Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Utah
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Utah
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help first
- If you or your children are in immediate danger: Call 911 now. Utah law allows officers to conduct a quick “lethality assessment” on scene and link you to an advocate. (le.utah.gov)
- Utah Domestic Violence LINKLine (24/7): 1‑800‑897‑LINK (5465). Trained advocates connect you to shelter, safety planning, and local services statewide. (dcfs.utah.gov, uovc.concerncenter.utah.gov)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7): 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233), text START to 88788, or chat via the hotline website for confidential help. (thehotline.org, acf.hhs.gov)
- Utah Rape & Sexual Assault Crisis Line (24/7): 1‑888‑421‑1100. Immediate support and SANE exam routing. (vipp.utah.gov)
- StrongHearts Native Helpline (24/7): 1‑844‑7NATIVE (762‑8483). Culturally specific DV/SA support for Native communities. (strongheartshelpline.org)
- 211 Utah resource navigation: Dial 211 or 1‑888‑826‑9790 to locate nearby shelter, food, and rental help. (211utah.org)
Quick help box
- Get to safety now: If you can leave, take keys, IDs, bank cards, meds, and your kids. If you cannot leave safely, move to a room with an exit and without weapons, and call 911 when you can. NDVH has quick safety‑planning tips you can follow while you prepare. (thehotline.org)
- Call for a bed right away: The LINKLine (1‑800‑897‑5465) can place you or wait‑list you at one of Utah’s DV shelters (there are 16 programs statewide). Tell them if you have children, pets, or accessibility needs. (dcfs.utah.gov)
- File protection today: Free protective‑order forms and in‑person help are available from Utah Courts; a judge can review same day and set a hearing within 21 days. If you’re in Salt Lake County, Legal Aid Society can assist. Outside SLCo, call Utah Legal Services. (utcourts.gov)
- Food within 7 days if you qualify: DWS can issue “expedited SNAP” within 7 days; apply online or at an Employment Center. (jobs.utah.gov)
- Cash help while you stabilize: Utah’s TANF cash aid (Family Employment Program) can pay up to $775 (family of 4) monthly if eligible; see income chart below and apply with DWS. (jobs.utah.gov)
- Replace locks and hide your address: Ask your landlord about lock changes and learn about Utah’s Safe at Home Address Confidentiality Program. (le.utah.gov, safeathome.utah.gov)
What the data says in Utah
- Prevalence snapshot: About 1 in 3 Utah women (33.6%) will experience contact sexual violence, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime, similar to national levels. (usu.edu)
- Homicide context: Utah DHHS reports that nearly half of homicides in recent years are related to domestic violence, and almost 1 in 3 female homicide victims are killed by current or former partners. (vipp.utah.gov)
- Law‑enforcement response: Since SB 117 (2023), officers must use a lethality assessment on intimate‑partner calls and refer high‑risk survivors to advocates—this has increased referrals to shelters and services. (le.utah.gov, deseret.com)
These numbers aren’t meant to scare you—they help you argue for priority access to safety services and court protection when you need it.
