Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Montana

Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Montana

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is practical, step‑by‑step, and built for Montana’s realities. Every program, phone line, and website is linked right where you need it. Keep this page open while you call, apply, and follow up.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Stop a shutoff today: Call your utility’s customer service first thing and ask for a payment plan and medical or hardship protections. For most Montana households this is NorthWestern Energy at 1-888-467-2669, then apply for winter energy help through Montana LIEAP (LIHEAP) and crisis help via Energy Share of Montana right away. Use the DPHHS office locator for LIEAP and ask your local HRDC if they process Energy Share. NorthWestern Energy customer service • DPHHS LIEAP local offices • Energy Share contact (northwesternenergy.com)
Lower your internet/phone bill today: Apply for the federal Lifeline discount online or by mail; many moms qualify through SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, or income. If you need help, call the Lifeline Support Center. Then ask your provider about their lowest‑cost plan. FCC Lifeline overview • Apply at LifelineSupport.org • Lifeline Support Center 1-800-234-9473 (fcc.gov)
Get in‑person help with forms and devices: Bring your IDs and bills to a public library or Job Service office for free computer time, printing, and one‑on‑one help. Many libraries still offer tech help hours and makerspaces, and Job Service sites run digital skills events. Missoula Public Library classes • Billings Public Library tech & CO+LAB • Job Service Montana locations map (missoulapubliclibrary.org)

Quick help box — numbers and links to keep handy

Energy and shutoff help: NorthWestern Energy customer service (most of MT) 1-888-467-2669 • Montana PSC Consumer Assistance 1-800-646-6150 (after you call the utility). NorthWestern Energy assistance • Montana PSC help (northwesternenergy.com)
Energy crisis programs: Apply for LIEAP (energy bill help) at your local HRDC and ask about Energy Share of Montana for emergencies. DPHHS LIEAP offices • Energy Share info / referral (dphhs.mt.gov)
Internet/phone discount: Federal Lifeline (apply online or by mail) and the Lifeline Support Center 1-800-234-9473 for live help. Lifeline program details • USAC contact page (fcc.gov)
Find local help statewide: Montana 211 — dial 211 or use the site to locate nearby nonprofits, shelters, and utility help. Montana 211 homepage • Regional 211 contacts (montana211.org)
Crisis lines (24/7): Montana 988 for mental health crises (call/text 988), and National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233; Native survivors can call StrongHearts 1-844-762-8483. Montana 988 info • The Hotline (dphhs.mt.gov)

What changed in 2025 and what it means for your bill

The emergency Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that cut internet bills by up to $30 per month ended on June 1, 2024, after federal funds ran out. Some websites still claim you can enroll; that’s not true. If a site is asking for your Social Security number to “sign you up” for ACP in 2025, close it and report the scam. Your best current federal discount is Lifeline. FCC ACP status page • ACP consumer FAQ (archived — “ACP has ended for now”) • FCC complaint center (fcc.gov)

Lifeline still gives $9.25 p er m o n t h o ff a q u a l i f y in g in t er n e t or b u n d l e, w i t h u pt o$ 34.25 off on Tribal lands. Survivors under the Safe Connections Act can qualify for a temporary Lifeline discount even if they’re not yet in a standard program. Apply online through the National Verifier, or ask a provider to help you apply in person. FCC Lifeline consumer page • Apply at LifelineSupport.org • USAC eligibility overview (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider for their lowest‑cost plan and any “community” offers; some cable and wireless ISPs in Montana offer entry‑level plans for low‑income households. Check multiple providers using the “Find Offers” tool from a national nonprofit. If you still can’t afford service, use library computers while you work through Lifeline approval. EveryoneOn offer finder • Billings Public Library computers • Missoula Public Library classes (billingslibrary.org)

How to get internet or phone help today in Montana

Start with the Lifeline discount, then stack local options.

