Job Loss Support and Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in Maine

Job Loss Support & Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in Maine

Last updated: September 2025

This no‑fluff guide shows you exactly where to get help in Maine when you’ve lost work. Every paragraph includes direct links so you can click and act fast.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

File a new unemployment claim today through ReEmployME, then submit your weeklies on time and open mail from the Maine Department of Labor. If you can’t get in online, call 1‑800‑593‑7660 for the Unemployment Claims Center. (maine.gov)
Stop a power, heat, or gas shutoff by calling your utility and the Maine Public Utilities Commission Consumer Assistance Division at 1‑800‑452‑4699 the same day. Ask about the Arrearage Management Program and LIAP credits, then apply for LIHEAP with your local Community Action Agency. (maine.gov)
Get same‑day food and local help. Use the statewide 211 Maine directory or map your nearest pantry on Good Shepherd Food Bank’s Food Map, and if rent, heat, or prescriptions can’t wait, apply for municipal General Assistance at your town office. (211maine.org)

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

UI account access help at ReEmployME Login Support and weekly claim guide from MDOL; phone 1‑800‑593‑7660 (TTY 711). (maine.gov)
Health insurance after job loss through CoverME.gov Special Enrollment Periods; free enrollment help at Find Help Near You or 1‑866‑636‑0355. (coverme.gov)
Free legal help for UI appeals via Pine Tree Legal Assistance and Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project. (ptla.org)
Child care cost help while you job search or train through the Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP) and statewide provider search at Child Care Choices. (maine.gov)
Crisis and safety support: Maine Crisis Line 1‑888‑568‑1112 and Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence 1‑866‑834‑HELP. (maine.gov)

How Maine Unemployment Works for Single Moms

Start here. Get your claim in fast even if you’re unsure about eligibility.

File online in minutes at ReEmployME or call 1‑800‑593‑7660, and keep filing weekly claims while your case is reviewed. Use the MDOL weekly claim guide and work‑search entry steps on ReEmployME Guide to avoid denials for missing entries. (maine.gov)
For claims filed on or after June 1, 2025, Maine’s weekly benefit is $108-$ 623 plus $25 p er d e p e n d e n t, c a pp e d a t 75$ 123 you earn in a week doesn’t reduce your payment. Review the formula and dependent rules in MDOL’s Claimant FAQ and Maine law on Title 26 §1191. (maine.gov)
Expect two to three weeks for the first payment if no issues are flagged, and you must serve a non‑payable waiting week once per benefit year, shown as “Waiting Period Week” in your status. Read status definitions and timelines at What does my status mean? and the timing note in the Claimant FAQ. (maine.gov)
Maine requires an active work search every week and an active Maine JobLink account; at least one approved activity per week is required, such as an application or workshop, and you must log the details. See the official Work Search Requirement page and workshop list on the Maine CareerCenter site. (maine.gov)

UI in Maine: numbers to know

Item	What it means	Where to verify
Weekly Benefit Amount	$108-$ 623 for new claims (from 6/1/2025)	MDOL Claimant FAQ (maine.gov)
Dependency Allowance	$25 per eligible child, cap 75% of WBA	Title 26 §1191(6) (legislature.maine.gov)
Earnings disregard	First $123 per week not counted (as of 6/1/2025)	MDOL Claimant FAQ (maine.gov)
Waiting week	First eligible week is unpaid	Status FAQ (maine.gov)
First payment time	Roughly 2–3 weeks for clean claims	Claimant FAQ (maine.gov)
Work search	1 approved activity weekly + active JobLink	Work Search (maine.gov)

Eligibility: You must be able and available for suitable work, keep your Maine JobLink resume active, and file weekly claims on time. Learn about work‑search audits and what counts as “able and available” under MDOL tips and count JobLink workshop credits listed on CareerCenter Workshops. (maine.gov)

How to apply: Create or update your ReEmployME account, gather your last 18 months of employer info, and enter dependent children if you provide more than half of their support. If you get locked out, use Login Help or call 1‑800‑593‑7660 during listed hours. (maine.gov)

Required documents: Driver’s license or other ID, Social Security numbers for you and dependents, employer details, and separation reason documentation. MDOL lists documentation details on the Claimant FAQ and explains card/direct deposit options, including U.S. Bank card support on Benefit Card FAQ. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal within 30 days of the mailing date of the Deputy’s Decision through ReEmployME or by email/fax/mail to the Division of Administrative Hearings, as listed on the MDOL Appeals page. Get help from Pine Tree Legal Assistance or Maine VLP for unemployment hearings. (maine.gov)

Stop Utility Shutoff in Maine Today

Take action the day you get a notice.

