Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

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

Last updated: September 2025

If you are in immediate danger, call 911 now.

Quick Help Box

• 24/7 Indiana DV Hotline: 1-800-332-7385. Free, confidential safety planning and shelter referrals statewide. Find help via ICADV. (in.gov, womenslaw.org)
• National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233, text START to 88788, or chat at TheHotline.org Get Help. Languages available. (thehotline.org)
• Indiana 211: Dial 2-1-1 or 1-866-211-9966 for shelter, legal aid, food, and utility help. Indiana 211. (secure.in.gov)
• Protection Orders (file online): Start now at the Indiana courts’ Protection Order E‑Filing Service. Free. (in.gov)
• Address Confidentiality Program (ACP): Keep your address off public records. Email confidential@atg.in.gov or see Indiana Attorney General ACP. (in.gov)
• Crime Victim Compensation (medical bills, lost wages): Up to $15,000\ast \ast plus\ast \ast$5,000 funeral costs. Apply with the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute. (in.gov)

---

Emergency Action Steps (do these first)

• Call a confidential advocate before you act: 1-800-332-7385 (Indiana DV Hotline). An advocate can help you safety‑plan leaving, filing a protective order, and finding child‑safe shelter. (in.gov)
• If you need a protection order today: Use the courts’ Protection Order E‑Filing Service. Many counties file the same day; there is no filing fee for DV/sexual assault/stalking cases (example: Allen County). (in.gov, allencountyclerk.in.gov)
• Protect your location and devices: If your partner monitors your phone or accounts, use a safe device (library, friend) and review tech‑safety tips from NNEDV’s Safety Net. NNEDV Tech Safety. (nnedv.org)
• Need confidential housing quickly: Call a regional crisis line in the tables below or Indiana 211 (dial 2-1-1). Advocates can place you in emergency shelter tonight or arrange hotel placement if capacity exists. (secure.in.gov)

---

Indiana At‑a‑Glance: What the data says

• Lifetime IPV prevalence among Indiana women: about 43% have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner. Source: CDC’s NISVS (state estimates; earlier survey years) and KFF. (cdc.gov, kff.org)
• Protection orders typically last two years in Indiana (unless a court sets a different date; certain cases can be indefinite). (law.justia.com)
• Domestic violence homicides remain a serious concern. Public reports cite dozens annually and frequent firearm involvement; ICADV, local media, and public health sources track trends. Use the safety planning guidance below (especially around separation). (publicnewsservice.org, wrtv.com, publichealth.jhu.edu)

---

Quick Reference Table: Crisis Contacts You Can Use Right Now

---

How to Get a Civil Protection Order in Indiana

• Start here: File online at the courts’ Protection Order E‑Filing Service or get help from an advocate (ICADV hotline). (in.gov)
• No filing fee: Indiana does not charge a filing fee for protection orders involving domestic/family violence, harassment, sexual assault, or stalking (example county guidance). (allencountyclerk.in.gov)
• Typical duration: An order of protection is generally effective for two years unless the court sets a different date; in some cases (e.g., lifetime registrants), it can be indefinite. (law.justia.com)
• Enforcement: Orders are in the statewide Protection Order Registry so police can verify them quickly, even if you don’t have a copy in hand. (in.gov)

Step‑by‑Step

1. Talk to an advocate first: They can help you safely document incidents, decide what to request (custody, firearms surrender, etc.), and file electronically. Call: 1-800-332-7385. (in.gov)
2. File the petition: Use the courts’ e‑filing portal and tutorials. If needed, file in person at your county clerk’s office; ask your local clerk for the protection order desk hours. (in.gov)
3. Ex parte decision: A judge can issue a temporary order the same business day (varies by county). Some courts schedule hearings if the respondent contests. Example county hours and help line are posted in Allen County. (allencountyclerk.in.gov)
4. Service & safety: Sheriff serves the respondent. Keep copies on you, at work, and your child’s school—and ask to be enrolled for text/email case alerts. (in.gov)
5. If firearms are involved: Courts can prohibit possession and require surrender for the order’s duration. Bring any evidence to your filing. (law.justia.com)

What to bring

• Photo ID; detailed incident dates; any police reports, photos, texts; your children’s full names/DOBs; abuser’s full name and any firearms info.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Bold label: Under‑describing danger; give specific examples, dates, injuries, and threats.
• Bold label: No safety plan around service; the most dangerous time can be right after service. Ask your advocate to plan around it.
• Bold label: Skipping the hearing; if there is a hearing, showing up matters for a final order.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Bold label: Denied or unsafe; call the ICADV hotline (1-800-332-7385) to strategize an appeal, refiling, or alternate safety plan (e.g., relocation, shelter). (in.gov)

