Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in New Hampshire
Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in New Hampshire
Last updated: September 2025
This guide gives you fast, practical steps to get low‑cost internet, devices, and real computer skills in New Hampshire. Links take you straight to official programs, local helpers, and state/federal agencies. Keep this handy, and call to confirm current availability before applying.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call right now for a low‑income internet plan: ask your current provider about their low‑income options and about the federal Lifeline discount. Start with USAC Lifeline (phone/internet discount) and then contact Spectrum Internet Assist or Comcast Internet Essentials. (usac.org)
- Stop an electricity or heat shutoff today: call your utility’s customer service and your local Community Action Agency to set up a payment plan and apply for New Hampshire’s Electric Assistance Program and Fuel Assistance Program. Use NH Department of Energy — EAP and NH Department of Energy — Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP). (energy.nh.gov)
- Get live help from a person who knows local resources: call 211 NH (Granite United Way) or visit NH DHHS — Apply for Assistance (NH EASY) to check eligibility for SNAP, child care, and cash support that can stabilize your budget while you train or search for work. (211nh.org)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy
- Utilities consumer help: NH Dept. of Energy Consumer Services (complaints/payment plans) 1-800-852-3793; see PUC Winter Disconnection Rules. (puc.nh.gov)
- Local job centers and digital workshops: NH Employment Security — NHWORKS locations and NHES hotline 1-800-852-3400. (nhes.nh.gov)
- Child care so you can attend training: NH Child Care Scholarship and NH DHHS Customer Service 1-844-275-3447. (nh-connections.org)
- Consumer scams or identity theft: NH Attorney General — Consumer Protection Hotline 1-888-468-4454; see NH Banking Dept. — Avoiding Scams. (doj.nh.gov)
- Device help and low-cost computers: PCs for People (eligibility + PCs) and Human-I-T (low-cost devices & hotspots). (pcsforpeople.org)
Why This Guide Matters in New Hampshire
New Hampshire has invested heavily in broadband expansion, but the ACP internet subsidy that many families used has ended, so you need clear Plan B options. The state broadband office confirms major buildouts with BEAD/ARPA funds, while also noting funding shifts to digital‑equity programs in 2025. Start by bookmarking NH BEA — Office of Broadband Initiatives and the state’s Digital Equity page, and check NTIA — Digital Equity Plan acceptance for statewide strategy updates. According to the state, New Hampshire received 196.5MthroughBEADand196.5M through BEAD and 4.9M was allocated in 2024 for capacity grants, though NTIA terminated NH’s capacity grant on May 9, 2025; this affects some near‑term skills programming, so always ask about current offerings. (nheconomy.com)
The federal Affordable Connectivity Program stopped new enrollments on February 7, 2024 and concluded payments in spring 2024, so you must pivot to Lifeline and low‑income plans from local providers. Read the FCC ACP wind‑down details and keep FCC ACP page updates handy. For ongoing affordability, the Supreme Court’s June 27, 2025 ruling preserved the Universal Service Fund, which funds Lifeline and library/school connectivity — another reason to use Lifeline and library tech. (fcc.gov)
Low‑Cost Internet in New Hampshire: What’s Working Now
You can still get reliable home internet under 30–30–35 without ACP by combining a provider’s low‑income tier with the federal Lifeline discount when eligible. Start with USAC Lifeline (how it works) to verify your discount, then compare provider programs like Spectrum Internet Assist and Xfinity Internet Essentials. Many rural members can also explore NH Broadband (NHEC) and Fidium Fiber — Lifeline support. (usac.org)
Reality check on prices: Spectrum’s low‑income plan is currently advertised at 25/monthfor50Mbpsand25/month for 50 Mbps and 30/month for 100 Mbps under “Internet Advantage,” while Comcast’s Internet Essentials terms list 14.95/monthfor75/10Mbpsand14.95/month for 75/10 Mbps and 29.95/month for Internet Essentials Plus (100/20); regional availability and speeds vary, so confirm at checkout. New Xfinity “everyday price” plans with five‑year price guarantees start at $55/month, which can help if you can’t qualify for a low‑income tier. Always ask about no‑contract options and equipment fees. See Spectrum Internet Assist, Internet Essentials Program Rules, and Comcast five‑year price guarantee. (spectrum.com)
