Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in New Mexico
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in New Mexico
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- Immediate danger: Call 911. Tell the dispatcher “domestic violence,” give your location, and any protective order info.
- 24/7 confidential DV support: Call 1‑800‑799‑7233, text “START” to 88788, or use chat at the National Domestic Violence Hotline – 24/7 chat, text, call. (thehotline.org, acf.hhs.gov)
- Legal help for protective orders and custody: Call the New Mexico Legal Aid DV Helpline 1‑877‑974‑3400 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm). (newmexicolegalaid.org)
- New Mexico crisis mental health line: Call 988 or the NM Crisis & Access Line 1‑855‑662‑7474. (uwncnm.org)
- Find a shelter in New Mexico: Use the NMCADV – Find New Mexico Resources tool or call local programs listed below. (nmcadv.org)
- Crime Victim Compensation (medical, counseling, relocation): Call the NM Crime Victims Reparation Commission (CVRC) 1‑800‑306‑6262 or apply online. Max award 20,000∗∗(upto∗∗20,000** (up to **50,000 if permanently disabled). Counseling up to 30 sessions; funeral up to 6,000∗∗;eyeglassesupto∗∗6,000**; eyeglasses up to **350. (cvrc.nm.gov, cvrc.state.nm.us)
- Keep your home address confidential: New Mexico “Safe at Home” Address Confidentiality Program. Call 1‑800‑477‑3632. (sos.nm.gov)
Emergency Steps That Keep You Safer Today
- Safety first: If you can leave safely, go to a trusted place (friend, shelter, police station). If you must stay, put car keys, copies of IDs, birth certificates, and prescriptions where you can grab them quickly.
- Document injuries: Take photos, note dates/times; ask for a copy of any police report.
- Turn off location sharing: Disable location services and shared accounts on your phone. Use a safe device (library, friend) for sensitive searches like shelters and legal help. The Hotline site has quick‑exit buttons for safe browsing. (thehotline.org)
- Consider a protective order: You can usually get a same‑day temporary order; hearing is typically within about 10 days. Filing and service are at no cost to you. Details below. (law.justia.com)
- Call an advocate: A local advocate can safety‑plan with you, help with court forms, and arrange shelter/transport.
- Plan for kids and pets: Bring immunization cards, school info, meds, and any custody papers. Many NM shelters can help with pets or safety‑board them; ask when you call.
Protective Orders in New Mexico (What to do first)
How a Protective Order Works in NM
- What it is: New Mexico calls it an “Order of Protection.” You can ask for a temporary (ex parte) order the same day you file, and the court will set a hearing to decide a longer order. (domesticviolence.nmcourts.gov)
- Timeline: Courts must hold a hearing within about 10 days after granting the temporary order. If an ex parte order isn’t granted, the court sets a hearing (typically within 72 hours) and can extend timelines to get the respondent served. (law.justia.com)
- Cost: Filing and law‑enforcement service are at no cost to the protected party. (law.justia.com)
- Emergency orders: In emergencies when the court is closed, police can help request a 72‑hour emergency order. (domesticviolence.nmcourts.gov)
- Forms: Use statewide Supreme Court‑approved forms (English/Spanish). Main form is “Petition for Order of Protection” (Form 4‑961). Temporary orders expire in 10 days unless extended by the court after the hearing. (domesticviolence.nmcourts.gov)
- Service and enforcement: The clerk sends orders to law enforcement; police must enter orders into the national database within 72 hours. Violations can lead to arrest. (law.justia.com)
- Where to file/ask questions: Contact the court in your county (District Court, Magistrate Court, or the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court). Phone numbers below. (seconddistrict.nmcourts.gov)
Protective Orders at a Glance (New Mexico)
| Step | What to do | Timeframe | Cost | Where to get help |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| File petition | Complete Form 4‑961 and file at your local court; ask for a same‑day temporary order | Often same day for temporary order | $0 to file | NM Courts – Domestic Violence Forms & Files (nmcourts.gov) |
| Service on abuser | Sheriff/police serve the order and hearing notice | As soon as possible (required); clerk sends to law enforcement; entered in NCIC within 72 hours | $0 to you | Statute: service without cost to the protected party (law.justia.com) |
| Hearing | Judge decides whether to continue/modify order | About 10 days after temporary order | — | Statute timeline (law.justia.com) |
| Emergency order | When courts are closed | Up to 72 hours | — | Form 4‑973/4‑972 (emergency process initiated via law enforcement) (domesticviolence.nmcourts.gov) |
What to bring: Police report (if any), photos of injuries/damage, screenshots/texts, witnesses, medical records, custody orders, lease/title, paystubs (for support), and your ID.
