Credit Repair and Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Washington
Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Washington
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box — Fast actions you can take today
- Emergencies first: If you have a shutoff, eviction filing, or court date within the next week, dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑211‑9274 to reach Washington 211 for same‑day referrals to rent, utilities, and legal help. (wa211.org)
- Cash for urgent bills: Apply for Diversion Cash Assistance online at Washington Connection or by calling 877‑501‑2233 — max $2,000 one‑time within 30 days. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Stop an eviction filing: Low‑income tenants can get a free lawyer under Washington’s Right to Counsel. Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for eviction defense screening, or your local Dispute Resolution Center. (app.leg.wa.gov)
- Lower your power bill now: Seattle City Light’s Utility Discount Program can cut electric bills by 60% and water/sewer by 50%; apply online or call 206‑684‑3000. (imagine.seattle.gov)
- Check your credit weekly for free: Get reports from all three bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. It’s permanently free once a week. If something’s wrong, you can dispute it. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Complain if a company won’t fix it: The CFPB takes complaints by phone at 855‑411‑2372 and generally gets a response within 15 days. (consumerfinance.gov)
Why this Washington‑specific guide matters
What most top search results miss: Much of the web content about “credit repair” is generic, light on real numbers, or written by companies trying to sell you something. The gaps we consistently see include Washington‑only cash and utility programs, state debt‑collection limits, updated SNAP/TANF amounts, medical debt rules, and free legal help when eviction is filed. This guide fills those gaps with current, official figures, links, and realistic timelines vetted as of September 2025.
Emergency first steps if a bill or court notice just landed
- If you received a 14‑Day Pay or Vacate notice: Call 2‑1‑1 right now and ask for the Eviction Defense screening line and your county’s Dispute Resolution Center. Washington provides a free attorney to eligible low‑income tenants at show‑cause hearings and trials. Deadline to act: usually within 14 days from the notice date. (app.leg.wa.gov)
- If power or heat is at risk of shutoff: Ask your utility for a payment plan and emergency assistance. Seattle City Light’s Emergency Bill Assistance can give up to 710∗∗peryear,or∗∗710** per year, or **1,420 with kids under 18. Call: 206‑684‑3000. (imagine.seattle.gov)
- If rent, car repair, or a medical bill will tip you into crisis: Apply for Diversion Cash Assistance (DCA) — up to $2,000 once per 12 months; no WorkFirst requirements. Apply: WashingtonConnection.org or 877‑501‑2233. Timeline: decision within days when documents are ready. (dshs.wa.gov, manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
- If you’re already on TANF and facing utility shutoff or eviction: Ask about Additional Requirements for Emergent Needs (AREN) — up to $750 in a rolling 12‑month period (exceptions possible for health and safety). Call: 877‑501‑2233. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
- If a collector threatens wage garnishment: Washington law protects more of your check for consumer debts: at least 80% of disposable earnings or 35× the state minimum wage — whichever is higher. With the 2025 minimum wage of 16.66∗∗,atleast∗∗16.66**, at least **583.10/week is protected. Get legal advice before you agree to any garnishment. (lni.wa.gov, apps.leg.wa.gov)
Washington programs that free up cash (and help you rebuild credit)
Basic Food (SNAP) — maximize this first
Why start here: Freeing grocery money helps you avoid credit‑card use and late fees.
