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Emergency Assistance for Single Mothers in North Dakota

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box

  • Call 211 now for immediate help: Dial 2-1-1 or visit ND 211/FirstLink
  • Apply for benefits online: North Dakota Self-Service Portal – SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, Child Care, LIHEAP
  • Customer Support: 1-866-614-6005 (Mon-Fri 8 AM-5 PM) for all HHS programs
  • Medicaid Support: 1-844-854-4825
  • Housing Help: North Dakota Housing Finance Agency 701-328-8080 or 800-292-8621
  • Job Services/Unemployment: 701-328-4995
  • Domestic Violence 24/7: 1-800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788

If You Need Help Today

Get Food Immediately:


  • Apply for SNAP benefits at North Dakota Self-Service Portal – you may qualify for expedited benefits within 7 days if you have less than $100 cash
  • Call 211 to find food pantries open today

Stop a Utility Shutoff:

  • Call your utility company immediately to request a payment plan
  • Apply for LIHEAP emergency assistance at the Self-Service Portal or call 1-866-614-6005

Get Emergency Cash:

  • Apply for TANF and request “Diversion Assistance” for one-time help up to $872 for a family of three
  • Contact your local Human Service Zone office before 3 PM with eviction/shutoff notices

Prevent Eviction:

  • Contact your landlord in writing to request a payment plan
  • Call 211 for coordinated entry to homeless prevention services
  • Apply for housing voucher waitlists through local housing authorities

Main Points

  • SNAP benefits provide monthly food assistance – maximum $975 per month for a family of four (as of October 2024). North Dakota has no asset limit and allows gross income up to 200% of Federal Poverty Level
  • TANF cash assistance provides up to $872 per month for a family of three with no income – a major increase from $486 in 2023
  • Medicaid coverage available for adults up to 138% of Federal Poverty Level and children at higher income levels
  • Child Care Assistance (CCAP) helps families with incomes up to 85% of state median income ($6,371 monthly for family of three)
  • WIC benefits provide healthy food for pregnant/breastfeeding women and children under 5, with income limits up to 185% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Housing Choice Vouchers have varying waitlists – contact multiple housing authorities to maximize chances

Emergency Cash Assistance Programs

TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

TANF provides monthly cash assistance to help families meet basic needs while working toward self-sufficiency. The program includes work requirements, job training, and supportive services like child care and transportation assistance.

Current Maximum Monthly Benefits (as of 2025):

Family Size Maximum Monthly TANF Payment
1 person Data not specified – contact 1-866-614-6005
2 people Data not specified – contact 1-866-614-6005
3 people $872
4+ people Contact 1-866-614-6005 for current rates

Income Limits: A family of three is considered “needy” when countable income is $1,076 per month or less (50% of Federal Poverty Level).

TANF Diversion Assistance: One-time payment to solve short-term crises like car repairs to keep a job or security deposits. Can be up to the maximum monthly TANF amount instead of ongoing monthly benefits.

How to Apply:

  1. Visit North Dakota Self-Service Portal
  2. Call 1-866-614-6005 for phone application
  3. Visit your county Human Service Zone office

Required Documents:

  • Photo ID
  • Social Security numbers for all household members
  • Proof of income (last 30 days)
  • Birth certificates for children
  • Proof of North Dakota residence

Timeline: Benefits typically start within 30 days if approved.

Work Requirements: Most adults must participate in Job Opportunity and Basic Skills (JOBS) program activities for 20 hours per week (if you have children under 6) or more for older children.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied, you have 10 days to appeal. Contact your local Human Service Zone office for a supervisor review.

General Assistance

Some counties may provide emergency general assistance for basic needs. Contact your county Human Service Zone office to ask about local programs.

Food Assistance Programs

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

SNAP provides monthly benefits loaded onto an EBT card to buy groceries. North Dakota has expanded eligibility beyond federal minimums.

Maximum Monthly Benefits (October 2024 – September 2025):

Household Size Maximum Monthly SNAP Benefit
1 person $292
2 people $536
3 people $766
4 people $975
5 people $1,158
6 people $1,390
7 people $1,536
8 people $1,756

Source: USDA SNAP FY 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustments

Income Limits:

  • Gross Income: Up to 200% of Federal Poverty Level (much higher than most states)
  • Net Income: Up to 100% of Federal Poverty Level
  • No Asset Limit in North Dakota (unlike the federal $3,000 limit)

Expedited SNAP: If you have less than $100 cash and very low income, you can get benefits within 7 days.

