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Grants for Single Mothers in New Hampshire

New Hampshire Single Mother’s Guide to Benefits, Grants, and Support Programs (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

If You Need Help Today

If you’re facing an immediate crisis, here are three steps you can take right now:


  1. Call 2-1-1 – Free 24/7 help finding emergency assistance for housing, food, utilities, and more
  2. Apply for Emergency SNAP at NH EASY – you can get food benefits within 1-3 days if you qualify for expedited service
  3. Contact the New Hampshire Food Bank at (877) 347-7627 for emergency food assistance and locate mobile pantries in your area

Quick Summary for Busy Moms

New Hampshire offers assistance for single mothers through 25+ programs. Emergency help available within 1-3 days. Key programs include food assistance for families earning under $4,108/month, cash assistance up to $1,291/month for family of three, and educational scholarships up to $7,500.

Top Programs by Urgency:

  • Emergency Food: SNAP benefits up to $768/month for family of 3
  • Emergency Cash: FANF up to $1,291/month (highest in the nation)
  • Emergency Housing: Emergency assistance for rent, utilities, and deposits
  • Healthcare: New Hampshire Medicaid covers families and children
  • Education: NH Charitable Foundation scholarships up to $7,500

Main Points

According to the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute, New Hampshire has the highest FANF (cash assistance) benefits in the country at $1,291 per month for a family of three. However, this still represents only about 15.8% of the monthly estimated cost of living statewide.

What you need to know:

  • New Hampshire has the highest cash assistance benefits in the US – but cost of living is also high
  • Emergency help is available – You can get food assistance within days and utility help within weeks
  • Child care assistance expanded in 2024 – Income limits increased to 85% of state median income
  • Real educational opportunities exist – NH Charitable Foundation provides scholarships up to $7,500
  • The system is complex – But this guide breaks it down step by step

Reality Check: According to the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute, the average price of child care for an infant in center-based care was over $15,000 in 2022. While benefits are generous compared to other states, they don’t cover full living costs.

Emergency Cash and Basic Needs

When you need help paying bills or buying food, these programs can provide immediate relief.

Financial Assistance for Needy Families (FANF)

According to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, FANF provides temporary cash benefits to families with dependent children. New Hampshire’s program is funded by the federal TANF block grant and provides the highest benefits in the nation.

Current benefit amounts (per NH Fiscal Policy Institute):

  • Maximum $1,291 monthly benefit for family of three with little to no income
  • Benefits adjust based on family income and size
  • Additional assistance available for emergency situations

Income limits: Families must meet income requirements, with limits varying by family size and circumstances.

Time limits:

  • Maximum of 60 months of cash assistance over lifetime
  • Time limit counting began October 1, 1996 in New Hampshire
  • No limit for children in families headed by a relative who doesn’t receive FANF

How to apply:

  1. Apply online at NH EASY
  2. Call (844) 275-3447 to schedule an appointment
  3. Visit local District Office (find yours at dhhs.nh.gov)

Processing time: Up to 45 days from application date

Reality Check: According to the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute, even with the highest benefits in the country, FANF provides only about 15.8% of the monthly cost of living in New Hampshire.

SNAP (Food Assistance)

According to the USDA, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides monthly food benefits to eligible low-income families.

Maximum benefit amounts (FY 2025):

Family Size Monthly Maximum Benefit
1 person $292
2 people $536
3 people $768
4 people $975

Income limits (185% of Federal Poverty Level):

Family Size Monthly Gross Income Limit Annual Gross Income Limit
1 person $2,414 $28,970
2 people $3,260 $39,110
3 people $4,108 $49,300
4 people $4,956 $59,490

How to apply:

  • Online: NH EASY
  • Phone: (844) 275-3447
  • In person: Local District Office

Emergency SNAP: If you qualify for expedited service, you can get benefits within 1-3 days if you have less than $150 in monthly income and $100 or less in bank accounts.

Reality Check: Most families receive less than the maximum amount based on their income and expenses. Benefits are designed to supplement, not replace, your food budget.

Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

According to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, New Hampshire’s Fuel Assistance Program helps with heating costs during winter months.

Benefits available:

  • Benefits range from $94 to $2,177 per year
  • Depends on household income and energy costs
  • Priority given to households with elderly, disabled, or young children

Income limits (60% of State Median Income):

Household Size Monthly Income Limit
1 person $3,694
2 people $4,836
3 people $6,156
4 people $7,476

How to apply:

  • Contact your local Community Action Agency (CAA)
  • Call 2-1-1 for local agency information
  • Application period typically runs October through May

Required documents:

  • Current utility bills
  • Proof of income for all household members
  • Photo ID and Social Security cards
  • Disconnection notice (if applicable)

Reality Check: Funding is limited and available first-come, first-served. Apply early in the program year for best chance of receiving assistance.