Call your utility first to set a payment plan, then call the Maine PUC Consumer Assistance Division at 1‑800‑452‑4699 for help with special winter protections and payment arrangements. Review winter rules and special payment plans in the PUC FAQ. (www1.maine.gov)
Apply for LIHEAP and emergency ECIP through your county Community Action Agency, and ask to be screened for electric bill credits (LIAP) and arrears forgiveness (AMP). See program summaries at the PUC Consumer Financial Assistance page. (maine.gov)
If you’re with Versant or CMP, ask about AMP and ELP credits. Versant’s AMP can forgive up to $6,000 over 12 months; CMP reminds customers of ELP credits and April 15 winter protection end on its Relief Available page. (versantpower.com)

Utility Shutoff Quick Actions

Action	Who qualifies	What to say/do	Contact
Special Payment Arrangement	Low‑income or LIHEAP‑likely customers	Ask for “Special Payment Arrangement” and winter protections; give income/LIHEAP info	PUC Consumer Assistance 1‑800‑452‑4699 (maine.gov)
LIHEAP heat help	Income at or below program limits	Apply and request ECIP if low on fuel	MaineHousing HEAP (mainehousing.org)
LIAP bill credit	LIHEAP‑eligible or DHHS‑means tested	Ask for LIAP enrollment with your CAA or utility	PUC Consumer Assistance Programs (www1.maine.gov)
Arrearage Management Program	LIHEAP/LIAP eligible with $500+ arrears	Enroll and pay current bills to earn monthly forgiveness	Versant AMP or ask CMP about AMP/ELP (versantpower.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 or use 211 Maine to find church funds and town emergency aid; apply for municipal General Assistance; and ask your CAA about CHIP heating system repairs via MaineHousing programs. (211maine.org)

Food, Rent, and Basics When Money Stops

Apply for emergency General Assistance at your town office for rent, fuel, or essentials; DHHS explains GA and the hotline (1‑800‑442‑6003) on OFI’s GA page. For your rights and appeal timelines, see PTLA’s GA guide. (maine.gov)
Use SNAP for groceries if you qualify; apply through My Maine Connection or by calling OFI at 1‑855‑797‑4357. Learn about online EBT shopping and student rules on SNAP in Maine. (maine.gov)
If you have school‑age kids, check summer SUN Bucks updates and deadlines on Maine DHHS SUN Bucks and ask your district about meal sites. Use Good Shepherd’s Food Map to locate pantries near you. (www1.maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Community Action Agency via the MeCAP directory about one‑time help funds and ECIP crisis fuel; in Portland, call Preble Street for daily meal access details. (mecap.org)

Health Coverage After a Layoff

If your income dipped, apply for MaineCare through CoverME.gov or My Maine Connection; CoverME lists income limits and free local assister help on Get Help. (coverme.gov)
If you lost job‑based coverage, use a 60‑day Special Enrollment at CoverME.gov. Phone 1‑866‑636‑0355 for live support; navigators are listed under Find Help Near You. (coverme.gov)
Compare COBRA with Maine’s mini‑COBRA. For small‑group plans, Maine’s continuation can extend up to 18–36 months in some circumstances; confirm your rights with the Maine Bureau of Insurance or call 1‑800‑300‑5000. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If premiums are too high, enroll in a Marketplace plan with subsidies at CoverME.gov or appeal a MaineCare denial through OFI; ask Consumers for Affordable Health Care to walk through options. (coverme.gov)

Child Care You Can Afford While You Job Hunt or Train

Apply for the Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP) if your family income is at or below 125% of Maine median income and you’re working, in school, or in job training. Call 1‑877‑680‑5866 to get started or apply online through Baxter via CCAP. (maine.gov)
Find licensed providers that accept CCAP using Child Care Choices Search and compare quality ratings through Rising Stars for ME. The state’s policy manual gives 15 days for CCAP to review a complete application—ask for status updates if you don’t hear back. (search.childcarechoices.me)
If you’re a new parent or have a child under five, connect with Maine WIC for food benefits and breastfeeding support and ask your CAA about Early Head Start and Head Start options listed through MMCA/KVCAP/TOA partners. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑screen through 211 Maine for local scholarship slots or church‑based care and ask your CareerCenter about short‑term training that matches child‑care hours, listed on Maine JobLink. (211maine.org)

