Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Minnesota
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Minnesota
Last updated: September 2025
Minnesota has strong, practical tools to help you get safe, protect your kids, and stabilize money and housing. This guide puts the most important steps first, gives exact numbers where available, links to official sources, and includes Plan B options at the end of each section.
Emergency help now
- If you are in immediate danger: Call 911. Tell the dispatcher you are experiencing domestic violence and whether weapons are present.
- Statewide domestic violence hotline: Minnesota Day One Crisis Line — Call: 866-223-1111 — Text: 612-399-9995 — Chat: dayoneservices.org. Confidential, 24/7 help with shelter, safety planning, and advocacy. Interpreters available. (dayoneservices.org)
- National lifeline for mental health or suicidal crisis: 988. You can call or text. 24/7. (Use 911 if someone is in immediate physical danger.)
- Minnesota Safe at Home address confidentiality program: Twin Cities: 651-201-1399 — Greater MN: 866-723-3035. They give you a state‑provided PO Box to keep your real home address confidential. Enrollment is by phone with trained “application assistants.” (sos.mn.gov, sos.minnesota.gov)
- Victim custody‑status notifications (MN VINE): 877-664-8463. Get notified if the abusive person is released or moved from jail or prison. Register by phone or online. (dps.mn.gov)
- Legal forms and free help filling them out: MN Courts Self‑Help Center — Phone: 651-435-6535. Staff explain forms and procedures for Orders for Protection (OFP), Harassment Restraining Orders (HRO), and fee waivers. (mncourts.gov)
Quick help box
- Shelter and advocacy 24/7: Day One — 866-223-1111 or text 612-399-9995. They locate open shelters statewide and arrange transport if needed. (dayoneservices.org)
- Confidential mailing address to hide where you live: Safe at Home — 651-201-1399 or 866-723-3035. (sos.mn.gov)
- File an Order for Protection online: Minnesota Guide & File (OFP/HRO interviews and eFiling). (mncourts.gov, mncourts.gov)
- Court forms help: Self‑Help Center — 651-435-6535. (mncourts.gov)
- Find any Minnesota resource fast: United Way 211 — Call: 211 or 800-543-7709 — Text your ZIP to 898‑211. (211unitedway.org)
- Financial help after a crime: Minnesota Crime Victims Reimbursement Program — 651-201-7300 or 888-622-8799 (up to $50,000 for covered expenses). (dps.mn.gov)
Minnesota crisis contacts at a glance
| Program | What it does | How to reach |
|---|---|---|
| Day One Crisis Line | Statewide DV/SA trafficking hotline, shelter placement, advocacy | 866-223-1111, text 612-399-9995, chat at Day One site. (dayoneservices.org) |
| Safe at Home (address confidentiality) | State‑issued PO Box and mail forwarding plus safety guidance | Metro 651-201-1399, Greater MN 866-723-3035. (sos.mn.gov) |
| MN Courts Self‑Help | Help with OFP/HRO forms, fee waivers, eFiling | 651-435-6535. (mncourts.gov) |
| MN VINE | Custody‑status notifications for offenders | 877-664-8463. (dps.mn.gov) |
| OJP Crime Victims Reimbursement | Pays covered costs up to $50,000 | 651-201-7300 or 888-622-8799. (dps.mn.gov) |
Reality check in Minnesota
- The risk is real: Violence Free Minnesota reported a record 40 domestic violence–related homicides in 2023, the highest in over 30 years of tracking. That count includes victims killed by current or former partners and bystanders who intervened. (startribune.com, minnesotareformer.com)
- Courts move fast on safety: If you request an OFP, Minnesota law requires a hearing within 14 days of the court’s order for hearing. If an emergency order is granted and more relief is requested, a hearing must occur within 7 days. (revisor.mn.gov)
First priority — legal safety protections you can use today
Orders for Protection (OFP) and Harassment Restraining Orders (HRO)
- What an OFP can do: Keep the abuser away from you and your kids; award temporary custody and parenting time; restrict contact; order the abuser to leave your home; protect pets; require firearms transfer; and more. Relief can last up to two years or longer if appropriate. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Key deadlines: Courts must set an OFP hearing within 14 days of the order for hearing. When emergency relief is granted and additional relief is sought, the hearing must be within 7 days. If the respondent asks for a hearing after an ex parte order, the hearing must be within 10 days of the court’s receipt of the request. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Filing fees: No filing fee for OFPs for either party by statute. Fee waivers are also available for other civil filings if you qualify. (revisor.mn.gov, mncourts.gov)
- How to file fast: Use Minnesota Guide & File to complete and eFile OFP or HRO forms. You can also print and file at your courthouse. Self‑Help Center — 651-435-6535 can walk you through form steps. (mncourts.gov)
- Service and proof: Law enforcement can serve the OFP; Minnesota also allows “short‑form notification” service by police in some situations. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Interpreter access: Request an interpreter when you file; Minnesota courts provide court interpreters at no cost in hearings.
