Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Texas
Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Texas
Last updated: September 2025
This guide cuts straight to what works in Texas right now. You’ll find step‑by‑step actions, real timelines, and direct contacts for internet, devices, classes, childcare while you train, and help keeping the lights and water on. We embed links to official state and federal pages so you can act fast.
According to the state’s own programs, you can connect with free or low‑cost training through the statewide adult education network, get help with shutoffs the same day in a crisis, and still reduce your monthly bill using the Lifeline phone/internet discount even after the ACP ended. Use the links throughout to verify, apply, and call. See the “If this doesn’t work” mini‑plans at the end of every section for backup routes. (twc.texas.gov)
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Call your electric, water, or internet company and ask for a payment plan or short‑term hold, then immediately contact the state hotline for utility issues at Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) Consumer Protection 1‑888‑782‑8477, and for general help call 2‑1‑1 Texas (HHSC) 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑541‑7905. If weather is extreme, ask about disconnection protections. (puc.texas.gov)
- Apply for utility bill help through the state’s Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and use Help for Texans to find your county’s intake office today; bring your photo ID, proof of income, and your latest bill. Funding is limited and released in cycles. (tdhca.texas.gov)
- Enroll in a free local digital skills class and get job help using Texas Workforce Commission Adult Education & Literacy (AEL) and the statewide TCALL Provider Directory. Ask about childcare and class times that fit your schedule. (twc.texas.gov)
Quick Help Box — numbers and links to keep handy
- PUCT Consumer Protection (utility shutoff/complaints) 1‑888‑782‑8477; use Power to Choose to compare electric plans. (puc.texas.gov)
- 2‑1‑1 Texas (HHSC) 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑541‑7905 for SNAP/Medicaid/WIC and local referrals; manage benefits at Your Texas Benefits. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Texas WIC — appointments & breastfeeding help 1‑800‑942‑3678; apply online at Texas WIC Apply. (texaswic.org)
- Texas Workforce Solutions—Vocational Rehabilitation (for moms with disabilities): 512‑936‑6400; start at Start My VR. (twc.texas.gov)
- Local water utilities help: Houston Water Customer Service 713‑371‑1400; Austin Utilities 512‑494‑9400; Dallas Water Utilities 214‑651‑1441; SAWS Uplift 210‑704‑7297. (houstonpublicworks.org)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Texas Today
Start with the fastest call you can make. Ask your company to set a deferred payment plan and note the date and the agent’s name. Then get formal protections in place.
Use PUCT Consumer Protection 1‑888‑782‑8477 if your electric provider won’t work with you, and mention the “extreme weather” rule if a heat advisory or hard freeze applies in your county; ask your provider about the “Critical Care/Chronic Condition” registration if someone in your home uses electricity‑dependent medical equipment. See official disconnection rules and medical protections under 16 TAC §25.483 and utility medical designation links from Oncor/TNMP/CenterPoint. (puc.texas.gov)
Apply the same day for CEAP bill help and confirm crisis handling timelines. Use TDHCA’s CEAP page and the Help for Texans finder to locate your county intake site; eligibility is set at 150% of the federal poverty level (FPL) for 2025 (e.g., $48,225 for a family of four). News from multiple counties shows typical responses within two to three weeks when funds are open, and faster for crisis cases. Bring your photo ID, Social Security cards if you have them, proof of income for 30 days, and your latest utility bill. (tdhca.texas.gov)
Know special city programs for water. Houston supports payment plans and a charity fund via Houston Water (W.A.T.E.R. Fund); Dallas runs Operation WaterShare for bill aid; San Antonio offers 14 programs through SAWS Uplift (Project Agua and repair help) at 210‑233‑CARE; Austin households can ask City of Austin Utilities about Customer Assistance Program discounts and payment extensions. (houstonpublicworks.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: File an informal complaint with PUCT online or by phone, which triggers a 15‑day utility response, and escalate with your city’s utility office for water/sewer if applicable. When disconnect is hours away, call 2‑1‑1 Texas (HHSC) to locate emergency aid and ask your provider to hold disconnection pending a pledge from an assistance agency. (puc.texas.gov)
Get Affordable Home Internet After ACP — What Still Works
