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

Last updated: September 2025

Kentucky has strong, practical tools you can use today to get safe, protect your kids, and stabilize your life. This hub brings the essential steps to the top, with phone numbers, timelines, costs, and direct links to official resources.

Quick Help Box

• Emergency: If you are in immediate danger, call 911. Tell the dispatcher there are children present and whether there are weapons.
• 24/7 confidential help: Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800‑799‑7233, text START to 88788, or start a live chat. The Hotline will connect you to the nearest Kentucky program and help with safety planning. (thehotline.org)
• Kentucky shelter network: Reach your regional program through ZeroV’s 15‑program network (serves all 120 counties). Use the directory below or ask The Hotline to connect you. (zerov.org, chfs.ky.gov)
• File for a protection order fast: Go to your county Circuit Clerk to file an Emergency Protective Order (EPO). Hearings are set within 14 days; your EPO can be extended if service hasn’t been made. Forms are available in multiple languages. (kycourts.gov, manuals-sp-chfs.ky.gov)
• Get notified if the abuser is released: Register for Kentucky VINE at 800‑511‑1670 or on VINELink. (ag.ky.gov)
• Keep your new address off public records: Apply to Kentucky’s free Safe at Home Address Confidentiality Program. Phone 844‑292‑5227 (KACP) or 502‑564‑3490; no protective order is required. (sos.ky.gov)
• Help with costs after a crime: Apply online to the Kentucky Crime Victims Compensation Board. Maximum award $50,000\ast \ast ,upto\ast \ast$500/week lost wages, and up to $10,000 funeral costs. (justice.ky.gov, apps.legislature.ky.gov)

---

Why this guide is different

• Kentucky‑specific phone numbers, timelines, and costs are listed in one place.
• Step‑by‑step checklists and plan‑B options are included for when systems are slow or confusing.
• Verified numbers and links to state and federal sources you can click today.
• Inclusive help for LGBTQ+ moms, veterans, immigrant and refugee moms, moms with disabilities, tribal citizens, rural families, and single fathers.
• Realistic timelines and hurdles so you know what to expect.

---

At‑a‑Glance Emergency Contacts in Kentucky

---

How to Get Protection Quickly in Kentucky

Step 1 — File for an Emergency Protective Order (EPO) today

• Where to go: Your county’s Office of the Circuit Court Clerk. If you fled to another county, you may file there.
• What to bring: A safe method of contact, any evidence (photos, texts, police reports), and the person’s info for service if known.
• What happens next: A judge reviews petitions quickly; if there is an “immediate and present danger,” an EPO can be issued the same day. A hearing is set within 14 days for a longer Domestic Violence Order (DVO). If the respondent isn’t served, the court keeps extending the EPO and resets the hearing in up‑to‑14‑day increments for up to six months while law enforcement attempts service. (manuals-sp-chfs.ky.gov, new.womenslaw.org)
• Forms and languages: Download the Petition/Motion for Order of Protection (AOC‑275.1) and “How to Obtain a Protective Order.” Resources are available in English, Spanish, French, Swahili, and Arabic. (kycourts.gov)
• Hearing outcomes: If the judge finds by a preponderance of evidence that domestic violence occurred and may occur again, a DVO can be issued for up to 3 years, renewable with no limit on renewals. Relief can include no contact, move‑out orders, temporary custody, and temporary support. (manuals-sp-chfs.ky.gov, law.justia.com)
• Important: E‑filing is not available to start a new protective order case; you must file in person (you can e‑file later motions). (ehelp.kycourts.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you cannot get to the courthouse: Call your local program (directory below). Many advocates can help you draft and file paperwork and can accompany you to court. In Louisville, the Domestic Violence Intake Center at 502‑595‑0853 accepts filings with extended hours. (louisvilleky.gov)
• If service is delayed: Ask the clerk how to check service status. Your EPO can be extended repeatedly for up to six months while law enforcement attempts service, then you can refile. Register your protective order with VINE Protective Order so you get alerts: 800‑511‑1670. (new.womenslaw.org, corrections.ky.gov)
• If you need protection but don’t meet “domestic” criteria: Ask about an Interpersonal Protective Order (IPO) for dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault. (jeffersonkycourtclerk.com)

Kentucky Protective Orders — Key Timelines and Relief

Sources: Kentucky CHFS Standards of Practice and KRS Chapter 403; Kentucky Court of Justice. (manuals-sp-chfs.ky.gov, new.womenslaw.org, kycourts.gov)