- If the abuser is charged criminally: A Domestic Abuse No Contact Order (DANCO) may be issued in the criminal case. You cannot apply for a DANCO yourself, but prosecutors can ask the court.
- Plan B if you cannot file right now: Ask a Day One advocate to safety‑plan around high‑risk times, help you document threats, and connect you to an attorney who can file quickly. If internet access is unsafe, go to a courthouse Self‑Help workstation in your county.
- Common mistakes to avoid:
- Not listing all protected people: Include kids and pets if needed so the order clearly protects them. Minnesota courts can include pets and prohibit harm to them. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Missing contact rules: Be clear that you want no contact in any form, including texts, social media, third‑party messages, or drive‑bys.
- Forgetting to request firearms restrictions: Minnesota OFPs can require firearms transfer and proof of transfer within 3 business days when statutory findings are met. (revisor.mn.gov)
Firearms surrender and Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO)
- Firearms under OFPs: When specific safety findings are made, courts must order the respondent to transfer all firearms within 3 business days and file proof within 2 business days after the transfer. Police can immediately seize firearms if the court finds imminent risk. (revisor.mn.gov)
- ERPO (Red Flag) as another tool: Family or household members, guardians, or law enforcement can petition the court to temporarily remove firearms from a person who poses a significant danger. An emergency ERPO can issue quickly and lasts up to 14 days; a long‑term ERPO after a hearing can last 6–12 months. Petitions and instructions are on the Minnesota Judicial Branch site. (dps.mn.gov, mncourts.gov)
- Plan B: If you are not eligible to file an ERPO yourself, ask law enforcement or a prosecutor to file. A Day One advocate can help you prepare information for the petition.
Address confidentiality — Safe at Home
- Why it helps: You receive a state‑issued PO Box and mail forwarding so your real address stays private on school, court, employment, housing, and records. Many agencies must accept your Safe at Home address. Call to enroll with an application assistant. Metro: 651-201-1399 — Greater MN: 866-723-3035. (sos.mn.gov, sos.minnesota.gov)
- Plan B: If you cannot enroll yet, ask the court to keep your address confidential when filing and talk with a Day One advocate about safety planning for mail and deliveries. (revisor.mn.gov)
Housing safety and keeping a roof over your head
Get into shelter or safe housing fast
- Start here: Day One — 866-223-1111 or text 612-399-9995. They see real‑time bed openings statewide and can arrange safe transportation. (dayoneservices.org)
- Plan B: If shelter is full, ask Day One for hotel vouchers or a safe placement in another region, and ask about mobile advocacy while you stay with trusted family or friends.
- Common mistakes to avoid:
- Waiting until eviction is filed: Call early; funds are limited and processed first‑come, first‑served.
- Not documenting the violence: Letters from advocates, police reports, medical notes, or sworn statements help unlock both safety and financial programs.
Break a lease or change locks for safety
- Minnesota law lets you end a lease without penalty if you or an authorized occupant fear imminent violence due to domestic abuse, criminal sexual conduct, sexual extortion, or harassment. Provide written notice with a “qualifying document” such as an OFP, DANCO, police report, or a statement from a domestic abuse advocate, health professional, or sexual assault counselor. You must include a move‑out date and instructions for your property. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Include this in your OFP: Courts can also order the abuser out of the home.
- Plan B: If your landlord resists, show them the statute, deliver notice again with proof, and contact legal aid through Day One or the MN Courts Self‑Help Center for help enforcing your rights.
