Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in New Jersey
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in New Jersey
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built for single moms in New Jersey who need fast, no‑fluff steps to get safe, secure housing, money help, legal protection, and support for your kids. Every phone number, dollar amount, and deadline below is checked against official sources. Policies change, so use the links to verify and call the hotlines when in doubt.
Quick Help Box
- If you are in immediate danger: Call 911. Ask for a “domestic violence response” officer.
- New Jersey Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7, confidential): 1-800-572-SAFE (7233). Trained advocates can safety‑plan, help you find shelter tonight, and connect you to your county program. NJ DCF hotlines page (official). (nj.gov)
- NJ Courts—restraining order help: Call your county Family Division during business hours (8:30 AM–4:30 PM) for same‑day help filing a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO). After hours, weekends, or holidays, go to your local police department. NJ Courts domestic violence page. Hearing set within 10 days. (njcourts.gov, nj.gov)
- Deaf and hard‑of‑hearing survivors (videophone): 1-855-812-1001 or text LOVEIS to 22522. NJCEDV helplines. (njcedv.org)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7): Call or text 988 (press 1 for Veterans, press 2 for Spanish, press 3 for LGBTQI+ youth). FCC 988 info and 988 Lifeline. (fcc.gov, 988lifeline.org)
- Statewide legal help for low‑income NJ residents: 1-888‑LSNJ‑LAW (1-888‑576‑5529), Mon–Fri. Legal Services of NJ hotline. (lsnjlaw.org)
Emergency First Steps
- Get to safety now: If you can leave, bring IDs, EBT card, bank card, car keys, a few clothes, meds, and kids’ documents. If you can’t safely pack, leave anyway. Shelters can replace essentials.
- Call the statewide hotline: 1‑800‑572‑SAFE (7233) to arrange emergency shelter assessment, transport, or hotel placement when available. NJ DCF hotline info. (nj.gov)
- File for a TRO the same day: Go in person or by phone to your county Family Division (8:30 AM–4:30 PM). After hours, ask police to connect you to the municipal judge. TROs can include custody, parenting time, weapons removal, and exclusive use of your home. The court schedules a Final Restraining Order (FRO) hearing within 10 days. NJ Courts and NJ State Police. (njcourts.gov, nj.gov)
- Ask about safe transport: County programs can often pick you up discreetly. Your local DV agency is listed in the “Resources by Region” section.
- Call 988 if panic, trauma, or suicidal thoughts hit: Text or call 988. Spanish and specialized lines available. (fcc.gov, 988lifeline.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If the hotline is busy, call again or try your county DV program directly (see regional list). If you can’t safely speak, dial 911 and leave the line open when possible. If phones aren’t safe, use a public library computer to chat with the National Domestic Violence Hotline or visit a police station. (hopeandsafetynj.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Action | Who to Contact | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety tonight | Call statewide hotline for shelter | 1‑800‑572‑SAFE (7233) | 24/7 response. (nj.gov) |
| Court protection | Apply for TRO | County Family Division, or police after hours | TRO same day; FRO hearing within 10 days. (njcourts.gov, nj.gov) |
| Address safety | Join Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) | ACP info line 1‑877‑218‑9133 | Enrollment via trained agencies; mail forwarding ongoing. (nj.gov) |
| Money for urgent needs | Apply to VCCO (crime‑victim compensation) | VCCO 973‑648‑2107 or 877‑658‑2221 | Report crime within 9 months; apply within 5 years. Max award $25,000. (njoag.gov) |
| Time off work | Use NJ Earned Sick Leave (up to 40 hours); NJ SAFE Act (20 days) | Employer HR; see NJDOL | Leave protections now; documentation rules apply. (nj.gov, minimum-wage.org) |
| Wage replacement | NJ Family Leave/Temporary Disability (up to 85% pay; max $1,081/week in 2025) | NJDOL MyLeaveBenefits | Claims paid after approval; debit card funding. (nj.gov, nj.gov) |
| Food & cash | SNAP and WorkFirst NJ (TANF) | Apply via MyNJHelps | SNAP within 7–30 days; TANF “immediate need” possible. (nj.gov) |
Restraining Orders in New Jersey—Fast How‑To
- Go during business hours: Call your county Family Division first for directions. Examples include: Bergen 201‑221‑0700, Middlesex 732‑645‑4300, Essex 973‑776‑9300, Monmouth 732‑358‑8700. Full directory at NJ Courts. (njcourts.gov)
- Overnights/weekends/holidays: File through police at the municipal court; a judge can issue a TRO over the phone. (nj.gov)
- What a TRO can include: No contact orders, removal from home, weapons seizure, temporary custody and parenting time, support. FRO hearings are scheduled within 10 days. There is no filing or service fee. FROs do not expire. (njcourts.gov)
- Bring: Any photos, texts, medical notes, police reports, witness names, and children’s information if you’re seeking custody terms. Courthouse staff can help complete forms.