How to Apply:

  1. Apply online: North Dakota SNAP Application
  2. Call 1-866-614-6005
  3. Request expedited processing if you qualify

Standard Deduction: $204 for households of 1-3 people (FY 2025)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your application is delayed, call 1-866-614-6005 and request expedited interview or supervisor callback.

WIC (Women, Infants & Children)

WIC provides healthy food, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5.

Income Limits (effective through June 30, 2026):

Household Size Monthly Income Limit
1 person $2,579
2 people $3,487
3 people $4,394
4 people $5,301
5 people $6,209

Source: USDA WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines 2025-26

Automatic Eligibility: If you receive SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, you automatically qualify for WIC based on income.

What WIC Provides:

  • Healthy foods like milk, eggs, cheese, cereal, fruits, vegetables
  • Infant formula if not breastfeeding
  • Nutrition counseling
  • Breastfeeding support and breast pumps
  • Health screenings and referrals

How to Apply: Find your local WIC clinic: North Dakota WIC Locations

Timeline: Appointments usually available within 1-2 weeks; benefits start immediately at your appointment.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied, ask about the nutrition risk assessment – most applicants qualify for at least one nutrition risk criterion.

Healthcare Coverage

Medicaid

North Dakota expanded Medicaid, so more adults qualify for free health coverage.

Income Limits:

  • Adults: Up to 138% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Children: Higher limits – check ND Medicaid Eligibility
  • Pregnant women: Even higher limits with retroactive coverage

How to Apply:

  1. Online: North Dakota Self-Service Portal
  2. Call 1-844-854-4825
  3. Apply at any Human Service Zone office

Timeline: 30-45 days for most applications (up to 90 days if disability determination needed).

What Medicaid Covers:

  • Doctor visits and specialist care
  • Prescription medications
  • Hospital stays
  • Preventive care and screenings
  • Mental health services
  • Substance abuse treatment

Emergency Medicaid: Available for emergency services even during application processing.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you have urgent medical needs, ask about emergency Medicaid or contact your local community health center for sliding-fee services.

Housing Assistance

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

Vouchers help pay rent in private market housing. You pay about 30% of your income; the voucher pays the rest.

2025 Income Limits (based on Area Median Income):

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $28,300
2 people $32,350
3 people $36,400
4 people $40,400
8 people $58,750

Source: North Dakota Section 8 Income Limits 2025

Major Housing Authorities in North Dakota:

  • North Dakota Housing Finance Agency: 701-328-8080 or 800-292-8621
  • Fargo Housing Authority: 701-293-6262
  • Grand Forks Housing Authority: 701-746-2545
  • Bismarck-Burleigh Housing: 701-255-2540
  • Minot Housing Authority: 701-852-0485

Payment Standards (Grand Forks 2025):

Unit Size Maximum Monthly Payment
1 bedroom $860
2 bedroom $1,082
3 bedroom $1,516
4 bedroom $1,817
5 bedroom $2,088

How to Apply: Contact each housing authority directly – waitlists open and close at different times. Apply to multiple lists to increase your chances.

Portability: Vouchers can transfer between cities and states with open programs.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If all waitlists are closed, check back monthly and ask about emergency/priority status for homeless families or domestic violence survivors.

Emergency Housing Assistance

Coordinated Entry System: Call 211 to access homeless prevention services, rapid rehousing, and shelter placement.

NDRH Housing Stability Program: Provides rental assistance and housing stabilization services for households experiencing homelessness.

Child Care Assistance

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

CCAP helps working families and students pay for child care costs.

Income Limits (2025): Up to 85% of state median income

Household Size Maximum Monthly Income
3 people $6,371
4 people Contact 1-866-614-6005 for current limits

Source: North Dakota CCAP Income Limits

What CCAP Covers:

  • Licensed child care centers
  • Licensed family child care homes
  • Some relative care providers
  • Children served until age 13 (age 19 for special needs)

Co-payments: Based on sliding fee scale. For example, a family of three earning $4,000 monthly pays approximately $79 co-payment.

Child Care Workforce Benefit: If you work at a licensed child care facility (25+ hours per week), you can get CCAP with no co-payment for your own children’s care.

How to Apply: North Dakota CCAP Application

Required for Eligibility:

  • Work at least part-time OR attend school/training
  • Child care provider must be licensed or registered
  • Cannot have assets over $1,000,000

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about the workforce benefit if you work in child care, or explore Head Start programs for children 3-5 years old.