Work Re‑Entry, Training, and Job Search Support

Register and post your resume in Maine JobLink, then book one‑on‑one help at your nearest Maine CareerCenter by calling 207‑623‑7981. Use free resume and interview workshops that also count toward UI work‑search credit, listed under Workshops. (maine.gov)
If you were laid off, ask about WIOA Dislocated Worker training and Rapid Response through the CareerCenter. You can also search statewide hiring fairs and connect with local workforce boards linked on the Workforce Resources page. (maine.gov)
For transportation barriers, ask your CAA about ride programs or check whether your area benefited from pilot workforce routes under the Workforce Transportation Pilot and call 211 to locate mileage aid. In Penobscot/Piscataquis, Penquis Lynx lists MaineCare and public ride lines. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Meet a CareerCenter RESEA counselor if you’re selected—attendance counts as work‑search and can connect you to training; see RESEA for what to expect. Revisit JobLink weekly to keep your resume active. (maine.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Topic	Where to click	Phone
File UI claim / weekly	ReEmployME	1‑800‑593‑7660 (maine.gov)
Unemployment rules	Claimant FAQ	1‑800‑593‑7660 (maine.gov)
Job search account	Maine JobLink	207‑623‑7981 (joblink.maine.gov)
Heat/utility help	PUC Consumer Assistance	1‑800‑452‑4699 (www1.maine.gov)
LIHEAP (heat)	MaineHousing HEAP	via CAAs (mainehousing.org)
Food help	SNAP – OFI	1‑855‑797‑4357 (maine.gov)
Health coverage	CoverME.gov	1‑866‑636‑0355 (coverme.gov)
Child care cost help	CCAP – OCFS	1‑877‑680‑5866 (maine.gov)
Legal (UI/evictions)	Pine Tree Legal	207‑774‑8211 (ptla.org)
24/7 crisis	Maine Crisis Line	1‑888‑568‑1112 (maine.gov)

Program‑by‑Program: Eligibility, How to Apply, Documents, Timelines

Unemployment Insurance (UI)

Eligibility: Lost work through no fault of your own, earned enough in base period, able and available for work, weekly work‑search documented in Maine JobLink, and weekly claims filed in ReEmployME. Work Search lists acceptable activities. (maine.gov)
How to apply: File online at ReEmployME or call 1‑800‑593‑7660; finish weekly certifications and include at least one work‑search activity each week. The ReEmployME Guide shows screens for entering contacts. (maine.gov)
Required documents: SSNs, last 18 months of employers, separation reason, dependent info; review Claimant FAQ for details. (maine.gov)
Timelines: First payment in ~2–3 weeks if no issues; first eligible week is the non‑payable waiting week per Status FAQ. Track payment status in your account. (maine.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal within 30 days through MDOL Appeals and get free legal advice at PTLA or Maine VLP. (maine.gov)

LIHEAP, LIAP, and AMP (Heat and Electric)

Eligibility: Income within current HEAP limits posted by MaineHousing; LIAP based on LIHEAP/DHHS program eligibility; AMP requires $500+ arrears and low‑income status. Check details on the PUC programs page and Versant AMP. (mainehousing.org)
How to apply: Apply for HEAP (and ECIP) via your local Community Action Agency; LIAP usually follows. Ask your utility to enroll you in AMP or help with forms. (mecap.org)
Required documents: IDs, SSNs, recent income for all household members, utility account numbers, fuel vendor info, and proof of low supply for ECIP. Your CAA lists specifics and deadlines on its website (see Community Concepts for an example). (ccimaine.org)
Timelines: HEAP applications run August–May (seasonal), with ECIP crisis window in winter; MaineHousing posts each season’s dates and updates on HEAP. If funds run low, MaineHousing announces wait lists. (mainehousing.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 at 211 Maine to search local oil/propane funds; request a winter Special Payment Arrangement through the PUC FAQ; and apply for town General Assistance. (maine.gov)