If you live in a co‑op area served by New Hampshire Electric Cooperative’s fiber network (NH Broadband) or by Fidium Fiber, ask about Lifeline eligibility and new area buildouts. Start with NH Broadband Lifeline page and check Fidium news in NH (example expansion) to see where fiber is live with entry‑level pricing “as low as $30.” (nhbroadband.com)
Table — Current low‑income and budget internet options (confirm offers by address)
| Provider | Typical low‑income price/speed | Eligibility basics | Where to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spectrum Internet Assist | 25/mo50Mbps;25/mo 50 Mbps; 30/mo 100 Mbps (Advantage) | Qualify via programs like SNAP/Medicaid, or student in NSLP | Spectrum service finder (spectrum.com) |
| Xfinity Internet Essentials | 14.95/mo75/10;14.95/mo 75/10; 29.95/mo 100/20 | SNAP/Medicaid/WIC, etc.; not all existing customers qualify | Comcast price guarantee info (xfinity.com) |
| NH Broadband (NHEC) | Regular plans vary; Lifeline discount up to $9.25 | Lifeline eligibility (135% FPG or program eligible) | Service map & expansion (nhbroadband.com) |
| Fidium Fiber | Plans “as low as $30” in some builds; Lifeline available | Lifeline eligibility; area dependent | NH expansion example (fidiumfiber.com) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: check non‑profit search tools that list offers by ZIP. Try EveryoneOn — offer locator and compare your choices to your local library’s hotspot‑loan options. You can also call 211 NH and ask for a “digital navigator” program near you. (everyoneon.org)
Devices You Can Afford (or Borrow)
If you need a computer for work or school, start with refurbishers that ship to New Hampshire. Check PCs for People — eligibility rules and their store for low‑cost desktops and laptops, then compare Human‑I‑T store for Chromebooks, tablets, and hotspots. Both offer support and warranty options; expect to upload ID and proof of benefits or income. (pcsforpeople.org)
Libraries are a quiet goldmine: many NH public libraries offer free tech help and sometimes lend hotspots or laptops. For example, Nashua Public Library books 45‑minute one‑on‑one tech help appointments and posts Computer Classes, and Manchester City Library provides public computers, Wi‑Fi, and printing. Ask your library about hotspot lending; AARP NH has sponsored hotspots at libraries like Antrim’s James A. Tuttle Library. (nashualibrary.org)
Realistic expectations: free‑device programs tied to ACP ended with ACP; most “free” devices now require a small co‑pay or are discounted. Confirm current terms and stock at PCs for People (ACP update) and check your library’s website for any hotspot‑loan policy. (pcsforpeople.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your child’s school about loaners, check local buy‑nothing groups, and ask nonprofits like Catholic Charities NH — Community Services about one‑time help for connectivity or learning. You can also search EveryoneOn for device partners. (cc-nh.org)
Build Real Computer Skills (Free or Low‑Cost)
New Hampshire’s community colleges and workforce system run practical classes you can do around child care. Begin with WorkReadyNH (free, employer‑recognized) for soft skills and digital basics, and contact NH Employment Security — WIOA Adult Worker Program to ask about computer‑literacy training, ESOL+digital, and job readiness. Visit your nearest NHWORKS Job Center to see the monthly calendar of tech workshops. (ccsnh.edu)
Libraries teach at your pace. Schedule free one‑on‑one sessions at Nashua Public Library Tech Help and use PLA’s DigitalLearn.org modules (English/Spanish) to practice email, online forms, and cybersecurity. Manchester residents can use Manchester City Library computers & Wi‑Fi and ask about printing and scanning. (nashualibrary.org)
If you want hands‑on making and tech, adult makerspaces often have scholarships and beginner classes. Check MakeIt Labs (Nashua) for CAD/3D printing or Port City Makerspace (Portsmouth) for electronics, CNC, and new pottery studios; ask about one‑day intro classes. Parents of girls can look at Girls at Work (Manchester) for STEAM‑flavored afterschool and summer programs. (makeitlabs.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask NH Employment Security about training vouchers, and check NNLM (library training) for free online classes you can take from home. Call 211 NH if you need a local referral. (nhes.nh.gov)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in New Hampshire Today