Hotlines and crisis contacts (keep this handy)
| Service | What it does | How to contact |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Domestic Violence LINKLine | Statewide placement, safety planning, shelter access | 1‑800‑897‑LINK (5465); Utah DV Coalition LINKLine info |
| National Domestic Violence Hotline | 24/7 confidential support, safety planning | 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233); text START to 88788; Chat online |
| Rape & Sexual Assault Crisis Line (Utah) | Sex assault crisis response, SANE routing | 1‑888‑421‑1100 |
| StrongHearts Native Helpline | 24/7 DV/SA support for Native survivors | 1‑844‑7NATIVE (762‑8483); StrongHearts site |
| 211 Utah | Navigation to local food, shelter, utilities help | Dial 211 or 1‑888‑826‑9790; 211 Utah |
Citations: (uovc.concerncenter.utah.gov, thehotline.org, vipp.utah.gov, strongheartshelpline.org, 211utah.org)
Make a safety plan before and during leaving
- Safety planning basics: Work with an advocate to build a step‑by‑step plan tailored to you—safe people to call, safe places to go, code words with children, and digital safety (location sharing, cloud accounts, device stalking). The NDVH has a simple checklist you can start now. (thehotline.org)
- Kids and custody safety: Bring birth certificates, school records, car seats, meds, and favorite items to help kids transition. Courts can temporarily address custody in a protective order if needed. (utcourts.gov)
- Tech safety: Turn off location sharing on phones/tablets, change passwords from a safe device, and consider a new email for applications and court notices. If you qualify, enroll in Utah’s address confidentiality program below. (safeathome.utah.gov)
- Plan for the first 72 hours: Arrange a ride, stash a go‑bag at a friend’s, and keep cash or a prepaid card if safe to do so. If you must leave urgently, go without the bag; shelters will provide basics and help you replace documents. Utah shelters can be accessed via the LINKLine. (dcfs.utah.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If shelter beds are full, ask the LINKLine advocate to place you on waitlists at multiple sites and request help with motel vouchers or transportation to another county; also call 211 to check community hotel/motel assistance or local faith‑based options. (211utah.org)
Protective orders in Utah—fast path to legal protection
Start with the quickest path: file today, then prepare for the hearing.
- Where to start online: Utah Courts Protective Orders Help. Forms are free, and you can file by email, mail, or in person. A judge typically reviews the same day, and if granted, a temporary order is issued with a hearing within 21 days. There’s no filing fee. (utcourts.gov)
- Free legal help to file:
- If you live in Salt Lake County: Legal Aid Society intake desks at the courthouses; main lines 801‑238‑7170 and 801‑328‑8849. (legalaidsocietyofsaltlake.org)
- If you live outside Salt Lake County: Utah Legal Services intake line 1‑800‑662‑4245 (M–F, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.). Timpanogos Legal Center hotline 801‑649‑8895 can help prep documents. (utcourts.gov, timplegal.org)
- Enforcement matters: Once served, violations can lead to arrest—call 911 and show officers your order (keep copies and a photo on your phone). (utcourts.gov)
Types of Utah protective orders at a glance
| Type | Who it protects | Common protections | Cost | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cohabitant Protective Order | Current/former spouse/partner, co‑parent, or certain family members | No‑contact, stay‑away, weapons restrictions, temporary custody/possession of home | $0 | Temp order usually same day, hearing within 21 days |
| Dating Violence Protective Order | For significant romantic/dating relationships not cohabiting | Similar protections; no cohabitation required | $0 | Same as above |
| Sexual Violence Protective Order | For survivors of sexual violence by someone you may not know well | No‑contact, stay‑away, firearms limits | $0 | Same as above |
| Civil Stalking Injunction | For stalking even without an intimate relationship | No‑contact, stay‑away | $0 | Court issues after review/hearing |
Citations: (utcourts.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied a temporary order, you can still ask for a hearing within 5 days to present evidence; meanwhile lean on a safety plan and consider relocating. Legal Aid or Utah Legal Services can coach you beforehand. (utcourts.gov)
Keep your home address private and change the locks
- Safe at Home address confidentiality: Utah’s program gives you a legal substitute address and mail forwarding accepted by all state and local agencies. It’s free; you enroll through a trained Program Assistant, and you must have recently moved or be moving to an undisclosed address. Phones: (801) 538‑1600 or 1‑833‑747‑SAFE (7233). (safeathome.utah.gov, crimevictim.utah.gov)
- Landlord obligations: Utah law provides lock‑change rights for crime victims and allows DV survivors to end a rental agreement’s future obligations if specific conditions are met (documentation and notice). Talk with an advocate or lawyer about the latest requirements and timeline under Utah Code 57‑22‑5.1. (le.utah.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If your landlord refuses or discloses your address, call Legal Aid or Utah Legal Services and document communications. Consider Safe at Home while pursuing remedies. (utcourts.gov)
Financial and practical help you can apply for this week
Below are Utah programs many single mothers use during and after escape. We list what they pay and where to apply.
