Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in New Hampshire
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in New Hampshire
Last updated: September 2025
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Emergency help now
- Call 911: If you or your children are in danger right now. Police can request an emergency telephonic protection order that lasts until the court opens next business day. (gc.nh.gov)
- Statewide 24/7 Domestic Violence Helpline: 1-866-644-3574 (free, confidential, connects you to your local crisis center for safety planning, shelter, court help). (nhcadsv.org)
- Statewide 24/7 Sexual Assault Helpline: 1-800-277-5570. (nhcadsv.org)
- NH Rapid Response Access Point (mental health/substance use crisis): Call or text 833-710-6477 or dial 988 for the national lifeline; mobile crisis teams available. (nh988.com)
- 211 NH (resources and shelter referrals): Dial 211 or use the alternate number 1-866-444-4211 for resource specialists 24/7. (211nh.org)
- Address Confidentiality Program (ACP): Ask your advocate to connect you to ACP for a substitute mailing address and safety planning. ACP information line 603-271-1284. (doj.nh.gov)
Quick help box
- Fastest safe step: Call 1-866-644-3574 to reach an advocate who can arrange emergency shelter, safe transportation, and help you file for a protective order the same day. (nhcadsv.org)
- Protection orders: No filing or service fees. Temporary orders can be issued by a judge the same day; final orders can last up to one year and extensions can go longer. (courts.nh.gov, gc.nh.gov)
- Money for urgent needs: Emergency Assistance can help with 650∗∗towarddeposits/firstmonth’srentandupto∗∗650** toward deposits/first month’s rent and up to **700 in heating fuel, plus back rent and utilities if certain rules are met. Apply through DHHS. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Food today: SNAP has 2024–2025 maximums up to $975 for a family of four and expedited processing is available for very low income. Apply online at NH EASY or by phone. (fns.usda.gov, dhhs.nh.gov)
- Medical and counseling bills: Victims’ Compensation can pay up to $40,000 per primary victim, with specific caps for funeral/burial and security costs. (doj.nh.gov)
- Mental health crisis: Call or text 833-710-6477 (or 988) for 24/7 help; they can dispatch a mobile team. (nh988.com)
Quick reference table — who to call first
| What you need | Who to contact | Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate police response | Local police or 911 | 911 | 24/7 |
| NH domestic violence advocate | NH Coalition statewide line | 1-866-644-3574 | 24/7 |
| Sexual assault advocate | NH Coalition statewide line | 1-800-277-5570 | 24/7 |
| Mental health crisis | NH Rapid Response Access Point | 833-710-6477 or 988 | 24/7 |
| Find shelter or assistance | 211 NH Resource Line | 211 or 1-866-444-4211 | 24/7 |
| Court information | NH Judicial Branch Information Center | 1-855-212-1234 | Court hours |
| DCYF child safety reporting | DCYF Central Intake | 603-271-6562 or 1-800-894-5533 | 24/7 |
What this guide covers that others miss
- Exact dollar amounts and timelines: You will see current SNAP, WIC, TANF Emergency Assistance, and Victims’ Compensation figures with direct application links. (fns.usda.gov, dhhs.nh.gov, doj.nh.gov)
- Step-by-step legal process: How to get an emergency order after hours, what forms to bring, and when hearings happen. (gc.nh.gov)
- Housing safety under federal law: What VAWA means for your lease, vouchers, and emergency transfers in New Hampshire. (hud.gov)
Safety planning you can start today
- Phone safety: Turn off location sharing for your abuser’s apps; on iPhone, check Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services and Shared With You; on Android, check Settings → Location and Google account sharing. Consider a new email for court/benefits.
- Documents to copy: IDs, children’s birth certificates, Social Security cards, lease, car title, protection order, health insurance cards, bank cards.
- Code word: Choose a safe word with a trusted person to signal you need police called.
- Meeting plan: If forced to meet the other parent, ask the court for supervised exchanges in your protection order.
