5. Do utilities have to offer a payment plan: Yes. Vermont rules require reasonable plans and special winter protections (Nov 1–Mar 31). (casetext.com)
6. Can my wages be garnished for credit cards: Courts may order it, but you keep at least 85% of wages (or 40× min wage) for consumer credit debts; more if your necessary expenses are higher. (legislature.vermont.gov)
7. How long can a creditor sue me: Generally 6 years for most consumer contracts/credit cards; 4 years for sales of goods; 6 years for notes/instruments. (legislature.vermont.gov)
8. What’s the small‑claims limit in Vermont: Up to $10,000\ast \ast ,butcollectorsuitsforconsumercreditormedicaldebtarecappedat\ast \ast$5,000; filing fee $65/$90. (legislature.vermont.gov, vtlawhelp.org)
9. Where can I get free tax help to claim VT credits: Your local Community Action Agency (VITA) or AARP Tax‑Aide; call 2‑1‑1. (tax.vermont.gov)
10. Bankruptcy costs: Chapter 7 filing fee $338\ast \ast ;Chapter13\ast \ast$313. Vermont Bankruptcy Court info line 802‑657‑6400. Consult an attorney about your situation. (cacb.uscourts.gov, vtb.uscourts.gov)

---

Tables you can use at a glance

Vermont benefit/troubleshooting snapshot

3SquaresVT (SNAP) maximum monthly allotments (Oct 2024–Sep 2025)

Source: USDA FNS FY 2025 SNAP COLA. (nasdaq.com)

WIC monthly income limits (185% FPL, Jul 1, 2025–Jun 30, 2026)

Source: USDA WIC IEG 2025–26. (federalregister.gov)

Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur key monthly limits (2025)

Source: Vermont Law Help (2025 FPL table). (vtlawhelp.org)

Utility protections (winter)

Source: Vermont PUC Rule 3.300. (casetext.com)

---

What to do if your plan still isn’t working

• Negotiate smarter: Offer what you can pay on a written schedule. Keep it realistic; Vermont rules reward good‑faith plans.
• Switch tactics: Use the Renter Credit, VT EITC, and VT Child Tax Credit refunds to clear highest‑interest balances first.
• Get a coach: Community Action’s financial coaches (free) can build a step‑by‑step payoff plan and help with disputes. (cvoeo.org)
• Consider bankruptcy only after counseling on all options; call the Bankruptcy Court info line 802‑657‑6400 for procedural questions and referrals; consult a lawyer for advice. Filing fees: Chapter 7 $338\ast \ast ,Chapter13\ast \ast$313. (vtb.uscourts.gov, cacb.uscourts.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

Editorial Standards: We use only primary government sources or established nonprofits and track policy changes with documented updates. See our Editorial Policy and Research Standards.

Scope: This Vermont guide draws from the Department for Children and Families, Vermont Department of Health, Vermont Department of Taxes, USDA FNS, FTC/CFPB, Vermont Public Utility Commission rules, Vermont statutes, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court District of Vermont, and statewide nonprofits.

Last verified: September 2025 • Next review: April 2026.

Corrections: If you see an error or link issue, email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and update verified corrections within 48 hours.

---

Disclaimer

Important: This guide is informational and not legal, tax, or financial advice. Program amounts, eligibility, and timelines can change. Always verify with the relevant Vermont agency or an attorney before making decisions. We link directly to official sources and keep site security up to date, but you should avoid sharing sensitive information on public Wi‑Fi and confirm you’re on official “.gov” or well‑known nonprofit sites before entering personal data.

---

🏛️More Vermont Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Vermont

• 📋 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