- If you need legal help: Call 1‑888‑576‑5529 (LSNJ) to ask for advice or representation. (lsnjlaw.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get to the courthouse, call the Family Division to file by phone. If you missed your FRO hearing because of safety or child care, call the Family Division number on your order immediately to ask about a new date. If you’re denied a TRO, contact your county DV program or LSNJ for next steps and safety planning. (njcourts.gov)
Key Contacts Table—Hotlines and Specialized Lines
| Service | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NJ Domestic Violence Hotline | 1‑800‑572‑SAFE (7233) | 24/7, confidential, bilingual; connects to county DV programs. (nj.gov) |
| National Domestic Violence Hotline | 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233); chat at TheHotline.org | Safety planning, referrals. (hopeandsafetynj.org) |
| Deaf/Hard‑of‑Hearing DV Videophone | 1‑855‑812‑1001; text LOVEIS to 22522 | Specialized trained advocates. (njcedv.org) |
| NJCASA Sexual Assault Hotline | 1‑800‑601‑7200 | Connects to county SART centers. (nj.gov) |
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | 988 (press 1 for Veterans, 2 Spanish, 3 LGBTQI+ youth) | Text or call, 24/7. (fcc.gov) |
| Legal Services of NJ | 1‑888‑576‑5529 | Free legal help for eligible residents. (lsnjlaw.org) |
Keep Your Address Safe
- Address Confidentiality Program (ACP): New Jersey’s ACP gives you a legal substitute address for home, work, and school, and forwards mail to you. State and local agencies must accept it as your legal address. To qualify, you must have a safety concern and relocate to a new address. Call 1‑877‑218‑9133 for info; enroll through trained application assistants at DV agencies. NJ DCF ACP overview. (nj.gov)
- Child support and TANF safety note: If you receive WorkFirst NJ (TANF) and fear that pursuing child support will put you or your child at risk, you can request a “good cause” waiver under the Family Violence Option. The county will code your case to protect your location; they must not contact the alleged abuser. (law.cornell.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your DV advocate to help you re‑apply to ACP and update agencies. If a government office refuses the ACP address, ask for a supervisor and bring the ACP law reference (N.J.R.S. 47:4‑1 et seq.; print the ACP page). (nj.gov)
Money Help for Survivors: Grants, Benefits, and Paid Time Off
Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO) — Cash help after abuse
- What it covers: Counseling (up to 20,000∗∗),relocation(∗∗20,000**), relocation (**3,000), funeral (7,500∗∗),lossofearningsupto∗∗7,500**), loss of earnings up to **600/week, childcare (6,500∗∗),domestichelp(∗∗6,500**), domestic help (**6,500), crime scene cleanup (4,000∗∗),andmore.∗∗Maximumaward4,000**), and more. **Maximum award 25,000 (plus extra for catastrophic injury). You must generally report the crime within 9 months and file within 5 years; “good cause” exceptions apply. Apply online or call 973‑648‑2107 or 877‑658‑2221. VCCO Benefits (official). (njoag.gov)
- Reality check: VCCO is the “payer of last resort,” so they subtract anything already covered by insurance or other programs. Keep receipts and police report numbers ready. (njoag.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county DV agency for help finishing the application; many have staff trained to file VCCO claims. If you’re denied, you can appeal to the Review Board listed in your letter. (njoag.gov)
NJ Earned Sick Leave and SAFE Act — Job‑protected time to handle DV
- Earned Sick Leave (ESL): Up to 40 hours/year for medical care, counseling, victim services, court dates, relocation, and safety planning for yourself or to support a loved one. Employers can require up to 7 days advance notice if foreseeable; reasonable documentation only after 3 consecutive days. NJDOL ESL DV guidance. (nj.gov)