Food and Cash Support While You Search

Eligibility: SNAP depends on household income/expenses and is safe to apply for even if you’re not a citizen but applying for eligible children; OFI explains rules at SNAP – Food Supplement. For urgent rent or utilities, GA is need‑based at your town per OFI’s GA page. (maine.gov)
How to apply: Use My Maine Connection for SNAP/MaineCare/TANF screening and applications, or call OFI at 1‑855‑797‑4357; apply for GA in person by visiting your municipal office listed on OFI GA. (maine.gov)
Required documents: Proof of identity, household members, income, rent and utility bills, and dependent costs. For GA appeals and emergency rules, read PTLA’s GA guide. (ptla.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Search pantries and meal programs on Good Shepherd’s Food Map and use 211 Maine to find diaper banks and formula. (gsfb.org)

Health Coverage Options

Eligibility: Many unemployed adults qualify for MaineCare, and job‑loss qualifies you for a Marketplace Special Enrollment at CoverME.gov. Free enrollment help is on Find Help Near You. (coverme.gov)
How to apply: Apply online at CoverME.gov or call 1‑866‑636‑0355; if you’re offered COBRA/mini‑COBRA, weigh costs with the Bureau of Insurance before choosing. (maine.gov)
Required documents: Identity, immigration status if applicable, projected income, and notice of loss of coverage; CoverME has hours and contact on Get Help. (coverme.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied or stuck, call the BOI consumer line on the Bureau of Insurance homepage and ask to check plan options and licensing concerns; re‑screen for MaineCare through My Maine Connection. (maine.gov)

Child Support Changes After Job Loss

Request a review of your order with the Division of Support Enforcement and Recovery (DSER) or call 207‑624‑4100. If income changed, DSER’s Order Review explains how to submit. (maine.gov)
For court information or enforcement tools, see the Maine Judicial Branch child support page and DSER payment options at Make a Payment. (courts.maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Pine Tree Legal Assistance about modification and contempt hearings and request interpreters or ADA accommodations at the courthouse per Judicial Branch guidance. (ptla.org)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Use 211 Maine to pull a custom list of rent help, car repair funds, diapers, and holiday support. For Greater Portland meals and outreach, check Preble Street and look up pantries on Good Shepherd’s map. (211maine.org)
If you or your kids need mental‑health care or safety planning, call the Maine Crisis Line at 1‑888‑568‑1112 and the DV helpline via MCEDV. For behavioral health navigation, MaineHealth Behavioral Health lists access lines and referrals. (maine.gov)
Immigrant and refugee families can reach the Office of New Americans updates and the New Mainers Resource Center for credentialing and job coaching, plus free ESL classes through community programs linked from NMRC Maine. (maine.gov)

Resources by Region (Community Action Agencies and Key Hubs)

Southern Maine — York County: Apply for HEAP, rides, and outreach through York County Community Action (YCCAC) at 207‑324‑5762. SNAP/WIC close by via OFI and WIC York sites for Biddeford/Sanford clinics. (yccac.org)
Greater Portland — Cumberland County: Heat aid, WIC, homelessness prevention, and crisis line through The Opportunity Alliance at 207‑523‑5049; food and shelter meals via Preble Street. Use CareerCenter Portland for job help. (opportunityalliance.org)
Lewiston/Auburn — Androscoggin/Oxford: Fuel and weatherization with Community Concepts (207‑795‑4065), JobLink help at Lewiston CareerCenter, and WIC via WMCA/Androscoggin sites. (ccimaine.org)
Bangor — Penobscot/Piscataquis: Contact Penquis (207‑973‑3500) for heat, rides, and childcare; use Tri‑County CareerCenter, and connect with Wabanaki Public Health & Wellness if you’re a tribal citizen seeking housing navigation or recovery services. (penquis.org)
Midcoast — Lincoln/Sagadahoc/Knox/Waldo: Call Midcoast Maine Community Action (207‑442‑7963) and Waldo CAP (207‑338‑6809) for HEAP and rides; find jobs at the Rockland CareerCenter. (midcoastmainecommunityaction.org)
Kennebec/Somerset: KVCAP (1‑800‑542‑8227) handles heat, transportation, and childcare; job fairs appear on Maine JobLink and Augusta CareerCenter. (kvcap.org)
Western Mountains — Franklin: Western Maine Community Action (207‑645‑3764) manages HEAP/ECIP and electric help (ELP/AMP); search providers on Child Care Choices. (wmca.org)
Aroostook (The County): Aroostook County Action Program serves Presque Isle/Houlton/Fort Kent with heat, jobs, and WIC; get JobLink help through local offices listed at MyWorkSourceMaine. (acap-me.org)
Downeast — Hancock/Washington: Downeast Community Partners (207‑664‑2424) handles heating and rides; see the Machias/Calais CareerCenters for workshops. (communityactionpartnership.com)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Help and Access