Plan B if this stalls: Call the New Mexico Legal Aid DV Helpline 1‑877‑974‑3400 for help getting an emergency order or for representation. If you can’t reach them, ask the court’s Self‑Help Center for filing help (they can’t give legal advice but can help with forms): Bernalillo (Albuquerque) Self‑Help 505‑841‑6702; First Judicial (Santa Fe) Self‑Help 505‑455‑8250. (seconddistrict.nmcourts.gov, firstdistrict.nmcourts.gov)
Safety Planning, Tech Safety, and Keeping Your Address Private
- Phone and tech safety: Use a passcode your abuser doesn’t know. Disable location sharing and “Find My” on devices. Use private browsing. The Hotline has a quick‑exit button and privacy guidance. (thehotline.org)
- Mail and public records safety: Enroll in New Mexico’s Safe at Home (Address Confidentiality) Program to use a substitute state address and mail forwarding. Good for school registration, MVD, benefits, court, and more. Call 1‑800‑477‑3632 to apply. (sos.nm.gov)
- Plan B if this doesn’t work: Ask a shelter advocate to help you enroll; they’re recognized as application assistants. If immediate danger continues, ask police for a civil standby to safely retrieve belongings.
Financial Help You Can Request Right Away
Crime Victim Compensation (CVRC)
- What it pays: Medical/dental, counseling (up to 30 sessions), lost wages, funeral up to 6,000∗∗,eyeglassesupto∗∗6,000**, eyeglasses up to **350, and other medically necessary devices. Max claim 20,000∗∗(upto∗∗20,000** (up to **50,000 for permanent disability). No payment for property loss or pain/suffering. Decisions are usually made within up to 120 days. Call 1‑800‑306‑6262 or apply online. (cvrc.state.nm.us, cvrc.nm.gov)
- Relocation and rent: CVRC also administers Emergency Assistance Funds and a Relocation/Rent Certification process through approved agencies; amounts vary by need and verification. Ask an advocate to help you complete the Relocation & Rental Certification (RRAP) worksheet. (cvrc.state.nm.us)
- Tip for single moms: Ask for “priority processing” if you have urgent safety needs (e.g., locks changed, hotel nights, utilities to keep lights on for the kids). Forms are on CVRC’s Documents to Download page; advocates can submit on your behalf. (cvrc.state.nm.us)
- Plan B if delayed: Ask your local shelter about emergency motel vouchers and Rapid Re‑Housing slots; call 211 for other emergency funds while CVRC processes. (uwncnm.org)
Time Off Work, Paychecks, and Unemployment
Paid “Safe Leave” under New Mexico’s Healthy Workplaces Act
- What you get: Up to 64 hours of paid leave per year statewide. You earn 1 hour per 30 hours worked (or employers can front‑load 64 hours). You can use it to get medical care, counseling, relocate, meet with police or a lawyer, or go to court for domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking—for you or a family member. You can request orally or in writing. (dws.state.nm.us, nmlegis.gov)
- Plan B if HR is unhelpful: Show them the Healthy Workplaces Act FAQ on the DWS site; if denied, file a complaint with the Department of Workforce Solutions and ask an advocate to help document retaliation. (dws.state.nm.us)
Unemployment if you had to quit because of domestic violence
- Good cause to quit: New Mexico recognizes domestic abuse as a reason for leaving work and still qualifying for unemployment, with documentation (your sworn statement plus, when possible, police/court/shelter/doctor/advocate letters). Submit documentation within 10 days of filing your claim; the decision uses a “preponderance of evidence” standard. (srca.nm.gov)
- How much you might get: Benefits equal about 53.5% of your average weekly wage from your highest quarter, plus a $25 weekly allowance for up to two dependent children (dependent allowance can’t exceed 50% of your weekly benefit). The exact weekly minimum/maximum changes; ask when you file. File online at jobs.state.nm.us or by phone 1‑877‑664‑6984 (Mon–Fri, 8:00–4:30). (srca.nm.gov, law.cornell.edu, dws.state.nm.us)
- Plan B if denied: Keep certifying weekly and appeal by the deadline on your notice. Call New Mexico Legal Aid (1‑877‑974‑3400) to ask about appeal help.