Apply for Lifeline online first: The National Verifier checks your eligibility through data matches with programs like SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, or through income. If the system can verify you, you can enroll with your chosen company the same day. If the system can’t verify, upload or mail documents. Call the Lifeline Support Center for live help if you get stuck. Lifeline application portal • USAC help line 1-800-234-9473 • FCC Lifeline rules (usac.org)
Choose a provider and plan you can keep: After approval, compare providers that accept Lifeline in your ZIP code and pick the lowest plan that meets your needs. Ask the company to apply Lifeline before activation. Re‑certify every year to avoid surprise shutoffs. Find companies in your area • USAC “Get Help” page • State utility complaint option (lifelinesupport.org)
Know what’s gone: ACP ended June 2024; do not provide personal info to sites offering ACP sign‑ups in 2025. Report scams to the FCC and consider placing an alert at IdentityTheft.gov if you shared sensitive data. FCC ACP page • Consumer complaint center • IdentityTheft.gov (fcc.gov)

Eligibility rules, what to bring, expected timeline

Eligibility: Lifeline generally requires income at or below 135% of federal poverty guidelines, or participation in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing, or Tribal programs; the Safe Connections Act provides a temporary path for survivors. USAC qualification guide • FCC Lifeline consumer page • USAC survivor benefit (lifelinesupport.org)
Documents: Bring a photo ID and either proof of program participation (e.g., SNAP or WIC letter) or proof of household income. Keep PDFs or clear photos on your phone so you can upload during the application. USAC “Documents Needed” • USAC Get Help page • Montana WIC contacts (lifelinesupport.org)
Timeline: Online approvals can be instant if the database matches. If you must upload or mail documents, allow up to 2 weeks. Call the Lifeline Support Center if you get no response after 10 days. USAC contact • USAC Get Help • FCC Lifeline overview (usac.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a librarian or Job Service staffer to sit with you at a public computer and apply together. If a company mishandles your Lifeline enrollment, submit an informal complaint to the FCC and keep your reference number. Missoula Public Library help • Montana Job Service map • FCC complaint center (missoulapubliclibrary.org)

Keep the lights and internet on: How to stop a utility shutoff in Montana today

If you got a disconnect notice or you’re out of propane, act the same day. Call your utility, get on a payment plan, and then apply for state and nonprofit help.

Call your utility first: Ask for a payment arrangement, due‑date extension, and any medical or hardship protections. For most households, call NorthWestern Energy 1-888-467-2669 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. MT. NorthWestern Energy customer support • Payment assistance options • Service & payment locations (northwesternenergy.com)
Apply for LIEAP (called LIEAP/LIEAP) and Energy Share: LIEAP helps with winter heat (Oct–Apr), and Energy Share covers year‑round emergencies when you’ve exhausted other help. Most applications run through local HRDC offices; expect about 45 days for non‑crisis processing (faster in emergencies). DPHHS LIEAP office directory • District 7 HRDC (Billings) timeline • Energy Share info (dphhs.mt.gov)
Escalate if needed: If the utility won’t work with you, call the Montana Public Service Commission Consumer Assistance line or file a request online after you’ve tried the company. For other local options near you, dial 211. PSC consumer help • PSC assistance request • Montana 211 (psc.mt.gov)

Reality Check — winter 2025: Library hotspot lending that ramped up during COVID has wound down statewide as state and federal funds expired. Many libraries kept some hotspots using local funds, but availability is limited and varies by county. Always ask your branch what’s still available. Montana State Library hotspot program update • MSL hotspot program page • Flathead hotspot changes example (news.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your parish or community groups for a one‑time pledge; in Billings, St. Vincent de Paul may assist with utilities case‑by‑case, and HRDCs can point to local funds. If you were denied LIEAP, see the “Denied?” section below to appeal quickly. St. Vincent de Paul Billings • HRDC energy pages (examples) • Fair Hearing FAQ (MontanaLawHelp) (svdpmt.org)

Get a low‑cost device or hotspot you can afford

You don’t have to buy a brand‑new laptop. Two national refurbishers ship statewide to eligible low‑income families.