Who qualifies: Most households under SNAP income limits; many families and single parents qualify at or below 200% FPL via categorical eligibility. (dshs.wa.gov)
Maximum monthly benefits through September 30, 2025: (48 states schedule) (lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
Household size | Max monthly SNAP |
---|---|
1 | $292 |
2 | $536 |
3 | $768 |
4 | $975 |
5 | $1,158 |
6 | $1,390 |
7 | $1,536 |
8 | $1,756 |
Each additional | +$220 |
How to apply: Online at Washington Connection, by phone 877‑501‑2233, or at a local Community Services Office. Expedited benefits may arrive within 7 days if you qualify. (lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor review and check if your household qualifies under categorical eligibility up to 200% FPL. Reapply if income recently dropped. (dshs.wa.gov)
TANF cash assistance and one‑time help
Monthly TANF cash — 2024‑2025 examples used by DSHS: (manuals.dshs.wa.gov, dshs.wa.gov)
Assistance unit | Monthly payment standard |
---|---|
2 persons | $570 |
3 persons | $706 |
4 persons | $833 |
5 persons | $959 |
One‑time Diversion Cash Assistance (DCA): Up to $2,000 (once per 12 months) for emergencies like rent, car repair, medical bills, work tools, or child care — without starting TANF’s 60‑month clock. Apply: WashingtonConnection.org or 877‑501‑2233. (dshs.wa.gov, lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
AREN for current TANF/SFA recipients: Up to $750 in 12 months to prevent eviction/shutoff; higher by exception for health/safety. Call: 877‑501‑2233. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
Child support pass‑through while on TANF: Up to 50∗∗monthlyifyouhaveonechild,or∗∗50** monthly if you have one child, or **100 for two or more children, without reducing your grant. Paid only if DCS collects that month. (dshs.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider Working Families Tax Credit and SNAP to bridge gaps; also ask about HEN referrals if disability or incapacity prevents work. (lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
Working Families Tax Credit (state Earned Income Credit)
Benefit amounts for tax year 2024 applications filed in 2025: up to 1,290∗∗dependingonfamilysizeandincome.Youcanapplyretroactivelyfor2022–2024andpotentiallyreceiveupto∗∗1,290** depending on family size and income. You can apply retroactively for 2022–2024 and potentially receive up to **3,745 total. Apply window: Feb 1, 2025 – Dec 31, 2028 for 2024. Apply online: Washington Department of Revenue. (dor.wa.gov)
Why it matters: Refunds don’t count as income for SNAP and won’t hurt your benefits — ideal for paying collections in settlement or building a savings cushion.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Double‑check EITC eligibility on your federal return, or apply with an ITIN if you qualify under state rules. (dor.wa.gov)
Unemployment insurance if hours were cut or job lost
Weekly benefit amounts for new claims opened on/after July 6, 2025: minimum 366∗∗,maximum∗∗366**, maximum **1,152; formula uses your two highest quarters. Apply ASAP to start the clock. (esd.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal deadlines are short; request a hearing if denied and contact legal aid via 2‑1‑1.
Utility help to protect your credit
Seattle City Light Utility Discount Program: 60% off electricity and 50% off water/sewer for eligible incomes (roughly up to 70% of Washington’s state median income). Phone: 206‑684‑3000. Emergency Bill Assistance: up to 710∗∗peryearor∗∗710** per year or **1,420 with kids under 18. (imagine.seattle.gov)
Program | Key discount/benefit | Core eligibility |
---|---|---|
Utility Discount Program | 60% off electric; 50% off water/sewer | Income within posted limits; City Light/SPU customer |
Emergency Bill Assistance | Up to 710∗∗/year(∗∗710**/year (**1,420 with kids) | Past due $250+ or urgent/final shutoff |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for LIHEAP and ask your utility for a no‑fee payment plan — utilities must offer reasonable arrangements before shutoff. If you’re outside Seattle, call 2‑1‑1 for your utility’s discount program. (wa211.org)
Your Washington rights that directly affect credit and collections
Wage garnishment limits in Washington
Consumer debts (credit cards, medical, rent, etc.): A creditor can’t garnish more than the greater of 20%? Not in Washington — Washington gives stronger protections for consumer debt: at least 80% of disposable earnings must be protected or 35× the state minimum wage per week, whichever is greater. With the 2025 minimum wage of 16.66∗∗,that’satleast∗∗16.66**, that’s at least **583.10/week protected. Private student loans have even higher protections: greater of 85% of disposable earnings or 50× the highest minimum wage in the state. (apps.leg.wa.gov, lni.wa.gov)
Type of debt | What’s protected each week |
---|---|
Consumer debt | 80% of disposable earnings or 35× the state minimum wage (currently $583.10), whichever is greater |
Private student loan debt | 85% of disposable earnings or 50× the highest minimum wage in Washington |
Spousal maintenance orders | 50% of disposable earnings |
What to do if this doesn’t work: File a claim of exemption with the court promptly after service of the writ, and get legal help via 2‑1‑1.
