Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Idaho

Last updated: September 2025

If you’re in danger, get to safety first. Everything below is designed so you can scan quickly, take the next step, and get real help fast.

Quick Emergency Help

• Call 911 right now if you or your kids are in danger.
• Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or text START to 88788 for confidential help 24/7. (thehotline.org)
• Call or text 988 to reach the Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline for 24/7 emotional support and mobile crisis teams. (idahocrisis.org)
• Dial 2-1-1 or call 1-800-926-2588 for the Idaho CareLine to find shelters, food, housing, and local services statewide. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Quick Help Box

• Safety first: Go somewhere safe you can stay at least one night. If shelters are full, ask for hotel placement or referral to a nearby county.
• Protection fast: Ask the court for a same‑day temporary protection order (free). You can file online. (courtselfhelp.idaho.gov, legislature.idaho.gov)
• Keep your address private: Idaho’s free Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) gives you a substitute mailing address within about 10 business days. (sos.idaho.gov)
• Medical after assault: Idaho’s Crime Victims Compensation Program (CVCP) covers sexual assault forensic exam costs and can help with other expenses. (crimevictimcomp.idaho.gov)
• Money and food now: You may qualify for expedited SNAP in 7 days and cash aid through TAFI. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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First: Get to Safety Today

• Call a trained advocate now: They can safety‑plan, arrange shelter, help with court papers, and keep everything confidential. Find your closest Idaho program in the regional list below or call the National Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE). (icdv.idaho.gov, thehotline.org)
• Need to leave right now with kids: Ask the advocate about emergency transportation, hotel placement if the shelter is full, and safe pet options (some Idaho shelters accept pets). (safepassageid.org)
• If you were sexually assaulted: Go to a hospital or clinic for a forensic exam. You do not have to report to police to get the exam paid in Idaho. CVCP covers exams and related meds. (crimevictimcomp.idaho.gov)
• If you need emotional support tonight: Call or text 988 for Idaho’s 24/7 Crisis Hotline. They can also dispatch a mobile response team. (idahocrisis.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call another program in a nearby county (see “Resources by Region”). Or dial 2‑1‑1 and ask for “domestic violence shelter options in [your county]” and “hotel safety placement.” (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Idaho Protection Orders: Fast, Free, and Enforceable

• File immediately: You can file a petition online using Idaho’s Guide & File or at any courthouse. There is no filing fee. Court Assistance Offices help in all 44 counties. (courtselfhelp.idaho.gov, icdv.idaho.gov)
• Temporary order timing: Judges hold an ex parte hearing the day you file or the next judicial day if you allege irreparable injury; temporary orders last up to 14 days. (legislature.idaho.gov)
• Full order hearing: The court must set a hearing within 14 days. Final orders can include custody, home exclusion, and other relief for up to 1 year. (legislature.idaho.gov)
• If the order is violated: Police can arrest without a warrant; violations are a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and up to $5,000 in fines. Keep a certified copy with you. (legislature.idaho.gov)
• Filing help and forms: Use “Sworn Petition for Protection Order,” “Law Enforcement Service Information Sheet,” and (if needed) the “Request for Transfer of Wireless Telephone Service” form. (courtselfhelp.idaho.gov)

How to file, step‑by‑step

• Go online or to the clerk: Use Idaho Guide & File or ask the clerk for the protection order packet. It’s free. (courtselfhelp.idaho.gov)
• Be specific in your petition: List recent incidents, dates, injuries, threats, and weapons. Judges need details. (icdv.idaho.gov)
• Service and hearing: Law enforcement usually serves the respondent. Show up for your hearing; bring photos, texts, and any witnesses. (icdv.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need immediate protection and can’t get a hearing, ask the clerk for an emergency or shortened‑time hearing. If you move, your order is valid in every state and tribal court under federal law. You can register out‑of‑state orders in Idaho at no cost (optional). (law.cornell.edu, legislature.idaho.gov, womenslaw.org)

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Keep Your Address Private: Idaho’s Address Confidentiality Program (ACP)

• What it is: A free substitute address and mail forwarding you can use with state and local agencies, driver’s licenses, schools, and child support. Agencies must accept it. (sos.idaho.gov)
• Who qualifies: Survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, malicious harassment, or human trafficking who fear for their safety and can provide documentation. Certification is valid 4 years and renewable. (idsosmainwebsite.azurewebsites.net)
• How long it takes: Approval typically comes with an authorization card within about 10 business days. (sos.idaho.gov)
• How to apply: Contact the Idaho Secretary of State ACP or connect through a local victim service program for help. (sos.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask an advocate to help you apply and to coordinate with your child’s school and the DMV. Consider using a P.O. box for non‑government mail and turning off location sharing on devices.