Use Minnesota housing assistance that prioritizes safety
- Family Homeless Prevention & Assistance Program (FHPAP): Helps with rent deposits, rent, or utilities when you are homeless or about to be. Many counties access FHPAP via United Way 211 — 800-543-7709; ask for “Coordinated Entry” in your county. Income generally up to 200% FPG; funds are limited and not guaranteed. (mnhousing.gov)
- Emergency Assistance (EA): County cash grants to resolve a one‑time household emergency like eviction, foreclosure, or utility shutoff. Apply online at MNbenefits.mn.gov; processing can take time due to volume. Some counties list additional phone lines, for example Hennepin County: 612-596-1300 and Ramsey County: 651-266-4444. Rules vary by county and whether you received EA in the past 12 months. (dcyf.mn.gov, hennepin.us, ramseycounty.us)
- VAWA housing protections: If you are in public housing or have a Housing Choice Voucher or other covered HUD program, you cannot be evicted or denied assistance because of the violence against you. You can request an emergency transfer, ask to bifurcate the lease to remove the abuser, and self‑certify using HUD’s form. Minnesota Housing explains survivor rights clearly. (mnhousing.gov)
- Plan B: If you are denied or delayed, call 211 to request a warm hand‑off to your FHPAP grantee. Ask about rapid‑re‑housing and local charity funds through community action agencies.
Quick housing rights reference
| Topic | What Minnesota law or policy says | Proof you may need |
|---|---|---|
| Early lease termination | Allowed for domestic abuse, criminal sexual conduct, sexual extortion, or harassment with proper written notice and qualifying documentation | OFP/DANCO/police report or advocate/health professional statement; move‑out date |
| Lock change or exclusion | OFP can exclude the abusing party from the residence | OFP with occupancy terms |
| VAWA housing protections | Cannot be evicted or denied because of violence; emergency transfer possible; self‑certify | HUD form and safety documentation |
Money and basics — fast help most single moms qualify for
Food help — SNAP and WIC
- SNAP maximums: For federal fiscal year 2025 (Oct. 1, 2024 to Sep. 30, 2025) the USDA maximum SNAP for a family of four in Minnesota is 975/month∗∗;forthreeitis∗∗975/month**; for three it is **768/month; for two 536/month∗∗;forone∗∗536/month**; for one **292/month. The minimum benefit is $23. (fns.usda.gov, everycrsreport.com)
- Minnesota SNAP gross income screen (most households): Effective Oct. 1, 2024 to Sep. 30, 2025 — 1‑person 2,510/month∗∗,2‑person∗∗2,510/month**, 2‑person **3,407, 3‑person 4,303∗∗,4‑person∗∗4,303**, 4‑person **5,200, add $897 per extra person. Expedited SNAP gives benefits within 7 days if you meet emergency criteria. Apply at MNbenefits.mn.gov. Help line 651-431-4050 if your county is unresponsive. (dcyf.mn.gov)
- WIC for pregnant/postpartum and kids under 5: Income up to 185% FPL qualifies, and you are automatically eligible if you get SNAP, MFIP, Medical Assistance, or Energy Assistance. As of May 1, 2025, monthly income limits include 2‑person 3,261∗∗,3‑person∗∗3,261**, 3‑person **4,109, 4‑person 4,957∗∗.Fruitandvegetablebenefitsaretypically∗∗4,957**. Fruit and vegetable benefits are typically **26–$52/month per participant. Apply online or call 800-942-4030. (health.mn.gov, www2cdn.web.health.state.mn.us)
- Plan B: If SNAP is delayed, ask your county for expedited processing and connect with food shelves through 211 while you wait.
Energy bills — keep heat and lights on
- Energy Assistance Program (EAP): Average initial benefit about 550∗∗perhousehold,upto∗∗550** per household, up to **1,400 based on income, household size, fuel, and costs; crisis funds up to 600∗∗helpwithshutoffpreventionoremergencyfuel.For∗∗FFY2025∗∗eligibilityexamples,afamilyoffourcanqualifywithannualincomeupto∗∗600** help with shutoff prevention or emergency fuel. For **FFY 2025** eligibility examples, a family of four can qualify with annual income up to **68,845. Apply online; deadline each year is typically May 31. State phone 800‑657‑3710. (mn.gov, insurance.mn.gov)
- Plan B: If your heat is off or fuel is low, call your local EAP provider and explain your emergency while your application is pending; they can prioritize crisis assistance.