Start with payment arrangements and documented hardship status. Under state Winter Disconnection Rules, electric and gas utilities have extra limits on shutoffs between November 15 and March 31, and they need commission approval before disconnecting certain customers. Read PUC Winter Disconnection Rules and call your provider to set up a plan. If talks stall, call NH DOE Consumer Services (complaints/payment plans) at 1-800-852-3793. (puc.nh.gov)
Apply for discounts and fuel aid the same day. The Electric Assistance Program gives 5%–86% off your bill for 12 months when income‑eligible, and the Fuel Assistance Program can authorise emergency fuel deliveries or credits; average FAP benefit amounts vary by heat type and usage. Start with NH DOE — EAP and NH DOE — FAP/LIHEAP, or call your Community Action Agency. Some households may also qualify for the Gas Assistance Program (45% winter discount) and Neighbor Helping Neighbor grants for overdue bills. (energy.nh.gov)
Timelines you can expect: EAP decisions and FAP certifications often take up to 30 days once documents are complete; during busy winters, backlogs have stretched average waits to about 60 days according to news and agency comments. Ask for “crisis” handling if you have a shutoff notice or are out of heat. See CAPBM EAP income update (Apr 11, 2025) and processing notes, SNHS FAP processing FAQ, and NHPR reporting on delays. (capbm.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: file a complaint or request mediation with NH DOE Consumer Services, and contact Office of the Consumer Advocate for guidance. If you’re on a municipal water system (for example, Manchester Water Works), ask about payment options and call your city’s local welfare office under RSA 165 if you cannot pay; see Manchester Water Works — customer info and the NH Local Welfare Administrators’ Association (RSA 165). (puc.nh.gov)
Grants, Discounts, and Where to Apply
- Internet/phone: Apply for the federal Lifeline discount first through USAC Lifeline and then choose a participating company. Ask Spectrum, Xfinity, Fidium, or NH Broadband if they accept Lifeline for your address. See Fidium Lifeline and NH Broadband Lifeline. (usac.org)
- Electric bill: Apply for the Electric Assistance Program through your Community Action Agency; discount can be 5%–86% depending on income/household size. Start at NH DOE — EAP and confirm eligibility with your local CAP office. (energy.nh.gov)
- Heat (oil, propane, kerosene, electric, natural gas, wood): Apply for Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) through your CAP; FAP can also help with crisis deliveries and landlord credits if heat is in rent. Use NH DOE — FAP and your county CAP link below. (energy.nh.gov)
- Natural gas: If you are a Liberty or Unitil gas customer and LIHEAP‑eligible, ask about the winter Gas Assistance Program (45% discount November–April). See OCA — Get Help and your CAP office. (oca.nh.gov)
- Emergency utility help if you don’t qualify for LIHEAP: Ask your CAP office about Neighbor Helping Neighbor — a utility‑funded nonprofit that helps with shutoff prevention. Learn how to apply at Neighbor Helping Neighbor and check NHPUC assistance programs. (nhnfund.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: talk to your town welfare administrator (required by RSA 165 to assist residents in need), then call 211 NH for additional churches or charities that can help with a one‑time bill, and ask NH Legal Assistance/603 Legal Aid about rights if you’re facing a shutoff. (211nh.org)
Tables You Can Use Quickly
Table — Community Action Agencies (apply for EAP/FAP and more)
| Counties | Agency | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hillsborough & Rockingham | Southern NH Services (SNHS) | 1-800-322-1073 or 1-603-668-8010 | snhs.org (mail.snhs.org) |
| Strafford | Community Action Partnership of Strafford County | 1-603-435-2500 | straffordcap.org (straffordcap.org) |
| Belknap & Merrimack | CAP Belknap‑Merrimack Counties | 1-603-225-3295 or 1-800-856-5525 | capbm.org (capbm.org) |