Healthcare for You and Your Kids

New Hampshire expanded Medicaid, providing more single mothers access to comprehensive health coverage.

New Hampshire Medicaid

According to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, NH Medicaid provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families.

Income limits (varies by program type):

  • Adults under 65: Up to 138% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Children: Higher income limits available through Children’s Medicaid

Coverage includes:

  • Doctor visits and specialist care
  • Prescription medications
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Hospital and emergency room care
  • Preventive care including screenings
  • Pregnancy and postpartum care (12 months)

For children: Children 18 and under can get coverage through Children’s Medicaid or other programs with higher income limits.

How to apply:

  • Online: NH EASY
  • Phone: (844) 275-3447
  • In person: Local District Office

Processing time: Usually 30 days or less

Emergency Medicaid: Available for emergency medical conditions regardless of documentation status

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

According to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, WIC provides nutrition assistance to pregnant women and children under 5.

Who qualifies:

  • Pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum women
  • Children under age 5
  • Income at or below 185% of Federal Poverty Level ($4,108/month for family of 3)
  • Must be at “nutritional risk” (determined by health screening)

Benefits include:

  • Monthly food packages with items like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits, vegetables
  • Enhanced packages for breastfeeding mothers
  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Breastfeeding support and breast pump loans
  • Referrals to healthcare and social services

How to apply:

  • Call (800) 942-4321 (WIC-4321)
  • Find local WIC office at dhhs.nh.gov
  • Apply in person (phone interviews not available)

What to bring:

  • Photo ID
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of address
  • Children’s immunization records

Reality Check: WIC provides specific healthy foods, not cash. Foods are designed to supplement your diet, not provide all nutrition needs. According to America’s Health Rankings, only 51.2% of eligible people participated in WIC in 2021.

Childcare Help While You Work or Go to School

New Hampshire Child Care Scholarship

According to the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute, the Child Care Scholarship program was significantly expanded in 2024 with higher income limits and reduced family contributions.

Who qualifies:

  • Working parents (or attending school/training)
  • Income up to 85% of State Median Income (expanded in 2024)
  • Children under 13 (or 17 if disabled)

Income limits (85% of State Median Income):

Family Size Annual Income Limit
2 people $72,193
3 people $89,180
4 people $105,000 (approx)

Family contribution: No more than 7% of household income for child care costs

How much families pay:

  • Most families pay no more than 7% of annual income
  • For example: Family earning $50,000 pays maximum $3,500 annually
  • Lower income families may pay less

How to apply:

  • Online: NH EASY
  • Phone: (844) 275-3447
  • Contact local Child Care Resource & Referral Agency

Processing time: 30-45 days if all documents provided

Reality Check: According to the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute, the program has been historically underutilized, with nearly half of families surveyed reporting they never heard of it. The average cost of infant care is over $15,000 annually.

Head Start and Early Head Start

Free comprehensive early childhood programs for low-income families.

Head Start (Ages 3-5):

  • Free preschool education
  • Full-day or part-day options
  • Meals and snacks included
  • Health and dental screenings
  • Family support services

Early Head Start (Birth to 3):

  • Childcare for infants and toddlers
  • Home visiting programs
  • Pregnant women services
  • Parenting education

Income requirements:

  • Family income at or below 130% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Automatic qualification for families receiving FANF, SNAP, or SSI

How to apply:

  • Call Head Start locator: 1-866-763-6481
  • Contact local Head Start programs directly
  • Applications typically open in spring for fall enrollment

Reality Check: High-quality programs with waiting lists. Some programs offer year-round enrollment, others have specific enrollment periods.

Real Educational Grants and Scholarships

These are true grants and scholarships – money you never have to pay back. They can completely change your life trajectory.

NH Charitable Foundation Scholarships

According to the NH Charitable Foundation, the Foundation manages more than 450 scholarship funds and distributes approximately $3 million annually.

What they provide:

  • Awards ranging from $250 to $7,500
  • Average award is $4,600
  • Can be used for certificates, licenses, apprenticeships, degrees

Types available:

  • Traditional scholarships for high school seniors
  • Adult learner scholarships for students over 24
  • Vocational/technical training scholarships
  • Graduate school scholarships

Eligibility requirements:

  • New Hampshire residents
  • Financial need (FAFSA required)
  • Academic merit and other factors
  • Commitment to chosen field of study

Application deadlines:

  • Adult learners: Open enrollment through December 12, 2025
  • Traditional students: April 11, 2025 for advanced degrees
  • Vocational programs: Open enrollment

How to apply:

  • Single online application at nhcf.org
  • Students automatically matched with all qualifying scholarships
  • FAFSA submission required

Reality Check: This is a competitive program with approximately one award for every five applications. Academic excellence is not the only factor – financial need and commitment are equally important.