Crime Victim Reparations (UOVC)
- What it is: State compensation for crime‑related costs when insurance or other payers aren’t available.
- Eligibility basics: Crime in Utah (or you are a Utah resident where the other state has no program), reported to law enforcement, and you cooperate with the investigation. DV, stalking, sexual assault, and protective‑order violations qualify. Average processing ~30–60 days. Apply online. (crimevictim.utah.gov)
- Key dollar amounts right now: Maximum award generally 25,000∗∗,withmedicalupto∗∗25,000**, with medical up to **50,000 for serious or substantial bodily injury; funeral/burial up to 14,000∗∗;relocationupto∗∗14,000**; relocation up to **2,000 (can include start‑up rent). Mental‑health reimbursement follows PEHP rates; qualified student‑intern counselors are covered. (le.utah.gov, crimevictim.utah.gov)
| Expense type | Current limits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical/mental health | Up to 25,000∗∗total;upto∗∗25,000** total; up to **50,000 for medical when serious/substantial injury | Mental‑health paid at PEHP rates; interns allowed. (crimevictim.utah.gov) |
| Funeral/burial | Up to $14,000 | For homicide cases. (crimevictim.utah.gov) |
| Relocation/safety | Up to $2,000 | Can include deposits or ongoing rent within the cap. (crimevictim.utah.gov) |
| Lost wages, other | Case‑by‑case within award cap | Requires verification and cooperation. (crimevictim.utah.gov) |
- How to apply: UOVC Victim Financial Assistance application. For help, call 801‑238‑2360. (crimevictim.utah.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask an advocate to submit an emergency needs request to local charities while your claim is pending; re‑file if you later obtain a police report or case number. (dcfs.utah.gov)
Utah TANF cash aid—Family Employment Program (FEP)
- What it is: Temporary cash assistance plus job‑readiness support for households with minor children.
- Maximum monthly cash by family size (examples): 1: 383∗∗,2:∗∗383**, 2: **531, 3: 662∗∗,4:∗∗662**, 4: **775, 5: 882∗∗,6:∗∗882**, 6: **972, 7: 1,017∗∗,8:∗∗1,017**, 8: **1,065, 9: 1,116∗∗,10:∗∗1,116**, 10: **1,162. Gross monthly income limits also apply (e.g., 3‑person 1,050∗∗,4‑person∗∗1,050**, 4‑person **1,230). Lifetime limit 36 months with possible extensions. (jobs.utah.gov)
- Apply and manage: Submit online through myCase (DWS) or call 1‑866‑435‑7414 (SL area 801‑526‑0950). Benefits usually issue at the start of the month once requirements are met. (jobs.utah.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If your FEP case is pending but you need money for immediate safety, ask your advocate about UOVC relocation coverage, local rapid‑re‑housing funds, or community assistance through 211. (crimevictim.utah.gov, 211utah.org)
SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Why apply: SNAP can stabilize your food budget immediately; if you qualify for “expedited service,” you may get benefits within 7 days. (jobs.utah.gov)
- Maximum monthly SNAP amounts (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025): 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; each additional person + 220∗∗.Assetslimitsare∗∗220**. Assets limits are **3,000 (or 4,500∗∗ifapersonis60+ordisabled).StandarddeductionforHHof1–3is∗∗4,500** if a person is 60+ or disabled). Standard deduction for HH of 1–3 is **204; shelter cap $712. (fns.usda.gov)
- How to apply: DWS SNAP page; file via myCase. If approved, benefits start from your application date. (jobs.utah.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for pantry and hot‑meal sites and check if you qualify for summer/after‑school meal programs for kids. (211utah.org)
WIC—Women, Infants, and Children
- Why apply: WIC provides healthy foods and nutrition support for pregnant/postpartum women, infants, and kids under 5. Utah’s WIC phones: 1‑877‑WIC‑KIDS (942‑5437); card services 1‑855‑784‑5584. (wic.utah.gov)
- Monthly fruit/vegetable cash‑value benefit (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025): Children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52. Other WIC foods also provided. (fns.usda.gov)