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask CoverME.gov assisters for confidential plan help and use Maine Crisis Line if you need mental‑health support. Domestic violence advocates at MCEDV offer inclusive safety planning and can coordinate with shelters that accept all identities. (coverme.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request VR services via Maine CareerCenter and ask about accommodations at RESEA visits; apply for MaineCare waivers through OFI and keep Maine JobLink active with flexible work options. TTY users can call Maine Relay 711 at all listed agencies. (maine.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Work with DVOP specialists at CareerCenters for priority services and health enrollment options at CoverME.gov; ask PTLA about UI appeal help if separated from service. (maine.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: See ONA news and workforce plans from the Office of New Americans, get credential guidance from the New Mainers Resource Center, and find English classes through NMRC Maine. Interpreters are available at OFI and MDOL on request. (maine.gov)
Tribal single mothers: Wabanaki citizens can call the Wabanaki Care Line (1‑844‑844‑2622) for 24/7 crisis support and housing navigation through Wabanaki Health & Wellness; get LIHEAP via your tribe or CAA directory as posted locally. (wabanakiphw.org)
Rural single moms with limited access: Use your closest CareerCenter for computers and JobLink access, request phone appointments with CoverME.gov assisters, and apply for benefits via My Maine Connection if travel is hard. TTY services are available statewide via 711. (maine.gov)
Single fathers: Programs above are gender‑neutral; apply for UI at ReEmployME, food help at SNAP, and CCAP at OCFS for your children. (maine.gov)
Language access and accessibility: OFI, MDOL, and PUC can arrange interpreters; ask when you call the OFI Call Center at 1‑855‑797‑4357. Many offices offer large‑print forms and TTY via 711; see PUC contacts and CareerCenter accessibility notes. (www1.maine.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing weekly certifications: You must file weekly, even while waiting for approval. Put a reminder next to your ReEmployME login and keep your Work Search entries. (maine.gov)
Not activating Maine JobLink: A dormant account can cause benefit holds. Keep your resume active on Maine JobLink and attend a CareerCenter workshop. (joblink.maine.gov)
Waiting on utilities: Call your utility and the PUC Consumer Assistance Division before deadlines; ask your CAA for LIAP/AMP when you apply for LIHEAP. (www1.maine.gov)
Not appealing on time: UI and GA have tight deadlines. File UI appeals within 30 days via MDOL Appeals and GA appeals within 5 working days per PTLA’s GA guide. (maine.gov)

Reality Check

UI timelines fluctuate: Heavy claim periods or eligibility issues slow payments. MDOL shows the waiting‑week rule and payment statuses—watch Status FAQ and keep filing. (maine.gov)
Heat funds can run short: MaineHousing has posted wait list periods when funding is nearly exhausted; consider ECIP and utility payment plans while you wait. Watch HEAP updates and ask your CAA to note your crisis status. (mainehousing.org)
Insurance options may be costly: COBRA or mini‑COBRA might be more expensive than subsidized CoverME plans; confirm choices with the Bureau of Insurance and compare subsidies at CoverME.gov. (maine.gov)

Application Checklist (printable / screenshot‑friendly)

Photo ID and SSNs: For you and kids for ReEmployME, OFI, and CAA appointments. (maine.gov)
Last 18 months of employers: Names, addresses, dates, reason for separation for UI filing. (maine.gov)
Proof of income: Pay stubs, UI award, child support, SNAP letters for SNAP, LIHEAP, and CCAP. (maine.gov)
Housing and utility bills: Lease, CMP/Versant bills, disconnection notices for GA or PUC help at Consumer Assistance. (maine.gov)
Child care needs: Provider’s info and work/school schedule for CCAP; find providers on Child Care Choices. (maine.gov)
Bank info: Routing/account number for UI direct deposit via MDOL Tips or U.S. Bank card at Card FAQ. (maine.gov)