---

Your Housing Rights (VAWA) and Emergency Moves

VAWA protects survivors in HUD‑assisted housing (public housing, Housing Choice Vouchers, many multifamily programs). Core rights include staying in your unit, lease bifurcation to remove the abuser, and emergency transfers to a safer unit—often with your voucher. Forms: HUD‑5380/5381/5382/5383. See HUD’s official VAWA page for details and forms. (hud.gov, law.cornell.edu)

• Bold label: Action: Ask your PHA or landlord for the “Emergency Transfer Plan” (HUD‑5381) and submit the “Emergency Transfer Request” (HUD‑5383). Keep copies. (hud.gov)
• Bold label: Tip: You can self‑certify abuse using HUD‑5382; more proof is only allowed in limited situations. (hud.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Bold label: Plan B: File a VAWA complaint with HUD Fair Housing and contact ICADV’s Legal Housing Hotline (317-762-5115) for help. ICADV legal page. (indianalegalhelp.org)

---

Medical Care, Sexual Assault Exams, and Costs

• Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) costs: Indiana’s Sexual Assault Reimbursement Program pays exam costs directly; providers cannot bill you. Victims 18+ do not have to report to police to have the exam covered. Counseling up to $3,000 may be reimbursable through this program. (sak.cji.in.gov, safeta.org)
• Violent Crime Victim Compensation (ICJI): Up to $15,000\ast \ast formedicalandothereligibleexpensesplus\ast \ast$5,000 for funeral costs; basic eligibility includes bodily injury, crime in Indiana, and at least $100 out‑of‑pocket costs (certain law‑enforcement reporting exceptions apply to sexual assault survivors with a forensic exam). (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Bold label: Plan B: Appeal ICJI decisions if denied; ask a hospital advocate to call ICJI; consider legal aid for appeals. (in.gov)

---

Food, Cash, Child Care, and Health Coverage You Can Use While Leaving

Below is a summary of key Indiana programs with current numbers and links to official pages.

Quick Benefits Overview (Indiana)

Application tips and documents

• Bold label: Identity & address; photo ID (if available), safe mailing address (use ACP if appropriate).
• Bold label: Income proof; last 30–90 days pay stubs/unemployment; child support orders; statement of no income if not working.
• Bold label: Household; list children and anyone buying/preparing food with you (for SNAP).
• Bold label: DV safety; if disclosure threatens your safety, ask for confidential handling and DV “good cause” exemptions where applicable.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Bold label: Missing interviews; reschedule if needed—don’t skip.
• Bold label: Not reporting changes; update address and contact safely (consider ACP).
• Bold label: Skipping DV exemptions; for TANF/Medicaid child support cooperation, you can claim good cause if cooperation would jeopardize your safety; DFR makes the determination (policy outlines examples and sanctions). (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Bold label: Plan B; ask for a supervisor review, appeal in writing (deadlines vary), and get help from a navigator or legal aid. For EAP, contact your Local Service Provider and Indiana 211 while you wait. (secure.in.gov)

---

Protective Order & Safety Timeline (What to Expect)

---

Where to Find Shelter and Legal Help (Indiana regions)

Below are trusted programs that routinely help single mothers. Call the crisis lines for 24/7 access.

• Bold label: If lines are busy; call 1-800-332-7385 (statewide) or 1-800-799-7233 (national) to route you to the next available program. (in.gov, thehotline.org)

---

Keep Your Address and Legal Mail Safe

• Address Confidentiality Program (ACP): Get a substitute address for DMV, school, court, voter registration, and your child’s records. An advocate must sign your application. Email confidential@atg.in.gov for help or ask a local shelter advocate. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Bold label: Plan B: Ask your child’s school about FERPA privacy blocks, and use a P.O. Box for non‑government mail until ACP is active. (in.gov)