- How to apply: Request an appointment online or contact your local health department’s WIC clinic (Utah clinics list and phone/text numbers available). Bring ID, proof of Utah address, and recent income proof. (wic.utah.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If clinic appointments are booked, ask for the earliest slot and call another nearby county clinic; you can apply in any Utah WIC clinic serving your area. (wic.utah.gov)
Child care assistance (so you can work or train)
- Eligibility basics: Utah helps pay child care costs up to 85% of State Median Income. Example limits: household of 3 up to 6,637/month∗∗;householdof6upto∗∗6,637/month**; household of 6 up to **10,430/month. You must generally work an average of 15 hours/week (more if two‑parent household) and choose an approved provider. Co‑pays vary by income. (jobs.utah.gov)
- How to apply: Start at DWS Child Care Assistance and apply through myCase. For questions, call 1‑866‑435‑7414 (SL 801‑526‑0950). (jobs.utah.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about “Kids in Care” support if you’re between jobs and check Head Start or Early Head Start via 211 for no‑cost options. (jobs.utah.gov, 211utah.org)
Unemployment insurance (if you lost your job)
- Maximum weekly benefit: Up to $777 for new claims effective on or after January 1, 2025, for up to 10–26 weeks depending on your work history. Apply the week you become unemployed. (jobs.utah.gov)
- How to apply: File online via the DWS Unemployment portal; CARE Team support is available through the site. (jobs.utah.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: File an appeal by the deadline listed in your decision letter and continue certifying weekly while the appeal is pending. (jobs.utah.gov)
Where to find shelter and local victim services
Utah’s Department of Child and Family Services funds 16 domestic violence shelter programs statewide. If you don’t see your county below or if a line is busy, call the LINKLine 1‑800‑897‑5465 to be routed to the nearest open bed. (dcfs.utah.gov)
| Region | Key programs | 24/7 lines |
|---|---|---|
| Salt Lake County | YWCA Utah (Women in Jeopardy crisis shelter) | 801‑537‑8600 or toll‑free 855‑992‑2752. (unphc.org) |
| Davis County | Safe Harbor Crisis Center | 801‑444‑9161. (unphc.org) |
| Weber County | YCC Family Crisis Center (Ogden) | 801‑394‑9456. (utahdhhs.211utah.org) |
| Cache/Rich Counties | CAPSA (Logan) emergency shelter and advocacy | 435‑753‑2500. (capsa.org) |
| Summit/Wasatch Counties | Peace House (Park City) | 800‑647‑9161 (24/7 hotline). (domesticshelters.org) |
| Statewide routing | Utah Domestic Violence LINKLine | 1‑800‑897‑LINK (5465). (uovc.concerncenter.utah.gov) |
How long things take in real life
- Protective orders: Judges often review the day you file; if granted, a temporary order issues and a hearing is set within 21 days. If denied, you can request a hearing within 5 days to present evidence. Have law enforcement serve the order for free. (utcourts.gov)
- UOVC compensation: Expect around 30–60 days from application to decision, depending on the police report and required verifications. (crimevictim.utah.gov)
- SNAP: Expedited cases can receive benefits within 7 days; other cases generally within 30 days of application. (jobs.utah.gov)
- FEP/TANF: Timing depends on completing your intake tasks and employment plan; once approved, benefits typically post at the start of the month. (jobs.utah.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to call for a bed: Shelters fill quickly. Call the LINKLine early, ask to be put on multiple waitlists, and check back every few hours if you’re unsheltered. (dcfs.utah.gov)
- Not bringing identification: Courts, DWS, WIC, and UOVC will ask for ID. If yours was taken, ask an advocate to help you replace IDs and note that some applications (SNAP, UOVC) can start with minimal ID and accept verification later. (jobs.utah.gov, crimevictim.utah.gov)
- Going to court alone when help is available: Free legal help can improve your odds and lighten your load in the hearing. Call Legal Aid Society (801‑238‑7170, 801‑328‑8849) or Utah Legal Services (1‑800‑662‑4245). (utcourts.gov)
- Sharing your new address: Use Safe at Home for a substitute mailing address and ask your child’s school and DWS to use it. (safeathome.utah.gov)