| Cheshire & Sullivan | Southwestern Community Services | 1-603-352-7512 or 1-800-529-0005 | scshelps.org (scshelps.org) |
| Coos, Carroll & Grafton | Tri‑County CAP | 1-603-752-7001 | tccap.org (nhes.nh.gov) |
Table — Key statewide contacts
| Need | Who | How to reach |
|---|---|---|
| Utility complaint or mediation | NH DOE Consumer Services | 1-800-852-3793; consumerservices@energy.nh.gov (puc.nh.gov) |
| Consumer advocate (rates/policy info) | Office of the Consumer Advocate | 1-603-271-1172; oca@oca.nh.gov (oca.nh.gov) |
| Local social services directory | 211 NH | Dial 211 or 1-866-444-4211 (toll‑free) (211nh.org) |
| Broadband maps/plans | NH BEA — Broadband Office | broadband@livefree.nh.gov (nheconomy.com) |
| Low‑income internet discount | USAC Lifeline | Apply online; provider must participate (usac.org) |
Table — Energy help overview
| Program | What it does | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Assistance Program (EAP) | 5%–86% monthly discount for 12 months | Your CAP office or online info at NH DOE (energy.nh.gov) |
| Fuel Assistance Program (FAP/LIHEAP) | Heating help + crisis deliveries | Your CAP office; priority pre‑apps open in July (energy.nh.gov) |
| Gas Assistance Program (GAP) | 45% discount Nov–Apr (Liberty/Unitil gas) | Through CAP; confirm with utility (oca.nh.gov) |
| Neighbor Helping Neighbor | One‑time grants when you don’t qualify for LIHEAP | Apply via CAP outreach office (nhnfund.org) |
Table — Skill‑building and job supports
| Skill need | Where to go | What you’ll get |
|---|---|---|
| Workplace/digital basics | WorkReadyNH (CCSNH) | Free course + certificates for resumes (ccsnh.edu) |
| Job search + training funds | NH Employment Security (NHWORKS) | Workshops, WIOA, calendars, counseling (nhes.nh.gov) |
| One‑on‑one tech help | Nashua Public Library — Tech Help | 45‑minute appointments, devices welcome (nashualibrary.org) |
| Self‑paced tutorials | DigitalLearn.org (PLA) | Free, beginner‑friendly modules (ES/EN) (ala.org) |
Table — Quick price cues (confirm before you order)
| Plan | Starting price | Fine print |
|---|---|---|
| Spectrum Internet Assist | $25/mo (50 Mbps) | Eligibility required; equipment included; verify taxes/fees (spectrum.com) |
| Xfinity Internet Essentials | $14.95/mo (75/10) | May require 90‑day no‑service period for some addresses; confirm online (xfinity.com) |
| Fidium Fiber entry plans | as low as $30 | Availability by address; check for fees and taxes (consolidated.com) |
Step‑by‑Step: Apply for Internet + Device Help
- Gather proofs: income or benefits letter, photo ID, and an address where service can be installed. For Lifeline you’ll use the National Verifier; see USAC Lifeline overview and check provider lists. (usac.org)
- Apply for Lifeline online: verify eligibility (≤135% FPL or program‑eligible) and pick a participating provider. Start at USAC Lifeline. (usac.org)
- Order service on a low‑income plan: once verified, enroll with Spectrum, Xfinity, Fidium, or NH Broadband. Use each provider’s low‑income page: Spectrum Internet Assist, Internet Essentials, and NH Broadband Lifeline. (spectrum.com)
- Secure a low‑cost device: upload eligibility for PCs for People or shop Human‑I‑T with installment options; ask your library about hotspot/laptop lending while you wait. (pcsforpeople.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: call 211 NH and ask for a “digital navigator” program in your area, or visit EveryoneOn to compare offers by ZIP code. (211nh.org)
Online Safety and Scam Warnings (Read This Before You Click)
Protect your identity and your benefits. If you receive texts about “benefit confirmation” or a “refund,” don’t click links. Report scams to the NH Attorney General — Consumer Protection Hotline 1-888-468-4454, and review tips from the NH Banking Department — Avoiding Scams. Your utility and NHES will never text you clickable links to resolve a bill or claim; see NHES cyber fraud alerts. (doj.nh.gov)
If you face discrimination based on sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or national origin when seeking services or housing, contact the NH Commission for Human Rights to file a complaint within 180 days, or ask 603 Legal Aid for guidance. DHHS also posts its Non‑Discrimination Policy with Ombudsman contacts. (nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: escalate utility disputes to NH DOE Consumer Services and seek independent advice from the Office of the Consumer Advocate. (puc.nh.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Help and Access