- Plan B: If you suspect your device is monitored, call the statewide helpline from a friend’s phone or a library. Advocates can help create a tailored safety plan and connect you to legal help. (nhcadsv.org)
Getting a protection order in New Hampshire
The fastest action
- Go to any Circuit Court family or district division during business hours, or ask police to help you request an emergency telephonic order after hours. There is no filing or service fee. (courts.nh.gov)
- If the court is closed, an on-call judge can issue a temporary order by phone to an officer; it lasts until the court closes the next business day, when you must appear. (gc.nh.gov)
What a protection order can include
- No contact and stay-away orders, plus exclusive possession of your home even if the lease or deed is not in your name (with some exceptions), orders to pay rent, utilities, car, insurance, or health costs, temporary child custody, and orders to relinquish firearms and ammunition for the duration of the order. (gc.nh.gov)
- Violations: Police must arrest on probable cause within 12 hours of a violation; firearms and ammunition can be seized. (gc.nh.gov)
Timeline
- Same-day filing: Judge reviews your sworn petition. The judge may issue a temporary order and schedule a final hearing.
- Final hearing: Held within 30 days of filing or within 10 days of service, whichever is later. (gc.nh.gov)
- Duration: Final orders can last up to one year and be extended. After the first extension, later extensions can be up to five years at the court’s discretion. (gc.nh.gov)
Where to get forms and help
- Domestic Violence Petition (NHJB-2050-DF) and checklists are available from the NH Judicial Branch self-help center and your local crisis center. Call the court’s Information Center at 1-855-212-1234 if you have questions, or ask a crisis center advocate to walk you through forms. (courts.nh.gov)
Language and accessibility
- Interpreters are free for court proceedings. Call 1-855-212-1234 in advance to request language or ASL services. (courts.nh.gov)
What to bring
- Police reports if any, photos of injuries/damage, threatening messages, witness names, children’s schedules, the abuser’s identifying info, and any prior orders. If you don’t have documents, file anyway—your sworn testimony is evidence.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your temporary order is denied, ask an advocate about re-filing with additional incidents or seeking a stalking order (for non-family or non-intimate abusers) or a civil restraining order. You can also pursue criminal charges or bail conditions through police. (courts.nh.gov)
Protection order steps and timelines — at a glance
| Step | What happens | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|
| File petition | Clerk provides forms; judge reviews | Same day |
| Temporary order | Issued ex parte if immediate danger | Same day |
| Service on defendant | Police serve petition and any temporary order | Usually within a few days |
| Final hearing | Both sides heard | Within 30 days of filing or 10 days of service |
| Final order | Up to one year; can be extended (later extensions up to five years) | Issued at/after the hearing |
Sources: NH Judicial Branch and RSA 173-B. (courts.nh.gov, gc.nh.gov)
Free and confidential help from crisis centers
New Hampshire’s 12 community-based crisis centers provide shelter, court advocacy, hospital accompaniment, safety planning, support groups, and help with housing and benefits. Call the statewide line 1-866-644-3574 to connect to the nearest program. (nhcadsv.org)
- Thrive (Concord region): Crisis line 1-866-841-6229. (nhcadsv.org)
- Bridges (Nashua/Milford): Crisis line 603-883-3044. (nhcadsv.org)
- RESPONSE (North Country): Crisis line 1-866-662-4220. (nhcadsv.org)
- HAVEN (Seacoast): Crisis line 603-994-7233. (nhcadsv.org)
- Voices Against Violence (Plymouth region): Crisis line 603-536-1659. (nhcadsv.org)
- WISE (Upper Valley): Crisis line 1-866-348-9473 or 603-448-5525. (nhcadsv.org)
- Turning Points Network (Claremont/Newport): Crisis line 1-800-639-3130. (nhcadsv.org)
- Reach Crisis Services (Manchester): Crisis line 603-668-2299. (nhcadsv.org)
- Monadnock Center for Violence Prevention (Keene): Crisis line 1-888-511-6287. (nhcadsv.org)
- New Beginnings (Laconia): Crisis line 1-866-841-6247. (nhcadsv.org)
- Starting Point (Mount Washington Valley/Lakes): Crisis line 1-800-336-3795. (nhcadsv.org)
- UNH SHARPP (Durham campus): Crisis line 1-888-271-7233. (nhcadsv.org)
Reality check
Shelters are sometimes full. Advocates can arrange safe hotel placements, transportation, and out‑of‑area placements when possible, and can help you keep your kids’ school stable under federal education law. Call the statewide line to plan the safest option. (nhcadsv.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
If you cannot reach a center quickly, dial 211 for a warm transfer, or contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for safety planning while you wait. (211nh.org)
Money to stabilize your family
New Hampshire Victims’ Compensation Program
- Who qualifies: Victims of eligible misdemeanors or felonies and certain family members.