Child care you can afford so you can work or study
- Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP): Entrance income limits (most families) for 2025 include 2‑person 44,006/year∗∗,3‑person∗∗44,006/year**, 3‑person **54,360, 4‑person 64,714∗∗,5‑person∗∗64,714**, 5‑person **75,068, 6‑person $85,423. Families pay a sliding co‑pay; state pays the rest up to local max rates. Apply through MNbenefits.mn.gov or your county. Questions 651‑431‑3809. (dcyf.mn.gov)
- Important: Minnesota law sets entrance at about 47% of State Median Income and exit at 67% (so a small raise will not immediately cut you off). (revisor.mn.gov)
- Plan B: If your county has a waiting list for Basic Sliding Fee, ask for priority as a survivor, and check if MFIP/DWP child care can open sooner.
Cash programs and waivers that account for abuse
- MFIP cash assistance: MFIP has a $10,000 initial asset limit (certain vehicles exempt) and a lifetime limit of 60 months for most caregivers. Amounts vary by family size and income and are calculated from the “family wage level” and “transitional standard.” Apply at MNbenefits.mn.gov. (dcyf.mn.gov)
- Family Violence Waiver in MFIP: If abuse makes work rules unsafe or unrealistic, you can request a Family Violence Waiver. Your employment plan is changed with a domestic‑violence‑trained professional; the primary goal becomes safety, and sanctions must be reviewed with a DV specialist. Proof can be a police/court record, shelter or advocate statement, or sworn statements. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Good cause for child support cooperation: If pursuing child support would risk harm to you or your child, Minnesota law allows a good cause exemption. You have 20 days after claiming good cause to provide evidence; the county must decide within 45 days. During review, enforcement stops. Ask your worker for the DHS‑2338 Good Cause form. (revisor.mn.gov, hcopub.dhs.state.mn.us)
- Plan B: If you are sanctioned while seeking a waiver, request a face‑to‑face review and ask to meet with a DV‑trained advocate. You can appeal any denial.
Quick money and basics reference
| Program | Key number or limit | How to apply |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP | FY2025 maximum for 4 is $975/month; expedited within 7 days if eligible | MNbenefits and interview with county/tribe. (fns.usda.gov, dcyf.mn.gov) |
| WIC | Income for 3 is 4,109/month∗∗;fruit/veg∗∗4,109/month**; fruit/veg **26–$52/month | Online WIC application; 800‑942‑4030. (health.mn.gov, www2cdn.web.health.state.mn.us) |
| Energy Assistance | Average 550∗∗;upto∗∗550**; up to **1,400, crisis up to $600 | Online; find provider; 800‑657‑3710. (mn.gov) |
| CCAP | Entrance examples — 4 is $64,714/year | MNbenefits or county contact. (dcyf.mn.gov) |
| MFIP | Asset limit $10,000; 60‑month lifetime limit; Family Violence Waiver available | MNbenefits; ask worker for DV waiver. (dcyf.mn.gov) |
Health care, counseling, and trauma support
- Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare: Pregnant people qualify for Medical Assistance with income up to 278% FPL; children typically up to 275–283% FPL depending on age. Check MNsure’s 2025–26 table to see your exact household limit; enrollment help is free. (hcopub.dhs.state.mn.us, mnsure.org)
- Earned Sick and Safe Time at work: Minnesota’s statewide law gives at least 1 hour of paid “safe time” for every 30 hours worked — at least 48 hours/year, with up to 80 hours carryover unless your employer front‑loads. You can use it for domestic abuse, sexual assault, stalking, court, relocation, or counseling. (dli.mn.gov, dli.mn.gov)
- Unemployment if you had to quit for safety: Minnesota law allows unemployment benefits when you quit because of domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking affecting you or an immediate family member. See MN UI’s guidance on job separations. (revisor.mn.gov, mn.gov)
- Plan B: If an employer denies safe time or retaliates, you can file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
Crime Victims Reimbursement — pay for losses up to $50,000
- What it covers: Medical and dental bills, counseling, wage loss, child care and household services, funeral expenses, crime scene cleanup, and support for dependents of homicide victims. The maximum award is $50,000 per claim. Crimes must be reported within 30 days and claims filed within 3 years. Apply online through the Victim Services Portal, or call 651-201-7300 or 888-622-8799 for help. (dps.mn.gov)
- Plan B: If processing delays occur (the program notes high volumes), ask a local victim advocate or county victim‑witness office to help you upload documents and track your claim. (dps.mn.gov)
Transportation and school stability
- 1publictransit:∗∗TheTwinCities∗∗TransitAssistanceProgram(TAP)∗∗gives∗∗1 public transit:** The Twin Cities **Transit Assistance Program (TAP)** gives **1 rides with a 2½‑hour transfer for riders with low income or who are in safety‑net programs like EBT/WIC/MFIP/EAP. Apply online or at service centers; customer relations 612‑373‑3333. (metrotransit.org)
- Plan B: If you are outside Metro Transit’s service area, ask 211 about county transit discounts or gas cards available through FHPAP or victim‑service agencies.