The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) fully ended in June 2024, so there’s no more $30 monthly ACP discount. Use the remaining federal Lifeline discount and low‑income ISP plans to keep costs down. Check your address for options first. (fcc.gov)
Start with the state and national maps. Use the Texas Broadband Development Office (BDO) maps to see what fixed service types and speeds are reported, and submit a challenge if your address is marked wrong. For federal data, confirm at the FCC National Broadband Map and use the built‑in challenge tool when coverage claims are inaccurate. (comptroller.texas.gov)
Apply for Lifeline to get 9.25offbroadband(or9.25 off broadband (or 5.25 off voice‑only) each month; on Tribal lands, enhanced support is available. Apply at USAC Lifeline or the FCC page for Lifeline consumers. Survivors under the Safe Connections Act can qualify for six months of emergency Lifeline with broader eligibility including WIC and 200% FPL; ask a domestic‑violence advocate to help if you need privacy. (usac.org)
Compare low‑income ISP plans that remain in Texas. Access from AT&T offers 30/moplansupto100Mbps;[∗SpectrumInternetAssist∗](https://www.spectrum.com/internet/spectrum−internet−assist)advertises30/mo plans up to 100 Mbps; [*Spectrum Internet Assist*](https://www.spectrum.com/internet/spectrum-internet-assist) advertises 25/mo for 50 Mbps; nonprofits like PCs for People and Human‑I‑T provide low‑cost hotspots and device‑plus‑service bundles when wired service isn’t available. Confirm taxes and equipment charges before you sign. (att.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school, library, or a local nonprofit like Compudopt about sponsored home connections; some partnerships cover a year of service for families with kids. If you’re in a dead zone, ask about fixed wireless options on the BDO BEAD portal and file a location challenge if the maps show service that doesn’t exist at your house. (compudopt.org)
Quick Table: Current low‑income home internet options (Texas, September 2025)
| Provider/Program | Typical monthly price | Speed tier examples | Eligibility notes | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Access | $30 + taxes | Up to 100 Mbps | SNAP/Medicaid/NSLP or ≤200% FPL | Access from AT&T |
| Spectrum Internet Assist | $25 + taxes | 50 Mbps (Advantage 100 Mbps for +$5 in some areas) | NSLP/Senior programs | Spectrum Internet Assist |
| Lifeline (discount) | 9.25/mo(9.25/mo (5.25 voice‑only), Tribal enhanced up to +$25 | Provider plans vary | Income ≤135% FPL or qualifying program | USAC Lifeline |
| PCs for People Hotspot | 15–15–25 | 4G/5G hotspot (unlimited) | ≤200% FPL or program eligibility | PCs for People Internet |
| Human‑I‑T Hotspot Rental | ≈$24.99 total (incl. rental) | 4G hotspot (unlimited) | ≤200% FPL or program eligibility | Human‑I‑T Hotspot |
Prices and speeds come from official provider pages as of September 2025; confirm in your ZIP code before ordering. (att.com)
Get a Working Computer or Hotspot Fast — Free or Low‑Cost in Texas
Start by checking local giveaways and refurbishers. Compudopt runs free computer lotteries in many Texas cities (Houston, Dallas‑Fort Worth, San Antonio, Seguin) and often includes training; your library may partner and post local signups. For low‑cost purchases and mailed delivery statewide, PCs for People and Human‑I‑T offer refurbished laptops with warranty and hotspot options. (compudoptsite.multiscreensite.com)
Ask your library about device lending or Makerspace labs. Houston Public Library’s TECHLink labs include 3D printers, recording studios, and frequent digital literacy workshops; San Antonio Public Library lists events and guides on Digital Inclusion Week; most systems provide public PCs and Wi‑Fi. Use the TSLAC Public Libraries resources to find home pages and contact your nearest branch. (houstonlibrary.org)
For a good‑enough stopgap, consider a hotspot rental. Human‑I‑T rents hotspots with unlimited data and no large upfront cost; PCs for People offers prepaid monthly plans if you can’t get wired service. These solutions are helpful in rural areas or apartments with month‑to‑month needs. (store.human-i-t.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your child’s school counselor to ask about a device checkout or a nonprofit referral like Compudopt; also call your city’s library technology team and ask about hotspot loans and lab hours. If you have a disability, ask Texas Workforce Solutions–VR whether assistive technology can be provided to support employment goals. (compudopt.org)
Quick Table: Where to get a device in Texas
| Source | Cost range | What you get | How to qualify | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compudopt | Free | Laptop, basic software; sometimes internet help | No working computer at home; local draw | Compudopt Giveaway |