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: use the NH Commission for Human Rights complaint process if you’re denied service or housing due to sexual orientation or gender identity, and connect with PFLAG NH (support network) for parent groups and referrals. Ask your library about private rooms for video interviews and DigitalLearn.org for online safety modules. (nh.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: call VR New Hampshire (regional offices) for job‑accommodation coaching and assistive tech, and ask NHCarePath/ServiceLink 1-866-634-9412 about home‑and‑community supports. For vision impairments, ask VR about Services for the Blind & Vision Impaired. (education.nh.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: call the NH Division of Veterans Services at 1-603-624-9230 for benefits reviews, and ask your VA care team about the VA “Digital Divide” telehealth options or tablets where available; use ServiceLink — Veterans resources for navigation and crisis contacts (dial 988, then press 1). (dmavs.nh.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: connect with International Institute of New England — Manchester at 1-603-647-1500 for ESOL, job support, and referrals, and check NH DHHS contact directory for local district offices. Funding has been volatile in 2025, so call to confirm which services are active. (iine.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Lifeline offers higher discounts on Tribal lands, but NH has no federally recognized tribal reservations; if you recently moved from Tribal lands, ask USAC Lifeline about your status and check with your provider before switching plans. Pair with EveryoneOn’s locator for local offers. (usac.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: check NH BEA Broadband Office for BEAD buildout timelines and NH Broadband (NHEC) for co‑op fiber expansion. Use library hotspots — AARP NH is funding new hotspots at several libraries — and schedule tech help at your nearest branch. (nheconomy.com)
- Single fathers: programs listed (EAP, LIHEAP, Lifeline, child care scholarship) are gender‑neutral; apply via NH EASY and ask NH Employment Security for training and resume workshops. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Language access: ask each agency for interpreters (many use Relay NH/tele‑interpreters). The NH Commission for Human Rights and NH DHHS both offer interpreter services; libraries can help translate tech instructions. (nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: call 211 NH and ask for multicultural navigators, or speak with the NH Office of Veterans Services for veteran‑specific digital options. (211nh.org)
Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call)
- Manchester / Hillsborough: tech help at Manchester City Library and bill help via SNHS energy programs; municipal water questions go to Manchester Water Works 1-603-624-6494. (manchesternh.gov)
- Nashua: sign up for Nashua Public Library Tech Help/Classes and visit the NHES Nashua office 1-603-882-5177 for workshop calendars. For Salvation Army case management or after‑school programs, contact the Manchester Corps (serves greater area) 1-603-627-7013. (nashualibrary.org)
- Seacoast (Portsmouth/Rockingham/Strafford): learn making skills at Port City Makerspace and get EAP/FAP help from Strafford CAP 1-603-435-2500 or Rockingham outreach via SNHS 1-800-322-1073. (portcitymakerspace.com)
- Upper Valley / Central (Concord, Laconia, Lebanon): contact CAP Belknap‑Merrimack 1-603-225-3295 and check WorkReadyNH sections at MCC/RVCC. Use NH Broadband service map to see fiber builds. (capbm.org)
- Monadnock / Sullivan (Keene/Claremont): call Southwestern Community Services 1-603-352-7512 and check NHES Keene/Claremont offices for WIOA services. Libraries often host DigitalLearn‑based classes — ask your branch for schedules. (scshelps.org)
- North Country (Coos/Carroll/Grafton): contact Tri‑County CAP energy office 1-603-752-7001 and check NH Broadband (NHEC) for rural fiber expansion. Local libraries can request books/devices via NH State Library — borrowing & ILL. (nhes.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: call 211 NH and ask for the nearest digital navigator or community tech coach, and contact NH BEA Broadband Office for a construction timeline in your town. (211nh.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without all documents: missing pay stubs, benefit letters, or IDs will delay EAP/FAP 30–60 days in peak season. Check your CAP’s required document list and get confirmation emails. Review SNHS FAP processing steps and CAPBM EAP income chart (updated Apr 11, 2025). (mail.snhs.org)