Food, Cash, Health Care, Child Care, and Utilities
These programs are here so you can stabilize quickly. Where possible, we list current amounts and income limits verified for October 1, 2024–September 30, 2025 (SNAP/WIC) or current NM rules (TANF/Medicaid).
SNAP food benefits (EBT card for groceries)
- Maximum monthly SNAP amounts (Lower 48, FY 2025): 1 person 292∗∗;2people∗∗292**; 2 people **536; 3 people 768∗∗;4people∗∗768**; 4 people **975; 5 people 1,158∗∗;6people∗∗1,158**; 6 people **1,390; 7 people 1,536∗∗;8people∗∗1,536**; 8 people **1,756; add 220∗∗perextraperson.Grossmonthlyincomelimit(130220** per extra person. Gross monthly income limit (130% FPL) for 3: **2,798; for 4: 3,380∗∗.Minimumbenefitis∗∗3,380**. Minimum benefit is **23. Apply at yes.nm.gov or call HSD 1‑800‑283‑4465. (fns.usda.gov, hca.nm.gov)
- Documents: ID, SSNs if available, proof of NM residency, rent/utility info, and paystubs. Survivors with no documents yet should still apply—tell the worker you’re fleeing DV.
- Plan B if pending: Ask about “expedited SNAP” if you have little/no income—benefits can be issued faster for urgent need. If benefits are delayed, call HSD Customer Service 1‑800‑283‑4465.
TANF cash assistance (NM Works)
- What it provides: Monthly cash you can use for rent, diapers, utilities, etc. Max benefit depends on family size and countable income.
- Income limits (gross, 85% FPL) and “standard of need” (max grant at 0income):∗∗For3people,grosslimit∗∗0 income):** For 3 people, gross limit **1,829 and standard of need 550∗∗;for4people,grosslimit∗∗550**; for 4 people, gross limit **2,210 and standard of need 663∗∗;for5,grosslimit∗∗663**; for 5, gross limit **2,592, standard 775∗∗.Resourcelimits:∗∗775**. Resource limits: **1,500 liquid and $2,000 non‑liquid. Apply at yes.nm.gov or call 1‑800‑283‑4465. (srca.nm.gov, casetext.com)
- Work and transition supports: If you exit TANF due to earnings, NM’s Transition Bonus Program may pay 200/month∗∗upto∗∗18∗∗months.Childsupport“pass‑through”paysyourfamilyupto∗∗200/month** up to **18** months. Child support “pass‑through” pays your family up to **100 (one child) or $200 (two+ kids) per month without reducing TANF. (hca.nm.gov)
- Plan B if denied or sanctioned: Ask for a supervisor review and connect with NM Legal Aid. If safety is why you missed an appointment, tell the worker—state rules allow good‑cause exceptions for DV.
Quick Program Snapshot (SNAP and TANF)
| Program | Who it helps | Key amounts (2025 where shown) | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Low‑income households | Max for 3: 768∗∗;4:∗∗768**; 4: **975; gross income at 130% FPL for 3: $2,798 | USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA; apply via YesNM – apply for benefits or call 1‑800‑283‑4465. (fns.usda.gov, hca.nm.gov) |
| TANF (NM Works) | Families with children | Standard of need (max grant at 0income):3∗∗0 income): 3 **550**, 4 663∗∗,5∗∗663**, 5 **775; gross limit (85% FPL) for 4 $2,210 | See 8.102.500 NMAC (amended 3/1/2025); apply via YesNM or call 1‑800‑283‑4465. (srca.nm.gov) |
WIC (pregnancy, postpartum, babies, children under 5)
- Monthly fruit/vegetable benefit (FY 2025): Children 26∗∗;pregnantandpostpartum∗∗26**; pregnant and postpartum **47; fully/partially breastfeeding $52. (Other foods like milk, eggs, cereal, beans, whole grains are also included.) (fns.usda.gov, wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov)
- Apply: Call your local WIC clinic; if you’re already on Medicaid or SNAP, eligibility is easier to verify. Bring proof of ID, address, and pregnancy/child.
- Plan B: If a clinic is full, ask to be wait‑listed and request a referral to another clinic that can see you sooner.
Medicaid and health coverage
- Medicaid while pregnant: Coverage for pregnancy and 12 months postpartum. Category 301 covers up to 250% FPL; other pregnancy Medicaid uses a fixed standard. (hca.nm.gov)
- Medicaid expansion adults: Ages 19–64 with income under 133% FPL (5% disregard may apply). Parents/caretakers can also qualify under a fixed standard. Children and CHIP coverages reach much higher FPLs. See 2025–2026 table below. Apply at yes.nm.gov or call 1‑855‑637‑6574. (hca.nm.gov)
- Over‑the‑counter reproductive health: NM Medicaid covers Opill (OTC daily birth control), emergency contraception, and pregnancy tests at $0 out‑of‑pocket—show your Medicaid card at the pharmacy. (hca.nm.gov)
New Mexico Medicaid Financial Thresholds (effective 4/1/2025–3/31/2026)
| Household | 100% FPL | 133% FPL | 138% FPL | 190% FPL | 200% FPL | 240% FPL | 250% FPL | 300% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,305 | $1,735 | $1,800 | $2,478 | $2,609 | $3,130 | $3,261 | $3,913 |
| 2 | $1,763 | $2,345 | $2,433 | $3,349 | $3,525 | $4,230 | $4,407 | $5,288 |
| 3 | $2,221 | $2,954 | $3,065 | $4,220 | $4,442 | $5,330 | $5,553 | $6,663 |
| 4 | $2,680 | $3,564 | $3,698 | $5,091 | $5,359 | $6,430 | $6,698 | $8,038 |
Source: HCA “MAD 222 – Affordable Care Act Medicaid” (4/1/2025–3/31/2026). (hca.nm.gov)
Plan B if pending: Ask the caseworker to expedite due to safety/health risk; contact your MCO care coordinator once enrolled; for urgent reproductive health, ask a pharmacist about Medicaid’s $0 OTC coverage for Opill and emergency contraception while the application finalizes. (hca.nm.gov)
Child care assistance
- Who may qualify: Eligibility is broad statewide and includes families seeking safety from domestic violence. Use the state’s quick “Am I Eligible?” tool; if you’re fleeing abuse, note this on the application and ask for priority handling. For help, call UNM Resource & Referral 1‑800‑691‑9067. (eligibility.ececd.nm.gov, childcare.ececd.nm.gov)
- Plan B: If your application stalls, ask a shelter advocate to call your regional office with you; many survivors can be fast‑tracked when safety is at issue.
Utilities and cooling/heating assistance
- LIHEAP: Apply through yes.nm.gov. Eligibility and benefit amounts vary; NM posts its FFY 2025 LIHEAP point and income guide on the HCA website. If funds are tight statewide, ask your utility about shut‑off protections for DV survivors and payment plans. (hca.nm.gov)
- Plan B: Call 211 to search church and charity funds that can bridge one bill while LIHEAP processes. (uwncnm.org)
Housing and Shelter
- Domestic violence shelters (confidential locations):
• Albuquerque – S.A.F.E. House Hotline 505‑247‑4219 (toll‑free 800‑773‑3645). (safehousenm.org)
• Santa Fe – Esperanza Shelter 24/7 505‑473‑5200 (toll‑free 800‑473‑5220). (esperanzashelter.org)
• Las Cruces/Deming – La Casa, Inc. 24/7 575‑526‑2819. (lacasainc.org)
• Silver City/Grant Co. – El Refugio 24/7 575‑538‑2125 (toll‑free 888‑538‑2125). (eridv.org)
• Roswell/Chaves Co. – Roswell Refuge Hotline 575‑627‑8361. (womenslaw.org) - Find more programs statewide: Use NMCADV’s resource map or call NMCADV 505‑246‑9240 (Mon–Fri). (nmcadv.org)
- If you’re in HUD‑assisted housing: VAWA protects your right to stay housed or to be transferred for safety; ask your PHA for a VAWA emergency transfer request. (See HUD VAWA guidance.)
- Was there COVID‑era rental aid? The NM Home Fund’s statewide rental assistance is now closed; check Bernalillo and Doña Ana Counties for any local programs still open. (nmhomefund.org)
- Plan B: Ask a shelter about Rapid Re‑Housing or transitional housing; request CVRC help for deposits/relocation (see CVRC section). (cvrc.state.nm.us)
Free Legal Help and Court Contacts
- New Mexico Legal Aid DV Helpline: 1‑877‑974‑3400 (free, statewide). Help with protective orders, divorce, custody, housing, benefits. (newmexicolegalaid.org)
- Second Judicial District (Bernalillo/Albuquerque):
• Domestic Violence Division 505‑841‑6737; Self‑Help 505‑841‑6702; Clerk’s Domestic Relations 505‑841‑7421. Address: 400 Lomas Blvd. NW, Albuquerque. (seconddistrict.nmcourts.gov) - First Judicial District (Santa Fe) Self‑Help: 505‑455‑8250 / 505‑455‑8166. (firstdistrict.nmcourts.gov)
- Metropolitan Court Self‑Help (Bernalillo): 505‑841‑9817 (401 Lomas NW). (metro.nmcourts.gov)
- Find your court anywhere in NM: Use the court locator and call the clerk; ask for “Domestic Violence forms.” (seconddistrict.nmcourts.gov)
Diverse Communities and Tailored Help
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask any program about inclusive services and safety planning that respects your family structure. For culturally specific support and housing help, contact local DV programs through NMCADV’s resource map; many have trained LGBTQ+ advocates. (nmcadv.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Tell the advocate or caseworker what access you need (ASL interpreters, mobility). The Deaf community can use The Deaf Hotline video phone 855‑812‑1001 via The Hotline. Apply for Medicaid Home- and Community‑Based supports through HCA if you or your child need in‑home services. (thehotline.org)
Veteran single mothers: Ask your local VA for Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program contacts, and use VAWA housing protections if you’re in HUD‑VASH. Pair with CVRC compensation for counseling and relocation. (cvrc.state.nm.us)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can get help regardless of immigration status at programs like Enlace Comunitario (Spanish‑speaking, legal and transitional housing supports; Albuquerque office 505‑246‑8972). StrongHearts Native Helpline also supports Indigenous survivors. (womenslaw.org, cyfd.nm.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources: StrongHearts Native Helpline 1‑844‑762‑8483 provides DV advocacy for Native communities. Ask your tribal court/advocacy program about protection orders that are enforceable statewide and entered into NCIC. (nmcadv.org)
Rural single moms: If travel is hard, call programs first—many can meet you at a safe public place, help with transportation, or provide phone/video advocacy. Use 211 to find nearest services. (uwncnm.org)
Single fathers (for your safety plan or co‑parent safety): Most services help any survivor with children, regardless of gender. Call the Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233 and ask for local referrals. (thehotline.org)
Language access: State agencies provide interpretation (HCA/HSD use contracted language lines). Ask for an interpreter; you do not have to bring your own. (hsd.state.nm.us)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to apply: Protective orders, CVRC, and benefits take time. Filing now starts the clock.
- Not telling your caseworker about safety: Many deadlines and appointments can be flexed for DV; say “I’m a domestic violence survivor and need an accommodation.”
- Missing the unemployment documentation window: Submit your sworn statement and any supporting documents within 10 days to preserve UI eligibility. (srca.nm.gov)
- Sharing the order with the abuser yourself: Never serve it yourself—let law enforcement serve it at no cost. (law.justia.com)
- Digital trails: Turn off location sharing; change passwords from a safe device; log out of shared accounts. (thehotline.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First call | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency safety | 911 | National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233 (text “START” to 88788) (thehotline.org) |
| Protective order | Local court clerk; NM Legal Aid 1‑877‑974‑3400 | Court Self‑Help (ABQ 505‑841‑6702; Santa Fe 505‑455‑8250) (seconddistrict.nmcourts.gov, firstdistrict.nmcourts.gov) |
| Shelter | NMCADV resource map | S.A.F.E. House ABQ 505‑247‑4219; Esperanza 505‑473‑5200 (nmcadv.org, safehousenm.org, esperanzashelter.org) |
| Money for relocation/medical | CVRC 1‑800‑306‑6262 | Ask your shelter advocate to submit emergency requests (cvrc.nm.gov) |
| Food | Apply SNAP at yes.nm.gov or call HSD 1‑800‑283‑4465 | Food bank via 211 (fns.usda.gov, uwncnm.org) |
| Cash | TANF (NM Works) via yes.nm.gov | Ask about Transition Bonus $200/mo up to 18 months (hca.nm.gov) |
| Medical | Medicaid at yes.nm.gov or 1‑855‑637‑6574 | Clinics: ask about presumptive eligibility; WIC for kids/pregnancy (hca.nm.gov) |
Application Checklist
- IDs and essentials: Your ID; kids’ birth certificates; Social Security numbers if available; any custody/child support orders.
- Address safety: If using Safe at Home, bring your participant card; use the substitute address on forms. (sos.nm.gov)
- Income proofs: Recent paystubs, child support, unemployment, or a statement explaining zero income.
- Housing & bills: Lease, utility bills/shut‑off notices.
- Abuse documentation (optional but helpful): Police reports, medical records, photos, texts/emails, shelter letters; your sworn statement.
- Banking: If safe, set up direct deposit or an EBT card mailed to a safe address (Safe at Home can forward).
Regional Resources (selected)
- Albuquerque – S.A.F.E. House: 24/7 505‑247‑4219; Toll‑free 800‑773‑3645. Shelter, advocacy, legal navigation. (safehousenm.org)
- Santa Fe – Esperanza Shelter: 24/7 505‑473‑5200; Toll‑free 800‑473‑5220. (esperanzashelter.org)
- Las Cruces/Deming – La Casa, Inc.: 24/7 575‑526‑2819. (lacasainc.org)
- Silver City/Grant Co. – El Refugio: 24/7 575‑538‑2125; Toll‑free 888‑538‑2125. (eridv.org)
- Roswell/Chaves Co. – Roswell Refuge: Hotline 575‑627‑8361. (womenslaw.org)
- Statewide map and numbers: NMCADV – Find New Mexico Resources. (nmcadv.org)
Legal and Court How‑To (step‑by‑step)
- Get the forms: Download and print “Petition for Order of Protection” (Form 4‑961) and “Service of Process” (4‑961A). If you can’t print, pick up forms at the courthouse or ask an advocate to help. (domesticviolence.nmcourts.gov)
- Fill them out safely: Use a safe address (Safe at Home if enrolled). List specific incidents with dates; include threats to children and pets.
- File at the courthouse: Ask for an ex parte temporary order. Bring your kids if they’re in danger and you need temporary custody terms included. Filing and service cost you $0. (law.justia.com)
- Service by law enforcement: Provide the abuser’s info (DOB, work, vehicle). The clerk sends the order to law enforcement for service.
- Prepare for the hearing (about 10 days): Bring photos, messages, witnesses, school records, and plan your testimony. An advocate can attend with you. (law.justia.com)
- After the hearing: If a longer order is granted, keep certified copies with you, your child’s school, and your employer. Ask the court how to extend or modify if safety changes. Forms exist to extend/modify (Form 4‑968). (domesticviolence.nmcourts.gov)
Plan B if you’re turned away or can’t be served: Call NM Legal Aid (1‑877‑974‑3400) about next steps; ask the court for alternative service; consider safety moves like shelter or Safe at Home while service is attempted. (newmexicolegalaid.org)
Realistic Timelines
- Protective order: Same‑day temporary order possible; service can take a few days; hearing around 10 days. (law.justia.com)
- CVRC compensation: Allow up to 120 days for a decision; emergency funds can be faster through partner agencies. (cvrc.state.nm.us)
- SNAP/TANF/Medicaid: If documents are ready and you respond to interviews quickly, expect 1–4 weeks; request expedition due to domestic violence.
- Unemployment for DV: If you submit documentation within 10 days, benefits can start after eligibility is confirmed; back pay is possible to the filing or documentation date under rules. (srca.nm.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions (New Mexico)
- How fast can I get a temporary protective order: Often the same day you file, with a hearing set within about 10 days. (law.justia.com)
- Do I pay filing or service fees for a protective order: No—service and filing are at no cost to the protected party. (law.justia.com)
- What if the court is closed and I need protection tonight: Police can help you request a 72‑hour emergency order. (domesticviolence.nmcourts.gov)
- Can the order cover my kids: Yes—ask for custody/visitation terms in the temporary order; bring kids’ details and any prior orders. (domesticviolence.nmcourts.gov)
- What if my abuser breaks the order: Call 911, show the order, and request arrest for violation. Keep copies at home, work, and school. (law.justia.com)
- How much can CVRC pay for counseling or funeral costs: Up to 30 counseling sessions; funeral up to 6,000∗∗;totalclaimupto∗∗6,000**; total claim up to **20,000 (or $50,000 if permanently disabled). (cvrc.state.nm.us)
- Can I take paid time to move or go to court: Yes—under the Healthy Workplaces Act you earn up to 64 hours yearly that can be used for domestic abuse needs. (dws.state.nm.us)
- I had to quit my unsafe job. Can I get unemployment: Possibly, if you submit a sworn statement and, if available, other documents within 10 days; DV is “good cause.” (srca.nm.gov)
- How much is SNAP right now: For 4 people, the maximum is 975∗∗monthly(Lower48,FY2025).Grossincomelimit(130975** monthly (Lower 48, FY 2025). Gross income limit (130% FPL) for 4 is **3,380. (fns.usda.gov)
- Where can I find local shelters and advocates: Use NMCADV’s statewide search tool, or call the numbers listed above for your region. (nmcadv.org)
Tables You Can Screenshot
Key Hotlines You May Need
| Service | Phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency | 911 | Ask for a “domestic violence officer,” if available |
| National DV Hotline | 1‑800‑799‑7233; text 88788 | 24/7 chat/call/text; Spanish and 170+ languages via interpreter (thehotline.org) |
| NM Legal Aid DV Helpline | 1‑877‑974‑3400 | Mon–Fri, 9–5; legal info and referrals (newmexicolegalaid.org) |
| NM Crisis & Access Line | 1‑855‑662‑7474 | 24/7 mental health support (uwncnm.org) |
| CVRC (Victim Compensation) | 1‑800‑306‑6262 | Financial help for victims; apply online (cvrc.nm.gov) |
| Safe at Home (ACP) | 1‑800‑477‑3632 | Substitute address and mail forwarding (sos.nm.gov) |
Protective Orders – What the Court Can Do
| Protection | Examples |
|---|---|
| No abuse/no contact | No calls, texts, messages, or third‑party contact |
| Stay‑away zones | Home, school, work, daycare |
| Temporary custody/visitation | Judge can add safe‑exchange or supervised visits |
| Firearms | Judge can restrict possession consistent with law |
| Other relief | Pets, property retrieval, counseling referrals |
Money and Benefits at a Glance
| Program | Typical amount | Eligibility snapshot |
|---|---|---|
| CVRC compensation | Up to 20,000∗∗(or∗∗20,000** (or **50,000 if permanently disabled); funeral up to $6,000; counseling up to 30 sessions | Victim of a qualifying violent crime; timely report/cooperation; apply to CVRC (cvrc.state.nm.us) |
| SNAP max (4 people) | $975 / month | Income around 130% FPL or BBCE rules; deductions apply (FY 2025) (fns.usda.gov) |
| TANF max grant | 3 550∗∗;4∗∗550**; 4 **663; 5 $775 | Countable income under rules; work activities may apply; DV good‑cause options (srca.nm.gov) |
| WIC CVB | Kids 26∗∗;pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**; pregnant/postpartum **47; breastfeeding $52 | Categorical + income eligible (often adj. if on Medicaid/SNAP) (fns.usda.gov) |
| Paid safe leave | Up to 64 hours / year | Accrued 1/30 hours worked; for DV/SA/stalking needs (dws.state.nm.us) |
Where to File or Get Court Help
| Location | Phone |
|---|---|
| Bernalillo (ABQ) Domestic Violence Division | 505‑841‑6737 (seconddistrict.nmcourts.gov) |
| Bernalillo Self‑Help Center | 505‑841‑6702 (seconddistrict.nmcourts.gov) |
| First Judicial (Santa Fe) Self‑Help | 505‑455‑8250 / 505‑455‑8166 (firstdistrict.nmcourts.gov) |
| Metropolitan Court Self‑Help (Bernalillo) | 505‑841‑9817 (metro.nmcourts.gov) |
What to Do if a Path Isn’t Working
- If a shelter is full: Ask the advocate to place you on a waitlist and to call neighboring counties. Request hotel vouchers for a night or two.
- If benefits are delayed: Ask for supervisor review and flag domestic violence for priority handling. Call 211 to patch gaps for a week or two. (uwncnm.org)
- If an employer refuses leave: Show the DWS Healthy Workplaces Act guidance and ask for HR escalation; document retaliation and contact DWS. (dws.state.nm.us)
- If police won’t take a report: Call again and ask for a supervisor; go to a different station with an advocate; keep your own written log with dates/times.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Mexico courts and agencies (New Mexico Courts, CVRC, Department of Workforce Solutions, Health Care Authority/HSD, Secretary of State) and established nonprofits (NMCADV, NM Legal Aid, National DV Hotline). It follows our Editorial Standards for source verification, timely updates, and practical “how‑to” steps.
- Last verified: September 2025; Next review: April 2026.
- Questions or corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and update verified changes within 48 hours (urgent safety corrections within 24 hours).
Disclaimer
Program details change: Benefit amounts, income limits, timelines, and procedures can change. Always verify with the agency links and numbers in this guide before you apply or appear in court.
Not legal advice: This guide is general information for single mothers in New Mexico. For legal advice about your situation, contact a licensed attorney or call NM Legal Aid.
Safety and privacy online: Use a safe device and private browsing. If you think your device is monitored, call hotlines instead of using the web. Keep your kids’ and your own data secure by using programs like Safe at Home and by updating passwords regularly. (sos.nm.gov, thehotline.org)
Sources (selected)
- Protective orders – statutes, timelines, service at no cost: NM Stat. §§ 40‑13‑4 and 40‑13‑6; NM Courts DV forms and process pages. (law.justia.com, domesticviolence.nmcourts.gov)
- Address Confidentiality (Safe at Home): NM Secretary of State program overview and contact. (sos.nm.gov)
- Victim compensation amounts and timelines: NM CVRC – Compensation Application; Justia summary of award caps. (cvrc.state.nm.us, law.justia.com)
- Healthy Workplaces Act (paid safe leave): NMDWS FAQs and legislative text explaining DV uses and accrual (64 hours/year; 1/30 hours). (dws.state.nm.us, nmlegis.gov)
- Unemployment – domestic violence documentation and deadlines: NMAC 11.3.300 and DWS UI info. (srca.nm.gov)
- SNAP FY 2025 amounts and income limits: USDA FNS FY 2025 COLA memo and tables. (fns.usda.gov)
- WIC FY 2025 CVB amounts: USDA WIC FY 2025 CVB memo; WIC Breastfeeding Support page. (fns.usda.gov, wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov)
- TANF (NM Works) 2025 standards and income limits: 8.102.500 NMAC (amended 3/1/2025). (srca.nm.gov)
- Medicaid thresholds 2025–2026: HCA MAD 222 (effective 4/1/2025). (hca.nm.gov)
- NM shelters and statewide resources: NMCADV resource map and local provider pages (S.A.F.E. House, Esperanza, La Casa, El Refugio, Roswell Refuge). (nmcadv.org, safehousenm.org, esperanzashelter.org, lacasainc.org, eridv.org, womenslaw.org)
If you need help choosing which step to take first, reply with your county and I’ll point you to the fastest option (shelter, court, or benefits) and the right phone number today.
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