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Grants for Single Mothers in New Mexico

New Mexico 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 Yes! New Mexico – you can get benefits within 1-3 days if you qualify for expedited service
  3. Contact local food banks – Many provide emergency food boxes within 24-48 hours

Quick Summary for Busy Moms

New Mexico offers comprehensive assistance for single mothers through 25+ programs. Emergency help available within 1-3 days. Key programs include food assistance for families earning under $5,200/month, cash benefits up to $663 for a family of four, and educational grants covering 100% tuition.

Top Programs by Urgency:

  • Emergency Food: SNAP benefits up to $768/month for family of 3
  • Emergency Cash: NM Works (TANF) up to $663/month for family of 4
  • Emergency Housing: Rental assistance and local shelter programs
  • Tax Benefits: Working Families Tax Credit up to 25% over federal EITC
  • Education: New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship covers 100% tuition + fees

Main Points

According to the New Mexico Health Care Authority, the state has significantly expanded assistance programs in recent years. New Mexico has one of the highest rates of births covered by Medicaid in the nation, and poverty rates among children remain concerning, making support programs critical for single mothers.

What you need to know:

  • Real help exists – Programs like NM Works provide immediate cash assistance, and SNAP covers substantial food costs
  • Emergency help is available – You can get food assistance within days and utility help within weeks
  • Tax credits provide major help – New Mexico’s Working Families Tax Credit adds 25% to your federal EITC
  • Free education opportunities – New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship can cover 100% of tuition and fees
  • The system is complex – But this guide breaks it down step by step

Reality Check: Some programs have waiting lists or strict requirements. Apply for multiple programs and don’t get discouraged if the first one doesn’t work out.

Tax Credits and Federal Benefits (Often Overlooked!)

Many single mothers miss these programs that provide significant annual income.

Federal Tax Credits

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

  • What it provides: Up to $8,046 for families with 3+ children (2025 tax year), according to IRS Revenue Procedure 2024-40
  • Who qualifies: Working families with income under $59,899 (single filers with 3+ children) for 2025
  • How to claim: File tax return with IRS Form 1040, even if you don’t owe taxes
  • Reality Check: This is refundable – you get money back even if you pay no taxes

Income Limits for EITC (2025 Tax Year):

Children Single Filer Income Limit Maximum Credit
1 child $47,915 $4,213
2 children $53,057 $6,960
3+ children $59,899 $8,046

New Mexico Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) According to Single Mother Guide, New Mexico’s Working Families Tax Credit is worth 25% over and above the federal EITC. That’s an additional $250 for every $1,000 you claim on your federal tax return.

  • What it provides: 25% additional credit on top of federal EITC
  • Who qualifies: EITC recipients, including ITIN filers and those as young as 18
  • Example: If you get $4,000 federal EITC, you’ll get an additional $1,000 from New Mexico

Child Tax Credit (CTC)

  • What it provides: Up to $2,000 per child under 17, with up to $1,700 refundable per IRS Topic 602
  • Who qualifies: Single mothers with income under $200,000
  • How to claim: File tax return, may be partially refundable

Contact for Free Tax Help: IRS VITA Program at 1-800-906-9887

Emergency Cash and Basic Needs

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

NM Works (New Mexico’s TANF Program)

According to the New Mexico Health Care Authority, cash assistance payments increased 23% in August 2023, the first increase since 2011.

Current benefit amounts:

  • Family of 4: Up to $663/month (increased from $539 in 2023)
  • Family of 3: Approximately $550/month
  • Family of 2: Lower amounts based on household size

Income limits (130% of Federal Poverty Level):

Family Size Monthly Income Limit Annual Income Limit
1 person $1,697 $20,370
2 people $2,291 $27,490
3 people $2,885 $34,610
4 people $3,479 $41,730

Requirements:

  • Must be U.S. citizen or qualified legal resident
  • Must live in New Mexico
  • Must have children under 19 (or under 20 if in school)
  • Must participate in work activities (20-30 hours per week)
  • Must have assets under certain limits

How to apply:

  1. Apply online at Yes! New Mexico
  2. Call (800) 432-6217 for assistance
  3. Visit local HCA field office

Processing time: Up to 45 days from application date

Reality Check: Benefits are modest but provide essential support. Starting October 1, 2024, interviews are required for new applicants.