| PCs for People | Low‑cost | Refurbished desktop/laptop + warranty | ≤200% FPL or qualifying program | PCs for People |
| Human‑I‑T | Low‑cost | Refurb laptops + hotspot rental | ≤200% FPL or qualifying program | Human‑I‑T |
| Library systems | Free use | PCs, printers, labs, classes | Library card; residency rules vary | Texas Libraries |
Learn Digital Skills Quickly — Free Classes and Coaching
Use the statewide network first. The Texas Workforce Commission (AEL) funds free classes for adults in reading, math, English, GED prep, job search, and beginner computer skills. Find a nearby class through TCALL’s provider directory or call 1‑800‑441‑7323 (READ). Ask about evening or online options and whether your site offers childcare or gas cards. (twc.texas.gov)
Leverage your public library’s toolkits and tutoring. The state library’s Digital Literacy Training Toolkit has beginner modules in Computer Basics, Email, Word, Excel, job search, and résumé writing (English/Español/Vietnamese), and many libraries host these as workshops; San Antonio and Houston list classes on their calendars. Talk to staff about one‑on‑one help hours. (tsl.texas.gov)
Make your learning count for job search. Ask AEL and your library about LinkedIn Learning access, free certification prep, and practice interviews; Houston’s TECHLink often includes creative tech classes that build portfolios. If you need accommodations, contact Texas Workforce Solutions–VR to request assistive tech or modified instruction. (houstonlibrary.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Email the TSLAC Library Digital Opportunity team via the Library Management updates page for help finding a nearby program, or call your Workforce board (e.g., Workforce Solutions (Gulf Coast) locations) to ask for a digital skills referral. (tsl.texas.gov)
Childcare While You Train or Job Hunt
If childcare costs are blocking you from training or a new job, apply for subsidized care through your local Workforce Solutions board. Texas is using a new system, TX3C, and waitlists are long in many regions, so apply early and ask to be added to priority lists if you’re working or in training. Recent reporting shows nearly 95,000 children statewide on waitlists; ask for an estimated wait time in your county. (content.govdelivery.com)
Expect slower onboarding in some offices this year due to system changes. Boards publish local timelines—some list six to nine months for general lists—so confirm weekly whether new slots opened. Meanwhile, ask your AEL site whether on‑site classes allow kids or offer short‑term care during class hours. Check Workforce Solutions (Gulf Coast) scholarships for examples of local wait estimates. (wrksolutions.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 Texas and ask for churches or nonprofits with short‑term childcare assistance, and check with Catholic Charities (Houston area) about parenting support and emergency help if you’re local. (hhs.texas.gov)
Pay Your Utility Bills: CEAP, Water Aid, and Disconnection Rules
CEAP is Texas’s main energy bill program for low‑income households, funded by LIHEAP and managed by the state housing agency. Eligibility is at 150% FPL for 2025, and most counties run applications through their Community Action Agency. Start at TDHCA CEAP and use Help for Texans to find your county site; if funds are paused, ask when the next batch releases. Bring ID, proof of income, and recent bills. (tdhca.texas.gov)
Know your rights during extreme weather. Texas rules restrict electric shutoffs during a heat advisory or hard freeze, and require weekend/holiday reconnection conditions if staff aren’t available. Ask your REP about deferred payment plans and cite 16 TAC §25.483 and media coverage highlighting heat‑related protections; file with PUCT Consumer Protection if needed. (law.cornell.edu)
Water and wastewater are regulated differently. State rules limit some fees and set timelines for reconnection in regulated water systems; municipalities run their own programs. For water assistance and repairs, contact local programs like SAWS Uplift, Houston Water, Dallas Water Utilities Operation WaterShare, and Austin Utilities Customer Assistance. (sawsstg.saws.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for urgent CEAP “crisis” handling (like imminent shutoff), and call 2‑1‑1 Texas for churches or city funds that issue payment pledges. If electric service is life‑threatening to lose, have your doctor submit the Critical Care/Chronic Condition form to your TDU (Oncor/CenterPoint/TNMP) for extra protections while you set a plan. (hhs.texas.gov)
City‑specific water help subheads
Houston Water Bill Help
Call Houston Water Customer Service at 713‑371‑1400 for payment plans and bill review, and ask about the W.A.T.E.R. Fund charity assistance if you’re behind. Apply for CEAP through TDHCA Help for Texans while you wait for a city review. (houstonpublicworks.org)
Dallas Water Bill Help