- NJ SAFE Act: Up to 20 days of unpaid, job‑protected leave in the 12 months following a DV or sexual violence incident (employers with 25+ employees; 1,000 hours worked in the prior year required). Leave can be taken intermittently (full‑day increments). Employers may request documentation, which must be kept confidential. Official poster: AD‑289. NJDOL poster packet listing (official). (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer won’t honor ESL or SAFE leave, document everything in writing and contact NJDOL or a legal aid attorney. Bring a copy of the ESL law (N.J.S.A. 34:11D‑3) and the SAFE Act notice. (law.justia.com)
NJ Family Leave Insurance (FLI) and Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) — Wage replacement
- How much: Up to 85% of your average weekly wage, capped at $1,081/week in 2025 for both FLI and TDI. There’s no waiting week for FLI; benefits pay once approved. Payments load to a debit card. NJDOL press release—2025 benefit rates and FLI details. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- Use cases for survivors: Time to heal from injuries (TDI), attend counseling, or care for a traumatized child (FLI). Apply online for faster processing; incomplete claims delay payment. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your claim stalls, call NJDOL and ask what’s missing; upload documents clearly (PDFs, not photos). Ask a DV advocate to help with provider forms. (nj.gov)
Unemployment Insurance if you left work because of DV
- Good cause: You may qualify for UI if you quit or were fired due to domestic or sexual violence and you meet earnings rules. Acceptable proof includes restraining orders, police records, medical notes, or DV agency certification. NJDOL UI and DV page. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal quickly if denied. Ask LSNJ (1‑888‑576‑5529) for help preparing the appeal and gathering acceptable documents. (lsnjlaw.org)
Food, Cash, and Child Care
- SNAP (food benefits): Apply through MyNJHelps. Most decisions within 30 days; emergency SNAP within 7 days if you qualify. Maximum monthly amounts (Oct 2024–Sept 2025) for the 48 states: household of 1 292∗∗,2∗∗292**, 2 **536, 3 768∗∗,4∗∗768**, 4 **975, 5 1,158∗∗,6∗∗1,158**, 6 **1,390, 7 1,536∗∗,8∗∗1,536**, 8 **1,756; add 220∗∗perextraperson.Sheltercap∗∗220** per extra person. Shelter cap **712; standard deduction for 1–3 is $204. (fns.usda.gov, nj.gov)
- WorkFirst NJ (TANF cash): Monthly maximum benefit levels (Schedule II) include: 1 person 214∗∗,2∗∗214**, 2 **425, 3 559∗∗,4∗∗559**, 4 **644, 5 728∗∗,6∗∗728**, 6 **814, 7 894∗∗,8∗∗894**, 8 **961; add 66∗∗perextraperson.Initialincomescreenfor3is∗∗66** per extra person. Initial income screen for 3 is **839, for 4 is $966. “Immediate need” help can be issued at application if you lack shelter, utilities, food, or clothing. Apply via MyNJHelps. (regulations.justia.com, nj.gov)
- Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP): As of August 1, 2025, NJ has paused new CCAP applications due to funding. Current families keep help if still eligible, but no new children can be added after July 31, 2025. Check Head Start or your school district’s free Pre‑K options while the pause is in place. Official update at ChildCareNJ.gov. (childcarenj.gov)
- Health coverage: Apply for NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid/CHIP) at NJFamilyCare.org or call 1‑800‑701‑0710 (TTY 711). Applications usually take 30–45 days; coverage is year‑round and includes “Cover All Kids” regardless of immigration status for eligible income levels. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us, nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re turned away or delayed, call your county DV program; many have staff who can escalate benefits cases. For SNAP/TANF interviews you can ask for a phone interview if you can’t safely appear in person. (nj.gov)
Housing, Shelter, and Lease Rights
- Shelter and rapid rehousing: County DV agencies operate confidential safe houses and can help with rental assistance and relocation when funding allows (see county list below). DCF Domestic Violence Direct Services—funded programs. (nj.gov)