---

Safety Planning and Tech Safety

• Devices & accounts: Assume your phone or accounts could be monitored. Use a safe device (work, friend, library) to research and to contact help. Clear history after using The Hotline. (thehotline.org)
• Staying informed: Enroll in Kentucky VINE at 800‑511‑1670 so you get automated calls or emails on release or transfer. You can add two numbers and a PIN; it is anonymous. (ag.ky.gov)
• Court language access: If you need an interpreter or CART, tell the court; interpreters are provided at no cost and can be arranged in over 80 languages and ASL. (kycourts.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you think your phone is compromised: Use a different phone to access help (Hotline or local program). Ask an advocate for a safety plan that fits your situation.
• If you’re Deaf or hard of hearing: Ask the court for accommodation through the Office of Language Access; they provide ASL interpreters and CART. (kycourts.gov)

---

Housing: Where to Go Tonight and How to Keep Your Housing Next

Start with the closest Kentucky domestic violence program

Kentucky funds 15 regional programs that cover all counties, offering 24/7 hotlines, emergency shelter, legal advocacy, case management, children’s services, and help with long‑term housing. These services are free and confidential. (chfs.ky.gov)

Know your federal housing rights under VAWA (applies to many HUD‑assisted homes)

• You cannot be evicted or denied housing solely because of abuse against you.
• You can request an emergency transfer if you fear imminent harm, or within 90 days after a sexual assault in your housing.
• You can self‑certify your status using HUD Form 5382; providers must keep your information confidential. (hud.gov)

Quick Housing Rights Reference (VAWA)

Sources: HUD VAWA guidance and forms. (hud.gov)

If you need shelter, rapid rehousing, or prevention funds

• Any Door KY (Coordinated Entry) connects you to shelters and rapid rehousing in your region. If you’re homeless or at risk, contact your area’s lead agency. For statewide help call 800‑633‑8896 (KHC) and ask how to reach your regional “Any Door KY” access point. (kyhousing.org)
• Kentucky’s Emergency Solutions Grant funds emergency shelter, rapid re‑housing, and prevention services across the state; providers use local prioritization and may have waitlists. (kyhousing.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask the local domestic violence program to coordinate with housing partners and request an emergency transfer if you are in HUD housing. If your housing provider resists, request their VAWA policies in writing and seek legal help (contacts below). Document your requests and dates. (hud.gov)

---

Keep Your Address Confidential: Kentucky Safe at Home

Safe at Home gives you a substitute address you can use with state and local agencies (DMV, schools, voter registration) and provides mail forwarding. There is no cost, certification lasts 4 years, and you can enroll without a protective order by signing a sworn statement. Call 844‑292‑5227 (KACP) or 502‑564‑3490; many domestic violence programs can help you enroll. (sos.ky.gov)

• Good to know: Safe at Home is not witness protection; it is one strong piece of a safety plan. Keep your court filings and school records consistent with your substitute address. (sos.ky.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If an agency refuses the substitute address, show them the program details on the Secretary of State’s site or call 844‑292‑5227 while you’re there. Agencies are required to accept the substitute address for public records. (sos.ky.gov)

---

Money for Safety and Recovery: Crime Victims Compensation (CVC)

If the abuse is a crime, Kentucky’s Crime Victims Compensation Board can help with certain out‑of‑pocket costs.

• Maximum award: $50,000 per claim.
• Lost wages: Up to $500/week.
• Funeral/burial: Up to $10,000.
• New eligible costs: Relocation, temporary housing, wellness practices, crime scene cleanup, repair of windows/locks, reimbursement of items seized as evidence, travel to court, and more.
• How to apply: File online at the Office of Claims and Appeals portal; you can also file by mail or in person. Phone 502‑782‑8255 for help. (justice.ky.gov, kycc.ky.gov, apps.legislature.ky.gov)
• Tip: Ask an advocate to help you request police reports or medical billing codes to support your claim. If you had a sexual assault exam, the state Sexual Assault Exam Program can cover exam and certain treatment costs; ask the hospital to bill SAEP. (justice.ky.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your claim is denied for missing documents, resubmit quickly. If you disagree with a decision, ask about appeal options with the Office of Claims and Appeals. Keep copies of everything. (kycc.ky.gov)