Use Operation WaterShare to check if you qualify for bill assistance through the city’s partner centers; call 214‑651‑1441 for customer service. Consider CEAP at the county level for electric and gas support. (dallascityhall.com)
San Antonio Water Bill Help
Contact SAWS Uplift at 210‑233‑CARE (2273) for Project Agua (emergency payments) and repair programs; for general service call 210‑704‑SAWS (7297). Also check CPS Energy’s REAP via the City’s Family Assistance Utility Aid page. (311.sanantonio.gov)
Austin Water Bill Help
Call City of Austin Utilities at 512‑494‑9400 to ask for the Customer Assistance Program, payment extensions, or the Plus 1 emergency aid referral; check the utility page for payment arrangements and in‑person customer centers. (austintexas.gov)
Broadband Coverage and Rural Workarounds
Check both Texas and FCC maps to verify whether your home is marked “served.” Use BDO Broadband Maps and the FCC Map Challenge tools to submit address corrections or “availability challenges.” This matters because the state is spending billions—including $700M announced in 2025—on last‑mile projects; accurate maps put your road on the list. (comptroller.texas.gov)
If you can’t get wired service, price out fixed‑wireless and low‑cost hotspots from PCs for People and Human‑I‑T, and ask your school about sponsored connections. Re‑check every few months as BEAD‑funded builds roll out through 2026. (pcsforpeople.org)
Quick Table: Who to contact about broadband in Texas
| Topic | Who to contact | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Address shows wrong coverage | Texas BDO – Map Challenges | Challenge forms & instructions |
| Funding and grants | Texas BDO BEAD portal | Provider/grantee info |
| State program info | Texas BDO Media & Updates | Press updates |
Diverse Communities: Targeted Resources and Tips
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask about privacy protections under the FCC Safe Connections Act if you need to separate a phone line from an abuser and qualify for temporary Lifeline; apply through USAC Lifeline. Libraries and AEL sites can provide safe public PCs with staff help and private study rooms upon request—ask for an alternate contact method if you can’t receive mail at home. TTY/relay services are available at state lines—use 7‑1‑1 or the numbers shown on PUCT. (usac.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Contact Texas Workforce Solutions–Vocational Rehabilitation for assistive technology, training accommodations, or job placement; VR can also coordinate with your AEL class. If your child depends on electric‑powered medical equipment, enroll as a Critical Care/Chronic Condition home through your utility using TDU forms linked from Oncor/TNMP/CenterPoint. Ask utilities for large‑print bills or accessible formats; TTY is listed on PUCT. (twc.texas.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Connect with the Texas Veterans Commission—Women Veterans Program for case‑by‑case navigation of benefits, jobs, and childcare referrals; call TVC at 1‑800‑252‑VETS if you’re unsure where to start. Pair that with Lifeline via USAC and local AEL classes from TCALL. Many VA sites schedule women‑veteran hours; see VA Central Texas WVP to understand typical services. (tvc.texas.gov)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: Ask for language help and document checklists at 2‑1‑1 Texas and seek case management through Catholic Charities Houston or your nearest Catholic Charities agency. For digital skills in Spanish, libraries can run TSLAC modules—see the Digital Literacy Toolkit—and AEL providers often have bilingual classes via TCALL. (hhs.texas.gov)
Tribal single mothers (Texas recognized tribes): If you live on or near Tribal lands, check with your Tribe and apply for the Lifeline Tribal enhanced benefit; see USAC Lifeline. Texas tribes include the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, Alabama‑Coushatta Tribe of Texas, and Ysleta del Sur Pueblo. AEL and library services are open regardless of status—use TCALL and your nearest public library home page. (usac.org)
Rural single moms with limited access: Use the BDO Broadband Map to confirm eligibility for builds and submit challenges; while you wait, ask about hotspots from PCs for People or Human‑I‑T and look for library Wi‑Fi that reaches parking lots. Many Workforce offices also provide outdoor Wi‑Fi—call your board (see Workforce Solutions locations). (comptroller.texas.gov)
Single fathers: All the programs in this guide are gender‑neutral unless a service is targeted (like Women Veterans). Use AEL for free classes and 2‑1‑1 Texas for local childcare referrals, food, and utility aid. For parenting and case management in the Houston area, call Catholic Charities or your local United Way. (twc.texas.gov)