- Missing SNAP interviews or verification due dates: Respond quickly in myCase; if you miss a deadline, you can still submit within 60 days for processing (benefits will be prorated from the date you finish verifications). (jobs.utah.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Need | First call | Backup option |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate danger | 911 | Safe place at a hospital or police station; ask for a DV advocate |
| Shelter placement | 1‑800‑897‑LINK (5465) | 211 can cross‑check emergency motel, church, and city funds |
| Legal protection | Utah Courts Protective Orders | Legal Aid Society SLCo 801‑238‑7170; Utah Legal Services 1‑800‑662‑4245 |
| Cash/food help | DWS myCase | DWS Eligibility line 1‑866‑435‑7414 |
| Crime victim costs | UOVC application | UOVC Help 801‑238‑2360 |
| Keep address private | Safe at Home | Safe at Home phones (801) 538‑1600 or 1‑833‑747‑SAFE (7233) |
Citations: (utcourts.gov, legalaidsocietyofsaltlake.org, jobs.utah.gov, crimevictim.utah.gov, safeathome.utah.gov)
Application checklist you can reuse
- Identification: Driver license or state ID; if not available, school/work ID, Medicaid card, or birth certificate.
- Child documents: Birth certificates, Social Security numbers (if you have them), custody orders.
- Address proof: Lease, utility bill, shelter letter, or Safe at Home card if enrolled. (crimevictim.utah.gov)
- Income proof: Last 30 days of pay stubs, child support proof, or a letter from DWS/Unemployment; for SNAP, you can apply first and submit later if eligible for expedited service. (jobs.utah.gov)
- Abuse documentation (if safe to collect): Photos, messages, police reports, medical records, past orders.
- Banking: EBT/Horizon card for DWS; routing info if your provider needs direct deposit set‑up (child care providers). (jobs.utah.gov)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: You are covered under the same Utah protections. Ask the LINKLine to connect you with affirming shelter advocates and legal help; NDVH also provides LGBTQ‑inclusive services by phone, text, and chat. (uovc.concerncenter.utah.gov, thehotline.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Tell the hotline about accessibility needs (mobility devices, ASL, sensory‑friendly space). UOVC can cover counseling and equipment related to the crime, and child care assistance can approve specialized providers. (crimevictim.utah.gov, jobs.utah.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask about VA‑connected counseling and local veteran service officers; the NDVH and StrongHearts both serve veterans and military families. For crisis mental‑health support, use the SafeUT app’s licensed counselors if you live or study in Utah. (thehotline.org, safeut.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Protective orders, UOVC, WIC, and many shelters serve you regardless of immigration status. DWS child care assistance does not require family members’ immigration status, only the child’s eligibility. Ask the LINKLine for bilingual advocates; Utah WIC offers free interpretation. (jobs.utah.gov, wic.utah.gov)
- Tribal citizens and Native families: In addition to the LINKLine, call StrongHearts 1‑844‑7NATIVE (762‑8483) for culturally specific advocacy and safety planning. (strongheartshelpline.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: If the nearest shelter is full or hours away, ask the LINKLine about motel vouchers and transportation to another county; 211 can check county assistance and gas cards. (211utah.org)
- Single fathers in danger: You can access the same shelters and protective orders; several Utah programs serve all genders. Call the LINKLine and state clearly you need safe placement with children. (dcfs.utah.gov)
- Language access: Utah Courts and legal aid can arrange free interpreters at hearings; WIC and DWS provide language assistance. Ask for an interpreter up front. (utcourts.gov, wic.utah.gov)
Real‑world examples
- Protective order and custody: A mom in Davis County filed a Cohabitant Protective Order with Legal Aid’s help and received a temporary custody provision the same day. Her order prohibited contact and removed firearms pending hearing. Timeline and protections like these are common when judges find immediate danger. (utcourts.gov)