- Waiting until after a shutoff notice: apply for EAP and FAP before winter if you can; if you get a notice, call your utility and NH DOE Consumer Services the same day. Read PUC Winter Rules protections. (puc.nh.gov)
- Trusting “free tablet” ads: ACP‑funded device deals ended; use vetted refurbishers like PCs for People and libraries for loans. Check USAC Lifeline for legitimate phone/internet discounts. (pcsforpeople.org)
Reality Check
Funding shifts in 2025 mean some digital‑equity grants paused in NH; the BEA reports NTIA terminated NH’s $4.9M Digital Equity Capacity Grant on May 9, 2025. Expect some skills/device pilots to be limited until replacement funds arrive, and verify class schedules before traveling. Track updates at NH BEA — Digital Equity and BEA BEAD pages. (nheconomy.com)
Also, ACP is over unless Congress restores funding, so plan around Lifeline and provider low‑income plans, and use your library’s hotspots and classes. See FCC ACP wind‑down notices and USAC Lifeline. (fcc.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Task | First call/website | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Low‑income internet | USAC Lifeline | EveryoneOn (usac.org) |
| Stop shutoff | NH DOE Consumer Services 1-800-852-3793 | Office of the Consumer Advocate (puc.nh.gov) |
| Heat/electric discount | EAP & FAP at NH DOE | Your local CAP from table above (energy.nh.gov) |
| Skills classes | WorkReadyNH | NHWORKS offices (ccsnh.edu) |
| Scams | NH AG Consumer Protection Hotline 1-888-468-4454 | NH Banking — avoiding scams (doj.nh.gov) |
Application Checklist (print/screenshot and check off)
- Photo ID: driver’s license, state ID, or passport for adult applicant. Bring to CAP appointment and upload for PCs for People. (capbm.org)
- Proof of address: utility bill or lease; landlord verification if heat is in rent for FAP. (energy.nh.gov)
- Income/benefit proof (last 30 days): pay stubs or SNAP/Medicaid/TANF letters for EAP and Lifeline. (energy.nh.gov)
- Shutoff/arrears notice (if any): needed for crisis processing or Neighbor Helping Neighbor. (nhnfund.org)
- Child care plan: if you’re taking a class, apply early for NH Child Care Scholarship. (nh-connections.org)
If Your Application Gets Denied
Appeal in writing and bring more proof. If your utility discount or fuel aid is denied, ask your CAP for a written reason and appeal window, then call NH DOE Consumer Services to mediate. For Lifeline denials, re‑check the National Verifier and contact your provider after approval; see USAC Lifeline — Get Started. (puc.nh.gov)
If a program says you’re over‑income, ask whether they use “state median income” or federal poverty guidelines and whether a hardship exception exists. Ask your town welfare per RSA 165 for one‑time rent/utility help; see NHLWAA — RSA 165 overview and RSA 165 text. (nhlwaa.org)
Real‑World Examples (What This Looks Like)
- Hillsborough mom with a shutoff notice: She called her utility and set up a budget plan, then applied for EAP (5%–86% discount) and Neighbor Helping Neighbor through SNHS. While waiting the typical 30 days (up to 60 in peak winter), she filed a complaint with DOE Consumer Services to hold disconnection. (energy.nh.gov)
- Seacoast single mom returning to work: She took WorkReadyNH at Manchester Community College, booked Nashua Library tech help to practice Zoom and email, and secured Spectrum Internet Assist plus the NH Child Care Scholarship while job‑hunting. (ccsnh.edu)
- North Country mom with no fiber: She checked NH Broadband’s map and used PCs for People for a low‑cost laptop, then used the library’s hotspot coverage supported by AARP NH while waiting for install. (nhbroadband.com)
FAQs (New Hampshire‑specific)
- Is the Affordable Connectivity Program still taking applications: No. New enrollments ended February 7, 2024 and benefits ended after April/May 2024. Use USAC Lifeline and check provider low‑income plans like Internet Essentials and Spectrum Internet Assist. (fcc.gov)