- What it can pay: Up to 40,000∗∗perprimaryvictimformedical/dental,counseling(∗∗upto40,000** per primary victim for medical/dental, counseling (**up to 4,000 or 40 visits), lost wages, relocation, 10 days of temporary emergency funds, locks, and security systems up to 3,000∗∗,plus∗∗funeralandburialupto3,000**, plus **funeral and burial up to 10,000 combined (caps are 7,000∗∗forfuneralandgravemarkerand∗∗7,000** for funeral and grave marker and **3,000 for burial). No property loss or pain/suffering. (doj.nh.gov)
- How to apply: File an application with the NH DOJ. You’ll hear from the program within about two weeks; full decisions can take several months while police reports are obtained. Phone: 603-271-1284 or 1-800-300-4500 (in NH). (doj.nh.gov)
- Plan B: Ask a crisis center advocate to help you apply and document relocation/security needs; many expenses can be direct‑billed to the program (for example, sexual assault forensic exams). (doj.nh.gov)
TANF-linked Emergency Assistance through DHHS
- What it helps with: Security deposit and/or first month’s rent up to 650∗∗total,backrentormortgageupto∗∗twomonths∗∗topreventlossofhousing,utilitydepositsandarrearsupto∗∗twomonths∗∗,and∗∗homeheatingfuel∗∗upto∗∗650** total, back rent or mortgage up to **two months** to prevent loss of housing, utility deposits and arrears up to **two months**, and **home heating fuel** up to **700 (deliveries may be authorized up to six times in 12 months). Funding is capped and may run out. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Who qualifies: Families with children who meet FANF (New Hampshire’s TANF) financial rules, even if you don’t receive monthly cash. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- How to apply: Submit the Emergency Assistance application with proof of the emergency (notice, ledger, utility shutoff). Mail to DHHS Centralized Scanning Unit, P.O. Box 181, Concord, NH 03301, or apply via NH EASY. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Important numbers: DHHS Customer Service 1-844-275-3447 (1‑844‑ASK‑DHHS). (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Plan B: If EA funds are depleted, request help from your municipal welfare office (cities and towns must provide general assistance under RSA 165), and call 211. (gc.nh.gov)
Monthly cash assistance (FANF)
- How it’s calculated: New Hampshire uses a payment standard equal to 60% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines to determine eligibility and grant amounts. For 2024, that standard is 1,291∗∗forafamilyofthreeand∗∗1,291** for a family of three and **1,560 for a family of four; your actual grant equals the standard minus your countable income. Lifetime limit generally 60 months. Apply via NH EASY. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Plan B: If you can’t meet work program requirements due to abuse, ask DHHS for the Family Violence Option or good cause; victims may be excused from certain participation or child support cooperation when safety is at stake. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Food help through SNAP
- Current maximums (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025) for the 48 states: household of 1 292∗∗,2∗∗292**, 2 **536, 3 768∗∗,4∗∗768**, 4 **975, 8 1,756∗∗;add∗∗1,756**; add **220 per additional person. The minimum benefit is $23 for small households. NH follows these federal amounts. (fns.usda.gov, dhhs.nh.gov)
- Income limits used by NH (effective Oct 1, 2024) include the 200% FPG gross test for expanded categorical eligibility and other standards listed by DHHS; check the state chart when you apply. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- How to apply: Apply at NH EASY, or call 603-271-9700 or 1-800-852-3345 ext. 9700 to request a paper application. Expedited cases are available for households with little to no income. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Plan B: Ask your crisis center to fax verifications, and contact the NH Food Bank SNAP Outreach through DHHS if you need help completing forms. (dhhs.nh.gov)