- Relocation after violence: After a police‑reported assault, a Utah County mom used UOVC’s relocation benefit to cover a deposit and initial rent while enrolling in Safe at Home to keep her new address confidential. (crimevictim.utah.gov, safeathome.utah.gov)
- Stabilizing food and child care: A Cache County mom applied for SNAP (approved with expedited service) and WIC for her toddler; she then qualified for child care assistance while she started a new job, using CAPSA for safety planning. (jobs.utah.gov, fns.usda.gov, wic.utah.gov, capsa.org)
Utah benefits and safety resources—side‑by‑side table
| Program | Who qualifies | Key benefit amounts | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| UOVC Crime Victim Reparations | DV/SA/stalking survivors; crime reported and cooperating | Max award 25,000∗∗(medicalupto∗∗25,000** (medical up to **50,000); funeral 14,000∗∗;relocationupto∗∗14,000**; relocation up to **2,000 | UOVC application or call 801‑238‑2360. (crimevictim.utah.gov, le.utah.gov) |
| FEP (TANF) cash | Low‑income households with minor child | Up to 775∗∗(HH4);seefullchartabove(HH1∗∗775** (HH4); see full chart above (HH1 **383, HH3 662∗∗,HH6∗∗662**, HH6 **972) | DWS myCase or 1‑866‑435‑7414. (jobs.utah.gov) |
| SNAP food | Income‑eligible; expedited in 7 days if you qualify | HH4 max 975∗∗(HH1∗∗975** (HH1 **292, HH2 536∗∗,HH3∗∗536**, HH3 **768) | Apply SNAP. (fns.usda.gov, jobs.utah.gov) |
| WIC | Pregnant/postpartum, infants/children <5 | Monthly CVB: child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 | Utah WIC or 1‑877‑WIC‑KIDS. (fns.usda.gov, wic.utah.gov) |
| Child care subsidy | Working/training families up to 85% SMI | Copay based on income; example income limit HH3 6,637/mo∗∗,HH6∗∗6,637/mo**, HH6 **10,430/mo | DWS Child Care. (jobs.utah.gov) |
| Unemployment | Recent job loss through no fault | Max weekly $777; up to 10–26 weeks | Utah Unemployment. (jobs.utah.gov) |
How to talk to the court and agencies
- Stay brief and specific: Describe recent incidents, threats, weapons, injuries, and children present.
- Bring evidence to hearings: Screenshots, logs of calls/texts, medical records, police reports, witness statements.
- Ask for what you need: No‑contact, custody, pets included in protection, weapon surrender, exclusive use of the home or car.
- Request an interpreter if needed: Utah Courts provide interpreters at no cost. (utcourts.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If your request is narrowed or denied, ask about appealing or filing a modification; safety‑plan with an advocate and consider a stalking injunction if the pattern fits. (utcourts.gov)
Safety and support by county—additional notes
- Salt Lake County: Besides YWCA Utah, South Valley Services offers shelter and outreach in the south valley; the County District Attorney’s Victim Support page lists police victim‑advocate contacts by city. (saltlakecounty.gov)
- Weber/Davis/Cache/Summit/Wasatch: YCC (Ogden), Safe Harbor, CAPSA, and Peace House offer shelter, therapy, and legal advocacy; use the phone numbers above or call the LINKLine to check bed status before traveling. (utahdhhs.211utah.org, unphc.org, capsa.org, domesticshelters.org)
- Everywhere else (Washington, Uintah Basin, San Juan, etc.): Call the LINKLine to be routed to DOVE, Seekhaven, Canyon Creek, New Horizons, or other local shelters; UOVC lists funded centers statewide. (crimevictim.utah.gov)
FAQs for single mothers in Utah
- Can I get a protective order if we never lived together: Yes—Utah’s Dating Violence Protective Order and Sexual Violence Protective Order cover non‑cohabiting relationships and assaults. (utcourts.gov)
- How fast can I get protection: Judges often review requests the same day and set a hearing within 21 days; temporary orders can be effective once served. (utcourts.gov)
- Do I have to pay to file: No—there is no filing fee for protective‑order petitions. (utcourts.gov)
- Will a protective order help with custody right away: It can include temporary custody and parenting‑time limits to protect children until the hearing. (utcourts.gov)