Bank account protections
Exempt funds in bank accounts: Washington law exempts certain amounts of bank funds from garnishment (varies by debt type) and protects benefits like Social Security. Check RCW 6.15.010 (effective July 1, 2025 version) for current dollar caps by debt type and remember that rules around “automatic” protection changed mid‑2025. Action step: if a levy hits, file an exemption claim quickly. (casetext.com)
Statutes of limitations (how long a creditor can sue)
- Written contracts/accounts (credit cards often qualify as “accounts receivable”): 6 years. (casetext.com)
- Oral contracts: 3 years. (caselaw.findlaw.com)
- Sale of goods (UCC): 4 years. (apps.leg.wa.gov)
Tip: Making a payment or a written promise can restart the clock; get legal advice before paying very old debts.
Payday loans — know the caps
- Max loan: $700 or 30% of gross monthly income (whichever is lower); max term 45 days unless extended with no added fee.
- Fees: Up to 15% on the first 500∗∗,then∗∗10500**, then **10%** on amounts above **500. You have a right to a no‑fee installment plan if you can’t pay on time. Verify lender is licensed with DFI. (dfi.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If an online lender isn’t licensed and you’re in Washington, the loan may be uncollectible here. Report abuses to DFI at 1‑877‑746‑4334. (dfi.wa.gov)
Medical debt on credit reports — 2025 status
- Under‑$500 medical collections were removed by the big three bureaus in 2023. (consumerfinance.gov)
- In January 2025 the CFPB finalized a rule to remove all medical bills from lender‑bound credit reports, but on July 11, 2025 a federal court vacated the rule. Bottom line for now in Washington: medical collections over $500 can still appear, though hospitals must screen you for charity care. (whitehouse.gov, law.justia.com)
- Washington’s charity care law requires free or discounted hospital care at higher income levels than before — many families up to 400% FPL qualify for discounts; Tier 1 hospitals must provide 100% discounts up to at least 300% FPL (more in some tiers). Apply with the hospital’s financial assistance office. (doh.wa.gov, app.leg.wa.gov)
Rebuilding credit in Washington — step‑by‑step, with timelines
Step 1 — Pull all three credit reports weekly and clean errors
Where: AnnualCreditReport.com. It’s permanently free weekly. (consumer.ftc.gov)
How long investigations take: Bureaus generally have 30 days to investigate and must correct or delete inaccurate data; you’ll get results in writing. Use these official templates and send by certified mail. (consumer.ftc.gov)
If a bureau or lender stonewalls: The CFPB reminds companies they must conduct a reasonable investigation and can’t impose extra hurdles. File a complaint online or at 855‑411‑2372 if needed. (consumerfinance.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Add a short consumer statement to your report and focus on building new positive history while you continue disputing.
Step 2 — Open a safe, local, credit‑builder tradeline
Secured credit cards from Washington credit unions:
Card | Typical deposit/limit | Key terms |
---|---|---|
BECU Secured (Low Rate or Cash Back) | 250–250–10,000 deposit/limit | Variable APRs as low as 13.24% as of 9/2/2025; no annual fee; reports monthly to bureaus. (becu.org) |
WSECU Create Visa (credit‑builder) | 250–250–2,500 limit | 19.50% APR; rate can drop 0.25% after six on‑time payments, up to 2% total. (wsecu.org) |
Usage rule of thumb: Keep utilization under 9%, set autopay for at least the statement balance, and let the account age 6–12 months before seeking unsecured credit.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about a credit‑builder loan (funds released at the end) at your credit union. (wsecu.org)
Step 3 — Lower balances and prevent new negatives
- Negotiate medical bills using Washington charity care: If your income is within the posted ranges (many families up to 400% FPL), ask for free/discounted care and request billing holds while your application is reviewed. (doh.wa.gov)
- Consolidate high‑interest payday debt: Before signing any debt settlement, verify the company is licensed (if applicable) and read DFI alerts. Many “credit repair” sellers cannot charge upfront fees under federal law. (dfi.wa.gov, consumerfinance.gov)
- If a collector contacts you: Keep everything in writing. Validate the debt. Consider Washington’s statute‑of‑limitations before paying very old debts. (casetext.com, caselaw.findlaw.com)
Step 4 — Add income and stabilize cash flow
- Minimum wage in 2025: $16.66/hr statewide; some cities are higher. If pay is short, you can file a complaint with L&I. (lni.wa.gov)
- Unemployment safety net: New claims opened on/after July 6, 2025 can pay up to $1,152 weekly. If approved, set up automatic tax withholding to avoid an IRS bill. (esd.wa.gov)
- Working Families Tax Credit: Apply each year; refunds up to $1,290 for 2024 returns filed in 2025. (dor.wa.gov)
Key Washington timelines and numbers at a glance
Topic | What to know |
---|---|