---

Child Custody, Child Support, and Safety

• Temporary custody and support in a DVO: Judges can grant temporary custody and temporary child support in a Domestic Violence Order. DVOs last up to 3 years and can be renewed. Bring proof of income if you’re asking for support. (law.justia.com)
• Good cause to pause child support cooperation: If you receive KTAP (Kentucky TANF cash assistance) and cooperation with child support would make it harder to escape abuse or would unfairly penalize you, you can claim “good cause” and get a domestic violence exemption from cooperation, time limits, and work activities while you follow a safety‑focused services plan. Evidence can include police reports, court documents, a statement from a service provider, or a notarized statement from someone with knowledge. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your DCBS worker to connect you with the local domestic violence program to create the required services plan under 921 KAR 2:006 Section 19 and 921 KAR 2:370. You can also get legal help from regional legal aid (contacts below). (apps.legislature.ky.gov)

---

Employment, Unemployment, and Time Off

• Unemployment Insurance after leaving work for safety: As of September 2025, Kentucky does not yet guarantee unemployment benefits when you must leave a job due to domestic or dating violence (bills to add this protection have been introduced but not enacted). Check current status or ask a legal aid attorney. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
• City employee leave: Some local governments have protections for employees who are victims of crime or domestic violence (for example, Louisville Metro and Lexington‑Fayette). If you work for a city/county agency, ask HR about your options and confidentiality protections. (codelibrary.amlegal.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask HR for safety accommodations (schedule changes, security escorts, phone screening). If you face pushback, request workplace policies in writing and contact legal aid for advice.

---

Legal Help and Court Support

• Court interpreters: Tell the clerk you need an interpreter; the court provides one at no cost. (kycourts.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask the judge at your first hearing to re‑set the case if you did not have language access or legal help. Bring proof of your request to the clerk.

---

Kentucky Domestic Violence Programs by Area (Hotlines)

Full program list and business lines are also posted by the Kentucky Secretary of State’s Safe at Home program; any of these programs can help you apply for Safe at Home. (sos.ky.gov)

---

Real‑World Examples (names changed)

• “S.” in Madison County: Filed for an EPO at 9 a.m.; the judge issued it the same day. The DVO hearing was set within 14 days. Because the respondent wasn’t served in time, her EPO was extended several times while deputies tried to serve him. She registered with VINE to get alerts. (new.womenslaw.org, ag.ky.gov)
• “K.” in a HUD‑assisted apartment: After a violent incident, she asked her housing provider for a VAWA emergency transfer and submitted HUD‑5382. The provider approved an internal transfer to another unit and kept her subsidy. (hud.gov)
• “L.” in Daviess County: She applied online for Crime Victims Compensation for counseling and window repairs; her claim cited the updated caps ($50,000\ast \ast max;\ast \ast$500/week wages). An advocate helped her attach police and billing documents. (justice.ky.gov)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• File an EPO: Go to your county Circuit Clerk; pick up AOC‑275.1; hearing set within 14 days. (kycourts.gov)
• Extend protection if not served: Ask the clerk; EPO can be continued every ≤14 days for up to 6 months while service is attempted. (new.womenslaw.org)
• Get release alerts: Register with VINE at 800‑511‑1670. (ag.ky.gov)
• Keep address confidential: Call Safe at Home at 844‑292‑5227 to enroll; free; 4‑year certification. (sos.ky.gov)
• Pay for crime‑related costs: Apply to CVC; up to $50,000\ast \ast perclaim;\ast \ast$500/week wages; $10,000 funeral. (justice.ky.gov)

---

Application Checklists

Protective Orders (EPO/DVO)

• Documents to take:
  • Photo ID.
  • Any evidence: photos, threatening messages, call logs, medical records.
  • Names/dates of birth/addresses for the respondent and any witnesses (if known).
  • Safe phone or email for the court to reach you.
• At the clerk’s office:
  • Ask for AOC‑275.1 and the multilingual “How to Obtain a Protective Order.”
  • Ask how to check service status before your hearing.
  • Ask for information on language access if needed.
• After filing:
  • Keep a copy of your order with you.
  • Register with VINE Protective Order.
  • Tell your child’s school and your employer if needed (provide a copy of your order).
  • Show law enforcement your order if any violation occurs. (kycourts.gov, corrections.ky.gov)

Kentucky Safe at Home

• Eligibility: Survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, trafficking, or other qualifying crimes; Kentucky resident; co‑applicants (children) can be included. No protective order required.
• What to prepare:
  • Sworn statement of need (under penalty of perjury).
  • Application (get hard copy from the Secretary of State, county clerk, or an authorized assistance agency).
• How to submit: File with the Secretary of State; certification is 4 years and can be renewed. There is no cost.
• Contacts: 844‑292‑5227 (KACP) or 502‑564‑3490; your local domestic violence program can assist. (sos.ky.gov)