Minnesota court process — fast start for single mothers
How to file an OFP or HRO today
- Start online: Guide & File interviews help you generate the right forms. At the end you can eFile or print and file at your courthouse. (mncourts.gov)
- Get free help: Self‑Help Center — 651-435-6535 explains procedures and can schedule Zoom assistance. (mncourts.gov)
- Hearing timing: Expect your first hearing quickly — within 7–14 days depending on the situation. If served less than 5 days before the hearing, the respondent can request a brief continuance. (revisor.mn.gov)
- If the abuser violates the order: Call 911. Violations can be misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony, and police must arrest on probable cause. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Plan B: If you cannot safely appear in person, ask for a remote hearing. If you have no ID or transportation, tell the Self‑Help Center — they can connect you with onsite courthouse resources.
Quick reference cheat sheet
- Emergency shelter and advocacy: Day One — 866‑223‑1111 or text 612‑399‑9995. (dayoneservices.org)
- Hidden address for safety: Safe at Home — 651‑201‑1399 or 866‑723‑3035. (sos.mn.gov)
- File OFP/HRO: Guide & File, with help from Self‑Help 651‑435‑6535. (mncourts.gov)
- VINE notifications: 877‑664‑8463. (dps.mn.gov)
- SNAP/WIC/Energy Assistance: MNbenefits.mn.gov and 211 or 800‑543‑7709. (211unitedway.org)
- Crime cost reimbursement: 651‑201‑7300 or 888‑622‑8799. (dps.mn.gov)
Application checklist
- Identification and contact: State ID or other ID, Safe at Home card if enrolled, reliable phone or a voicemail you can check.
- Proof for benefits: Income documents, rent/utility bills, shutoff or eviction notices, police reports/medical notes/advocate letters if you have them.
- Court filings: Timeline of events, texts/screenshots, photos of injuries/damage, children’s schedules, names of witnesses.
- Backups: Photos of everything on your phone; paper copies stored with a friend or in your car’s glove box.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to apply for help: Programs like FHPAP and EA run out of funds. Apply as soon as you get a notice or feel unsafe.
- Missing expedited SNAP: If you have very low income and little cash on hand, ask for expedited processing so you can get food help in 7 days or less. (dcyf.mn.gov)
- Not requesting firearms relief: Ask the court to require transfer and proof of transfer of firearms if the facts support it. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Not claiming MFIP Family Violence Waiver or “good cause” for child support: These protections exist so safety comes first. (revisor.mn.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- For shelter or advocacy: Call Day One again and ask for help with a safety hotel or transport to another region. (dayoneservices.org)
- For county delays on SNAP/EA/MFIP: Call the state help line 651‑431‑4050 or email dcyf.cfs@state.mn.us to flag issues with your county. (dcyf.mn.gov)
- For court help: Call Self‑Help 651‑435‑6535 and ask about fee waivers, remote hearings, or local legal clinics. (mncourts.gov)
Diverse communities — tailored Minnesota resources and notes
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: OutFront Minnesota has anti‑violence services, and Day One can connect you to LGBTQ‑affirming shelters. Use Safe at Home if you are outing‑risked on paperwork. Key contacts: Day One 866‑223‑1111, Safe at Home 651‑201‑1399. (dayoneservices.org, sos.mn.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for reasonable accommodations from courts and your county. WIC and SNAP allow authorized reps to shop for you. Energy Assistance can prioritize crises such as medical electricity needs. Key contacts: Self‑Help 651‑435‑6535, EAP 800‑657‑3710. (mncourts.gov, insurance.mn.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: For benefits navigation and crisis help, call LinkVet 888‑546‑5838 through the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, and ask about VA intimate partner violence services. (Use Day One for shelter.)