Credit dispute investigation | Bureaus have about 30 days to complete an investigation and respond in writing. (consumer.ftc.gov) |
DCA emergency cash | Max $2,000 once per 12 months; one 30‑day assistance period. (dshs.wa.gov) |
AREN | Up to $750 in a 12‑month period; exceptions require approval. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov) |
SNAP max (Oct 2024–Sep 2025) | Family of 3: 768∗∗;familyof4:∗∗768**; family of 4: **975. (lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov) |
TANF examples used by DSHS | 3‑person 706∗∗;4‑person∗∗706**; 4‑person **833. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov) |
Wage garnishment, consumer debts | Protects at least 80% of disposable earnings or 35× state min wage ($583.10/week in 2025). (apps.leg.wa.gov, lni.wa.gov) |
Utility discount (Seattle) | Ongoing 60% electric, 50% water/sewer; emergency aid up to 710–710–1,420/yr. (imagine.seattle.gov) |
Real‑world example — putting it together
Scenario: You’re a mom in Yakima with two kids. Your hours dropped; rent is 1,300∗∗andyourcarneeds∗∗1,300** and your car needs **650 in repairs. You’re 30 days late on a credit card.
Action plan:
- Apply for DCA for car repair and part of rent (2,000∗∗max).Start∗∗SNAP∗∗tofreeupgrocerycash(∗∗2,000** max). Start **SNAP** to free up grocery cash (**768 if you’re a 3‑person household max allotment). (dshs.wa.gov, lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
- Open a secured card with $250 deposit at BECU or WSECU; set autopay. (becu.org, wsecu.org)
- Pull weekly credit reports; dispute any errors; set up a payment plan with the card issuer to avoid charge‑off. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- File for the Working Families Tax Credit in February for a refund to rebuild savings. (dor.wa.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Believing anyone who “guarantees” score boosts: Legitimate credit repair cannot charge upfront fees and cannot remove accurate negatives. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Paying old debt without checking the statute of limitations: You could restart the clock — verify age and type first. (casetext.com)
- Ignoring court papers: You lose defenses (and your wages) by default; call 2‑1‑1 and respond on time.
- Co‑signing to rebuild credit: High risk; use secured cards or credit‑builder loans instead. (wsecu.org)
If you’re facing eviction or medical debt, use these Washington‑specific protections
Eviction — Right to Counsel
What to do first: Call 2‑1‑1 immediately after you get a 14‑day notice or court papers. Washington is the first state to provide a free lawyer to indigent tenants in eviction cases (generally up to 200% FPL). Mediation via Dispute Resolution Centers is common. (app.leg.wa.gov)
Plan B if you’re over income: Still contact your local Housing Justice Project or 2‑1‑1 for advice and repayment plan templates.
Hospital bills — Charity care
What to do first: Apply for financial assistance with the hospital. Many families up to 400% FPL qualify for discounts; Tier 1 hospitals must provide 100% discounts through at least 300% FPL. Ask billing to pause collections while reviewed. (doh.wa.gov)
Plan B: If denied, appeal using the Department of Health guidance and seek help from legal aid via 2‑1‑1. (doh.wa.gov)
Credit disputes and repair — tools and templates you can trust
- Sample dispute letters to bureaus and furnishers: Free templates you can copy/paste and mail with evidence. Timeline: 30 days for investigation, longer if you add documents later. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Your right to a real investigation: Companies can’t refuse to investigate or demand extras beyond the law. Report problems to the CFPB at 855‑411‑2372. (consumerfinance.gov)
- Avoid fake “free report” sites: Only use AnnualCreditReport.com or 877‑322‑8228. The FTC has warned other sites about deceptive claims. (ftc.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Washington 2025 minimum wage: 16.66/hr∗∗.Garnishmentfloorforconsumerdebts∗∗16.66/hr**. Garnishment floor for consumer debts **583.10/week protected. (lni.wa.gov, apps.leg.wa.gov)
- DCA emergency cash: Up to $2,000, one period per year; apply online or 877‑501‑2233. (dshs.wa.gov)
- AREN for TANF households: Up to $750/12 months for eviction/shutoff prevention. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
- Working Families Tax Credit (state): Up to $1,290 for TY2024; retroactive up to 3 years. (dor.wa.gov)
- SNAP max (thru 9/30/2025): 3‑person 768∗∗,4‑person∗∗768**, 4‑person **975. (lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
- Unemployment (claims opened 7/6/2025–6/2026): 366–366–1,152/week. (esd.wa.gov)
- Seattle City Light discounts: 60% electric, 50% water/sewer; emergency up to 710–710–1,420. Phone: 206‑684‑3000. (imagine.seattle.gov)
- CFPB complaint line: 855‑411‑2372. DFI verify/complaints: 1‑877‑746‑4334. (consumerfinance.gov, dfi.wa.gov)
Application Checklist — have these ready
- Identity and address: Photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, lease or utility bill.