PCs for People (ships in Montana): Offers low‑cost refurbished desktops, laptops, and mobile hotspots. You qualify if your income is below 200% of the federal poverty level or you’re in a program like SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, or LIHEAP. Have a photo ID and eligibility proof ready to upload. PCs for People eligibility • PCs for People internet & shipping FAQ • Eligibility overview (support) (pcsforpeople.org)
human‑I‑T (ships nationwide): Provides discounted devices and low‑cost hotspot service. You’ll verify income or benefits, then order online or call for help. human‑I‑T store & hotline 1-888-391-7249 • human‑I‑T membership info • Eligibility help (store.human-i-t.org)
Assistive technology if you or your child has a disability: Borrow devices free, get training, or apply for low‑interest AT loans through MonTECH, Montana’s Assistive Technology Program. Ask about screen readers, adaptive keyboards, switch access, augmentative communication, or loaner laptops. MonTECH (University of Montana) • Montana Assistive Technology Program • DPHHS VRBS Assistive Technology (montech.ruralinstitute.umt.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local library about device loans and in‑library laptops. Even where hotspot lending ended, many branches have computers, scanners, and printers you can use for free. Montana State Library directory (ASPeN) • Missoula Public Library services • Billings Public Library services (msl.mt.gov)

Learn digital skills fast (free and local)

Montana libraries and Job Service sites run practical classes all year. You can learn Windows basics, email, Zoom, Google Docs, resume writing, and more — free.

Library classes and one‑on‑one tech time: Missoula runs Windows User Group sessions and drop‑in Tech Time. Billings hosts digital skills workshops and a teen makerspace. Call your branch and ask for “computer classes” or “tech help.” Missoula Public Library classes & Tech Time • Windows User Group info • Billings Library events & CO+LAB (missoulapubliclibrary.org)
Job Service Montana workshops: Use the statewide map to find your nearest office. See each office’s events calendar for resume labs, LinkedIn tips, and basic computer sessions. Job Service Montana location map • Workforce Services Division • MontanaWorks job seeker portal (montanaworks.gov)
Finish your diploma or upskill: Montana now offers both GED and HiSET for High School Equivalency; note that HiSET remote testing ended in Montana on September 1, 2025. Adult Education centers offer free prep and basic computer help. OPI High School Equivalency updates • Adult Education examples (Helena ALC) • District 6 HRDC Adult Education (opi.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Job Service about WIOA‑funded training or short credentials. If child care is the barrier, call 211 to ask about agency‑run class cohorts with on‑site child care. Montana Job Service map • Montana 211 • Workforce Services Division overview (montanaworks.gov)

What Montana is building next: Broadband & digital equity funding

Montana is moving forward with the BEAD infrastructure build and the state’s Digital Equity plan. That means new rural lines, better speeds, and grants for digital skills and devices through local partners in the coming years.

BEAD (infrastructure) status: Montana’s Initial Proposal is approved; the state was allocated about $629 million. In July 2025, the Montana Broadband Office reopened the BEAD application portal for providers and expects to submit a final proposal by September 4, 2025. NTIA approval (Initial Proposal) • ConnectMT BEAD funding page • State news on portal reopening (ntia.gov)
Digital Equity (skills/devices) status: NTIA accepted Montana’s Digital Equity Plan, and the state can receive about $6.94 million in capacity funds to expand training, devices, and navigator services through local orgs. Watch the state’s ConnectMT website for grant opportunities to libraries, tribes, schools, and nonprofits. NTIA acceptance of Montana’s plan • Capacity grant announcement • ConnectMT Digital Opportunity page (internetforall.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re stuck with slow or no service, report your location on the state’s broadband site and tell your library and county commissioners; those reports help target BEAD builds and digital‑equity projects. While you wait, use library computers and ask about off‑peak hours when PCs are open. ConnectMT site • Montana State Library • Billings Public Library labs (connectmt.mt.gov)