- How long will my Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) application take: Agencies target about 30 days once your file is complete, but expect longer (up to ~60 days) in peak winter. For crisis situations (empty tank/shutoff), tell them it’s an emergency. See SNHS FAP FAQs and NHPR reporting on delays. (mail.snhs.org)
- What if I’m behind on my gas bill: Ask your utility about the Gas Assistance Program (winter 45% discount) if you’re with Liberty or Unitil and meet income criteria; apply through your CAP. Read OCA “Get Help” and PUC Assistance Programs. (oca.nh.gov)
- Can I get a free laptop anywhere: Most “free” offers ended with ACP funding. Try PCs for People or Human‑I‑T, and ask your public library about hotspot/laptop lending. (pcsforpeople.org)
- Where do I find free basic computer classes: Start at your library with DigitalLearn.org modules, ask for one‑on‑one Nashua Library Tech Help, and enroll in WorkReadyNH. (ala.org)
- Do winter rules stop all shutoffs: No. There are thresholds and conditions (e.g., amounts owed) and extra protection for customers 65+ and hardship households, but you must act. Read PUC Winter Rules and call DOE Consumer Services. (puc.nh.gov)
- I need child care to take a class — who helps: Apply for the NH Child Care Scholarship through NH EASY, and ask SNAP E&T if you qualify for travel/training reimbursements. (nh-connections.org)
- I was treated unfairly due to my identity or disability: Contact the NH Commission for Human Rights within 180 days, and call 603 Legal Aid for guidance. (nh.gov)
- Are there rural buildouts coming to my town: Yes — BEAD and ARPA projects continue; check NH BEA Broadband Office announcements and your co‑op’s NH Broadband map. (nheconomy.com)
- Can libraries help beyond books: Yes. Libraries offer Wi‑Fi, printing, tech help, and sometimes hotspots; see Nashua Tech Help and NH State Library — borrowing & ILL. AARP NH also funds select hotspot programs at local libraries. (nashualibrary.org)
“Reality Check” Boxes
- Funding and wait times: Expect 10–30 business days for many EAP/FAP decisions in normal periods and up to ~60 days during peak winter. Ask for crisis processing if you have a shutoff notice or empty tank. Use DOE Consumer Services if the utility won’t work with you. (mail.snhs.org)
- ACP is gone; Lifeline remains: Households must now rely on the Lifeline $9.25/month discount and provider low‑income plans (e.g., Internet Essentials, Spectrum Internet Assist). Libraries and refurbishers fill the device gap. (usac.org)
Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español
Esta sección es un resumen en español preparado con herramientas de traducción por IA. Verifique siempre con los sitios oficiales.
- Internet económico: Use USAC Lifeline para un descuento mensual y compare Spectrum Internet Assist y Internet Essentials de Xfinity. (usac.org)
- Evitar cortes de luz o calor: Llame a su compañía y a su Agencia de Acción Comunitaria para EAP (descuento eléctrico) y FAP/LIHEAP (calefacción). Si hay problemas, contacte Servicios al Consumidor del DOE 1-800-852-3793. (energy.nh.gov)
- Clases y ayuda de empleo: Vea WorkReadyNH y su oficina NHWORKS. Pida Beca de Cuidado Infantil para poder estudiar o trabajar. (ccsnh.edu)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- NH Department of Energy — Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) and EAP (energy.nh.gov)
- NH Public Utilities Commission — Winter Disconnection Rules & Consumer Services (puc.nh.gov)
- NH BEA — Office of Broadband Initiatives & Digital Equity (nheconomy.com)
- USAC Lifeline (federal phone/internet discount) (usac.org)
- NH Employment Security — NHWORKS (nhes.nh.gov)
- NH 211 (Granite United Way) (211nh.org)
- Office of the Consumer Advocate — Get Help (oca.nh.gov)
- Spectrum Internet Assist and Comcast Internet Essentials terms. (spectrum.com)
- PCs for People — eligibility and Human‑I‑T store. (pcsforpeople.org)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 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
This guide is for informational purposes. It’s not legal advice or an official government publication. Program rules, funding, processing times, eligibility thresholds, and prices change. Always confirm current details with the linked agency, provider, or nonprofit before you apply.
🏛️More New Hampshire Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Hampshire
- 📋 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
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