- Income proof: Last 30 days of pay stubs, child support, unemployment, or a written statement if income just ended.
- Expenses and bills: Lease, past‑due notices, medical bills, car repair estimate.
- Banking: Last 2–3 bank statements if requested.
- Special documents: Eviction or shutoff notices, disability proofs for HEN referral, or immigration documents (many programs serve mixed‑status families).
Diverse Communities — tailored pointers and protections
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask every agency for chosen name and communication‑safety preferences; shelters and legal aid follow nondiscrimination rules. For eviction defense or debt collection harassment tied to discrimination, document everything and call 2‑1‑1 for legal help. Privacy: share only what’s necessary for eligibility. (wa211.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: You may qualify for a HEN referral (rental/essential‑needs help) if incapacity is verified, or for SSI‑related supports. Request reasonable accommodations on all applications and hearings. (lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask about VA hardship programs, Servicemembers Civil Relief Act credit protections, and VA medical bill relief; legal aid can coordinate with county Veterans’ Services. Start with 2‑1‑1 for a warm referral. (wa211.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many programs are available regardless of status (utility discounts, charity care, WFTC with ITIN). For SNAP/TANF, mixed‑status families can apply for eligible members. Request language interpreters at DSHS and courts. (dor.wa.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Check with your Tribe’s social services for emergency aid and housing funds that can stack with state help. Use 2‑1‑1 for the nearest Tribal TANF or legal services office. (wa211.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Ask DSHS to conduct phone interviews and accept photos of documents by upload/mail; use 2‑1‑1 to locate mobile legal clinics and LIHEAP intake days. (wa211.org)
- Single fathers: All the same programs apply. Identify yourself as the custodial parent; ask about child‑only TANF or pass‑through rules if applicable. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Language access: Agencies must provide interpreters at no cost upon request. Note your language preference on every application and keep copies of translations for court or hearings. (wa211.org)
Local and statewide help lines you can trust
- Washington 211: 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑211‑9274 for rent, utilities, food, legal, and more. (wa211.org)
- DSHS Customer Service Center: 877‑501‑2233 for DCA, TANF, SNAP, and office locations. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Washington DFI (verify lenders/complaints): 1‑877‑746‑4334. (dfi.wa.gov)
- CFPB complaint line: 855‑411‑2372 for credit reporting, debt collection, and illegal fees. (consumerfinance.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions — Washington, 2025
- How fast can I get DCA emergency cash: If documents are ready, decisions can come within days; the benefit must be issued within a 30‑day period and is capped at $2,000. Apply: Washington Connection or 877‑501‑2233. (dshs.wa.gov)
- What are the 2024‑2025 SNAP maximums my family could get: For 3 people 768∗∗;for4people∗∗768**; for 4 people **975 through 9/30/2025. Benefits adjust Oct 1 each year. (lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
- Can medical debt still show on my credit report in 2025: Yes for balances over 500∗∗;afederalruletoremovethemwasvacatedon∗∗July11,2025∗∗.Paidmedicalcollectionsandthoseunder∗∗500**; a federal rule to remove them was vacated on **July 11, 2025**. Paid medical collections and those under **500 should not appear. (law.justia.com, consumerfinance.gov)
- How much of my paycheck is protected from garnishment: For consumer debts, at least 80% of disposable earnings or 35× the state minimum wage ($583.10/week in 2025), whichever is higher. Private student loans protect even more. (apps.leg.wa.gov, lni.wa.gov)
- What is the TANF payment standard right now for a family of three: DSHS examples show 706∗∗;forfourit’s∗∗706**; for four it’s **833. Confirm current standards with your worker. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