Tables you can scan quickly

Programs for internet/phone and tech — what you can get now

Program	Who qualifies	What you get	How to apply	Notes
Lifeline (FCC)	Income ≤135% FPG or programs like SNAP/Medicaid; Tribal enhancements available	$9.25/ m o n t h o ff in t er n e t / b u n d l e; u pt o$ 34.25 on Tribal lands	Apply at LifelineSupport.org or by mail, then enroll with a provider	Survivors can access a 6‑month path under Safe Connections Act. (fcc.gov)
PCs for People	Income ≤200% FPL or eligible benefits	Low‑cost refurbished computers and hotspots	Upload docs and order online	Ships statewide; ask about warranty details. (pcsforpeople.org)
human‑I‑T	Income‑based eligibility	Discounted devices; low‑cost hotspot service	Apply and order online or call 1-888-391-7249	Ask for English/Spanish help lines. (store.human-i-t.org)
MonTECH (Assistive Tech)	Any Montanan with a disability or caregiver	Free device loans, demos, and AT training	Request online or by phone	Low‑interest AT loans available. (montech.ruralinstitute.umt.edu)

Where to get in‑person help

Need	Good first stop	Backup option
Apply for Lifeline online	Public library help desks	Job Service Montana events (missoulapubliclibrary.org)
Stop a shutoff today	Call your utility (NorthWestern Energy)	PSC consumer assistance (northwesternenergy.com)
Energy crisis funds	LIEAP offices (DPHHS)	Energy Share of Montana info (dphhs.mt.gov)

Typical timelines (ask to confirm; funding varies)

Task	Normal wait	Crisis/expedited
Lifeline online approval	Instant to 1–2 business days	Call 1-800-234-9473 if no decision in 10 days
LIEAP (non‑crisis)	About 45 days during season	Same‑week decision possible in emergencies via HRDC
Energy Share (crisis)	1–2 weeks	Often within days if no‑heat risk

Sources: USAC Lifeline Support Center • District 7 HRDC LIEAP timeline • DPHHS LIEAP offices (usac.org)

Documents you’ll likely need (keep digital copies)

Program	IDs	Income/program proof	Bills
Lifeline	Government photo ID	SNAP/Medicaid/WIC letter or income docs	Latest internet/phone bill (if switching)
LIEAP	Photo ID + SSN	Income last 30–60 days	Most recent heating/utility bill
Energy Share	Photo ID	Proof you applied for LIEAP (Oct–Apr)	Disconnect notice or low‑fuel statement

Sources: USAC documents • DPHHS LIEAP • CAPNW LIHEAP/Energy Share (dphhs.mt.gov)

Quick “who to call” for major roadblocks

Issue	Who to contact	Number
Lifeline approval trouble	USAC Lifeline Support Center	1-800-234-9473 (usac.org)
Utility dispute after calling company	Montana PSC Consumer Assistance	1-800-646-6150 (psc.mt.gov)
Emergency energy funds	Energy Share of Montana (via HRDC)	1-888-779-7589 (deq.mt.gov)
Mental health crisis	988 Lifeline (Montana)	Call/text 988 (dphhs.mt.gov)