- Immigrant and refugee moms: For health care, pregnant people can qualify for Medical Assistance regardless of some immigration barriers. WIC and help lines are safe to use and do not count against public charge. Key contacts: MNsure navigators via mnsure.org, WIC 800‑942‑4030, Day One. (mnsure.org, health.mn.gov)
- Tribal citizens: FHPAP and Energy Assistance are available statewide, including through tribal providers. Ask for tribal advocates through Day One, and remember that ERPO service on tribal lands involves coordination with tribal police by law. Key contacts: Day One, EAP 800‑657‑3710. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Use 211 to find coordinated entry for housing and mobile advocacy. Ask for remote court appearances and phone interviews for benefits. Key contact: United Way 211 — 800‑543‑7709. (211unitedway.org)
- Single fathers experiencing abuse: The same protections apply. Day One and Safe at Home serve all survivors regardless of gender. Key contacts: Day One 866‑223‑1111, Safe at Home 866‑723‑3035. (dayoneservices.org, sos.mn.gov)
- Language access: Courts and counties must provide interpreters. Day One offers interpreters by phone. WIC and 211 offer multiple languages. Key contacts: Self‑Help 651‑435‑6535, WIC 800‑942‑4030, 211 800‑543‑7709. (mncourts.gov, health.mn.gov, 211unitedway.org)
Resources by region — one call connects you
Minnesota’s statewide Day One network includes programs such as Cornerstone, Tubman, Women’s Advocates, Anna Marie’s Alliance, Safe Haven, CADA, and many others. Instead of calling around, call Day One — 866‑223‑1111 — or text 612‑399‑9995 — and ask for the nearest open shelter, legal advocacy, or hotel safety option. They coordinate placement and transportation statewide. (dayoneservices.org)
Safety and tech tips
- Use a safe device: Library or friend’s phone is better for sensitive searches. Turn off location sharing and clear browser history.
- Document safely: Email photos of injuries, property damage, and threats to a new, private email or store on a cloud account you control.
- Include pets in protection: Minnesota courts can order protection for pets and ban the abuser from harming them. (revisor.mn.gov)
Ten Minnesota‑specific FAQs
- Where do I start if I need a shelter bed tonight: Day One — 866‑223‑1111 or text 612‑399‑9995. They see open beds and arrange transport. (dayoneservices.org)
- How fast can I get an OFP hearing: Courts set hearings within 14 days, and if emergency relief was issued and you asked for more relief, within 7 days. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Do I pay a fee to file an OFP: No. Filing fees for OFPs are waived by law. (revisor.mn.gov)
- Can the court make the abuser give up guns: Yes. With certain findings, the court must require firearm transfer within 3 business days and proof within 2 business days. (revisor.mn.gov)
- How do I get notified if the abuser leaves jail: Register with MN VINE — 877‑664‑8463 or online. (dps.mn.gov)
- What if my address on school or court papers puts me at risk: Enroll in Safe at Home — 651‑201‑1399 or 866‑723‑3035 for a confidential mailing address. (sos.mn.gov)
- Can I break my lease because of abuse: Yes, with written notice and qualifying documentation under Minn. Stat. §504B.206. (revisor.mn.gov)
- How much could SNAP help with groceries right now: For FFY 2025, the maximum is 975/month∗∗for4,∗∗975/month** for 4, **768 for 3, $536 for 2. Apply at MNbenefits.mn.gov. (fns.usda.gov)
- What if child support enforcement puts us in danger: Claim good cause. Enforcement pauses while your county decides (you generally have 20 days to submit evidence and a decision is due within 45 days). (revisor.mn.gov)
- I need time off work for court and safety steps: Minnesota’s Earned Sick and Safe Time gives at least 48 hours/year of paid leave that can be used for domestic abuse, with carryover up to 80 hours unless front‑loaded. (dli.mn.gov)
What other guides miss — how this hub fills the gaps
- Exact numbers and deadlines: This page includes SNAP maximums, WIC income limits, Energy Assistance amounts, ERPO and OFP timelines, and fee rules — all linked to official sources.