SNAP (Food Assistance)

According to the New Mexico Health Care Authority, starting October 1, 2024, SNAP eligibility expanded significantly with higher income limits and increased benefits.

Maximum benefit amounts (2025):

  • 1 person: $292/month
  • 2 people: $536/month
  • 3 people: $768/month
  • 4 people: $975/month

Income limits (200% of Federal Poverty Level – expanded from 165% in 2024):

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 $5,200 $62,400

Special Benefits for Seniors and Disabled:

  • Minimum benefit increased from $32 to $100/month for households with members 60+ or disabled
  • Extended certification periods up to 36 months (no annual renewals needed)

How to apply:

  • Online: Yes! New Mexico
  • Phone: (800) 283-4465
  • In person: Local HCA 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.

Utility Assistance (LIHEAP)

Benefits available:

  • Regular LIHEAP assistance for heating/cooling bills
  • Emergency assistance for utility shut-offs
  • Weatherization programs

Who qualifies:

  • Low-income households (income limits vary by county)
  • Priority for households with elderly (60+), disabled, or children under 6
  • Must be New Mexico resident

How to apply:

  • Contact local Community Action Program office
  • Call statewide hotline: (800) 283-4465
  • Apply during program year (typically starts October 1st)

Reality Check: Funding is limited and available first-come, first-served. Apply early in the program year.

Educational Grants and Opportunities

These programs can provide pathways to better-paying careers and long-term financial stability.

New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship

According to CNM, this program provides tuition and fee assistance for New Mexico residents pursuing certificates, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees.

What it covers:

  • Up to 100% of tuition and required fees
  • Available at all New Mexico public colleges and universities
  • Covers certificate programs, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees

Requirements:

  • New Mexico resident
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • Enroll within 15 months of graduation
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress

How to apply:

  1. Complete FAFSA at studentaid.gov
  2. Apply to participating New Mexico institution
  3. Meet with financial aid office

Reality Check: This is a substantial opportunity that can cover full tuition costs, making higher education accessible to single mothers.

Student Incentive Grant (SIG)

According to the New Mexico Higher Education Department, SIG is designed for students with exceptional financial need.

Benefits:

  • Up to $2,500 per year
  • Renewable annually until graduation
  • No repayment required

Requirements:

  • Exceptional financial need (lowest Student Aid Index)
  • Enrolled at least half-time
  • Attending New Mexico public college or university
  • Must be Pell Grant eligible

How to apply:

  • Complete FAFSA by March 1st
  • Institution automatically considers you for SIG

Community Foundation Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico offers specific scholarships for single mothers.

Available scholarships include:

  • Scholarships specifically for single mothers with financial need attending NMSU and/or DACC
  • Emergency financial aid for students with preference for female business students
  • Various scholarships for non-traditional students

How to apply:

  • Check foundation website for current applications
  • Applications typically open annually
  • Meet specific scholarship requirements

Healthcare for You and Your Kids

New Mexico has expanded Medicaid, making healthcare more accessible to single mothers and their families.

Centennial Care (New Mexico Medicaid)

According to New Mexico Medicaid eligibility information, New Mexico expanded Medicaid under the ACA.

Income limits (138% of Federal Poverty Level for adults):

Household Size Monthly Income Limit Annual Income Limit
1 person $1,801 $21,597
2 people $2,433 $29,180
3 people $3,064 $36,763
4 people $3,696 $44,346

Coverage includes:

  • Doctor visits and specialist care
  • Prescription medications
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Hospital and emergency room care
  • Preventive care including mammograms and cancer screenings
  • Postpartum coverage extended to full year (increased from 60 days)

For children:

  • Children 0-5: Coverage up to 305% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Children 6-18: Coverage up to 245% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Pregnant women: Coverage up to 255% of Federal Poverty Level

How to apply:

  • Online: Yes! New Mexico
  • Phone: (800) 283-4465
  • In person: Local HCA office

Processing time: Usually 30 days or less

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

Who qualifies:

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

Automatic qualification if you receive:

  • Medicaid
  • TANF (NM Works)
  • SNAP

Benefits include:

  • Monthly food packages with nutritious items
  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Breastfeeding support and breast pump loans
  • Referrals to healthcare and social services

How to apply:

  • Call New Mexico WIC: (800) 252-5942
  • Find local WIC office at state website
  • Apply in person (phone interviews not available)

Childcare Help While You Work or Go to School

Child Care Assistance Program

Who qualifies:

  • Working parents (minimum work requirements)
  • Parents in approved education/training programs
  • Income within program guidelines

How much you pay:

  • Co-payments based on income
  • Lower income families pay less
  • Payments made directly to childcare provider

Approved providers:

  • Licensed childcare centers
  • Licensed family childcare homes
  • Before/after school programs

How to apply:

  • Contact local HCA office
  • Phone: (800) 283-4465
  • Processing time: 30-45 days

Reality Check: Waiting lists are common, especially in urban areas. Apply as early as possible.

Head Start and Early Head Start

Head Start (Ages 3-5):

  • Free preschool education
  • Full-day or part-day options
  • Meals and health services included
  • Family support services

Early Head Start (Birth to 3):

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

Income requirements:

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

How to apply:

  • Contact New Mexico Head Start Association: (505) 338-0449
  • Use program locator: Call 1-866-763-6481

Housing Help That Works

Emergency Rental Assistance

Several programs can help if you’re behind on rent or facing eviction.

Local Emergency Assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Programs for rental assistance
  • Many nonprofits provide one-time emergency assistance
  • Churches and faith-based organizations often have emergency funds
  • Call 2-1-1 for local emergency rental programs

What assistance covers:

  • Rent arrears and current rent
  • Utility payments
  • Moving costs and security deposits

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

Two types available:

  1. Housing Choice Vouchers: You find your own rental, voucher pays portion of rent
  2. Project-based Section 8: Specific apartment complexes with reduced rent

Income limits vary by area – contact local housing authority for current limits

How to apply:

  • Contact your local Public Housing Authority
  • Santa Fe: Contact Santa Fe Civic Housing Authority
  • Albuquerque: Contact Albuquerque Housing Authority
  • Las Cruces: Contact Housing Authority of the City of Las Cruces

Reality Check: Most housing authorities have waiting lists of 1-3 years. Apply as soon as possible and to multiple authorities if eligible.

USDA Rural Housing Repair Grants

According to USDA Rural Development, the Section 504 Home Repair program provides grants to elderly very-low-income homeowners.

What it provides:

  • Grants to remove health and safety hazards
  • Loans for home improvements and repairs
  • Available in eligible rural areas

Who qualifies:

  • Must be 62 or older for grants
  • Very low income homeowners
  • Must live in eligible rural area

Contact: New Mexico State Office at (505) 761-4950

Child Support Enforcement

New Mexico’s Child Support Services helps single mothers get support from the other parent.

New Mexico Child Support Services

What they provide:

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

Who qualifies:

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

How to apply:

Costs:

  • Minimal application fees
  • Services are essentially free

Reality Check: Even if the other parent doesn’t have a job now, establishing support orders helps when their situation changes.

Real Grants Available to Single Mothers

While most “grants” are actually government assistance programs, some true grants exist that don’t need to be repaid.

Educational Grants

Federal Pell Grant

  • Up to $7,395 per year (2024-2025)
  • Based on financial need determined by FAFSA
  • Never needs to be repaid
  • Available at any accredited college or university

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

  • $100 to $4,000 per year
  • For students with exceptional financial need
  • Priority given to Pell Grant recipients
  • Available through college financial aid offices

Private Foundation Grants

Community Foundation Scholarships Various community foundations in New Mexico offer grants and scholarships specifically for single mothers:

  • Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico has scholarships specifically for single mothers
  • Albuquerque Community Foundation offers various scholarships
  • Local foundations may have emergency assistance grants

How to find:

Emergency Assistance Grants

Local Nonprofit Grants Many local nonprofits provide small emergency grants ($100-$500) for:

  • Utility payments
  • Car repairs
  • Medical bills
  • Emergency food

Faith-Based Grants

  • Catholic Charities
  • Salvation Army
  • Local churches often have emergency assistance funds

Reality Check: True grants (money you don’t repay) are limited and competitive. Most assistance comes through government programs, but these can provide substantial help.