WIC for pregnant/postpartum moms and kids under five
- Income limits: Up to 185% of FPG (effective May 1, 2024–June 30, 2025). Example monthly limits: family of two 3,152∗∗,three∗∗3,152**, three **3,981, four $4,810. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Fruit and vegetable Cash-Value Benefit (CVB) amounts for FY 2025: children 26∗∗;pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**; pregnant/postpartum **47; fully or mostly breastfeeding $52 per month. (fns.usda.gov)
- How to apply: Call 1-800-942-4321 or find your clinic online; many appointments are by phone and eWIC benefits load to a card. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Plan B: If an appointment is delayed, ask about temporary vendor lists, online nutrition education, and breastfeeding peer counselors while you wait. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Unemployment and paid leave when abuse forces you to stop work
- Unemployment Insurance: If you leave a job because you reasonably believed separation was necessary to protect yourself or your immediate family from domestic abuse, you are not disqualified (good cause under RSA 282‑A:32 I(a)(3)). NH rules explain the evidence accepted; a protective order is not required. Apply right away. NHES hotline 603-271-7700; general 1-800-852-3400. (gc.nh.gov, casetext.com)
- NH Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML): Provides 60% wage replacement (up to the Social Security wage cap). Employer plans offer 6 or 12 weeks with a one‑time 7‑day elimination period; the individual plan provides 6 weeks with a one‑time 7‑month waiting period and premiums capped at $5/week. PFML may help if you need time to recover from injuries or care for a family member. Enrollment and claims are through MetLife. Worker info line 1‑866‑595‑7365. (paidfamilymedicalleave.nh.gov, metlife.com)
- Plan B: If you don’t qualify for PFML or UI yet, ask your employer about sick leave, FMLA (if eligible), or short‑term disability, and talk to a crisis center advocate about documentation to support workplace safety accommodations.
Money and benefits — quick comparison table
| Program | What it pays | Key amounts | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Victims’ Compensation | Medical, counseling, wages, relocation, funeral, security | Up to 40,000;counselingupto40,000; counseling up to 4,000/40 visits; funeral/burial up to 10,000combined;securitysystemsupto10,000 combined; security systems up to 3,000 | NH DOJ Victims’ Compensation |
| TANF Emergency Assistance | Deposits, first month’s rent, arrears, utilities, fuel | Security/first month up to 650;fuelupto650; fuel up to 700; arrears typically up to 2 months | DHHS Emergency Assistance |
| SNAP | Monthly food benefits on EBT | Family of four up to $975/month (FY 2025) | NH EASY (DHHS) |
| WIC | Specific foods plus CVB | CVB per month: children 26;pregnant/postpartum26; pregnant/postpartum 47; breastfeeding $52 | NH WIC clinics/State line |
| PFML | Partial wage replacement | 60% wage replacement; 6–12 weeks; premiums vary, individual plan ≤ $5/week | NH PFML/MetLife |
| Unemployment (UI) | Weekly benefits if you lose work | Amount based on prior wages; DV good-cause quit allowed | NH Employment Security |
Citations: NH DOJ, DHHS, USDA/FNS, NH PFML, NHES. (doj.nh.gov, dhhs.nh.gov, fns.usda.gov, paidfamilymedicalleave.nh.gov, metlife.com, gc.nh.gov)
Housing and staying housed
Your rights under VAWA
- If you live in or apply for HUD‑assisted housing or a voucher, you cannot be denied, evicted, or lose assistance because of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking. You may request an emergency transfer to safer housing, and housing providers must accept the HUD self‑certification form in most cases. Ask for forms HUD‑5380/5382. (hud.gov)
- Plan B: If a landlord threatens eviction for abuse‑related incidents, contact your crisis center advocate or 603 Legal Aid to assert VAWA rights and request an emergency transfer or lease bifurcation. (603legalaid.org)