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Medical Care, Evidence, and Your Options After Sexual Assault

• Forensic exam costs: CVCP pays for adult sexual assault forensic and medical exams in Idaho. Minors’ exams are billed to insurance first, with remaining balances reviewed by CVCP. Private insurance for adult exams should not be billed. (crimevictimcomp.idaho.gov)
• If you don’t want to report yet: You can still have the exam and apply for reimbursement without reporting to police. (crimevictimcomp.idaho.gov)
• Track your kit: Idaho has a public Sexual Assault Kit Tracking system so you can check the status anytime. (apps.isp.idaho.gov)
• Where to find trained nurses: Idaho State Police maintains SANE/SART resources and guidelines. Advocates can direct you to the nearest hospital that performs exams. (isp.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline 800‑656‑4673 (HOPE) for help finding the nearest exam site, or ask your local advocate to arrange transport. (rainn.org)

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Stabilize Your Finances: Cash, Food, Child Care, and More

Cash help and basic needs

• Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI): Maximum of $309/month, up to 24 months lifetime. Apply online, by mail, or at DHW; you may have to participate in Employment & Training. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP): Free food boxes via local pantries; typically 3–5 days of food per distribution. Income limits (Oct 1, 2024) are posted by DHW. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Food benefits (SNAP)

• Eligibility & expedited service: If you qualify for expedited SNAP, benefits can be issued within 7 days. Standard processing is up to 30 days. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• How to apply: Online, by phone 877‑456‑1233, by mail/fax, or in person. After applying, you’ll complete a phone or in‑person interview. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Monthly income limits (Oct 2024): Idaho DHW lists gross monthly limits for household sizes 1–8. Example for a family of 3 is $2,798. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Maximum monthly SNAP amounts (Oct 2024–Sep 2025): Household of 1: $292\ast \ast ;2:\ast \ast$536; 3: $768\ast \ast ;4:\ast \ast$975; 5: $1,158\ast \ast ;6:\ast \ast$1,390; 7: $1,536\ast \ast ;8:\ast \ast$1,756; each additional person +$220. (fns.usda.gov, nasdaq.com)

WIC for moms, babies, and young children

• Who qualifies: Pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding mothers; infants and children under age 5. WIC is run by local health districts. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Fruit & veggie cash‑value benefit (Oct 2024–Sep 2025): Children $26/month\ast \ast ;pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47/month; fully or mostly breastfeeding $52/month. (fns.usda.gov)
• Idaho WIC income limits (Jul 1, 2025–Jun 30, 2026): For a family of 4, monthly gross limit $4,957. Contact your local clinic to apply. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Child care so you can work or finish school

• Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP): As of Jan 13, 2025, new applicants must be at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level. DHW may start a waitlist no later than July 2025; priority groups are exempt from the waitlist. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• How to apply: By phone 877‑456‑1233, at a field office, or by mail/fax. The website lists the 2025 maximum monthly gross income limits (e.g., $2,798\ast \ast for3,\ast \ast$3,380 for 4). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask an advocate to call DHW with you. If denied, file an appeal (you generally have 90 days for SNAP). Request “expedited SNAP” if you have very low income/assets. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Housing Safety and Your Rights Under VAWA

• You can’t be denied or evicted because of abuse: HUD’s VAWA protections apply to survivors in subsidized housing across programs and vouchers. (hud.gov)
• Emergency transfers: If you’re unsafe where you live, ask your public housing authority (PHA) for an emergency transfer using HUD Form 5383; PHAs must have a transfer plan. Availability depends on open units. (bcacha.org, hud.gov)
• Idaho Housing & Finance (IHFA) contacts: For Housing Choice Voucher info and VAWA forms (5380/5382/5383), contact IHFA branches or your local housing authority (example: Boise City/Ada County Housing Authority). (idahohousing.com)