- VAWA housing protections: If you’re in HUD‑assisted housing or have a Section 8 voucher, you cannot be denied housing or evicted because of DV. You can request an emergency transfer to a safe unit. Providers must have an emergency transfer plan. HUD VAWA protections. (hud.gov)
- Safe Housing Act (early lease break): You can end your lease 30 days after giving your landlord written notice that you (or your child) face an imminent threat of serious harm from a named person, plus one form of proof (e.g., certified Final Restraining Order, police report, medical documentation, or DV agency certification). Statute: N.J.S.A. 46:8‑9.6. (law.justia.com, pub.njleg.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a landlord refuses a lawful termination under the Safe Housing Act, call LSNJ (1‑888‑576‑5529) or your county DV agency to send a legal letter with the statute and your documentation. For HUD housing issues, contact your housing authority and cite HUD VAWA emergency transfer rules. (lsnjlaw.org, hud.gov)
Step‑by‑Step: Filing a Restraining Order (TRO → FRO)
| Step | Where | What Happens | Deadline/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apply for TRO | County courthouse Family Division (or police after hours) | Staff help you complete the complaint; you speak with a judge or hearing officer. | Offices 8:30 AM–4:30 PM; after hours via police. No fees. (njcourts.gov) |
| TRO served | Sheriff/police serve the defendant | No contact starts once served; weapons removed; temporary custody/support may be included. | Keep a copy with you at all times. (njcourts.gov) |
| FRO hearing | Same court | Both sides testify; bring witnesses and evidence. | Set within 10 days of TRO. FROs do not expire. (njcourts.gov) |
| If TRO denied | DV agency/legal aid | You can refile with more detail or new evidence; safety‑plan regardless. | Call 1‑800‑572‑SAFE (7233) for help. (nj.gov) |
County & Regional Resources (Shelters, Hotlines, Help Near You)
Below are lead domestic violence agencies funded to serve each county. Call the statewide line 1‑800‑572‑SAFE (7233) to be routed, or contact the agency directly.
North Jersey
- Bergen County: Center for Hope & Safety, hotline 201‑944‑9600. Also, Alternatives to Domestic Violence, hotline 201‑336‑7575. NJSP county list. (nj.gov)
- Essex County: Essex County Family Justice Center 973‑230‑7229 (business hours). The Safe House (Clara Maass) hotline 973‑759‑2154. (nj.gov)
- Hudson County: WomenRising hotline 201‑333‑5700 (check county list). (nj.gov)
- Morris County: JBWS hotline 1‑877‑782‑2873; Deaf text line 973‑314‑4192. (nj.gov)
- Passaic County: Passaic County Domestic & Sexual Violence Center (NJAC). (nj.gov)
- Sussex County: DASI hotline via local agency. (nj.gov)
Central Jersey
- Middlesex County: Women Aware hotline 732‑249‑4504 (toll‑free 833‑249‑4504). South Asian survivors: Manavi hotline 732‑435‑1414. (womenaware.net, manavi.org)
- Mercer County: Younity (formerly Womanspace) hotline 609‑394‑9000. (nj.gov)
- Monmouth County: 180 Turning Lives Around hotline 1‑888‑843‑9262; Safe House accepts families and pets. (180nj.org)
- Somerset County: Safe+Sound Somerset. (nj.gov)
- Union County: YWCA Eastern Union County Project Protect hotline 908‑355‑4357. (counselingchd.org)
South Jersey
- Atlantic County: AVANZAR hotline 1‑800‑286‑4184 (text 609‑569‑5437). (nj.gov)
- Burlington & Ocean Counties: Providence House (Catholic Charities) Burlington 609‑871‑7551; Ocean via Catholic Charities. (nj.gov)
- Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester: Center for Family Services—SERV hotline 1‑866‑295‑SERV (7378). (centerffs.org)
- Cape May County: C.A.R.A. hotline 609‑522‑6489 (toll‑free 1‑877‑294‑2272). (nj.gov)
- Salem County: Salem County Women’s Services. (nj.gov)
Legal Help Beyond Restraining Orders
- Free civil legal help: 1‑888‑LSNJ‑LAW (1‑888‑576‑5529) for custody, support, housing, benefits, and DV issues. LSNJ hotline. (lsnjlaw.org)
- Crime victims’ rights attorneys (pro bono): New Jersey Crime Victims’ Law Center offers representation in criminal and civil courts. NJCVLC. (njcvlc.org)