Education Freedom Accounts (K-12)

According to Children’s Scholarship Fund New Hampshire, EFAs provide state funding for educational expenses for K-12 students.

Who qualifies:

  • New Hampshire residents
  • Children ages 5-20 entering K-12
  • Priority for families at or below 350% of federal poverty level
  • Cannot attend public school full-time while receiving EFA

What it covers:

  • Private school tuition
  • Homeschooling expenses
  • Educational materials and equipment
  • Educational services

Income priority (350% of Federal Poverty Level):

Family Size Annual Income Priority Level
2 people $87,130
3 people $109,930
4 people $132,730

How to apply:

  • Online at nh.scholarshipfund.org
  • Rolling applications with 100% grants for early applicants
  • Must establish NH residency

Reality Check: This program is for K-12 education and helps families customize their children’s education. It’s not direct financial assistance to mothers but reduces education costs for families.

Housing Help That Works

Finding safe, affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges for single mothers.

Emergency Assistance Program

According to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, the Emergency Assistance Program helps families avoid homelessness.

What it covers:

  • Rent or utility security deposits
  • First month’s rent
  • Home heating fuel deliveries
  • Past due rent, mortgage, or utility debts

Eligibility:

  • Must meet FANF eligibility rules
  • Don’t have to receive FANF cash to qualify for Emergency Assistance
  • Must have housing or utility crisis
  • Can’t be caused by voluntary job loss

Crisis situations covered:

  • Eviction threat
  • Utility shut-off
  • Lack of heat, hot water, or cooking fuel
  • Homelessness threat

How to apply:

  • Contact local District Office
  • Apply through NH EASY
  • Call (844) 275-3447

Reality Check: Funding for Emergency Assistance is capped and not guaranteed. Apply as soon as you face a crisis.

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

According to New Hampshire Housing, the Housing Choice Voucher program helps very low-income families afford decent housing.

How it works:

  • Qualified household pays portion of income toward rent
  • New Hampshire Housing pays balance directly to landlord
  • Can be used for homeownership in some cases

Income requirements:

  • Generally 30% of Area Median Income or below
  • Varies by location and family size
  • Extremely low income families get priority

Application process:

  • Contact local Public Housing Authority
  • Apply when waiting lists open
  • Maintain contact during wait period

Reality Check: According to New Hampshire Housing, waiting list times can stretch to as long as nine years due to limited vouchers available. Apply to multiple authorities if eligible.

Child Support Enforcement

Don’t overlook this important source of financial support. New Hampshire’s Bureau of Child Support Services helps single mothers get support from the other parent.

New Hampshire Child Support Services

According to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, every child has a legal right to financial support from both parents.

What they provide:

  • Locate absent parents using state and federal databases
  • Establish paternity through genetic testing
  • Establish and modify support orders
  • Collect and distribute support payments
  • Enforce support orders through wage garnishment, asset seizure

2025 Law Changes: According to Orr & Reno, significant changes took effect January 1, 2025:

  • New definitions for “approximately equal parenting time” (40%+ each)
  • Presumption of $0 support when parents have similar incomes and equal time
  • New childcare cost sharing requirements

Who qualifies:

  • Any parent or caregiver with custody of a child
  • No income requirements
  • Available regardless of marital status

How to apply:

Costs:

  • Services are free
  • May be small processing fees

Reality Check: According to family law attorneys, even if the other parent doesn’t have a job now, establishing support orders helps when their situation changes. Current orders can be modified if circumstances change.

Support for All Types of Single Parent Families

Single Fathers

Most programs in this guide also serve single fathers raising children alone:

Available programs:

  • SNAP (food assistance) – same eligibility and benefits
  • FANF (cash assistance) – same income limits and requirements
  • New Hampshire Medicaid – full family coverage available
  • Child support services – help collecting from other parent
  • Housing assistance – Emergency assistance and voucher programs
  • Childcare assistance – same work/school requirements

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Special considerations for kinship families:

FANF eligibility:

  • May qualify even if grandparent receives Social Security
  • Income limits may be different when applying only for grandchild
  • Grandparent’s needs may not be included in benefit calculation

Additional support:

  • Contact local District Office for kinship care resources
  • Legal assistance available for custody issues
  • Respite care may be available through local agencies

LGBTQ+ Single Parents

All New Hampshire state programs serve LGBTQ+ parents without discrimination:

Legal protections:

  • New Hampshire law prohibits discrimination in state programs
  • Same-sex couples eligible for all family programs
  • Name change and gender marker assistance available

Support organizations:

  • 603 Legal Aid provides legal assistance
  • Contact 2-1-1 for local LGBTQ+ support groups

Native American Families

Important note: Some tribal nations may operate their own assistance programs. Contact your tribal government for specific programs and eligibility requirements.