Key housing contacts (Idaho)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your PHA drags its feet or asks for documentation beyond HUD rules, ask for their written VAWA policy and emergency transfer plan. You can also contact HUD or Idaho Legal Aid for help. (hud.gov)

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Income and Job Safety

• Unemployment if you had to quit due to abuse: Idaho law recognizes “good cause” to leave work when necessary to protect you or your child from domestic violence or stalking, as long as you made reasonable efforts to keep the job. Apply with the Idaho Department of Labor. (legislature.idaho.gov)
• Weekly benefit amounts vary: Benefit amounts depend on your past wages; use the Department of Labor’s Claimant Portal or call for current figures and eligibility. (labor.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal any denial by the deadline on your notice, and ask a legal aid attorney to help you show domestic violence “good cause.” (labor.idaho.gov)

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Child Support and Safety

• You can claim “good cause” not to cooperate: Idaho allows a good‑cause exemption from child support cooperation when cooperation could cause physical or emotional harm to you or your child, or for rape/incest. This applies to Medicaid and cash assistance programs. (law.cornell.edu, regulations.justia.com)
• If you do open a case: Use the ACP to keep your address off records. Idaho Child Support Services can set and enforce orders; call 800‑356‑9868. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your caseworker in writing for a good‑cause review, attach any police reports or advocate letters, and copy a supervisor. You can appeal CSS actions; deadlines are 14–21 days depending on the action. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Verified Idaho Data You Can Use

• Intimate partner violence in Idaho: In 2023, 5,585 IPV victims were known to law enforcement, while 22,724 victims received grant‑funded services—over four times as many. The Idaho State Police Statistical Analysis Center (ISAC) publishes annual briefs and a Crime in Idaho dashboard (now with 2005–2024 data). (isp.idaho.gov)

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Application Checklist

• Identification: Photo ID, kids’ birth certificates or Medicaid/SSN if available.
• Proof of residency: Lease, utility bill, shelter letter, or ACP card.
• Income/expenses: Pay stubs, unemployment letters, child care bills, rent, utilities.
• Safety documents: Police reports, hospital records, photos of injuries/damage, texts, emails, threatening voicemails.
• Court papers: Any past protection orders, custody orders, or pending cases.
• Contacts: Advocate’s name/number, caseworker name, and housing/landlord info.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to file: Temporary protection orders can be issued fast. Don’t wait for “more proof.” (legislature.idaho.gov)
• Missing the hearing: Temporary orders expire; you must attend the full hearing within 14 days. Ask for a continuance if needed. (legislature.idaho.gov)
• Not telling agencies about danger: Ask DHW for expedited SNAP and ICCP priority if applicable; request child support good‑cause if cooperation is unsafe. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, law.cornell.edu)
• Assuming an order covers you out‑of‑state: It does—but carry a certified copy and consider optional registration in the new state for faster enforcement. (law.cornell.edu, womenslaw.org)

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Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Your relationships are covered under Idaho protection order laws and VAWA housing protections. Ask for culturally competent advocacy and shelter placements that respect your identity. For dating abuse support for teens/young adults, contact Love is Respect at 1‑866‑331‑9474 or text LOVEIS to 22522. (hud.gov, loveisrespect.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Tell the clerk and shelter about accessibility needs. Ask the PHA for reasonable accommodations with VAWA transfers (e.g., first‑floor units, close to medical care). (hud.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: You can use VAWA housing protections and CVCP benefits, and get support via the DoD Safe Helpline; WIC and SNAP are available based on income. (rainn.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can file for a protection order regardless of immigration status. ACP can help protect your address. Ask an attorney about VAWA self‑petition or U‑visa options. (sos.idaho.gov)
• Tribal-specific resources: Contact the StrongHearts Native Helpline at 1‑844‑762‑8483 for culturally specific safety planning, or your tribe’s victim services (e.g., Coeur d’Alene STOP Violence; Shoshone‑Paiute Napuha Kha Nii “Healing House”). (strongheartshelpline.org, cdatribe-nsn.gov, shopaitribes.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Ask for phone/video filing help through the Court Assistance Office and for mobile crisis team support via 988. Many Idaho programs help with transport and hotel placement when shelters are far. (courtselfhelp.idaho.gov, idahocrisis.org)
• Single fathers: Fathers experiencing abuse can also file for protection orders and request VAWA protections. Local programs serve all genders. (hud.gov)
• Language access: Ask the court and DHW for free interpreter services; WIC and SNAP provide assistance in Spanish, and the National DV Hotline supports 170+ languages. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, acf.hhs.gov)