Crime Victims Compensation (CVC)

• Who can apply: Victims, certain family members, and (now) caregivers, depending on the case.
• What to gather:
  • Police report or case number, if available.
  • Medical/billing statements, proof of counseling costs.
  • Proof of income if claiming lost wages.
  • Relocation or repair receipts if claiming new reimbursable categories.
• How to apply: Online through the Office of Claims and Appeals portal; mail or in‑person also accepted.
• Key caps: $50,000\ast \ast max;\ast \ast$500/week wages; $10,000 funeral; additional categories like relocation and window/lock repairs are eligible. (apps.legislature.ky.gov, kycc.ky.gov, justice.ky.gov)

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming filing online is allowed for new protective orders: New cases must be filed in person; later motions may be e‑filed. (ehelp.kycourts.net)
• Not asking for all protections you need: In your EPO/DVO ask for stay‑away zones, move‑out, temporary custody, and support if needed.
• Skipping VINE: If you don’t register, you may miss release alerts. It’s free and anonymous: 800‑511‑1670. (ag.ky.gov)
• Not capturing documentation early: Save photos, texts, call logs, medical records, and costs. These support both court orders and compensation claims.
• Letting your address appear on public records: Enroll in Safe at Home before updating licenses and school records. (sos.ky.gov)

---

Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your local program about inclusive services; VAWA protects you regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, and housing providers cannot discriminate because of abuse against you. If you face bias, ask legal aid to assert your VAWA rights and fair housing protections. (hud.gov)
• Single Mothers with Disabilities or with Disabled Children: Courts must provide reasonable accommodations (interpreters, CART, accessible settings). Tell the clerk as early as possible. Ask your advocate to note accessibility needs in your safety plan. (kycourts.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask your VA social worker to coordinate with your regional program and VINE. Many programs can connect you with veteran‑specific counseling and rent/security deposit help.
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: You may qualify for immigration relief without your abuser’s help. Explore VAWA self‑petitioning, U visas (for victims who assist law enforcement), and T visas (for trafficking). Get free legal consults through legal aid or trusted immigration counsel. (uscis.gov)
• Tribal citizens: Federal full faith and credit means your qualifying protection order is enforceable in Kentucky, and Kentucky orders are enforceable in tribal courts, as long as due process standards are met. Carry copies of your order and ask local law enforcement to enter it properly. (law.cornell.edu)
• Rural single moms with limited access: If travel is difficult, ask your regional program about mobile advocacy, transportation help, and coordinated entry by phone. Use The Hotline for quick connection and safety planning. (thehotline.org, kyhousing.org)
• Single fathers: Kentucky services are for all survivors with children. Programs listed here serve fathers too. Ask your local program for help with protective orders and safety planning for your kids. (zerov.org)
• Language access: If you have limited English proficiency or are Deaf/HH, the Kentucky courts must provide interpreters at no cost. Request this when you file. (kycourts.gov)

---

Resources by Region (Selected)

---

Kentucky Domestic Violence by the Numbers

• 1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men in Kentucky have experienced domestic violence, according to the 2023 Kentucky Domestic Violence Data Report released July 1, 2024. In 2023 the state recorded 41,887 electronic JC‑3 reports, 17,036 EPOs served by KSP, 7,744 related arrests, 15,104 individuals served by the 15 regional programs, and 23,381 crisis calls. (justice.ky.gov)

These numbers are a reminder to document, reach out early, and use every tool available.

---

10 Kentucky‑Specific FAQs

• How fast can I get an EPO: Judges review petitions quickly; if danger is immediate, EPOs can be issued the same day. A DVO hearing is set within 14 days. (manuals-sp-chfs.ky.gov)
• How long does a DVO last: Up to 3 years, and it can be renewed repeatedly. (law.justia.com)
• What if the sheriff can’t find the respondent: The court keeps the EPO active and resets hearings every ≤14 days for up to 6 months while they attempt service. (new.womenslaw.org)
• Can I file in the county where I fled: Yes. You can file where you now live for safety. (womenslaw.org)
• Is my Kentucky order good if I move: Yes. Federal law requires other states and tribes to enforce your valid order. Carry a copy and consider registering it in your new location. (law.cornell.edu)
• Can I get temporary custody or support in the DVO: Yes. Ask the judge; bring proof of income. (law.justia.com)
• I live in HUD‑assisted housing—can I be evicted because of abuse: No. VAWA protects you, and you can request an emergency transfer. You can self‑certify using HUD‑5382. (hud.gov)
• How do I keep my address off public records: Enroll in Safe at Home through the Secretary of State; it is free and lasts 4 years. (sos.ky.gov)
• What crime‑related costs can be covered: Kentucky CVC may cover counseling, medical bills, lost wages up to $500/week\ast \ast ,funeralupto\ast \ast$10,000, relocation, locks/windows, and more—up to $50,000 total. (justice.ky.gov)
• Do I qualify for unemployment if I quit to stay safe: Not automatically under current law; ask legal aid to check current status and options. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)