New Hampshire Housing resources
- Housing Choice Voucher wait times are long (estimated 7–9 years statewide), but apply and claim any preferences that fit your situation; also search the Directory of Assisted Housing for subsidized apartments with separate waitlists. Phone 1‑800‑439‑7247 for application help. (nhhfa.org)
- Plan B: While waiting, combine Emergency Assistance, town welfare (required under RSA 165), and crisis center housing help to bridge to safe, stable housing. (gc.nh.gov)
Housing options — quick table
| Option | Why it helps | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Crisis center shelter or hotel placement | Confidential shelter, advocates, safety planning | Call 1‑866‑644‑3574 |
| TANF Emergency Assistance | Deposits, arrears, heating | Apply via DHHS |
| Municipal welfare (RSA 165) | Short‑term help with rent/utility when other aid isn’t enough | Town or city welfare office |
| HUD‑assisted housing and vouchers | Long‑term affordability; VAWA protections and transfers | NH Housing waitlist + local PHAs |
| 211 NH | Fast referrals to shelters, CAP agencies, rental help | Call 211 |
Legal help and court support
- 603 Legal Aid provides free advice and may connect you with the DOVE Project for a volunteer lawyer at your final protection order hearing. Call 1‑800‑639‑5290 or 603‑224‑3333, or apply online. (603legalaid.org)
- NH Legal Assistance (NHLA) handles family law, housing, and public benefits; main line 1‑800‑562‑3174. (nhla.org)
- Court interpreters are provided at no cost; call 1‑855‑212‑1234 to request services. (courts.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your crisis center to call legal aid on your behalf and flag any urgent hearings. If you’re denied, request written reasons and appeal timelines; DHHS appeals for benefits are typically 30 days (SNAP 90 days). (dhhs.nh.gov)
Child safety and reporting
- If you’re worried about a child’s safety, call DCYF Central Intake at 603‑271‑6562 or 1‑800‑894‑5533 (in‑state), 24/7. You do not need proof; reports can be confidential. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Health and mental health support
- NH Rapid Response provides 24/7 help by phone, text, or chat, can send a mobile crisis team, and set up same/next‑day appointments. Call or text 833‑710‑6477 or dial 988. (nh988.com)
- WIC and Medicaid: WIC appointments can be done by phone; NH Medicaid applications are through NH EASY (1‑844‑275‑3447). (dhhs.nh.gov)
Diverse communities — tailored tips and contacts
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your crisis center to connect you with affirming services; all NH crisis centers serve all survivors. For national peer support, contact the LGBT National Help Center or the National Domestic Violence Hotline for LGBTQ‑competent advocates. (nhcadsv.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or parenting a disabled child: Request accessible shelter and ASL or CART at court; interpreters are free through the Judicial Branch. Disability‑related accommodations can be included in your protection order (transportation, accessible exchange locations). (courts.nh.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: You may qualify for VA services and specialized housing supports; start with your crisis center for local VA contacts and ask about VAWA protections if you use HUD‑VASH.
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can get help regardless of immigration status. Interpreters are available through courts and crisis centers. WIC, school meals, and some benefits may be available without affecting immigration cases; talk with legal aid for case‑specific guidance. (courts.nh.gov)
- Tribal and Native survivors: Call the StrongHearts Native Helpline (1‑844‑762‑8483) in addition to the NH statewide line for culturally specific support. Use VAWA housing rights if you have HUD‑assisted housing.