Diverse Communities: practical, specific help

LGBTQ+ single mothers: If you or your teen needs crisis support, call 988. Note that in July 2025 SAMHSA ended the LGBTQ+ sub‑network inside 988, but trained general counselors still answer 24/7. For specialized support, contact The Trevor Project or your local community health center. For tech safety, ask libraries about private computer rooms and clear your browser history after using domestic violence sites. Montana 988 • The National Domestic Violence Hotline • StrongHearts Native Helpline (for Native LGBTQ2S survivors too) (dphhs.mt.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Borrow assistive devices, try screen readers, and get one‑on‑one AT coaching through MonTECH. If you’re job‑seeking, Vocational Rehabilitation and Blind Services (VRBS) can fund tech and training tied to your employment plan; appeal rights are available if you’re denied. Use relay services (711) when calling agencies. MonTECH (AT loans & demos) • DPHHS VRBS • Montana Accessible Communications (Relay) (montech.ruralinstitute.umt.edu)
Veteran single mothers: Ask your VA provider about low‑cost devices and VA‑issued hotspots for telehealth. For job help, connect with Job Service Montana veteran reps. In a crisis, call 988 then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. Job Service Montana • Montana 988 (Veterans) • Montana 211 (montanaworks.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: Libraries are a safe starting point for email setup, printing immigration forms, and language‑learning apps. For civil legal questions (benefits denials, landlord tech like “online portal” notices), call Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA) or see MontanaLawHelp forms. Ask for language access; state agencies must offer interpretation. MLSA HelpLine 1-800-666-6899 • MontanaLawHelp fair hearings • Montana 211 (mtlsa.org)
Tribal‑specific resources: Check your Tribal LIHEAP office for energy help and talk to Tribal libraries about public PCs and digital skills days. For Native entrepreneurs and job‑seekers in Billings and beyond, call the Native American Development Corporation (NADC) for training, procurement counseling, and events. Tribal LIHEAP contacts (DPHHS) • NADC (Billings) 406‑259‑3804 • StrongHearts Native Helpline (dphhs.mt.gov)
Rural single moms with limited access: Use library Wi‑Fi parking lots, schedule PC time, and ask about any remaining hotspots. File service availability feedback with ConnectMT to help target BEAD builds. For satellite or fixed‑wireless options, ask ISPs for trial periods before you commit. Montana State Library • ConnectMT Broadband & DO info • Montana 211 (connectmt.mt.gov)
Single fathers raising kids: Every program here is gender‑neutral. Lifeline, LIEAP, Job Service, and library services support any caregiver. If custody or child‑support issues affect your benefits or budget, MLSA can advise. MLSA intake • MontanaLawHelp • Montana 211 (mtlsa.org)
Language access and accessibility: Ask for free interpreters and large‑print applications. DPHHS and most courts honor language access rights, and relay services are available for deaf/hard‑of‑hearing callers at 711. Montana Accessible Communications (Relay) • SNAP page (accessibility & civil rights) • Montana 211 (dphhs.mt.gov)

Resources by region (local examples)

Billings (Yellowstone County): Use the Billings Public Library for PCs, classes, and the CO+LAB makerspace; call St. Vincent de Paul for utility or rent screening; apply for LIEAP via District 7 HRDC; check the Job Service office events calendar for resume or computer skills workshops. Billings Public Library • St. Vincent de Paul Billings • District 7 HRDC energy help • Job Service Montana map (billingslibrary.org)
Missoula (Missoula County): Missoula Public Library hosts regular Windows/user‑group and tech‑time sessions; HRC District XI handles LIEAP; use Job Service Missoula for digital job tools; spectrUM Discovery Area inside the library offers STEM activities for kids while you handle paperwork. Missoula Public Library classes • HRC District XI • MontanaWorks (locations) • UM spectrUM Discovery (missoulapubliclibrary.org)
Great Falls (Cascade County): Opportunities, Inc. manages LIEAP locally; the public library provides PCs and Wi‑Fi; Job Service Great Falls has rotating digital workshops. DPHHS LIEAP office list (Opportunities, Inc.) • Job Service Montana map • Montana 211 (dphhs.mt.gov)
Bozeman/Gallatin County: HRDC District 9 processes energy help; Love INC runs free life‑skills classes and a clothing closet; Bozeman Public Library has robust public computing; use Job Service Bozeman for workshops. HRDC District 9 • Love INC Gallatin (Get Help) • Job Service Montana map • Gallatin Food Bank resources (thehrdc.org)
Helena (Lewis & Clark County): Apply for LIEAP via Rocky Mountain Development Council; Lewis & Clark Library offers PCs and classes; Job Service Helena provides job‑readiness support. DPHHS LIEAP offices (RMD) • Montana Job Service map • Montana 211 (dphhs.mt.gov)
Kalispell/Flathead County: CAPNW handles LIEAP and Energy Share; ImagineIF Libraries provide computers; note that some local hotspot programs ended in 2025 due to funding. CAPNW LIHEAP/Energy Share • MSL hotspot update • Montana 211 (capnm.net)