---

Money When Abuse Stops Your Income

• Unemployment insurance (UI): If you lost work “through no fault of your own,” apply with DWD immediately; some situations related to safety may qualify. Start at DWD’s UI portal or call 1-800-891-6499 for guidance and legal referrals if your case is complex. (in.gov)
• Child support & safety: If you’re applying for TANF, Indiana may require cooperation with child support—but good cause exists when cooperation would endanger you or your child (e.g., risk of physical harm). DFR can approve good cause; TANF sanctions can apply if there’s no good cause and you don’t cooperate. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Bold label: Plan B: Speak with a local DV legal advocate before opening a formal child support case, especially if you fear retaliation. Ask about “good cause,” supervised exchanges, and safe visitation. (indianalegalhelp.org)

---

Tech Safety and Documentation

• Bold label: Use safe tech: If the abuser knows your passwords or tracks your phone, use a public computer or a friend’s device. Safety toolkits here: NNEDV Safety Net. (nnedv.org)
• Bold label: Document abuse: Save texts, emails, photos of injuries, call logs, and any police/ER records. Ask an advocate how to store these safely.

---

Diverse Communities: Tailored Help and Rights

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Survivors in same‑sex or former same‑sex relationships are covered by VAWA and Indiana law. Ask programs about inclusive support groups and housing. Use the National DV Hotline for LGBTQ‑inclusive safety planning (1-800-799-7233; text 88788). (thehotline.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask shelters about ADA‑accessible rooms and medical storage. SSI/SSDI recipients can still access DV services and many benefits; note that programs like WIC and SNAP do not count DV victim compensation against you. See program pages for specifics. (fns.usda.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask for connections to VA Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program through your VA medical center; advocates can coordinate VAWA housing transfers.
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can get a protection order regardless of immigration status. Hotlines provide interpreters. The National DV Hotline offers 170+ languages. (acf.hhs.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: StrongHearts Native Helpline provides 24/7, culturally specific advocacy at 1-844-762-8483 with safety planning and referrals. (stronghearts.me)
• Rural single moms: If shelters are far or full, ask for hotel vouchers and transportation help through regional programs or EAP crisis funds. Start with 1-800-332-7385 and Indiana 211. (in.gov, secure.in.gov)
• Single fathers: Indiana shelters and advocates also assist single fathers and their children. Call the same hotlines noted above; many shelters can place dads with kids or arrange safe alternatives. (in.gov)
• Language access: Courts and DWD provide interpreters upon request; the Hotlines and many shelters use interpreter lines. Ask for language access up front. (acf.hhs.gov)

---

Quick Safety + Benefits Cheat Sheet

---

Real‑World Examples (what this looks like)

• Bold label: Indy mom with two kids: Files a protection order via e‑filing at a shelter; same‑day ex parte issued. Advocate arranges shelter, enrolls the family in ACP to shield their new address, and helps apply for SNAP (family of 3 max FY2025 SNAP = $768) until child care and work stabilize. (in.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Bold label: Fort Wayne survivor: Calls 800‑441‑4073 for YWCA NEIN; moves to shelter; applies for HIP (income under 138% FPL) and WIC (children get $26 for fruits/veggies monthly). (ywcanein.org, in.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Bold label: Evansville case: After an assault, the hospital completes a forensic exam; costs billed to the state sexual assault program (not to her). She later applies to ICJI for $15,000 in medical expense coverage if needed. (sak.cji.in.gov, in.gov)

---

Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Bold label: Safety: Advocate phone numbers saved under a safe name; a go‑bag with IDs, meds, cash, car/house keys, kids’ records.
• Bold label: Proof of identity: State ID/driver’s license (if safe), birth certificates (if available), Social Security numbers.
• Bold label: Proof of income: Last 30–90 days pay stubs, unemployment letter, child support (if any), a no‑income statement if you have no income.
• Bold label: Housing/utility costs: Lease, rent receipt, utility bills.
• Bold label: Child care/school: Provider receipts; school records.
• Bold label: Medical: Pregnancy verification (if pregnant), medical bills, disability documentation.
• Bold label: DV documentation: Police reports, photos, medical records, threatening messages—stored safely (consider cloud/USB with password).