- Rural moms with limited access: Ask advocates for transportation help and mobile advocacy; if cell service is poor, set fixed check‑in times with a trusted friend and your advocate. NH Rapid Response can dispatch teams statewide. (nh988.com)
- Single fathers: NH crisis centers serve all genders. If you’re the protective parent, you can request custody, supervised exchanges, and no‑contact orders. (nhcadsv.org)
- Language access: Courts provide interpreters at no cost, and crisis centers use phone interpretation if staff do not speak your language. Call 1‑855‑212‑1234 to arrange court interpreting. (courts.nh.gov)
New Hampshire by the numbers
- 11,805 victims were served by NH crisis centers in 2023, including 8,808 who experienced domestic violence; survivors spent 23,663 nights in emergency shelter. Average shelter stay was 62 nights. (nhcadsv.org)
- New Hampshire maintains a Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee to reduce future fatalities through systemic review of DV homicides. (doj.nh.gov)
Regional resource contacts — quick list
- Statewide helplines: Domestic violence 1‑866‑644‑3574; Sexual assault 1‑800‑277‑5570. (nhcadsv.org)
- Concord region: Thrive crisis line 1‑866‑841‑6229. (nhcadsv.org)
- Manchester: Reach crisis line 603‑668‑2299. (nhcadsv.org)
- Nashua/Milford: Bridges crisis line 603‑883‑3044. (nhcadsv.org)
- Keene/Monadnock: MCVP crisis line 1‑888‑511‑6287. (nhcadsv.org)
- Seacoast: HAVEN crisis line 603‑994‑7233. (nhcadsv.org)
- Plymouth region: Voices crisis line 603‑536‑1659. (nhcadsv.org)
- Upper Valley: WISE crisis line 1‑866‑348‑9473 or 603‑448‑5525. (nhcadsv.org)
- Laconia: New Beginnings crisis line 1‑866‑841‑6247. (nhcadsv.org)
- North Country: RESPONSE crisis line 1‑866‑662‑4220. (nhcadsv.org)
- Mount Washington Valley/Lakes: Starting Point crisis line 1‑800‑336‑3795. (nhcadsv.org)
- UNH Durham: SHARPP crisis line 1‑888‑271‑7233. (nhcadsv.org)
Application checklist
- Identification: Driver’s license or other photo ID; children’s birth certificates; Social Security cards.
- Housing: Lease or utility bill; landlord’s contact; eviction or past‑due notices.
- Income/benefits: Pay stubs, child support orders, benefit letters, bank balances.
- Abuse documentation: Police reports, medical notes, photos, texts/emails, witness statements.
- School/childcare: Enrollment, IEP/504 plans, childcare invoices.
- Plan B: If you cannot get documents quickly, submit applications anyway and tell the agency what you need help obtaining. DHHS and courts accept reasonable alternative proofs and may help verify. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting for “enough” evidence: Your sworn statement can be enough for a temporary order; bring whatever you have but don’t delay safety.
- Missing deadlines: Final hearings are scheduled within 30 days; if you can’t attend, ask the clerk in writing for a continuance. Appeals for DHHS benefits are 30 days (SNAP 90 days). (gc.nh.gov, dhhs.nh.gov)
- Not asking for financial relief: Protection orders can include child custody, support, and orders to pay rent, utilities, and car insurance—ask for what you need. (gc.nh.gov)
- Assuming eviction is inevitable: VAWA may protect your tenancy and offers emergency transfers. (hud.gov)
- Quitting work without advice: UI may be available when the separation is due to abuse—document safety reasons and apply right away. (gc.nh.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
- Domestic violence helpline: 1‑866‑644‑3574
- Sexual assault helpline: 1‑800‑277‑5570
- Mental health crisis: 833‑710‑6477 or 988
- Court information: 1‑855‑212‑1234
- Victims’ Compensation: 603‑271‑1284 / 1‑800‑300‑4500
- DHHS Customer Service: 1‑844‑275‑3447
- SNAP line: 603‑271‑9700 / 1‑800‑852‑3345 ext. 9700
- WIC: 1‑800‑942‑4321
- NH Employment Security: 603‑271‑7700 / 1‑800‑852‑3400
- 603 Legal Aid: 1‑800‑639‑5290 / 603‑224‑3333
- 211 NH: 211 or 1‑866‑444‑4211
FAQs — New Hampshire, fast answers
- How do I get an emergency order on a weekend: Ask police to contact the on‑call judge for a telephonic emergency order; you must go to court the next business day to continue the order. (gc.nh.gov)
- Do I have to pay to file: No. There is no filing fee and no fee for service of protective order paperwork. (gc.nh.gov)
- Can the order include my kids and the house: Yes. Courts can award temporary custody and exclusive use of the residence, and can order payments for housing and essentials. (gc.nh.gov)
- What if my abuser violates the order: Police must arrest on probable cause within 12 hours; weapons may be seized. (gc.nh.gov)
- How long will I wait for a final hearing: Within 30 days of filing or 10 days of service, whichever is later. (gc.nh.gov)
- Will the court provide an interpreter: Yes, free of charge; call 1‑855‑212‑1234 to arrange. (courts.nh.gov)