Common mistakes to avoid

Submitting the wrong documents: For Lifeline, submit a program letter dated within the last 12 months or current coverage proof, not an old card or a screenshot that doesn’t show your name. For LIEAP, include all household income for the period requested or your file will pend. USAC “Documents Needed” • DPHHS LIEAP offices • USAC Get Help (lifelinesupport.org)
Trusting outdated ACP info: If someone asks for your SSN to “sign you up for ACP,” it’s a red flag. ACP ended June 2024. Report it and consider an identity check. FCC ACP status • FTC IdentityTheft.gov • ACP consumer FAQ (fcc.gov)
Waiting too long to call after a shutoff notice: Call your utility right away, then apply for LIEAP and Energy Share. Late calls reduce options. NorthWestern Energy assistance • DPHHS LIEAP • PSC consumer help (northwesternenergy.com)

Reality Check

Funding ebbs and flows. Expect that hotspot lending, one‑time device giveaways, and even energy funds may pause when budgets run short. You can still push forward by using free library PCs, leveraging small discounts like Lifeline, and applying early in the season for LIEAP (Oct–Apr). MSL hotspot news (July 2025) • DPHHS LIEAP offices • USAC Lifeline overview (news.mt.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Utility customer service (electric/gas): NorthWestern Energy 1-888-467-2669 • 7 a.m.–6 p.m. M–F. Contact options • Payment assistance (northwesternenergy.com)
Energy programs: LIEAP local offices and Energy Share for emergencies. Find LIEAP office • Energy Share info • HRDC examples (dphhs.mt.gov)
Internet/phone discount: Lifeline application and help line 1-800-234-9473. LifelineSupport.org • USAC contact • FCC Lifeline rules (usac.org)
Find local help: Dial 211 or search by ZIP. Montana 211 • Regional 211 contacts • Billings city resource page (montana211.org)
Crisis lines: 988 for mental health; The Hotline 1-800-799-7233; StrongHearts 1-844-762-8483. Montana 988 • The Hotline • StrongHearts (dphhs.mt.gov)

Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

Photo ID: driver’s license, Tribal ID, or state ID. USAC docs • DPHHS LIEAP offices
Proof of benefits or income: SNAP/Medicaid/WIC letter dated within last 12 months, or income documents requested. USAC eligibility • SNAP page
Most recent bill: internet/phone or heat/electric bill (showing account number). NorthWestern Energy account help • HRDC energy pages
Proof of address: lease, utility bill, or official mail. USAC Get Help • Montana 211
Backup copies: save PDFs/photos to your phone cloud for quick uploads. LifelineSupport.org • Public library PCs

If your application gets denied

For LIEAP/Energy Programs: You have the right to a Fair Hearing. File within 90 days of the notice. You can request a hearing by email, fax, phone, or mail to the DPHHS Office of Fair Hearings; use MontanaLawHelp’s template if needed. Fair Hearings FAQ (MontanaLawHelp) • ARM 37.5.307 hearing rule • DPHHS decisions portal (montanalawhelp.org)
For VR/Assistive Tech decisions: You can request conciliation, mediation, or a Fair Hearing; Disability Rights Montana’s Client Assistance Program can help. VRBS Appeal Rights • Disability Rights Montana • MonTECH AT help (dphhs.mt.gov)
For Lifeline issues: Contact the Lifeline Support Center; if your provider blocks you from using an approved benefit, file an FCC complaint. USAC Lifeline Support Center • FCC consumer complaints • USAC Get Help (usac.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call MLSA to see if you qualify for free legal help, or ask a local self‑help law center for forms. MLSA apply • MontanaLawHelp • Montana 211 (mtlsa.org)

FAQs (state‑specific)