Timelines and What to Expect

Program	Typical timeline	Notes
Unemployment	First payment ~2–3 weeks; waiting week is unpaid	Keep weekly claims current and JobLink active. Claimant FAQ (maine.gov)
LIHEAP	Season opens late summer; crisis ECIP Nov‑Apr	Ask CAA for ECIP if low on fuel. HEAP (mainehousing.org)
CCAP	State review in ~15 days once complete	Follow up if no decision; keep docs current. CCAP rules excerpt (casetext.com)
GA	Same‑day emergency intake; monthly recertification	Appeals within 5 working days. PTLA GA (ptla.org)
CoverME plans	SEP window 60 days after loss of coverage	Free help via Find Help Near You. (coverme.gov)

“If Your Application Gets Denied” — Troubleshooting

Unemployment: Read your decision letter for the issue code, then file an appeal within 30 days via MDOL Appeals and continue weekly claims. Bring separation documents and job‑search logs to hearing; watch for RESEA appointments on CareerCenter. Get prep help from Pine Tree Legal. (maine.gov)
LIHEAP/ECIP: Ask your CAA for reconsideration and request alternate funds or a payment plan through your utility via PUC Consumer Assistance. Check PUC’s winter FAQ for Special Payment Arrangements. (www1.maine.gov)
SNAP/GA: Reapply with missing documents or appeal within the posted timelines. Use PTLA resources to prepare, and call OFI at 1‑855‑797‑4357 to check case status. (ptla.org)

County‑by‑County Differences You Should Know

HEAP scheduling and crisis windows vary by agency; check your county’s CAA directory and follow posted appointment links (for example Community Concepts marks seasonal wait lists). Waldo CAP and MMCA publish local numbers. (mecap.org)
Workshop calendars, RESEA times, and CareerCenter hours differ by site; use CareerCenter Locations and verify hours on each local page, like Wilton CareerCenter. Job fairs appear on Maine JobLink. (maine.gov)

How to Keep Bills Paid While You Job Hunt

Combine UI with LIAP/AMP credits and keep JobLink active so you don’t lose benefits; read Work Search rules and confirm credits on CareerCenter Workshops. (maine.gov)
Use municipal General Assistance for a one‑month bridge on rent or fuel and add food through SNAP while you stabilize. (maine.gov)

FAQs (Maine‑specific)

How much UI will I get and for how long: Maine pays $108-$ 623 weekly (new claims from 6/1/2025) plus $25 per eligible dependent, capped at 75% of your WBA, for up to 26 weeks of regular UI. See the Claimant FAQ for formulas and §1191(6) for dependency rules. (maine.gov)
Do I have to job search if my boss says I’ll be called back: You can skip work search for up to six weeks only if you have a definite return‑to‑work date; otherwise you must log at least one activity weekly in Work Search and keep Maine JobLink active. (maine.gov)
How fast will I get my first UI payment: Roughly two to three weeks if no issues; your first week is a waiting week and not paid. See Claimant FAQ and Status FAQ. (maine.gov)
Can I work part‑time and still get UI: Yes; as of June 1, 2025, your first $123 in weekly earnings is ignored, then UI reduces dollar‑for‑dollar. Enter earnings in ReEmployME and keep Work Search logs. (maine.gov)
How do I stop a disconnection: Call your utility and the PUC Consumer Assistance Division at 1‑800‑452‑4699 to request Special Payment Arrangements. Apply for LIHEAP and LIAP/AMP through your CAA. (maine.gov)
Is there child care help while I train: Yes; apply for CCAP and choose providers at Child Care Choices. Employment, school, or job training status meets CCAP rules. (maine.gov)
Where do I get in‑person help with job search: Visit your local CareerCenter, search jobs on Maine JobLink, and use veteran or disability specialists listed under Job Seekers. (maine.gov)
Can I change my child support if I lost my job: Request a review with DSER using Request an Order Review; call 207‑624‑4100 for help. Courts provide information on the Judicial Branch child support page. (maine.gov)
Who can help if I’m in danger at home: Call MCEDV at 1‑866‑834‑HELP for a trained advocate and use the Maine Crisis Line if you need mental‑health help or 988 for national support. (mcedv.org)
Where do I get local, fast answers: Dial 211 Maine or text your ZIP to 898‑211; search their directory for heating, rent, and rides. Use Good Shepherd’s map to find food today. (211maine.org)