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
  • NM Works (cash assistance) – same income limits and requirements
  • Centennial Care (healthcare) – full family coverage available
  • Child support services – help collecting from other parent
  • Housing assistance and emergency rental help
  • Childcare assistance – same work/school requirements

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Special considerations for kinship families:

NM Works eligibility:

  • May qualify even if grandparent receives Social Security
  • Different income calculations when grandparent applies only for grandchild
  • Contact HCA for kinship-specific guidance

Kinship care support:

  • Contact local HCA office for kinship services
  • Support groups and respite care available
  • Legal assistance for custody issues

LGBTQ+ Single Parents

All New Mexico state programs serve LGBTQ+ parents without discrimination.

Support organizations:

  • Equality New Mexico
  • Local LGBTQ+ community centers
  • PFLAG chapters throughout the state

Legal protections:

  • New Mexico law prohibits discrimination in state programs
  • Same-sex couples eligible for all family programs

Native American Families

Tribal assistance programs: Many New Mexico tribes operate their own assistance programs:

  • Navajo Nation: Separate TANF and assistance programs
  • Various Pueblos: May have tribal assistance programs
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs: Financial Assistance and Social Services (FASS) program

Note: You cannot receive both state and tribal TANF simultaneously

Indian Health Service:

  • Healthcare for enrolled tribal members
  • Available regardless of income
  • Contact your tribal health clinic

Contact: New Mexico Indian Affairs Department for tribal-specific programs

Rural New Mexico Families

Additional challenges in rural areas:

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

Rural-specific resources:

  • Mobile services: Some agencies provide mobile services
  • Telehealth: Centennial Care covers telehealth appointments
  • Home visits: Some WIC offices offer home visits in rural areas
  • 2-1-1: Especially important for finding local resources

Resources by Region

Northern New Mexico (Santa Fe, Las Vegas, Taos areas)

Key Resources:

  • Santa Fe Community Services
  • Las Vegas Family Services
  • Northern New Mexico Community Action Programs

Tribal Resources:

  • San Ildefonso Pueblo
  • Santa Clara Pueblo
  • Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo

Central New Mexico (Albuquerque metro area)

Key Resources:

  • Albuquerque Community Services
  • Bernalillo County assistance programs
  • Chicanos Por La Causa

Education:

  • University of New Mexico financial aid programs
  • Central New Mexico Community College assistance

Southern New Mexico (Las Cruces, Roswell, Carlsbad areas)

Key Resources:

  • Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico
  • Doña Ana County Community Services
  • Mesilla Valley Community of Hope

Education:

  • New Mexico State University financial aid
  • Doña Ana Community College programs

Eastern New Mexico (Clovis, Portales areas)

Key Resources:

  • Eastern New Mexico Community Action Programs
  • Roosevelt County assistance programs

Education:

  • Eastern New Mexico University financial aid

Western New Mexico (Gallup, Farmington areas)

Key Resources:

  • Gallup Community Services
  • San Juan County assistance programs

Tribal Resources:

  • Navajo Nation assistance programs
  • Various tribal community services

How to Apply: Your 4-Week Action Plan

Week 1: Immediate Emergency Needs

Day 1-2:

  1. Apply for Emergency SNAP at Yes! New Mexico
  2. Call 2-1-1 for immediate crisis resources in your area
  3. Contact local food banks for emergency food

Day 3-4: 4. Apply for Centennial Care (Medicaid) – same application as SNAP 5. Call utility companies if behind on bills – many have hardship programs 6. Contact local churches/nonprofits for emergency assistance

Day 5-7: 7. Gather required documents (see list below) 8. Follow up on SNAP application if no response within 3 days 9. Apply for WIC if you have children under 5

Week 2: Cash Assistance and Support Programs

Day 8-10:

  1. Apply for NM Works (TANF) through Yes! New Mexico
  2. Apply for LIHEAP utility assistance through local Community Action Program
  3. Contact child support services: 1-800-432-6217

Day 11-14: 4. Apply for childcare assistance if working or in school 5. Research Head Start programs for children 3-5 6. Contact local food banks for ongoing support