Work and Training Support

Job Service North Dakota

Unemployment Insurance Benefits (2025):

  • Weekly Benefit Range: Check current amounts at Job Service ND
  • Maximum Duration: Typically 26 weeks
  • File online or call 701-328-4995

Job Training Programs:

  • Resume and interview assistance
  • Skills training programs
  • Priority services for single parents

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about federal training programs like WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) for longer-term career training.

Utility Assistance

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

LIHEAP helps pay heating and electric bills, provides weatherization, and offers emergency furnace repair.

When to Apply: Open enrollment typically October through May (heating season).

Income Limits: Based on federal poverty guidelines – most SNAP and TANF recipients automatically qualify.

Crisis Assistance: Available year-round for shutoff notices – call 1-866-614-6005 immediately.

Benefit Amounts: Vary based on:

  • Income level
  • Household size
  • Type of fuel
  • Climate region in North Dakota

How to Apply: North Dakota LIHEAP Application

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your utility company for payment plans and ask about medical necessity programs if anyone in your home uses medical equipment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don’t wait for all documents – apply now and submit documents later
  • Answer all unknown phone calls after applying – eligibility interviews often come from blocked numbers
  • Report income changes immediately – unreported changes can cause benefit loss
  • Keep copies of everything – applications, documents, notices
  • Don’t miss interview appointments – reschedule immediately if you can’t make it
  • Update address and phone changes – missed mail leads to case closures
  • Don’t ignore notices – respond to all requests within deadlines

What If Plans Fail

Additional Food Resources:

  • School free/reduced lunch and breakfast programs
  • Weekend food backpacks through schools
  • Food banks and pantries via 211
  • Senior food programs if over 60

Healthcare Options:

  • Community health centers with sliding fees
  • Prescription assistance programs from drug manufacturers
  • Local health department clinics
  • Free/low-cost dental clinics

Legal Help:

  • Legal Aid services through 211
  • Tenant’s rights organizations
  • Domestic violence legal advocacy
  • Child support enforcement: 1-800-231-4255

Financial Emergency:

  • Salvation Army emergency assistance
  • Catholic Charities
  • Local church assistance programs
  • United Way crisis funds

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your state legislator’s office or advocacy organizations to help navigate complex cases or system problems.

Diverse Communities Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

Know Your Rights:

  • Medicaid and SNAP eligibility cannot be denied based on sexual orientation or gender identity
  • Housing discrimination based on LGBTQ+ status is illegal under federal law
  • If you experience discrimination, ask for a supervisor and document the incident

Supportive Services:

  • Pride Center organizations in larger cities
  • LGBTQ+-affirming healthcare providers through Medicaid
  • Family acceptance programs

Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children

Reasonable Accommodations:

  • Request more time for interviews and document submission
  • Ask for alternative formats (large print, audio)
  • Request accessible meeting locations

Additional Resources:

  • SSI/SSDI benefits may affect other program eligibility calculations
  • Medicaid covers disability-related services and equipment
  • Special education services through schools (IEP/504 plans)
  • Developmental disabilities services through county offices

Access Contact: Call 711 (TTY) for hearing impaired communication with all state agencies.

Veteran Single Mothers

Additional Benefits:

  • VA benefits may affect income calculations for other programs – disclose all VA income
  • HUD-VASH vouchers combine VA services with housing assistance
  • VA social workers can help coordinate civilian benefits

Priority Services:

  • Veteran priority at Job Service North Dakota
  • Some housing programs give veteran preference
  • VA medical care supplements Medicaid

Contact: Your local VA medical center social work department.

Immigrant/Refugee Single Mothers

Eligibility Rules:

  • U.S. citizens always eligible if they meet other requirements
  • Legal permanent residents eligible after 5-year waiting period for most programs
  • Refugees/asylees eligible immediately for most programs
  • Emergency Medicaid available regardless of immigration status
  • WIC and school meals available to children regardless of parent’s status

Documentation Needed:

  • Immigration documents (green card, refugee documentation, etc.)
  • Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if no Social Security number

Language Access:

  • Interpreters provided free at all eligibility interviews
  • Documents available in multiple languages
  • Bring a trusted bilingual friend if preferred

Tribal-Specific Resources

Dual Eligibility:

  • Can apply for both tribal and state programs
  • Some programs may have different benefits through tribal administration
  • Tribal TANF, LIHEAP, and housing programs may have different rules

Contact:

  • Your tribal social services office
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs social services
  • Indian Health Service for healthcare