Tables to Keep Handy

One‑Page Program Snapshot for Unemployed Single Moms in Maine

Program	Who it helps	Benefit highlights	Apply
UI (MDOL)	Lost work through no fault, able/available	$108-$ 623 weekly + $25 per child (caps apply)	ReEmployME (maine.gov)
LIHEAP/ECIP	Low‑income renters/homeowners	Fuel help; crisis deliveries in winter	MaineHousing HEAP (mainehousing.org)
LIAP/AMP	Electric customers with low income/arrears	Monthly credits and arrears forgiveness	PUC programs (www1.maine.gov)
SNAP	Income‑eligible households	Monthly food benefits; online EBT	SNAP – OFI (maine.gov)
CCAP	Working/school/training parents	Pays part of child care; sliding co‑pay	CCAP – OCFS (maine.gov)

Community Action Agencies by Region (for HEAP, rides, housing help)

Area	Agency	Phone
York	YCCAC	207‑324‑5762 (yccac.org)
Cumberland	The Opportunity Alliance	207‑523‑5049 (opportunityalliance.org)
Androscoggin/Oxford	Community Concepts	207‑795‑4065 (ccimaine.org)
Kennebec/Somerset	KVCAP	1‑800‑542‑8227 (kvcap.org)
Franklin	WMCA	207‑645‑3764 (wmca.org)
Waldo	Waldo CAP	207‑338‑6809 (waldocap.org)
Midcoast	MMCA	207‑442‑7963 (midcoastmainecommunityaction.org)
Penobscot/Piscataquis	Penquis	207‑973‑3500 (penquis.org)
Aroostook	ACAP	207‑764‑3721 (acap-me.org)
Downeast	DCP	207‑664‑2424 (communityactionpartnership.com)

Utility Protections and Contacts

Need	Where to get help	Phone
Payment plan or winter protection	PUC Consumer Assistance	1‑800‑452‑4699 (maine.gov)
Electric arrears forgiveness	Versant AMP / ask CMP about AMP/ELP	Versant 1‑855‑363‑7211 / CMP posted numbers (versantpower.com)
Heat crisis	LIHEAP/ECIP via CAA	See CAA table (mainehousing.org)

Where to Find Work Now

Tool	What it does	Link
Maine JobLink	Statewide job board; resume builder	joblink.maine.gov (joblink.maine.gov)
CareerCenter	1‑on‑1 help, workshops, job fairs	Locations (maine.gov)
RESEA	Required sessions that count for work search	About RESEA (maine.gov)

Documents by Program

Program	Bring these	Verify
UI	ID/SSN, 18‑month employer history, dependent SSNs	Claimant FAQ (maine.gov)
HEAP	IDs, SSNs, last 30 days income, utility/fuel info	HEAP (mainehousing.org)
SNAP	IDs, expenses, rent/utility bills, income	SNAP (maine.gov)
CCAP	Work/school proof, child info, provider info	CCAP (maine.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta breve sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Para la ayuda más precisa, contacte directamente a cada agencia.

Presente su reclamo por desempleo en ReEmployME y haga su certificación semanal a tiempo. Vea reglas en Preguntas Frecuentes de MDOL. (maine.gov)
Para evitar cortes de luz o calefacción, llame a su empresa y al Departamento de Servicios al Consumidor de la Comisión de Utilidades Públicas (PUC) al 1‑800‑452‑4699. Solicite LIAP/AMP y aplique a LIHEAP con su agencia local. (www1.maine.gov)
Para comida y ayuda local, llame a 211 Maine o aplique a SNAP. Para salud, use CoverME.gov para inscribirse con un Período Especial de Inscripción. (maine.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Maine Department of Labor and Unemployment Claimant FAQ. (maine.gov)
MaineHousing – HEAP and PUC Consumer Assistance. (mainehousing.org)
[Office for Family.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi) (SNAP/GA) and CoverME.gov.
OCFS – CCAP and Child Care Choices.
Pine Tree Legal Assistance and Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project.

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

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. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only. Program rules, benefit amounts, and timelines can change. Always confirm details directly with the Maine Department of Labor, MaineHousing, DHHS/OFI, and the Maine PUC before applying. Call to confirm current availability before applying, especially for seasonal or limited‑fund programs.

What to do next

Open ReEmployME and file today.
Call your utility and PUC Consumer Assistance for a payment plan.
Book a CareerCenter appointment and pick one workshop that also satisfies UI work‑search.

Stay steady, keep records, and use these links every week until you’re back at work.

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