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Resources by Region (Hotlines and Help)

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Money You Might Qualify For: Current Figures

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Legal Help and Court Support

• Court Assistance Offices (CAO): Every district has a CAO to help you use free forms and file online; they cannot give legal advice but can explain the process. See the statewide courthouse directory and CAO contacts. (isc.idaho.gov, annualreport.isc.idaho.gov)
• Idaho Legal Aid Services: Call 208‑746‑7541 for DV civil issues (protection orders, custody, housing). (idaholegalaid.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local DV program to connect you with a court advocate who can go with you to hearings and help with safety planning around court dates. (icdv.idaho.gov)

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Tables: Key Numbers and Timelines

Protection Order Timeline

SNAP Maximums (Oct 2024–Sep 2025)

ICCP Income Limits (Effective Jan 2025)

WIC Income (Jul 1, 2025–Jun 30, 2026)

Housing Safety (VAWA) Essentials

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Frequently Asked Questions (Idaho‑Specific)

• How fast can I get a temporary protection order: Often the same day you file or the next judicial day if you allege irreparable injury. (legislature.idaho.gov)
• How long until the full hearing: Within 14 days of issuing the temporary order. (legislature.idaho.gov)
• Is filing for a protection order free: Yes. Idaho courts do not charge a filing fee for domestic violence protection orders. (icdv.idaho.gov)
• Can I keep my address off court and agency records: Yes. Enroll in Idaho’s ACP for a substitute address. (sos.idaho.gov)
• What happens if the abuser violates the order: Police can arrest without a warrant; penalties up to 1 year in jail and $5,000 fine. (legislature.idaho.gov)
• Will my order work if I move out of state: Yes. It’s valid nationwide under federal law; registration in the new state is optional and free in Idaho. (law.cornell.edu, womenslaw.org)
• How fast can I get food help: If you qualify for expedited SNAP, within 7 days of applying; EBT cards are issued same day in‑office or arrive in 10–14 days by mail. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• What are current WIC fruit/vegetable amounts: Children $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, breastfeeding $52 per month (FY2025). (fns.usda.gov)
• Can I get unemployment if I left my job due to abuse: Yes, Idaho recognizes domestic violence “good cause” if you made reasonable efforts to keep the job. (legislature.idaho.gov)
• Who can help me fill out forms: Court Assistance Offices and local advocates; free forms and online Guide & File are available. (courtselfhelp.idaho.gov, isc.idaho.gov)

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Realities, Tips, and Timelines

• Shelter capacity is tight: Ask for hotel placement or referral to the next county if beds are full. Use 2‑1‑1 for backup options. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Court dates are stressful: Bring a support person or advocate, and plan child care if possible. Ask for remote appearance if safety is a concern; courts may accommodate.
• Benefits timing: SNAP can be fast; TAFI and ICCP take longer (interviews, verification). Call DHW early and keep copies of everything. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

Our sourcing and process: We use only official government and established nonprofit sources, verify across multiple sites, archive links, and track changes. Key sources for this page include the Idaho Council on Domestic Violence, Idaho Courts, Idaho Department of Health & Welfare, Idaho Housing & Finance, Idaho State Police/ISAC, the Idaho Industrial Commission (CVCP), HUD, USDA FNS, and official program sites (see citations throughout).

Editorial standards: This guide follows our Editorial Policy with a practical, no‑fluff focus, inclusive language, and rapid correction of verified errors. Comprehensive reviews occur at least every eight months; urgent policy changes are updated within 48 hours of confirmation.

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

Corrections or local updates: Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours.

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Disclaimer

Not legal advice: This guide provides general information, not legal or medical advice. Laws, benefit amounts, and agency rules change. Always verify details with the relevant agency or a licensed attorney before acting.

Accuracy & security: We link directly to official sites and keep sources current, but errors can occur. For your safety, consider using a safe device in a public place and clear your browser history. If you believe someone is monitoring your devices, call a hotline instead of using online forms. (thehotline.org)

Emergency: If you or your children are in immediate danger, call 911.

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🏛️More Idaho Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Idaho

• 📋 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
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery