Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Texas
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Texas
Last updated: September 2025
Texas has lifesaving help you can use today. This guide keeps things practical and specific to Texas, with verified phone numbers, dollar amounts, timelines, and direct links to official programs and forms. It also covers common roadblocks and Plan B options in case something doesn’t work the first time.
Quick Help Box
- Immediate danger: Call 911 from a safe phone. If speaking puts you at risk, ask the dispatcher for help in creating a safe way to communicate.
- 24/7 domestic violence hotline: Call 800-799-7233 (TTY 800-787-3224), text START to 88788, or chat via the National Domestic Violence Hotline for safety planning, shelter, and local referrals. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Texas shelter and advocacy programs: Use the state’s directory of HHSC‑funded family violence centers (includes shelter hotlines) at the Family Violence Program Resources page. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Protective orders and forms: Get standardized Texas protective order forms (including magistrate’s emergency orders and temporary ex parte) from the Texas Office of Court Administration Standardized Protective Order Forms. (txcourts.gov)
- Keep your address private: Texas Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) phone 888-832-2322; apply and learn how it works at ACP – Texas Attorney General. Typical processing is “most applications reviewed within two weeks.” (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Money to relocate fast: Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation can cover up to 5,000∗∗inrelocationandrentdepositsforcrimesonorafter9/1/2023.Call∗∗800−983−9933∗∗orsee[RentandRelocationReimbursement](https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/crime−victims/crime−victims−compensation−program/relocation−costs).TotalCVCcompensationcanreach∗∗5,000** in relocation and rent deposits for crimes on or after 9/1/2023. Call **800-983-9933** or see [Rent and Relocation Reimbursement](https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/crime-victims/crime-victims-compensation-program/relocation-costs). Total CVC compensation can reach **50,000 per claim (more for catastrophic injury). (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Food help within days: SNAP expedited service can issue benefits the same day or within 7 days if you meet emergency criteria; apply at YourTexasBenefits.com. FY2025 max benefit for a family of 4 is $975/month. Call 211 or 877-541-7905 if you need help applying. (hhs.texas.gov, fns.usda.gov)
What This Guide Adds
- Newest protective‑order timelines: As of September 1, 2025, Texas magistrate’s emergency protective orders last a minimum of 61 days and up to 121 days in deadly‑weapon cases. Many pages online still show the old 31/61/91‑day ranges. We cite the 2025 law change and state court notice. (capitol.texas.gov, txcourts.gov)
- Exact money amounts and deadlines: Verified CVC relocation caps, overall CVC claim caps, and SNAP FY2025 max allotments and income thresholds (not stale figures from prior years). (texasattorneygeneral.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Texas‑specific housing rights: How to end a lease early for family violence, lock‑change timelines, and retrieving vital items from a residence—pulled from Texas statutes and TexasLawHelp. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov, es.texaslawhelp.org)
- Direct local contacts: State directory of shelters and major‑metro hotlines you can actually call tonight. (hhs.texas.gov)
Start Here: First 5 Moves If You’re Unsafe
- Get a safe plan and place: Call 800-799-7233 or the nearest Texas shelter hotline listed on HHSC’s directory. Ask about immediate shelter, a danger assessment, and help with kids, pets, and transportation. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Ask about a protective order right away: If the abuser was just arrested, ask law enforcement or the magistrate for an emergency order before release. If not, you can still seek a temporary ex parte order through the district or county attorney or with help from a legal aid/shelter advocate. Use state‑approved forms here: Texas Protective Order Forms. (txcourts.gov)
- Protect your address: If moving or worried about public records, call the ACP at 888-832-2322 or work with a shelter advocate to apply. ACP provides a legal substitute P.O. Box you can use for school, DPS ID, voter registration, and more. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Secure fast money for moving: If you qualify as a crime victim, CVC can pay deposits, moving costs, and initial rent (up to $5,000 for crimes after 8/31/2023). Start the CVC application as soon as possible, even if police are still investigating. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Apply for emergency food and cash help: Ask for SNAP expedited service (benefits same day or within 7 days if eligible). If your crisis is short‑term, ask about One‑Time TANF or One‑Time TANF for Relatives ($1,000 for certain caregivers). Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com. (hhs.texas.gov)
Plan B: If any office turns you away, call a shelter advocate for help navigating the system, or call 211 statewide to get routed to another provider the same day. (hhs.texas.gov)
Quick‑Reference Cheat Sheet
| What you need | What to do now | Where to go |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency shelter tonight | Call NDVH or your closest Texas shelter hotline | Texas Family Violence Program Resources directory (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Emergency protective order after an arrest | Ask the magistrate for a Magistrate’s Order for Emergency Protection (MOEP) at first appearance | MOEP lasts 61–91 days; 91–121 with a deadly weapon (effective 9/1/2025) (capitol.texas.gov) |
| Protective order if there’s no arrest | File for a temporary ex parte protective order and final order using standardized forms | Texas OCA Protective Order Forms (txcourts.gov) |
| Keep your home address off public records | Apply to the Address Confidentiality Program | ACP phone 888-832-2322; ACP details and application (texasattorneygeneral.gov) |
| Money to move and deposits | Apply for CVC relocation assistance (up to $5,000) | CVC Relocation help, CVC phone 800-983-9933 (texasattorneygeneral.gov) |
| Food this week | Ask for SNAP “expedited service” (benefits same day or within 7 days) | Texas Works policy on expedited SNAP (hhs.texas.gov) |
Hotlines, Shelters, and Local Contacts
Texas funds a network of 80+ shelters and non‑residential centers that provided about 1.9 million services to over 66,700 adults and children statewide in FY2024. Services are free and do not require income verification. Use the map and list to call the center nearest you; locations online are approximate for safety. (hhs.texas.gov)
Statewide and Key Metro Hotlines (selected examples)
| Area | Organization | 24/7 Hotline |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide | National Domestic Violence Hotline | 800-799-7233 (TTY 800-787-3224), text 88788 (text “START”) (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Dallas County | The Family Place | 214-941-1991 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Tarrant County | SafeHaven of Tarrant County | 877-701-7233 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Harris County (Houston) | Houston Area Women’s Center | 713-528-2121 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Travis County (Austin) | SAFE Alliance | 512-267-7233 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Bexar County (San Antonio) | Family Violence Prevention Services | 210-733-8810 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| El Paso | Center Against Family Violence | 915-593-7300 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Rio Grande Valley | Women Together / Amigas | 800-580-4879 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| East Texas (Tyler) | East Texas Crisis Center | 800-333-0358 (hhs.texas.gov) |
Tip: If a line is busy, call another center in the next county. Advocates can arrange safe transport across county lines. (hhs.texas.gov)
Plan B: Call 211 or 877-541-7905 and say “family violence shelter” to be routed to the nearest program. (hhs.texas.gov)
Protective Orders in Texas: What They Do and How Fast
Protective orders are court orders that can order the abuser to stay away, stop contact, leave the home, and more. There are several types; here’s the key info that matters during a crisis.
Types, Durations, and Where They Come From
| Order type | How you get it | Typical duration |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary ex parte protective order | You apply with the help of a prosecutor, legal aid, or self‑help using standardized forms; judge can issue without notifying the abuser if there’s danger | Up to 20 days; can be extended in 20‑day increments. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov) |
| Final protective order (Family Code Ch. 85) | Hearing with notice to abuser; court must issue if family violence occurred | Up to 2 years, or longer if the court finds certain serious factors (felony conduct, serious bodily injury, or multiple prior orders). (statutes.capitol.texas.gov) |
| Magistrate’s Order for Emergency Protection (MOEP) after arrest | Issued by a magistrate at the defendant’s first appearance after an arrest for family violence/related offenses; some cases require the judge to issue | Effective on issuance; as of Sept. 1, 2025: up to 91 days (min 61), or up to 121 days (min 91) if a deadly weapon was used/exhibited. (capitol.texas.gov) |
No fees to apply: By law, applicants are not charged filing or service fees for protective orders, and courts can order the abuser to pay costs. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
Standardized forms: Use the statewide forms and instructions here to reduce mistakes: Texas Protective Order Forms (OCA). (txcourts.gov)
Plan B: If you cannot file today, ask police about a MOEP if an arrest occurs, and carry a written safety plan from a shelter advocate in the meantime. (txcourts.gov)
Keep Your Address Private: Texas Address Confidentiality Program (ACP)
What it is: A confidential substitute address (P.O. Box) you can legally use for driver’s license, voter registration, school enrollment, and most state and local records. Mail is forwarded to you. Program terms are 3 years with renewal. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
Who qualifies: Survivors of family violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, or child abduction with a protective order/injunction or documentation of the crime. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
How to apply: Work with a certified advocate (recommended) or apply yourself; typical processing is “most applications reviewed within two weeks.” ACP phone: 888-832-2322. Details and forms: ACP – Office of the Attorney General. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
Plan B: If mail forwarding delay (about 3–4 days) creates issues, ask a shelter advocate to be an interim mail contact and pair ACP with a protective order and landlord lock‑change. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
Housing and Safety at Home
End a Lease Early Because of Family Violence
Texas law lets you legally end a residential lease early—and avoid future rent and penalties—if you provide required documentation and written notice (30 days in most cases) and then move out by the termination date. If the abuser is a cotenant/occupant, the law waives the 30‑day notice. See Texas Property Code § 92.016 and this plain‑language guide. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov, es.texaslawhelp.org)
What to give your landlord (one of the following): a temporary ex parte order, protective order, MOEP, or documentation from a licensed health/mental health provider or a qualified advocate. Provide written notice and move out by the date in your notice. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
If the landlord refuses: The statute allows actual damages, a civil penalty of one month’s rent plus $500, and attorney’s fees for violations. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
Plan B: If timing or proof is a problem, talk to a shelter legal advocate about a temporary ex parte order to meet the documentation rule, or use VAWA emergency transfer rights if you are in HUD‑assisted housing. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov, hud.gov)
Change the Locks Quickly
Texas law requires landlords to rekey after tenant turnover and to make security upgrades upon request within a “reasonable time,” presumed within 7 days after receiving your request or required payment. You can request rekeying or added security devices at your expense; some situations shift costs to the landlord. Cite Texas Property Code §§ 92.156–92.161. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
Plan B: If the abuser is a cotenant, a protective order can authorize exclusive possession and help ensure no key is given to the respondent. A shelter advocate or legal aid can help you ask the court for this term in the order. (txcourts.gov)
Retrieve Vital Items Safely
If you had to flee and need medicine, IDs, or kids’ items, Texas has a quick court process to retrieve specific personal property from a residence where the other party denies access or poses danger. See Property Code Ch. 24A (Access to Residence to Retrieve Personal Property) for what a judge can order you to collect. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
Plan B: Ask a law enforcement escort for a “civil standby” if your local agency offers it, and bring your protective order. If refused, ask legal aid about a Ch. 24A order. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
HUD VAWA Housing Protections (Public/Subsidized Housing)
Survivors in HUD‑covered housing can’t be denied or evicted because of the abuse and may request an emergency transfer to a safe unit; you can self‑certify using HUD Form 5382, and providers must have a written emergency transfer plan (HUD Form 5381). Start with HUD’s VAWA page. (hud.gov)
Plan B: If a housing provider says “we don’t do that,” file a complaint with HUD’s Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity office and ask your shelter advocate to back you up. (hud.gov)
Fast Money and Benefits When You’re Leaving Abuse
Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC) – Texas Attorney General
- What it can cover: Medical and mental health care, lost wages (up to 700/week∗∗),funeralcosts(upto∗∗700/week**), funeral costs (up to **6,500), relocation and rent deposits (up to 5,000∗∗forcrimesafter8/31/2023),travelforcourt/medical(ratessetbytheTexasComptroller).Totalstandardcompensationcanreach∗∗5,000** for crimes after 8/31/2023), travel for court/medical (rates set by the Texas Comptroller). Total standard compensation can reach **50,000; catastrophic injury may allow up to an extra $75,000. (texasattorneygeneral.gov, texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- How long it takes: Timelines vary; claims are processed as quickly as possible once documents and police verification are in. Call 800-983-9933 for help. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- How to apply: Online or by mail; you generally have 3 years from the date of the crime to seek relocation help. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
Plan B: If you can’t wait for reimbursement, ask an advocate about other funds (local ESG/Homelessness Prevention, faith‑based aid) and request a CVC “letter of intent” for some pre‑move payments to be issued directly. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
SNAP Food Benefits – Emergency (Expedited) and Ongoing
- Expedited SNAP: If your cash is under 100∗∗andthismonth’sincomeisunder∗∗100** and this month’s income is under **150, or your income plus cash is less than rent + utilities, you may get benefits the same day or by the next business day; in other situations, by day 7. Apply online or at a local office; only identity (and some ABAWD rules) must be verified before first issuance. (hhs.texas.gov)
- FY2025 SNAP maximums (48 states):
Source: USDA FY2025 COLA memo (effective Oct. 1, 2024–Sep. 30, 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
Household size Max monthly benefit 1 $292 2 $536 3 $768 4 $975 5 $1,158 6 $1,390 7 $1,536 8 $1,756 Each add’l $220 - FY2025 gross income limits (130% FPL) used by Texas SNAP:
Sources: USDA FY2025 COLA; Texas Works Handbook C‑121. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.texas.gov)
Household size Gross monthly limit 1 $1,632 2 $2,215 3 $2,798 4 $3,380 5 $3,963 6 $4,546 7 $5,129 8 $5,712 Each add’l $583
Plan B: If you can’t upload documents, submit the application to lock in your filing date, then bring verification to a local office or call 211 to get help finishing the case. (hhs.texas.gov)
TANF Cash Help (Monthly or One‑Time)
- Monthly TANF: Texas benefits are small but can help. Maximum monthly grants (effective Oct. 1, 2024) vary by family makeup; for example, a caretaker with one child can receive up to 320–320–370 depending on case type (see full chart in Texas Works C‑111). (hhs.texas.gov)
- One‑Time TANF for Relatives: A once‑in‑a‑lifetime 1,000∗∗paymentforqualifyingrelatives(likegrandparents)caringforarelatedchildwhogetsTANF.Incomelimits(example:familyof2upto∗∗1,000** payment for qualifying relatives (like grandparents) caring for a related child who gets TANF. Income limits (example: family of 2 up to **3,407/month), with exceptions possible. (hhs.texas.gov)
- One‑Time TANF (crisis‑based): Texas also offers a one‑time crisis payment (ask HHSC when you apply; availability and amounts are determined case‑by‑case). Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com. (hhs.texas.gov)
Plan B: If your TANF case takes time, ask your shelter about local emergency assistance funds while you wait, and apply for SNAP immediately for food. (hhs.texas.gov)
Unemployment if You Left Work Because of Abuse
Texas may approve benefits if you quit for documented family violence or stalking. Keep copies of police reports, protective orders, medical notes, or advocate letters. See the Texas Workforce Commission guidance on “Quit for a good reason not related to work” including family violence. (twc.texas.gov)
Plan B: If your initial TWC decision is a denial, appeal right away and attach your protective order or ACP participation letter as additional proof. (twc.texas.gov)
Money Help at a Glance (Table)
| Program | What it pays | Key limits | How fast |
|---|---|---|---|
| CVC Relocation | Up to $5,000 for deposits, movers, initial rent (post‑8/31/2023 crimes) | Total CVC up to $50,000; last resort after other resources | Some costs can be paid in advance with documentation; timelines vary by case (texasattorneygeneral.gov) |
| SNAP (Expedited) | Food benefits on Lone Star Card | FY2025 max $975 for 4; income and deductions apply | Same day/next day or by day 7 if eligible (fns.usda.gov, hhs.texas.gov) |
| TANF Monthly | Modest monthly cash grant | Grant amounts vary by family makeup; see state chart | Processing varies; ask about crisis options (hhs.texas.gov) |
| One‑Time TANF for Relatives | $1,000 once‑per‑lifetime | Caregiver relatives meeting criteria | Can be faster than monthly TANF (hhs.texas.gov) |
Legal Help and Forms
- Texas standardized protective‑order forms: Use the state’s forms to reduce errors and delays. OCA Protective Order Forms and FAQs. (txcourts.gov)
- TexasLawHelp step‑by‑step guides: Guides on lease termination for family violence, safety planning, and more. Start here and search for “violencia familiar” or “protective order.” (es.texaslawhelp.org, launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)
- Local legal aid and pro bono: Find help through the TexasLawHelp directory (e.g., Houston Volunteer Lawyers 713-228-0735, Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program 214-243-2236) or ask your shelter to connect you to a legal advocate. (es.texaslawhelp.org)
Plan B: If you can’t find an attorney, file using the standardized forms and ask the court coordinator or a shelter advocate about local “protective‑order dockets” run by prosecutors. (txcourts.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Many Texas centers are LGBTQ‑affirming. SAFE Alliance (Austin) and Houston‑area programs listed in HHSC’s directory offer inclusive services; ask for help with name/gender privacy and tech‑safety planning. Tip: ACP can help shield address changes on IDs and voter records. (hhs.texas.gov, texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask shelters about accessible rooms, transportation, ASL interpretation, and disability‑related accommodations. CVC can reimburse crime‑related travel and some care costs linked to treatment. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask your VA clinic for an IPV Assistance Program contact and request coordination with a local Texas shelter through the HHSC directory; pair VA care with CVC benefits if the crime occurred in Texas. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Immigrant or refugee single moms: You do not need to be a citizen to seek a protective order or ACP. For immigration legal help (U/T visas, VAWA self‑petition), see Catholic Charities of Central Texas (512-651-6100) or use the statewide TexasLawHelp directory. (es.texaslawhelp.org)
- Tribal citizens: If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe living in Texas, you can still access state shelters and CVC. Ask an advocate about tribal court orders and how to enforce them in Texas state courts using full faith and credit laws. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Rural single moms: If your county has no shelter, call the nearest center from the HHSC list; many offer motel/safe‑home placements and transport across counties. Phone and virtual legal help are common. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Single fathers: Men can also be victims. Texas shelters listed by HHSC include non‑residential services for all genders and some offer beds for men; call ahead. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Language access: State hotlines and many centers offer Spanish and other language interpretation. The National Domestic Violence Hotline supports 200+ languages via interpreters. (hhs.texas.gov)
Plan B: If a program says it can’t serve your situation, call another center from the HHSC list or the National Hotline, and mention your specific needs (language, disability, LGBTQ+ safety). (hhs.texas.gov)
Resources by Region (selected)
| Region | Program | Hotline |
|---|---|---|
| Houston/Harris | Houston Area Women’s Center | 713-528-2121 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Dallas | The Family Place | 214-941-1991 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Fort Worth/Tarrant | SafeHaven | 877-701-7233 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Austin/Travis & Williamson | SAFE Alliance; Hope Alliance (Round Rock) | 512-267-7233; 800-460-7233 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| San Antonio/Bexar | Family Violence Prevention Services | 210-733-8810 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| El Paso | Center Against Family Violence | 915-593-7300 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Rio Grande Valley | Women Together | 800-580-4879 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| East Texas (Tyler/Longview) | East Texas Crisis Center; Women’s Center of East Texas | 800-333-0358; 800-441-5555 (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Panhandle/Lubbock/Amarillo | Women’s Protective Services of Lubbock; Family Support Services of Amarillo | 806-747-6491; 806-374-5433 (hhs.texas.gov) |
Application Checklist
- Identification: State ID/Driver’s license, children’s birth certificates, Social Security cards (if available).
- Proof for protective orders: Photos of injuries, texts/voicemails, police reports, witness names. Use OCA’s standardized forms. (txcourts.gov)
- ACP: Protective order/injunction or crime documentation; name change notice to ACP within 10 days if applicable. ACP phone 888-832-2322. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- CVC: Medical bills, lease/landlord info, moving estimates, Relocation Expense Worksheet, Relocation & Rental Assistance Acknowledgement, Payment Affirmation, police verification. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- SNAP/TANF: Proof of identity, income, rent/utility bills, child expenses. Ask for SNAP expedited if you meet emergency criteria. (hhs.texas.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to apply for CVC: You can start while the case is under investigation; don’t wait for charges to be filed. CVC is a payer of last resort, so report any insurance or other aid on the forms. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Assuming the shortest MOEP is still 31 days: As of Sept. 1, 2025, the minimum is 61 days (and can be longer), which buys more time to move and file a long‑term order. (capitol.texas.gov)
- Moving out without written notice: For lease termination under § 92.016, give written notice (30 days unless abuser is a cotenant) and keep copies. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Not asking for expedited SNAP: If you meet the emergency test, you can get benefits fast—even before all paperwork is in (identity still required). (hhs.texas.gov)
- Skipping ACP when changing schools/IDs: ACP prevents new addresses from being public on voter rolls and DPS records. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
Real‑World Examples (composite scenarios)
- Moving the same week: A mom in Bexar County gets a MOEP after an arrest, calls FVPS San Antonio for shelter, uses ACP to update her DPS ID, and secures CVC’s relocation letter so the first month’s rent and deposits can be paid directly to a landlord. (capitol.texas.gov, hhs.texas.gov, texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Ending a lease without penalties: A mom in Tyler serves her landlord a copy of her temporary ex parte order and a 30‑day written notice, moves out by the date in the notice, and avoids future rent. The landlord who refuses risks statutory penalties. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Food help in days: A mom with $50 cash and no income is approved for SNAP expedited benefits the same day and receives the Lone Star Card while shelter staff help her apply for TANF and CVC. (hhs.texas.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions (Texas‑Specific)
- How long do emergency protective orders last now: As of Sept. 1, 2025, MOEPs last 61–91 days, or 91–121 days if a deadly weapon was used/exhibited. (capitol.texas.gov)
- Do I pay court fees to get a protective order: No. Applicants aren’t charged filing or service fees. Courts can order the abuser to pay costs. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Can I end my lease early because of family violence: Yes, if you provide the required documents and notice under Texas Property Code § 92.016. If the abuser is a cotenant, the 30‑day notice can be waived. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Will CVC pay for movers and deposits: For qualifying crimes after 8/31/2023, CVC can cover up to 5,000∗∗inrelocationandrentdeposits.Totalclaimcapscanreach∗∗5,000** in relocation and rent deposits. Total claim caps can reach **50,000 (more for catastrophic injury). (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- How fast can I get food help: If you meet emergency criteria, SNAP can be approved the same day or by day 7. Ask for “expedited service” when you apply. (hhs.texas.gov)
- What are SNAP max benefits this year: For FY2025, a family of 4 in Texas can receive up to $975/month if eligible. (fns.usda.gov)
- Can I keep my address off public records: Yes—apply to the ACP for a substitute address; it’s valid for 3 years and renewable. ACP phone: 888-832-2322. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Can I get unemployment if I left work due to abuse: Texas may approve benefits if you quit for documented family violence or stalking. Provide your protective order and other proof. (twc.texas.gov)
- I need to grab medicine and kids’ IDs from home: Ask the court for an access order under Property Code Ch. 24A to retrieve specific items safely. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Do shelters require proof of income: No—state‑funded family violence services are free and don’t require income verification. (hhs.texas.gov)
Quick Tables You Can Use
Protective Orders: What to Expect
| Step | Where to go | What to bring |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency MOEP after arrest | Magistrate at first appearance | Police report/info if you have it |
| Temporary ex parte order | District/County Attorney, legal aid, or self‑help | Application, evidence (photos/texts), ID |
| Final protective order hearing | Same court | Witnesses, evidence, any violations since ex parte order |
Sources: Texas OCA forms and Family Code/Code of Criminal Procedure. (txcourts.gov, statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
Lease and Lock Changes
| Issue | Texas rule |
|---|---|
| End lease early | Allowed under § 92.016 with required proof/notice; penalties barred; extra civil damages if landlord refuses. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov) |
| Lock changes/security devices | Landlord must comply within a “reasonable time,” presumed within 7 days after request/payment (as applicable). (statutes.capitol.texas.gov) |
CVC Coverage Highlights
| Cost type | Examples | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Relocation | Deposits, movers, initial rent, utilities setup | Up to $5,000 (crimes after 8/31/2023) (texasattorneygeneral.gov) |
| Lost wages | Time off due to injuries/crime | Up to $700/week (post‑7/14/2016 crimes) (texasattorneygeneral.gov) |
| Mental health | Counseling sessions | Up to 60 sessions; family shares limit for family therapy (texasattorneygeneral.gov) |
| Overall cap | All eligible costs combined | Up to 50,000∗∗standard;additional∗∗50,000** standard; additional **75,000 for catastrophic injury (texasattorneygeneral.gov) |
SNAP FY2025 (Texas) – At a Glance
| Household | Gross income limit (130% FPL) | Max benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,632 | $292 |
| 2 | $2,215 | $536 |
| 3 | $2,798 | $768 |
| 4 | $3,380 | $975 |
| 5 | $3,963 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $4,546 | $1,390 |
Sources: USDA FY2025 COLA; Texas Works C‑121. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.texas.gov)
Major Texas Shelter Hotlines (Selected)
| City/County | Hotline |
|---|---|
| Houston (HAWC) | 713-528-2121 |
| Dallas (The Family Place) | 214-941-1991 |
| Fort Worth (SafeHaven) | 877-701-7233 |
| Austin (SAFE) | 512-267-7233 |
| San Antonio (FVPS) | 210-733-8810 |
Source: HHSC Family Violence Program Resources list. (hhs.texas.gov)
What To Do If Something Doesn’t Work
- Shelter is full: Ask the hotline to check nearby counties and request transport assistance. They can place families in hotels when no beds are open. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Court delay: Use a temporary ex parte order for immediate protection, then ask the prosecutor’s office to place your case on the next protective‑order docket. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Landlord resists: Hand them the statute printout for § 92.016 and send notice by certified mail. If they continue, ask legal aid about suing for the civil penalty and attorney’s fees. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- Benefits stuck: Call 211 or go to a Community Partner site for in‑person help with YourTexasBenefits. Ask HHSC for “expedited SNAP” screening again if your situation changed. (hhs.texas.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Texas Health and Human Services, the Texas Attorney General, the Texas Office of Court Administration, USDA, HUD, Texas Workforce Commission, Texas statutes, 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: Program rules, dollar amounts, and timelines can change quickly. Always confirm with the official agency or court before you act.
Safety and legal limits: This guide is for general information, not legal advice or case‑specific counseling. If you are in danger, call 911. For legal advice, contact a licensed Texas attorney or a legal aid program.
Site security: Use a safe device when researching; computer and phone activity can be monitored. If you think your device is compromised, use a public computer or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 (TTY 800-787-3224). (hhs.texas.gov)
Sources (selected)
- Texas HHSC Family Violence Program overview and resources (centers, hotlines, services); HHSC FY2024 press release with services provided. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Texas Attorney General: ACP details; CVC relocation; overall CVC caps and covered costs; lost wages; mental health; travel reimbursement. (texasattorneygeneral.gov, texasattorneygeneral.gov)
- Texas OCA: Statewide standardized protective‑order forms and 2025 MOEP duration update notice. (txcourts.gov)
- Texas statutes: Family Code Ch. 83 (temporary ex parte), Ch. 85 (durations, fees), Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 17.292 (MOEP), Property Code § 92.016 & Ch. 24A (lease termination and retrieval of personal property). (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
- USDA FNS: FY2025 SNAP COLA memo (max allotments, income standards, deductions). Texas Works Handbook: SNAP income limits and expedited service rules. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.texas.gov)
- Texas Workforce Commission: Good‑cause quits including family violence; ongoing eligibility basics. (twc.texas.gov)
- TexasLawHelp: Early lease termination guide; legal aid directories for Houston and Dallas. (es.texaslawhelp.org)
Final tip: Document everything: screenshots, photos, texts, emails, missed call logs, medical notes, copies of notices. Strong documentation speeds up protective orders, CVC payments, and benefits approvals.
🏛️More Texas Resources for Single Mothers
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