- I’m on TANF — will I receive any child support: Yes, Washington “passes through” up to 50∗∗(onechild)or∗∗50** (one child) or **100 (two or more) each month that DCS collects. (dshs.wa.gov)
- What’s Washington’s minimum wage in 2025: $16.66/hr statewide beginning Jan 1, 2025; some cities are higher. (lni.wa.gov)
- How do I get my credit reports safely: Use AnnualCreditReport.com or call 877‑322‑8228; avoid imposter websites claiming “free.” (consumer.ftc.gov, ftc.gov)
- Can payday lenders keep charging me more fees if I can’t pay: No — you can request a no‑fee installment plan under Washington law. Verify the lender is licensed. (dfi.wa.gov)
- What’s the unemployment max weekly benefit if I’m laid off in late 2025: New claims opened on/after July 6, 2025 can pay up to $1,152/week. (esd.wa.gov)
What to expect from “credit repair” companies — use caution
Your rights: Under federal law, credit repair companies cannot charge upfront fees and must give you written disclosures and a 3‑day right to cancel. The CFPB is returning $1.8 billion to consumers harmed by illegal advance‑fee credit‑repair schemes — a reminder to be careful. If you choose to hire help, never pay before results. (consumerfinance.gov)
Plan B: Most repairs you can do yourself free using the FTC/CFPB templates above and by building new positive history through a local secured card or credit‑builder loan. (consumer.ftc.gov, wsecu.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: We use official sources from the Washington Department of Social and Health Services, Washington Department of Revenue, Washington Department of Labor & Industries, Washington Department of Financial Institutions, USDA/FNS, CFPB/FTC, 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.
Corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org with updates; we aim to respond within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
Important: Programs, amounts, and rules change. Always verify with the relevant agency before you act. We link to official pages and note dates where possible. For legal advice or case‑specific guidance, consult a qualified attorney. We take security seriously — avoid sharing sensitive data over public Wi‑Fi, use trusted government portals, and watch for imposter sites.
Sources used in this guide
- Diversion Cash Assistance & TANF standards: DSHS program pages and rule filings (updated Jan 1, 2025; examples reflecting 2024–2025 payment standards). (dshs.wa.gov, lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov, manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
- AREN: DSHS manual (Dec 18, 2023). (manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
- Basic Food amounts & WAC updates (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025): WSR/WAC and USDA/FNS background. (lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Working Families Tax Credit 2025 window and amounts: WA Department of Revenue (2025). (dor.wa.gov)
- Right to Counsel (SB 5160): Washington bill reports and summaries. (app.leg.wa.gov)
- Minimum wage 2025: L&I releases (Sept 30, 2024; Dec 23, 2024). (lni.wa.gov)
- Unemployment benefit limits (effective July 6, 2025): ESD announcement (June/July 2025). (esd.wa.gov)
- Garnishment protections: RCW 6.27.150; state minimum wage. (apps.leg.wa.gov)
- Bank account exemptions: RCW 6.15.010 (effective July 1, 2025). (casetext.com)
- Medical debt credit‑reporting rule status: CFPB release (Jan 7, 2025) and court order vacating the rule (July 11, 2025). (whitehouse.gov, law.justia.com)
- Hospital charity care: Washington DOH and WSHA guidance (expanded eligibility effective July 1, 2022). (doh.wa.gov, wsha.org)
- Secured cards & credit‑builder loans: BECU and WSECU public pages. (becu.org, wsecu.org)
- Seattle City Light bill help: Utility Discount Program and Emergency Assistance pages (2025). (imagine.seattle.gov)
- Washington 211: Statewide referral line. (wa211.org)
- CFPB/FTC credit reporting rights and templates: Weekly free reports and dispute instructions. (consumer.ftc.gov)
If you need a hand prioritizing steps for your specific situation, reply with your county, household size, and urgent deadlines, and we’ll map it out step‑by‑step.
🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Washington
- 📋 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