- Court contact numbers: Family Division directory lists numbers for every county (for phone‑filing or questions). NJ Courts Family Division directory. (njcourts.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get legal help on the phone, try the online intake forms, leave a safe callback time, and ask your DV advocate to help you submit documents. (lsnjlaw.org)
Money and Food Programs—What You Can Get Right Now
Summary Table—Food and Cash
| Program | Who It Helps | What You Get | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Low‑income households | Monthly EBT food benefits up to the FY25 maximums (e.g., 3‑person 768∗∗,4‑person∗∗768**, 4‑person **975) | Apply at MyNJHelps. Decision in 7–30 days. (fns.usda.gov, nj.gov) |
| WorkFirst NJ (TANF) | Families with minor children | Monthly cash (e.g., 3‑person 559∗∗,4‑person∗∗559**, 4‑person **644); “immediate need” help possible | Apply via WFNJ. (regulations.justia.com, nj.gov) |
| VCCO | Crime victims | Reimbursement up to 25,000∗∗forcounseling,relocation(∗∗25,000** for counseling, relocation (**3,000), lost wages ($600/week max), and more | Apply online; report within 9 months; file within 5 years. (njoag.gov) |
Work and Income Protections
- Use sick time first: Up to 40 hours of NJ Earned Sick Leave for counseling, court, and safety steps; employers can’t demand documents for 1–2‑day uses and must keep details private. (nj.gov)
- Then use SAFE Act leave: Up to 20 days (unpaid, job‑protected) within 12 months after the incident; employers can ask for proof (restraining order, police report, DV specialist letter, etc.), which stays confidential. (minimum-wage.org)
- Replace wages: Apply for FLI/TDI for up to 85% of your average weekly wage (max $1,081/week in 2025). (nj.gov)
- If you had to quit/fired: Apply for UI with DV proof. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask HR in writing for ESL/SAFE leave, quote the law sections, and keep copies. If denied, file a complaint with NJDOL and call LSNJ. (nj.gov, law.justia.com)
Health Care and Counseling
- NJ FamilyCare: Apply online or call 1‑800‑701‑0710 (TTY 711). Coverage includes mental health, primary care, and kids’ care. Applications often take 30–45 days. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us, nj.gov)
- Therapy and support groups: Many county DV agencies offer free individual/group counseling and children’s groups; ask when you call the hotline. (nj.gov)
- Crisis: Call or text 988 for immediate emotional support. (988lifeline.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need care before approval, ask clinics or hospitals to enroll you via Presumptive Eligibility for short‑term coverage and to submit your NJ FamilyCare application. (nj.gov)
Diverse Communities and Inclusive Help
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Safety and respect: Ask for an advocate experienced with LGBTQ+ relationships; 180 Turning Lives Around and many county programs serve all genders and identities. For crisis support, call 988 and press 3 for LGBTQI+ youth (parents can call for guidance). (fcc.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Access needs: Ask for accessible shelter and transportation; Monmouth County’s Safe House provides accessible rooms and accepts pets. Apply for NJ FamilyCare for your child’s specialty care and therapies. (180nj.org, njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
- Veteran single mothers: Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, press 1. Ask your county DV agency about VA‑connected counseling and legal support. (988lifeline.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Immigration options: Some survivors can self‑petition under VAWA (Form I‑360) without the abuser; others may qualify for U visas. Never pay anyone promising guaranteed results—get reputable legal help via LSNJ or a trusted nonprofit. (usscis.org)
- Tribal citizens: Jurisdiction and services: Call the statewide hotline to be routed to culturally specific supports and legal referrals.