Available services:

  • All state programs are available to tribal members
  • Indian Health Service healthcare may be available
  • Educational assistance may be available through tribal programs

Rural New Hampshire Families

Additional challenges in rural areas:

  • Limited public transportation
  • Fewer service providers
  • Longer travel distances to offices

Rural-specific resources:

  • Mobile services: Some programs offer mobile outreach
  • Telehealth: New Hampshire Medicaid covers telehealth appointments
  • 2-1-1: Especially important for finding local resources
  • Transportation assistance: Ask about gas vouchers or transportation help

Common Questions Single Mothers Ask (FAQs)

Q: Can I get help if I’m working? A: Yes! Most programs allow working families to qualify:

  • SNAP: Up to 185% of poverty level ($4,108/month for family of 3)
  • New Hampshire Medicaid: Up to 138% of poverty level for adults
  • Childcare assistance: Up to 85% of state median income
  • LIHEAP: Up to 60% of state median income

Q: How long do applications take to process? A: Processing times vary by program:

  • SNAP: 1-30 days (1-3 days if emergency)
  • FANF: Up to 45 days
  • New Hampshire Medicaid: Usually 30 days or less
  • Childcare assistance: 30-45 days
  • Emergency assistance: Varies, contact local office

Q: What if I get denied? A: You have the right to appeal any denial. Contact 603 Legal Aid at (800) 639-5290 for help with appeals. Common reasons for denial include missing documents or income calculation errors.

Q: Do I have to pay anything back? A: Most programs don’t require repayment:

  • Never repay: SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, LIHEAP, emergency assistance
  • Scholarships: May have requirements like staying in New Hampshire after graduation
  • Overpayments: If you receive too much due to unreported income changes, you may need to repay

Q: Can I apply for multiple programs at once? A: Yes! NH EASY allows you to apply for SNAP, FANF, and Medicaid with one application. You can also apply for other programs separately.

Q: What if I need help filling out applications? A: Free application assistance available:

  • District Offices: Staff provide in-person help
  • 2-1-1: Can connect you with local help
  • 603 Legal Aid: (800) 639-5290
  • Local Community Action Programs: Often provide application assistance

Q: What documents do I need? A: Generally you’ll need:

  • Photo ID and Social Security cards for all family members
  • Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit statements)
  • Proof of expenses (rent receipts, utility bills)
  • Bank statements
  • Birth certificates for children

Q: Are there programs specifically for education? A: Yes:

  • NH Charitable Foundation: Scholarships up to $7,500
  • Federal Pell Grants: Apply via FAFSA
  • Work-study programs: Available at colleges
  • FANF education: School/training can count as work requirement

Q: What if I live in a rural area? A: Rural residents have additional options:

  • Some agencies provide mobile services
  • Telehealth appointments covered by Medicaid
  • Gas vouchers may be available for appointments
  • 2-1-1 essential for finding local resources

Q: How do I get help with child support? A: Contact New Hampshire Child Support Services:

  • Services are free
  • They can locate the other parent
  • Establish paternity and support orders
  • Collect and distribute payments
  • Note: 2025 law changes may affect calculations

Resources and Important Phone Numbers

Statewide Resources

Primary contact numbers:

  • 2-1-1: Information and referral service (24/7)
  • NH Department of Health and Human Services: (603) 271-9700
  • NH EASY: (844) 275-3447
  • New Hampshire Medicaid: (844) 275-3447

Application portal:

  • All benefits applications: NH EASY

Emergency Numbers

Immediate crisis:

  • Emergency services: 911
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

Food assistance:

  • New Hampshire Food Bank: (877) 347-7627
  • 2-1-1: For local food pantries

Legal and Advocacy Help

Free legal assistance:

  • 603 Legal Aid: (800) 639-5290
  • New Hampshire Legal Assistance: (800) 639-5290
  • Domestic Violence Legal Assistance: Contact local domestic violence programs

Educational Resources

Scholarships and financial aid:

Useful Websites

Government portals:

Resource finders:

Disclaimer

Important Notice About Information Currency

Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts change frequently due to federal and state policy updates, funding changes, and legislative action. All information in this guide was compiled and verified using official government sources as of August 2025, but policies may have changed since publication.

Verification Requirements:

  • Always verify current information directly with the relevant agency before making decisions
  • Contact program offices for the most up-to-date eligibility requirements and benefit amounts
  • Check official websites for any recent policy changes or updates

Limitations:

  • This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or benefits counseling advice
  • Individual circumstances vary and may affect program eligibility
  • Processing times and benefit amounts may differ from those listed
  • Some programs may have waiting lists or limited funding not reflected in this guide

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This New Hampshire guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, USDA, HHS, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, USDA, HHS, and New Hampshire Housing sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

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