- What if I must leave my job for safety: You may qualify for Unemployment Insurance under the domestic abuse “good cause” rule; apply promptly. (gc.nh.gov)
- What help can I get with moving costs: DHHS Emergency Assistance can help with deposits/first month up to 650∗∗andfuelupto∗∗650** and fuel up to **700, subject to funding. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- How much could SNAP provide: For a family of four, up to $975/month through Sept 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
- Are there protections if I live in subsidized housing: Yes. VAWA protects survivors from eviction or denial of housing because of abuse and allows emergency transfers. (hud.gov)
“Real‑world” example scenarios
- Same‑day safety: After a Friday night incident, an officer helps you obtain a telephonic order; you and your kids stay one night in a hotel arranged by your crisis center and appear in court Monday for a temporary order and hearing date. The order includes no contact, firearms surrender, and temporary custody. (gc.nh.gov)
- Staying housed: Your landlord threatens eviction after police respond to a disturbance caused by the abuser. An advocate sends the HUD‑5380 notice to your landlord and requests an emergency transfer to a sister property with an opening; eviction is withdrawn. (hud.gov)
- Stabilizing money: You apply for EA to cover $650 deposit and first month’s rent after leaving; you also apply for SNAP and WIC the same week. Victims’ Compensation pays for locks and a security system. (dhhs.nh.gov, fns.usda.gov, doj.nh.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, USDA, HUD, the New Hampshire Judicial Branch, New Hampshire Department of Justice, and established nonprofits such as the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence and 603 Legal Aid. It follows our Editorial Standards for accuracy, inclusivity, and timely updates. We are independent researchers, not government employees, and cannot guarantee outcomes. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. For corrections, email info@asinglemother.org within 72 hours and we will investigate and update promptly.
Why we cite: Where you see facts and figures, we link directly to official pages so you can confirm details and take action quickly. Examples include SNAP FY 2025, WIC FY 2025 CVB, Emergency Assistance caps, Victims’ Compensation maximums, VAWA housing rights, and the protection order statutes and procedures. (fns.usda.gov, dhhs.nh.gov, doj.nh.gov, hud.gov, gc.nh.gov)
Disclaimer
Important: Laws, benefit amounts, eligibility rules, and program funding change. Always verify details with the agency or court handling your case. This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice, medical advice, or safety directives for your specific situation. For legal advice, contact 603 Legal Aid or NH Legal Assistance. We take your privacy seriously and maintain security safeguards for this site; still, use a safe device and clear your history after viewing. If you spot outdated information, email info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it quickly.
Sources and key links
- NH Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence — 24/7 helplines, local centers, and services. (nhcadsv.org)
- NH Judicial Branch — Orders of Protection, forms, timelines, and interpreter services. (courts.nh.gov)
- RSA 173‑B — Temporary and final relief, firearms, violations, and police powers. (gc.nh.gov)
- Victims’ Compensation Program (NH DOJ) — Amounts, covered costs, timelines, and contacts. (doj.nh.gov)
- DHHS — TANF Emergency Assistance and FANF standards. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- USDA/FNS — SNAP FY 2025 COLA; NH DHHS SNAP updates. (fns.usda.gov, dhhs.nh.gov)
- WIC — Income guidelines and FY 2025 CVB. (dhhs.nh.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- VAWA housing rights (HUD). (hud.gov)
- NH Rapid Response 988. (nh988.com)
- NH Employment Security — DV “good cause” for UI. (gc.nh.gov, casetext.com)
- NH Housing — Voucher wait times and assisted housing directory. (nhhfa.org)
- NH DCYF — Reporting child abuse. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- NHCADSV 2023 “Victims Served”. (nhcadsv.org)
What to do next
- Call 1‑866‑644‑3574 to connect with an advocate.
- File for a protection order today, and ask for custody, housing, financial support, and firearms surrender in the order.
- Apply for Emergency Assistance, SNAP, and WIC to stabilize the basics.
- Plan a safe housing path under VAWA and get legal help if needed.
You are not alone in doing the hard work—these services exist to back you up, step by step.
🏛️More New Hampshire Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Hampshire
- 📋 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