- Rural single moms with limited access: Connectivity: Ask the hotline for safe rides, remote court options by phone, or filing by phone with the Family Division. Many agencies can coordinate transport.
- Single fathers: Eligibility: All services listed serve survivors of any gender. Men can file for restraining orders and access shelter and counseling when available. (180nj.org)
- Language access: Interpretation: The NJ hotline and county agencies can arrange interpreters; many programs are bilingual. NJ Courts can also provide interpreters at hearings. (nj.gov)
“How Much and How Long?” Tables
SNAP Maximum Monthly Allotments (Oct 2024–Sept 2025)
| Household size | Max allotment |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each additional | $220 |
Source: USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA memo. (fns.usda.gov)
WorkFirst NJ (TANF) Cash Benefit Levels
| Assistance unit size | Max monthly cash |
|---|---|
| 1 | $214 |
| 2 | $425 |
| 3 | $559 |
| 4 | $644 |
| 5 | $728 |
| 6 | $814 |
| 7 | $894 |
| 8 | $961 |
| + each person | +$66 |
Source: N.J.A.C. 10:90‑3.3 (Schedules I & II), updated through March 17, 2025. (regulations.justia.com)
VCCO Benefits Snapshot
| Category | Amount/Limit |
|---|---|
| Counseling (injured victim or homicide survivor) | Up to $20,000 |
| Relocation | Up to $3,000 |
| Funeral | Up to $7,500 |
| Loss of earnings | Up to $600/week |
| Child care/day care | Up to $6,500 |
| Domestic help | Up to $6,500 |
| Crime scene cleanup | Up to $4,000 |
| Overall cap | $25,000 (plus supplemental for catastrophic injuries) |
Apply within the time limits: report within 9 months; claim within 5 years (good‑cause exceptions apply). (njoag.gov)
Paid Leave and Wage Replacement (2025)
| Program | Pay rate and cap | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| FLI (care/bonding or DV support needs) | 85% of average weekly wage, up to $1,081/week | Up to 12 weeks or 56 days intermittently per 12 months |
| TDI (your own medical recovery) | 85% of average weekly wage, up to $1,081/week | Varies by medical need |
Source: NJDOL 2025 benefit rates; program pages. (nj.gov)
Family Division Contact—Examples (verify your county)
| County | Phone (Family Division) |
|---|---|
| Atlantic | 609‑402‑0100 ext. 47467 |
| Bergen | 201‑221‑0700 ext. 25170 |
| Essex | 973‑776‑9300 ext. 57040 |
| Middlesex | 732‑645‑4300 ext. 88530 |
| Monmouth | 732‑358‑8700 ext. 87908 |
Full directory (all counties): NJ Courts Family Division directory. (njcourts.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to call: Many moms wait for “proof.” You don’t need perfect evidence to get help or a TRO. Call the hotline and let an advocate help you plan.
- Missing the FRO hearing: If you skip it, the case can proceed without you. If child care or safety blocks you, call the Family Division number on your order the same day and ask to reschedule.
- Posting on social media: Courts may consider posts; abusers may track you. Use a new email and change phone/cloud passwords.
- Not asking for DV “good cause”: If you’re on TANF and afraid to pursue child support, ask for a Family Violence Option waiver so your case is coded for safety. (law.cornell.edu)
- Relying on friends’ legal advice: Laws are specific. Call 1‑888‑576‑5529 for a free consult with LSNJ. (lsnjlaw.org)
Application Checklist
Bring what you can—if documents aren’t safe, agencies can help you replace them.