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Bold label: Waiting to call: Reach an advocate early; safety planning around separation reduces risk. (thehotline.org)
• Bold label: Not asking for firearms restrictions: If applicable, request it in your petition. (law.justia.com)
• Bold label: Missing deadlines: Benefits and EAP have firm windows (e.g., EAP closed after April 14, 2025 for PY2025). Watch renewal dates. (secure.in.gov)
• Bold label: Under‑using VAWA rights: Ask for emergency transfers and lease bifurcation when you’re in HUD‑assisted housing. (hud.gov)

---

Local Organizations and Networks (Central Indiana example)

• Bold label: Domestic Violence Network (DVN) resource hub: Curated list for Central Indiana (includes Julian Center, Coburn Place, Sheltering Wings, Prevail, Alternatives). DVN Resource List. (dvnconnect.org)

---

Frequently Asked Questions (Indiana‑specific)

• Bold label: Is there a fee to file a protection order? No fee for DV, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment‑related petitions. (allencountyclerk.in.gov)
• Bold label: How long does a protection order last? Generally two years unless a judge orders otherwise; certain cases can be indefinite. (law.justia.com)
• Bold label: Can I file online? Yes. Use the courts’ e‑filing portal; tutorials are included. (in.gov)
• Bold label: Will police see my order? Yes—Indiana’s Protection Order Registry lets officers verify orders. (in.gov)
• Bold label: What if I need to move quickly from HUD housing? Request a VAWA emergency transfer (HUD‑5383) and see the PHA’s Emergency Transfer Plan (HUD‑5381). (hud.gov)
• Bold label: How much SNAP could I receive? Max monthly (FY2025): Family of 3 $768\ast \ast ,familyof4\ast \ast$975. Actual amounts depend on income and deductions. (fns.usda.gov)
• Bold label: What are Indiana TANF cash amounts? Family of 3 up to $513\ast \ast /mo;familyof4upto\ast \ast$617/mo, subject to income. (in.gov)
• Bold label: I’m pregnant—what insurance can I get? Hoosier Healthwise covers pregnancy (e.g., monthly limit for family of 4 is $5,707.00 as of March 1, 2025). Presumptive eligibility can start care right away. (in.gov)
• Bold label: Can I keep my address private? Yes—apply to the Attorney General’s ACP; advocates must sign your form. (in.gov)
• Bold label: Do I have to cooperate with child support to get TANF? Not if good cause is approved (e.g., risk to you/child). Ask DFR about the process. (in.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Indiana courts, FSSA, IHCDA, ICJI, HUD, USDA/FNS, and established nonprofits such as ICADV and DVN. It follows our Editorial Standards and is reviewed on a routine schedule. We provide direct links to primary sources and update figures promptly when agencies change rules or amounts. This guide is not legal advice and we cannot guarantee individual outcomes.

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

Found an error or dated amount: Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and correct within 48–72 hours.

---

Disclaimer

• Bold label: Accuracy: Program rules, dollar amounts, and timelines change. Always confirm the latest details with the linked official agency pages.
• Bold label: Safety: Clear your browser history if you’re concerned about monitoring. Use a safe device when possible.
• Bold label: No affiliation: ASingleMother.org is independent and not affiliated with any government agency.
• Bold label: Security: We implement security best practices on our site, but you should avoid sharing sensitive data over public Wi‑Fi and use strong, private passwords.

---

Sources

• Indiana courts—Protection Orders and e‑filing; statewide registry, advocate help, notifications. (in.gov)
• Allen County Clerk—fee guidance and filing logistics (example county practice). (allencountyclerk.in.gov)
• Indiana Attorney General—ACP. (in.gov)
• ICJI—Victim Compensation (amounts/eligibility). (in.gov)
• ICJI—Sexual Assault Reimbursement Program (no cost to victims; counseling caps). (sak.cji.in.gov)
• HUD—VAWA rights and forms. (hud.gov)
• USDA FNS—SNAP FY2025 maximums. (fns.usda.gov)
• FSSA—SNAP overview (assets), TANF payments/timelines, HIP, pregnancy Medicaid. (in.gov)
• FNS—WIC CVB amounts FY2025 and Indiana WIC updates. (fns.usda.gov, in.gov)
• IHCDA—Energy Assistance Program timelines and eligibility; LIHEAP Clearinghouse (benefit ranges). (secure.in.gov, in.gov, liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
• CDC/KFF—IPV prevalence. (cdc.gov, kff.org)
• Regional shelters and hotlines (program pages): YWCA NEIN, St. Jude House, Safe Passage, A Better Way, Julian Center, Sheltering Wings, Prevail. (ywcanein.org, stjudehouse.org, domesticshelters.org, abetterwaymuncie.org, shelteringwings.org, dvnconnect.org)

If you need help choosing the right next step for your situation, call an advocate now at 1-800-332-7385. You don’t have to sort this alone. (in.gov)

---

🏛️More Indiana Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Indiana

• 📋 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