Language access & accessibility notes: Ask for interpreters and translated forms when you call 2‑1‑1 Texas or any state line; request large‑print applications from utilities (TTY/Relay numbers are published by PUCT). For WIC, use live chat or text on Texas WIC if phone lines are busy. (hhs.texas.gov)
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support
Start with the statewide helpline and then call local partners. Use 2‑1‑1 Texas (HHSC) to search by ZIP for rent, utility, food, childcare, and technology help. In the Houston area, Catholic Charities runs basic‑needs, parenting, and case‑management programs; ask about digital skills or device referrals. For repairs or low‑cost devices statewide, check PCs for People and Human‑I‑T. (hhs.texas.gov)
Libraries are community tech hubs. Houston’s TECHLink and San Antonio’s Learn@SAPL highlight classes and open labs; use TSLAC’s public libraries page to find your city’s library home page and ask about hotspots to borrow. (houstonlibrary.org)
Resources by Region (examples to get you started)
| Region | Workforce Board | Library System & Tech Hub | Local Utility Aid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston area | Workforce Solutions (Gulf Coast) | Houston Public Library TECHLink | Houston Water |
| Dallas‑Fort Worth | Workforce Solutions (DFW boards vary) | Dallas Public Library Adult Learning | Dallas Operation WaterShare |
| San Antonio | Workforce Solutions Alamo | SAPL Learn | SAWS Uplift |
| Austin/Central TX | Workforce Solutions Capital Area | Austin Public Library | City of Austin Utilities |
Regional lists change; verify hours and programs before visiting. (wrksolutions.com)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting CEAP without all documents. Bring photo ID, Social Security cards (if available), proof of income, and your current bill. Use Help for Texans to confirm the exact checklist for your county before you go. (tdhca.texas.gov)
- Waiting for a shutoff notice before you call. Texas rules allow payment plans; calling early helps. Keep notes and follow up with PUCT Consumer Protection if promises aren’t kept. (puc.texas.gov)
- Assuming ACP still cuts your bill. ACP ended in 2024—switch to Lifeline and low‑income ISP plans instead. (fcc.gov)
Reality Check
Funding is limited and stops when budgets run out. CEAP and city water funds open and close during the year; news updates show counties limiting the number of applications per day. Confirm availability before taking time off work. When you can, apply first thing in the morning and ask about crisis slots. (lmtonline.com)
Expect waitlists and slower processing in childcare and benefits. The state is shifting systems, and reporting shows long waitlists for childcare; many SNAP/Medicaid cases still face delays. Keep copies of what you submit and set weekly reminders to check status. (houstonchronicle.com)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First action | Backup option |
|---|---|---|
| Electric shutoff | Call provider for deferred plan; call PUCT Consumer Protection 1‑888‑782‑8477 | Apply CEAP via Help for Texans; call 2‑1‑1 Texas |
| Water bill | Call your city utility (Houston/Dallas/SAWS/Austin links above) | City charity funds + CEAP |
| Internet bill | Apply for Lifeline and switch to AT&T Access or Spectrum Assist | Hotspots via PCs for People or Human‑I‑T |
| Free classes | Find local AEL via TCALL directory | Library workshops via TSLAC Toolkit |
| Childcare for training | Apply at your Workforce board (local locations) | Ask AEL site about on‑site or partner childcare |
Application Checklist — screenshot‑friendly
- Photo ID for you (and for adult household members if available)
- Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, award letters, child support)
- Your latest utility bill(s) with account number(s)
- Proof of Texas address (lease, bill, official mail)
- Proof of program eligibility if used for internet plans (SNAP, Medicaid, WIC)
- A working phone number or email for follow‑up
Use Help for Texans and 2‑1‑1 Texas to confirm any extra forms needed before you go. (tdhca.texas.gov)
Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied
Ask for the denial reason in writing and a supervisor review. For CEAP and city utilities, request a second look and provide any missing documents. If benefits like SNAP/Medicaid are denied, you can request a fair hearing within 90 days; call the Appeals Division at 512‑231‑5701 or follow the steps on HHSC Fair Hearings. If you ask before the effective date, you may keep benefits during appeal but might owe back if you lose; weigh that risk. (hhs.texas.gov)
For utility disputes, file an informal complaint with PUCT Consumer Protection. Utilities have 15 days to respond to the state; keep copies and case numbers. For water providers regulated by PUCT, timelines for reconnection and fees are in code—use that when you negotiate. (puc.texas.gov)
FAQs (Texas‑specific)
- How do I apply for CEAP utility help and how long does it take?
Use Help for Texans to find your county intake office; CEAP eligibility in 2025 is 150% FPL (e.g., $48,225 for four). Many counties process in 10–20 business days when funds are open; crisis cases can be prioritized. Always ask when the next funding round opens. (tdhca.texas.gov)
- Is there any replacement for ACP in Texas?
No direct replacement. Use Lifeline and low‑income provider plans like AT&T Access and Spectrum Internet Assist. Confirm final pricing and any equipment fees before you switch. (fcc.gov)
- Can I stop a same‑day electric shutoff during a heat advisory?
Ask your REP for a payment plan and cite the extreme‑weather rule; providers must not disconnect during a National Weather Service heat advisory or hard freeze period. If they proceed, call PUCT Consumer Protection immediately. (law.cornell.edu)
- Where can I learn computer basics in Spanish?
Check the TSLAC Digital Literacy Toolkit (modules in English/Español/Vietnamese) and find local classes through TCALL. Libraries often host Spanish workshops. (tsl.texas.gov)
- I’m a veteran mom—who can case‑manage my benefits and job training?
Contact the Texas Veterans Commission Women Veterans Program for warm handoffs to benefits, jobs, and childcare referrals; then use AEL for free classes and Lifeline for phone/internet discounts. (tvc.texas.gov)
- My child relies on a ventilator—how do I protect our power?
Have your physician submit the Critical Care/Chronic Condition form to your TDU; see forms linked by TNMP and guidance from Oncor. Register early—it doesn’t waive bills, but adds protections. (tnmp.com)
- How do I challenge bad broadband coverage data for my address?
Use the Texas BDO FCC Map Challenge and, if needed, the FCC National Broadband Map. Upload a bill, screenshots, or photos showing lack of service. (comptroller.texas.gov)
- Can I get childcare help while I’m in an AEL digital skills class?
Yes, if your local board’s rules allow training‑related childcare and funds are available. Apply with your Workforce board (see local locations) and confirm whether your class counts and what counts as “training hours.” Expect waitlists. (wrksolutions.com)
- How do I appeal a SNAP or Medicaid denial?
File a fair hearing request within 90 days (120 days after an MCO appeal) following HHSC Fair Hearings or call 512‑231‑5701. Most hearings are by phone; you may keep benefits during appeal if you request before the effective date, but you may owe back if you lose. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Where can I find free legal guides or help if I’m facing eviction or a utility shutoff dispute?
Use TexasLawHelp’s eviction resources and call PUCT Consumer Protection for utility issues. Ask 2‑1‑1 for local legal aid intake lines. (tdhca.texas.gov)
Tables — One‑look summaries you can use
Phone & Internet Discounts Summary (2025)
| Program | Monthly discount | Who qualifies | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeline (broadband/bundled) | $9.25 | ≤135% FPL or SNAP/Medicaid/other programs | USAC Lifeline |
| Lifeline (voice‑only) | $5.25 (through at least Dec. 1, 2025) | Same as above | Minimum Service Standards |
| Tribal Lifeline | +$25 enhanced | Eligible Tribal lands residents | FCC Lifeline Consumers |
CEAP Basics (Texas, 2025)
| Item | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | 150% of FPL (e.g., $48,225 for 4) | TDHCA CEAP Guidance |
| Where to apply | County Community Action Agency via Help for Texans | TDHCA |
| Timelines | Vary by county; crisis prioritized; check locally | County notices |
Water Assistance Snapshot (Major Cities)
| City | Main number | Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | 713‑371‑1400 | Payment plans; W.A.T.E.R. Fund |
| Dallas | 214‑651‑1441 | Operation WaterShare |
| San Antonio | 210‑704‑7297 | SAWS Uplift (Project Agua, repairs) |
| Austin | 512‑494‑9400 | CAP discounts, Plus 1 emergency aid |
Free/Low‑Cost Classes & Tools
| Option | What it offers | Link |
|---|---|---|
| AEL network | Free digital skills, ESL, GED, job search | TWC AEL |
| TCALL directory | Find AEL provider by county | TCALL |
| TSLAC Toolkit | Free curricula (EN/ES/VI) | Digital Literacy Toolkit |
| Library labs | PCs, printing, makerspaces | TECHLink HPL |
Key Hotlines (verify hours before calling)
| Topic | Number | Link |
|---|---|---|
| PUCT Consumer Protection | 1‑888‑782‑8477 | PUCT |
| 2‑1‑1 Texas / HHSC | 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑541‑7905 | HHSC Help Finding |
| Texas WIC | 1‑800‑942‑3678 | Texas WIC |
| TWC Vocational Rehabilitation | 512‑936‑6400 | TWC VR |
What to Do If This Doesn’t Work (Plan B in one place)
- Try a different intake agency or city partner listed on your city’s utility aid page (e.g., SAWS Partner Agencies) if your first attempt is full. Ask if a pledge from any agency can hold disconnection. (uplift.saws.org)
- File a utility complaint with PUCT and record your case number. This forces a response window and sometimes unlocks a faster resolution. (puc.texas.gov)
- Appeal benefits denials using HHSC Fair Hearings. You have 90 days for most programs; many hearings are by phone. (hhs.texas.gov)
Resumen en Español (corto)
Esta guía fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre los datos en los sitios oficiales.
- Internet barato: El programa federal ACP terminó en 2024. Use Lifeline para un descuento mensual y planes de bajo costo como Access de AT&T o Spectrum Internet Assist. (fcc.gov)
- Computadoras y hotspots: Mire Compudopt, PCs for People y Human‑I‑T. Las bibliotecas ofrecen clases gratuitas; vea el Toolkit de TSLAC. (compudoptsite.multiscreensite.com)
- Facturas de luz/agua: Aplique a CEAP de TDHCA y busque su oficina local en Help for Texans. Para quejas o cortes, llame a PUCT 1‑888‑782‑8477. (tdhca.texas.gov)
- Ayuda general/beneficios: Llame al 2‑1‑1 o 1‑877‑541‑7905 y maneje sus casos en Your Texas Benefits. Para WIC, llame al 1‑800‑942‑3678 o use Texas WIC. (hhs.texas.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Texas Department of Housing & Community Affairs (CEAP/Help for Texans)
- Public Utility Commission of Texas (consumer protections & complaints)
- Federal Communications Commission — ACP & Lifeline
- Universal Service Administrative Company — Lifeline
- Texas State Library & Archives Commission — Digital Literacy Toolkit
- Texas Workforce Commission — Adult Education & Literacy and VR
- Texas Broadband Development Office — Maps & BEAD
- Texas WIC — Apply & Contact
- Local utilities: Houston Water, SAWS Uplift, Dallas Water Utilities, City of Austin Utilities
Last verified: September 2025, next review 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 for general guidance in Texas and is not legal advice. Program rules, funding, prices, and contacts can change without notice. Always confirm with the agency or provider using the links and phone numbers listed, and keep copies of everything you submit. If you’re in immediate danger of losing essential services or facing safety risks, call your provider and 2‑1‑1 right away, and use the PUCT and HHSC appeal links in this guide to protect your family while your case is reviewed. (puc.texas.gov)
🏛️More Texas Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Texas
- 📋 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