Jurisdiction:

  • Residence on/off reservation may affect which programs you access
  • Both options may be available – compare benefits

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Transportation Solutions:

  • Many interviews can be conducted by phone
  • Documents can be submitted by mail or email
  • Some services available through mobile units

Service Delivery:

  • 211 can help locate mobile food pantries
  • Telehealth options through Medicaid
  • Online nutrition education for WIC

Internet Access:

  • Public libraries offer free internet and application assistance
  • Some libraries have private rooms for phone interviews
  • Community action agencies often provide application help

Single Fathers

Full Program Access: All programs serve single fathers with custody of children:

  • TANF, SNAP, Medicaid apply equally
  • WIC serves male caregivers of infants and young children
  • Child care assistance available for working single fathers
  • Housing assistance available based on income, not gender

Additional Considerations:

  • May need to establish paternity/custody for some programs
  • Child support cooperation requirements apply equally

Resources by Region

Fargo/Cass County

Human Service Zone: 701-241-5765 825 5th St N, Fargo, ND 58102

Housing Authority: 701-293-6262 1240 3rd Ave N, Fargo, ND 58102

WIC Clinic: Cass County Public Health 701-241-8200

Emergency Services:

  • Great Plains Food Bank: 701-232-6542
  • Churches United: 701-235-4242

Bismarck/Mandan (Burleigh County)

Human Service Zone: 701-222-6622 221 N 5th St, Bismarck, ND 58501

Housing Authority: 701-255-2540 400 E Thayer Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501

WIC Clinic: Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health 701-355-1540

Grand Forks

Human Service Zone: 701-787-8540 151 S 4th St, Grand Forks, ND 58201

Housing Authority: 701-746-2545 1954 47th Ave S, Grand Forks, ND 58201

WIC Clinic: Grand Forks Public Health 701-787-8100

Minot/Ward County

Human Service Zone: 701-852-3552 1929 N Washington St, Minot, ND 58703

Housing Authority: 701-852-0485 2005 6th St SW, Minot, ND 58701

WIC Clinic: First District Health Unit 701-852-1376

Williston/Williams County

Human Service Zone: 701-774-6300 1931 2nd Ave W, Williston, ND 58801

WIC Clinic: Upper Missouri District Health Unit 701-774-6100

Dickinson/Stark County

Human Service Zone: 701-456-7675 51 3rd St E, Dickinson, ND 58601

WIC Clinic: Southwest District Health Unit 701-456-7645

Jamestown/Stutsman County

Human Service Zone: 701-252-5300 806 1st Ave N, Jamestown, ND 58401

WIC Clinic: Central Valley Health District 701-252-9990

Devils Lake/Ramsey County

Human Service Zone: 701-662-7026 524 4th Ave NE, Devils Lake, ND 58301

WIC Clinic: Lake Region District Health Unit 701-662-7035

What to do if this doesn’t work: If local offices are busy, call the state Customer Support Center at 1-866-614-6005 or visit your local office in person during morning hours.

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

1. How fast can I get SNAP benefits in North Dakota?

If you qualify for expedited SNAP (have less than $100 cash or very low income), you can get benefits within 7 days. Regular processing takes 10-30 days. Apply immediately at North Dakota SNAP.

2. What’s the maximum TANF cash I can get monthly?

For a family of three with no income, the maximum is $872 per month as of 2025. This includes a $50 monthly housing supplement. Exact amounts vary by family size – call 1-866-614-6005 for your situation.

3. Can I get child care help while I’m working?

Yes, through CCAP (Child Care Assistance Program). Families earning up to 85% of state median income qualify. For a family of three, that’s up to $6,371 monthly. Apply at North Dakota CCAP.

4. Do I qualify for Medicaid if I work?

Likely yes – North Dakota expanded Medicaid so adults earning up to 138% of Federal Poverty Level qualify. For 2025, that’s about $2,500 monthly for a family of three. Children qualify at even higher incomes.

5. What if I need emergency help with rent or utilities today?

Call 211 immediately for emergency assistance. Apply for LIHEAP crisis help if facing shutoff. Request TANF “Diversion” for one-time rental assistance. Contact your utility company for payment plans.

6. How much WIC food assistance can I get?

WIC provides specific healthy foods monthly – not cash. Amounts vary by category (pregnant women get more than children). Income limit is $4,394 monthly for a family of three. Benefits start immediately at your first appointment.