- Realistic plan B options: For shelter waitlists, county delays, and court access issues, you get specific backup steps and phone lines.
- State‑specific legal tools: We cover Minnesota’s lease‑break law for survivors, pet protection in OFPs, and firearms transfer requirements, which many summaries skip. (revisor.mn.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Minnesota Secretary of State, Minnesota Judicial Branch, Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Justice Programs, Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families, Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Department of Commerce, and United Way 211. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards — primary official sources, cross‑verification, link testing at publication, and prompt corrections. We operate independently and do not provide legal advice or guarantee outcomes. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. Email info@asinglemother.org with corrections; we respond within 48 hours. (sos.mn.gov, mncourts.gov, dps.mn.gov, dcyf.mn.gov, health.mn.gov, mn.gov, 211unitedway.org)
Disclaimer
- Program policies and amounts change: Always confirm current rules and amounts on the linked official pages before you decide. Agencies can update numbers after this guide is published.
- Health and legal caution: This guide is for general information. It is not medical or legal advice. For personal legal advice, contact an attorney or a certified advocate.
- Website security: Use a safe device and network when you apply or upload documents. If your abuser monitors your tech, use a library computer or an advocate’s office and consider Safe at Home for address privacy. (sos.mn.gov)
Sources with dates
- Minnesota Day One hotline and text — accessed September 2025. (dayoneservices.org)
- Safe at Home contact and program — updated contacts accessed September 2025. (sos.mn.gov, sos.minnesota.gov)
- OFP statutes and timelines — accessed September 2025. (revisor.mn.gov)
- OFP/HRO forms and eFiling — accessed September 2025. (mncourts.gov)
- Court Self‑Help Center phone — accessed September 2025. (mncourts.gov)
- Firearms surrender under OFP — accessed September 2025. (revisor.mn.gov)
- ERPO law and forms — accessed September 2025. (revisor.mn.gov, mncourts.gov)
- SNAP FY2025 maximums — USDA FNS memo dated Aug. 2, 2024. (fns.usda.gov)
- Minnesota SNAP income limits and expedited — state pages accessed September 2025. (dcyf.mn.gov)
- WIC income limits and benefit amounts — MDH pages and press release updated May–July 2025. (health.mn.gov, www2cdn.web.health.state.mn.us)
- Energy Assistance amounts and eligibility — Commerce pages accessed September 2025. (mn.gov, insurance.mn.gov)
- CCAP income limits and policy — DCYF and rules accessed September 2025. (dcyf.mn.gov, revisor.mn.gov)
- MFIP asset limit and DV waiver framework — DCYF and Minnesota statutes accessed September 2025. (dcyf.mn.gov, revisor.mn.gov)
- Good cause for child support — statutes and DHS manual accessed September 2025. (revisor.mn.gov, hcopub.dhs.state.mn.us)
- VINE notifications — OJP pages accessed September 2025. (dps.mn.gov)
- ESST safe time — Minnesota DLI FAQs, updated 2024–2025. (dli.mn.gov)
- Transit Assistance Program — Metro Transit page accessed September 2025. (metrotransit.org)
- Crime Victims Reimbursement Program — OJP pages and blog confirming $50,000 cap, accessed September 2025. (dps.mn.gov)
- Lease termination for survivors — Minn. Stat. §504B.206 accessed September 2025. (revisor.mn.gov)
If you need a human to walk you through any step, call Day One at 866‑223‑1111 or 211 at 800‑543‑7709 right now. They can stay on the line while you file, apply, or plan your next safe move. (dayoneservices.org, 211unitedway.org)
🏛️More Minnesota Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Minnesota
- 📋 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