---

Tables You Can Use

Table — Protective Orders vs. Your Immediate Needs

Sources: Kentucky CHFS, KRS 403 proceedings, and court forms. (manuals-sp-chfs.ky.gov, kycourts.gov)

Table — Crime Victims Compensation (What’s covered and caps)

Source: Kentucky Justice & Public Safety Cabinet (SB 319 updates) and Office of Claims & Appeals. (justice.ky.gov, kycc.ky.gov)

Table — Your VAWA Housing Tools

Source: HUD VAWA resource hub. (hud.gov)

Table — Language Access in Court

Source: Kentucky Court of Justice Office of Language Access. (kycourts.gov)

Table — Regional Hotlines (selected quick list)

Full directory is listed above; all programs serve adults with children, regardless of gender. (sos.ky.gov)

---

What to Do When Systems Are Slow

• No response at a shelter: Call The Hotline (800‑799‑7233) to locate nearby openings and ask about transportation options. Try a different regional program; Kentucky programs routinely cross‑coordinate. (thehotline.org)
• Court delay or confusion: Speak with your local program’s legal advocate; ask for the court’s “How to Obtain a Protective Order” guide and language access. (kycourts.gov)
• Housing provider pushback on VAWA: Put your request in writing, attach HUD‑5382, and ask for their Emergency Transfer Plan. Call legal aid if needed. (hud.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Kentucky Department of Health and Family Services, Kentucky Court of Justice, Kentucky Justice & Public Safety Cabinet, Kentucky Secretary of State, Kentucky Housing Corporation, HUD, USCIS, and established nonprofits (ZeroV; National Domestic Violence Hotline).

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.

Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 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

Information changes: Benefit levels, policies, and local procedures can change quickly. Always verify by using the official links and numbers provided here.

Safety online: Use a safe device and clear your browser history after visiting sensitive sites. Consider using a trusted friend’s phone/computer for safety.

Not legal advice: This guide provides general information. For legal advice about your case, consult an attorney or your regional legal aid program.

---

Sources (accessed September 2025)

• Kentucky Court of Justice — Legal Help, forms, and “How to Obtain a Protective Order”; protective‑order forms updated August 2025. (kycourts.gov)
• Kentucky CHFS Standards of Practice (Protective orders; timelines and relief; enforcement of foreign orders). (manuals-sp-chfs.ky.gov)
• Kentucky Attorney General — Domestic Violence resources; Kentucky VINE program details. (ag.ky.gov)
• Office of Claims & Appeals — Crime Victims Compensation online portal; administrative regs reflecting SB 319 increases. (kycc.ky.gov, apps.legislature.ky.gov)
• Kentucky Justice & Public Safety Cabinet — Press releases on SB 319 award increases; state DV data report highlights. (justice.ky.gov)
• Secretary of State — Safe at Home program (about, eligibility, assistance agencies). (sos.ky.gov)
• HUD — VAWA rights, emergency transfers, and forms. (hud.gov)
• ZeroV — State coalition; shelter program network across 120 counties. (zerov.org)
• Kentucky Housing Corporation — Any Door KY Coordinated Entry and ESG overview. (kyhousing.org)
• USCIS — VAWA self‑petitioning, U visa, T visa guidance and updates. (uscis.gov)
• Local codes — Louisville Metro and Lexington‑Fayette employee policies for victims of crime and domestic violence. (codelibrary.amlegal.com)

---

One more reminder

• Save these key numbers: 911, 800‑799‑7233, 800‑511‑1670, 844‑292‑5227.
• Bold the essentials in your notes: hearing date (within 14 days), service status checks, and safety steps.

You are not expected to navigate this alone. Use the advocates, lawyers, and tools listed here — and take each next step one at a time.

---

🏛️More Kentucky Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Kentucky

• 📋 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