7. Are Housing Choice Voucher waitlists open?

It varies by housing authority. Call multiple agencies: NDHFA 701-328-8080, Fargo 701-293-6262, Grand Forks 701-746-2545, Bismarck 701-255-2540. Apply when any list opens.

8. Will getting child support reduce my other benefits?

Yes – child support counts as income for SNAP and TANF calculations. However, getting child support might increase your total household income even after benefit reductions. Contact Child Support Services: 1-800-231-4255.

9. What documents do I need to apply for everything?

Essential documents: Photo ID, Social Security numbers, proof of income (last 30 days), rent/utility bills, birth certificates for children. You can apply first and submit documents later – don’t wait.

10. Can I apply for multiple programs at once?

Yes – the North Dakota Self-Service Portal lets you apply for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, CCAP, and LIHEAP with one application. This is the fastest way.

Program Benefit Amounts Summary Table

Program Maximum Monthly Benefit Income Limit Timeline
TANF (family of 3) $872 $1,076 gross income 30 days
SNAP (family of 4) $975 200% FPL gross income 7-30 days
WIC (family of 3) Food packages only $4,394 gross income 1-14 days
CCAP (family of 3) Varies by provider $6,371 gross income 2-4 weeks
Medicaid Adults Full coverage 138% FPL 30-45 days
Housing Vouchers About 70% of rent Varies by area Waitlist basis

Current Processing Timelines

Program Regular Processing Expedited/Emergency Contact for Status
SNAP 10-30 days 7 days if qualified 1-866-614-6005
TANF 30 days N/A 1-866-614-6005
Medicaid 30-45 days Emergency coverage available 1-844-854-4825
LIHEAP 2-4 weeks 2-5 days for shutoff 1-866-614-6005
CCAP 2-4 weeks N/A 1-866-614-6005
WIC 1-14 days for appointment Same day benefits Local clinic

Resumen en Español

Esta sección en español fue traducida por inteligencia artificial. Para información oficial, consulte las fuentes en inglés listadas en esta guía.

This Spanish section was translated by artificial intelligence. For official information, consult the English sources listed in this guide.

Programas Principales para Madres Solteras en Dakota del Norte

SNAP (Cupones de Alimentos):

TANF (Asistencia Temporal):

  • Máximo $872 por mes para familia de 3
  • Ayuda única “Diversion” disponible
  • Aplicar: Mismo portal o llamar 1-866-614-6005

Medicaid (Seguro Médico):

  • Gratis para adultos hasta 138% del nivel de pobreza federal
  • Cobertura automática para niños
  • Llamar: 1-844-854-4825

Asistencia de Cuidado Infantil (CCAP):

  • Familias hasta $6,371 mensuales (familia de 3)
  • Cubre cuidado infantil licenciado
  • Aplicar en portal estatal

WIC (Mujeres, Infantes y Niños):

  • Comida saludable para embarazadas, madres lactantes, niños menores de 5
  • Límite de ingresos $4,394 mensuales (familia de 3)
  • Buscar clínica local WIC

Emergencias:

  • Marcar 211 para ayuda inmediata
  • 1-800-799-7233 para violencia doméstica
  • Visitar oficinas locales antes de las 3 PM con notificaciones de desalojo

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from North Dakota Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits. This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified August 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 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Important Legal Notice:

This guide provides general information about assistance programs available in North Dakota as of August 2025. Program details, benefit amounts, income limits, and eligibility requirements change frequently. Always verify current information directly with the relevant agencies before making decisions.

Key Disclaimers:

  • Not Legal or Financial Advice: This information is educational only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice
  • Individual Results Vary: Eligibility and benefit amounts depend on your specific circumstances
  • Program Changes: Benefit amounts, income limits, and program rules can change without notice
  • Application Required: Information here does not guarantee eligibility – you must apply and be approved by the relevant agency
  • Official Sources Control: When this guide conflicts with official agency information, the official sources are authoritative

Always Verify Current Information:

  • Contact agencies directly using the phone numbers provided
  • Check official websites for the most current forms and requirements
  • Ask eligibility workers about recent changes during your application process
  • Keep documentation of all communications with agencies

Emergency Situations:

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For mental health emergencies, call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). This guide cannot replace professional emergency services.

Updates and Corrections:

While we strive for accuracy, errors occur. If you find outdated or incorrect information, please email info@asinglemother.org with the specific correction needed and we will investigate promptly.

Program information was compiled from official sources including North Dakota Health and Human Services, USDA, HUD, and other federal and state agencies between July-August 2025.

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