How to stop a shutoff in Montana today? Call NorthWestern Energy at 1-888-467-2669 and request a payment arrangement; then apply for LIEAP with your local HRDC and, if needed, Energy Share. If the utility won’t work with you after you tried, call the PSC Consumer Assistance line. NorthWestern Energy help • DPHHS LIEAP offices • PSC help page (northwesternenergy.com)
Is ACP still available in Montana? No. ACP ended June 1, 2024. Use Lifeline instead and ask your provider for any low‑income plan they offer. Report ACP enrollment scams to the FCC. FCC ACP status • Lifeline overview • FCC complaints (fcc.gov)
How much does Lifeline take off my bill? $9.25/ m o n t h f or q u a l i f y in g in t er n e t or b u n d l es, an d u pt o$ 34.25 on Tribal lands. Survivors may qualify for a temporary Lifeline discount. FCC Lifeline consumer page • USAC survivor benefit • USAC eligibility (fcc.gov)
Where can I print, scan, and get help using email? Your public library; most offer free PC time, printing for a small fee, and one‑on‑one tech help hours. Billings Public Library • Missoula Public Library • Montana State Library directory (billingslibrary.org)
What if I can’t find any provider at my address? File a comment with ConnectMT so state planners know your location; this helps target BEAD builds. Use library PCs in the meantime. ConnectMT funding/FAQ • ConnectMT FAQ • Montana State Library (connectmt.mt.gov)
Can I get free or cheap computers in Montana? Yes. National refurbishers ship statewide to eligible families, and libraries sometimes have loaners. PCs for People • human‑I‑T • MonTECH for disability‑related tech (pcsforpeople.org)
How do I get WIC or SNAP if I’m also dealing with tech access? Apply by phone or online; those approvals can also help you qualify for Lifeline. WIC has a statewide number and is modernizing services (including electronic farmers market benefits in 2025). WIC statewide contacts • SNAP apply options • WIC eFMNP update (June 2025) (fns.usda.gov)
Where do I go for legal help if I’m denied benefits? Call MLSA’s HelpLine or apply online; use MontanaLawHelp’s Fair Hearings tools to file fast. MLSA apply • Fair Hearings FAQ • Office of Fair Hearings info (mtlsa.org)
Do libraries still lend hotspots? Many programs ended June–July 2025 as federal/state funds expired; some branches kept a few hotspots with local funds. Call your branch to confirm. MSL hotspot conclusion (July 2025) • MSL hotspot program page • Flathead example (news.mt.gov)
Can Adult Education help with computer skills? Yes. Adult Education programs provide HiSET/GED prep plus basic computer instruction, and OPI notes remote HiSET at‑home ended 9/1/2025. OPI HSE page • Billings Adult Education • District 6 HRDC Adult Ed (opi.mt.gov)

Spanish summary (resumen en español)

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique detalles con las agencias oficiales antes de aplicar.

Internet y teléfono con descuento: Solicite el programa federal Lifeline en línea y pida ayuda al centro de soporte si es necesario. Lifeline – Solicitud • Centro de ayuda Lifeline 1‑800‑234‑9473 • Explicación FCC (usac.org)
Corte de luz/gas: Llame a su compañía primero (para muchos hogares: NorthWestern Energy 1‑888‑467‑2669), luego aplique a LIEAP (energía) y a Energy Share para emergencias. NorthWestern Energy • Oficinas LIEAP • Energy Share (info) (northwesternenergy.com)
Ayuda local: Marque 211 o visite Montana211.org para encontrar organizaciones cercanas; los bibliotecas y las oficinas de Job Service ofrecen computadoras y clases. Montana 211 • Biblioteca de Billings • Job Service Montana (montana211.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

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. 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

This information is provided for educational purposes only. Every program can change without notice based on funding, policy, or local capacity. Always confirm current rules and availability directly with the agency or utility before you apply or switch services. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For emotional distress, call or text 988. For domestic violence safety planning, call 1‑800‑799‑7233; for Native survivors, call 1‑844‑762‑8483. Montana 988 • The Hotline • StrongHearts (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this entire guide still doesn’t solve it

Call 211 and ask for a live navigator to stay on the line while you contact your utility or Lifeline provider. Montana 211 • PSC assistance
Use a library PC to send documents immediately (scan to PDF) and save copies to your email/drive so you can upload again if requested. Billings Public Library • Missoula Public Library classes
If denied benefits, submit a Fair Hearing request the same day and note your deadline in your calendar. Fair Hearings FAQ • DPHHS Office of Fair Hearings (montanalawhelp.org)

Stay persistent. Keep notes, confirmation numbers, and screenshots. Many moms win approvals on a second try after submitting the right documents or speaking to the right office.

🏛️More Montana Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Montana