- ID for you and kids: Driver’s license, state ID, passport, birth certificates, Social Security cards.
- Proof of address: Lease, utility bill, or ACP documentation if enrolled.
- Income and expenses: Pay stubs, benefits letters, rent, utilities, child care receipts, medical bills.
- Evidence of abuse: Photos, texts, emails, medical notes, police reports, witness names. Not required for all services but helpful.
- Benefits accounts: EBT card, NJ FamilyCare numbers, case numbers.
Ten New Jersey‑Specific FAQs
- Is there a fee to file a restraining order: No. There is no cost to file or serve DV restraining orders in NJ. (njcourts.gov)
- How fast will I have a court hearing: Within 10 days of the TRO, the court sets a hearing for a Final Restraining Order. (njcourts.gov)
- Can I file by phone: Yes, during court hours via your county Family Division; after hours, go through police. (njcourts.gov)
- Can a Final Restraining Order expire: No. FROs in NJ do not expire. (njcourts.gov)
- How much SNAP could I get for a family of three: Up to $768/month (Oct 2024–Sept 2025) if otherwise eligible. (fns.usda.gov)
- What is the TANF cash amount for a family of four: Up to $644/month under current schedules. (regulations.justia.com)
- I had to quit my job because of abuse—can I get unemployment: Yes, with DV documentation and if you meet earnings rules. (nj.gov)
- How much will NJ Family Leave/Disability pay: Up to 85% of average weekly wage, max $1,081/week in 2025. (nj.gov)
- Can I break my lease to get safe housing: Yes; under the Safe Housing Act, your lease ends 30 days after you give notice plus required documentation. (law.justia.com)
- Is child care assistance open right now: New applications are paused as of August 1, 2025; current cases continue if eligible. Check Head Start or district Pre‑K. (childcarenj.gov)
Plan B Options If You Hit a Wall
- Hotline busy: Call again, or contact your county DV agency directly (see region list). Try the National DV Hotline if needed.
- No shelter space: Ask about hotel vouchers or short‑term placements; call nearby counties; ask your Family Division about a TRO for immediate safety and possession of the residence.
- Employer denies leave: Put your request in writing, cite NJ ESL or SAFE Act, and contact NJDOL or LSNJ with your documents. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- Benefits delayed: Ask for SNAP “expedited” screening (7 days) or TANF “immediate need.” Escalate through a supervisor and request help from a DV advocate. (nj.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Jersey Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
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 accuracy: Programs, dollar amounts, and rules can change quickly. Always verify details with the official agency before applying or making decisions. Where exact amounts are listed, they reflect the most recent official publications as of September 2025.
Safety and legal: This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. For legal advice about your situation, contact a licensed NJ attorney or Legal Services of NJ at 1‑888‑576‑5529. (lsnjlaw.org)
Site security: We take steps to keep this website secure. Avoid using shared devices where your abuser may have access. Clear your browser history and use the “quick exit” options on DV sites when possible.
Sources Cited (selected)
- NJ DCF Hotlines and DV services; ACP overview and hotline. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- NJ Courts domestic violence page; Family Division directories; NJ State Police DV info. (njcourts.gov, nj.gov)
- USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA memo (maximum allotments and standards). (fns.usda.gov)
- WorkFirst NJ TANF benefit schedules (N.J.A.C. 10:90‑3.3). (regulations.justia.com)
- NJDOL—Earned Sick Leave domestic/sexual violence uses; 2025 benefit rates; FLI/TDI program pages. (nj.gov)
- VCCO benefit levels and timelines (NJ OAG). (njoag.gov)
- HUD VAWA housing protections. (hud.gov)
- NJ Child Care Assistance Program pause notice (ChildCareNJ.gov). (childcarenj.gov)
- LSNJ statewide hotline and DV services guides. (lsnjlaw.org)
If you find outdated figures or broken links here, email info@asinglemother.org and we will correct within 48–72 hours.
🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey
- 📋 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