- Can I end my lease to get to safety: Utah law (Utah Code 57‑22‑5.1) provides a process for DV survivors to end future obligations under a rental agreement with proper documentation; ask Legal Aid or Utah Legal Services about the steps and timeline. (le.utah.gov)
- How much can I get from UOVC for moving: Up to $2,000 for relocation costs (including deposits or rent within the cap), if tied to the crime. (crimevictim.utah.gov)
- What are the current SNAP maximums for a family of three and four: HH3 768∗∗andHH4∗∗768** and HH4 **975 per month in the 48 states (Oct 2024–Sept 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
- What WIC fruit‑and‑vegetable dollars will I get: Children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 per month during FY 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
- How long until UOVC decides my claim: About 30–60 days in most cases, depending on police report retrieval and verifications. (crimevictim.utah.gov)
- Who can help me file if I’m not in Salt Lake County: Utah Legal Services (1‑800‑662‑4245) and Timpanogos Legal Center (801‑649‑8895) provide free help preparing filings. (utcourts.gov)
What to do if you’re turned away or stuck on a waitlist
- Ask the LINKLine to widen the search: Request placement on multiple shelter waitlists and ask for transportation or motel vouchers if available. (dcfs.utah.gov)
- Document and escalate: Keep names, dates, and reasons you were turned away; ask a county victim advocate or Legal Aid to escalate urgent safety concerns.
- Leverage UOVC + DWS: Apply for UOVC relocation and open DWS cases (SNAP, FEP, child care) the same day to unlock more options quickly. (crimevictim.utah.gov, jobs.utah.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Dedicated benefits researchers specializing in government programs for families.
Methodology and standards: We use only official state and federal sources and established statewide nonprofits; we verify links and monitor policy changes per our Editorial Standards. This guide is not legal advice and is not affiliated with any government agency. Eligibility outcomes vary.
Source transparency: Key sources include Utah Courts, Utah Department of Health and Human Services, Utah Office for Victims of Crime, Utah Department of Workforce Services, USDA/FNS, and 211 Utah. Publication dates and update notes are cited above.
Verification schedule: Last verified September 2025; next full review April 2026.
Disclaimer
Scope and accuracy: Program rules, dollar amounts, phone numbers, and links can change without notice. Always confirm details directly with the agency or hotline linked above before acting.
Security note: Use a safe device for applications and legal filings. If an abuser monitors your tech, clear history when safe and consider the Safe at Home program to protect your mailing address. (safeathome.utah.gov)
Sources used and last‑checked dates
- Utah Courts protective orders and timelines: Utah Courts self‑help pages (last updated 2025). (utcourts.gov)
- Utah DHHS violence data and crisis lines: DHHS VIPP IPV/DV page (reviewed 2025). (vipp.utah.gov)
- Utah Domestic Violence LINKLine: DCFS DV services and UOVC resource listings (reviewed 2025). (dcfs.utah.gov, uovc.concerncenter.utah.gov)
- UOVC compensation policy and amounts: UOVC site and benefit updates (Dec 2023), Utah Code changes (HB 435). (crimevictim.utah.gov, le.utah.gov)
- SNAP FY 2025 maximums and rules: USDA FNS COLA and eligibility pages (Aug 2024). (fns.usda.gov)
- WIC FY 2025 cash‑value benefits: USDA FNS memo (July 2024). (fns.usda.gov)
- FEP cash amounts and policy: DWS customer education pages (2025). (jobs.utah.gov)
- Child care assistance eligibility, 85% SMI examples: DWS child care pages (2025). (jobs.utah.gov)
- Unemployment weekly max: DWS CARE Team FAQ (2025). (jobs.utah.gov)
- Address Confidentiality: Safe at Home (Utah AG/UOVC) (2025). (safeathome.utah.gov, crimevictim.utah.gov)
If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it quickly per our standards.
🏛️More Utah Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Utah
- 📋 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