Week 3: Housing and Legal Support

Day 15-17:

  1. Apply for Section 8 housing vouchers with local housing authority
  2. Contact emergency rental assistance if facing eviction
  3. Research local housing programs

Day 18-21: 4. File taxes or contact VITA program for EITC/Child Tax Credit: 1-800-906-9887 5. Contact legal aid if needed for housing or family issues 6. Apply for additional local emergency assistance programs

Week 4: Long-term Planning and Education

Day 22-24:

  1. Research educational opportunities – New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship
  2. Complete FAFSA for educational grants at studentaid.gov
  3. Contact community colleges about programs and support services

Day 25-28: 4. Follow up on all pending applications 5. Create ongoing plan for managing benefits and requirements 6. Research job training and career programs

Documents You Need (Prepare These First!)

Keep copies of these documents ready for all applications:

Personal identification:

  • New Mexico driver’s license or state ID
  • Social Security cards for all family members
  • Birth certificates for all children
  • Immigration documents (if applicable)

Income and employment:

  • Pay stubs from last 30 days
  • Unemployment benefits statement
  • Self-employment records
  • Child support payment records
  • Any other income documentation

Housing and expenses:

  • Current lease or mortgage statement
  • Rent receipts for last 3 months
  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water, phone)
  • Childcare payment receipts

Financial information:

  • Bank statements for last 3 months (all accounts)
  • Vehicle registration and insurance
  • Medical bills and expenses
  • Court orders (custody, child support, if applicable)

What to Do When You’re Denied

Don’t give up! Most denials can be resolved.

Common Denial Reasons

Missing information:

  • Incomplete application
  • Missing required documents
  • Failed to attend required interview
  • Income not properly documented

Eligibility issues:

  • Income appears too high (often calculation errors)
  • Didn’t meet residency requirements
  • Failed to meet work requirements
  • Assets over program limits

Your Legal Rights

Appeal process:

  • 30-day deadline: You have 30 days from denial date to request appeal
  • Continued benefits: You may keep current benefits during appeal (if already receiving)
  • Fair hearing: Right to present your case to impartial hearing officer
  • Legal representation: Right to bring advocate or attorney

How to appeal:

  1. Request appeal in writing within 30 days
  2. State specific reasons you disagree with decision
  3. Submit additional documentation supporting your case
  4. Attend hearing or participate by phone
  5. Receive written decision within 60 days

Getting Help with Appeals

Free legal assistance:

  • Contact local legal aid organizations
  • Call HCA customer service for guidance
  • Contact local Community Action Programs

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

Q: Can I get help if I’m working? A: Yes! Most programs allow working families to qualify. SNAP income limits went up to 200% of poverty level in 2024, and Medicaid covers families up to 138% of poverty level.

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

  • SNAP: 1-30 days (1-3 days if emergency)
  • NM Works: Up to 45 days
  • Centennial Care: Usually 30 days or less
  • Housing vouchers: Often 1-3 years due to waiting lists
  • Childcare assistance: 30-45 days

Q: Can I apply for multiple programs at once? A: Yes! Yes! New Mexico allows you to apply for SNAP, NM Works, and Centennial Care with one application. You can also apply for other programs separately.

Q: What if I get denied? A: You have the right to appeal any denial within 30 days. Contact HCA customer service at (800) 283-4465 for help with appeals.

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

  • Never repay: SNAP, Centennial Care, WIC, LIHEAP, tax credits
  • Educational grants: May have requirements like staying in New Mexico after graduation
  • Overpayments: If you receive too much due to unreported income changes, you may need to repay the difference

Q: Can undocumented immigrants get help? A: Some programs are available:

  • Emergency Medicaid: Emergency medical care only
  • WIC: Available regardless of documentation status
  • Food banks: Most don’t require documentation
  • Emergency assistance: Many nonprofits provide help regardless of status

Q: What if I live in rural New Mexico? A: Rural residents face additional challenges but have options:

  • Some agencies provide mobile services
  • Centennial Care covers telehealth appointments
  • 2-1-1 is especially important for finding local resources
  • USDA rural programs may be available

Q: How do I get help filling out applications? A: Free application assistance available:

  • HCA offices: Staff provide in-person help
  • 2-1-1: Can connect you with local navigators
  • Local Community Action Programs: Case managers often help
  • Legal aid organizations: May provide assistance

Q: What if my English is limited? A: Language assistance is available:

  • All state programs provide free interpreters
  • Yes! New Mexico website available in Spanish
  • Call (800) 283-4465 for Spanish language assistance
  • Request interpreter when scheduling appointments

Q: Can I get help paying for school while receiving benefits? A: Yes, education is encouraged:

  • New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship: Covers tuition and fees
  • Pell Grants: Federal education funding (apply via FAFSA)
  • Student Incentive Grant: State education grants up to $2,500/year
  • Childcare assistance: Available for parents in approved education programs

Warning Signs and Red Flags

Scams to Avoid

Grant scams:

  • Red flag: Requests upfront fees for “guaranteed grants”
  • Reality: Legitimate government programs never charge application fees
  • Action: Hang up and report to New Mexico Attorney General

Benefits card scams:

  • Red flag: Calls asking for your EBT card number or PIN
  • Reality: HCA will never call asking for your card information
  • Action: Never give card information over phone; call HCA directly

Program Warnings

Work requirements:

  • Most programs require work, school, or job training
  • Exemptions limited and temporary
  • Understand requirements before applying

Income limits are strict:

  • Small increases in income can eliminate eligibility
  • Report income changes immediately to avoid overpayments
  • Plan for “benefits cliff” when income increases

Emergency Resources and Crisis Numbers

Immediate Crisis Help

Food emergency:

  • 2-1-1: Find local food pantries and soup kitchens
  • Emergency SNAP: Apply at Yes! New Mexico or call (800) 283-4465
  • Local food banks: Contact through 2-1-1 for immediate assistance

Housing emergency (eviction/homelessness):

  • 2-1-1: Emergency shelter and rental assistance
  • Local housing authorities: Contact for emergency assistance
  • Legal aid: For eviction prevention and tenant rights

Utilities shut-off:

  • LIHEAP Emergency: Contact local Community Action Program or call (800) 283-4465
  • Utility company hardship programs: Call your utility provider directly
  • Salvation Army: May provide emergency utility assistance

Medical emergency:

  • 911: Life-threatening emergencies
  • Emergency Medicaid: Available regardless of immigration status
  • Community health centers: Sliding fee scale, call 2-1-1 for locations

Crisis and Mental Health Support

Crisis intervention:

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • New Mexico Crisis Line: 1-855-662-7474

Domestic violence:

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
  • New Mexico Crisis and Access Line: 1-855-662-7474
  • Local shelters: Call 2-1-1 for immediate shelter options

Legal Emergencies

Eviction and landlord issues:

  • New Mexico Legal Aid: (833) 457-5342
  • Tenant rights information: Available through legal aid
  • Local housing authorities: May provide mediation services

Family law and custody:

  • Self-Service Centers: At all district court locations
  • New Mexico Legal Aid: (833) 457-5342
  • Child support enforcement: 1-800-432-6217

Resources and Important Phone Numbers

Statewide Resources

Primary contact numbers:

  • 2-1-1: Information and referral service (24/7) – Your first call for any crisis
  • New Mexico Health Care Authority: (800) 283-4465
  • Yes! New Mexico (benefits portal): yes.newmexico.gov

Application and benefits:

  • SNAP/NM Works/Medicaid applications: Yes! New Mexico
  • Child support services: 1-800-432-6217
  • WIC program: (800) 252-5942
  • Head Start locator: 1-866-763-6481

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

Legal and Advocacy Help

Free legal assistance:

  • New Mexico Legal Aid: (833) 457-5342
  • Local legal aid offices: Contact through 2-1-1

Educational Resources

College and financial aid:

Specialized Services

Tax assistance:

  • IRS VITA Program: 1-800-906-9887
  • IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service: 1-877-777-4778

Transportation assistance:

  • Local transit authorities: Contact through 2-1-1
  • Rural transit: Call 2-1-1 for local options

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 Mexico guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including New Mexico Health Care Authority, USDA, IRS, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official New Mexico Health Care Authority, New Mexico Human Services Department, USDA, HHS, and New Mexico Higher Education Department 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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