Job Loss Support and Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in New Hampshire

Job Loss Support & Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in New Hampshire

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for New Hampshire single moms who recently lost work or have been unemployed for a while. It focuses on what actually gets funded now, who qualifies, how much help you can expect, and how fast you can get it. Each paragraph includes direct, descriptive links you can tap right away.

If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

File unemployment today: Open your claim with New Hampshire Employment Security (NHES) and keep filing weekly while your claim is reviewed. If you can’t get online, call the Unemployment Hotline at 603-271-7700. Expect your monetary letter and eligibility review within about 30 days; serve the required waiting week. (nhes.nh.gov)
Stop a shutoff or no‑heat crisis: Ask your utility for a payment plan and apply through your local Community Action Agency (LIHEAP/Fuel Assistance & Electric Assistance Program) the same day; winter shutoff protections apply Nov 15–Mar 31 with specific arrearage thresholds. Use NH Dept. of Energy’s EAP page to see electric discounts. (energy.nh.gov)
Protect your housing: Call 2‑1‑1 NH and ask for “Coordinated Entry” to get routed to regional housing partners like Families in Transition or Harbor Care. For legal help with eviction or utility shutoff, start with 603 Legal Aid. (211nh.org)

Quick Help Box – Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

NHES Unemployment Hotline: 603-271-7700 and Unemployment portal; see NHES office locations for in‑person filing. (unemploymentbenefits.nh.gov)
DHHS Customer Service (SNAP/Medicaid/Child Care): 1-844-ASK‑DHHS (1-844-275-3447) and NH EASY online application for quick screening and uploads. (dhhs.nh.gov)
EBT card customer service (24/7): 1-888-997-9777 and DHHS EBT page for balance, PIN and skimming alerts. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Domestic & sexual violence 24/7: 1-866-644-3574 and NH Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence; TTY via Relay NH at 1‑800‑735‑2964. (nhcadsv.org)
Child support case help: 603-271-4427 or 1‑800‑852‑3345 (in‑state) and Apply for Child Support Services (BCSS). (acf.hhs.gov)

What New Hampshire Unemployment Insurance Pays, Who Qualifies, and How to File

Most important first: Open your claim now: File your initial claim with NHES during the week you became unemployed. After you open the claim, submit your weekly continued claim every week, on time, to get paid for eligible weeks once you’re approved. If you need help, use the Unemployment Hotline at 603-271-7700 or visit NHWORKS Job Centers for in‑person assistance. (nhes.nh.gov)

Eligibility basics: You must be unemployed through no fault of your own, be able and available for work, and do a weekly work search unless NHES specifically waives it. Attend any required reemployment workshops and keep a log of employer contacts/activities; NHES confirms work search in orientations and the online weekly claim. See Eligibility Requirements and weekly claim FAQ. (nhes.nh.gov)
What you could get: New Hampshire’s maximum weekly benefit amount (WBA) is $427 (u n c han g e d s in ce 2007) ba se d o n t h e w a g ec ha r t in s t a t e l a w . Y o u r t o t a lp a y ab l e b e n e f i t se q u a l u pt o 26 t im esyo u r W B A inab e n e f i t ye a r . S ee t h es t a t u t e * [RS A 282‑ A : 25] (h ttp s : // g c . nh . g o v / rs a / h t m l / XX III /282 - A /282 - A - 25. h t m) * an d N H ’ s ba c k g ro u n d re f ere n ces . S o m e 2025 bi ll s p ro p ose d in cre a ses, b u tt h ey d i d n o t b eco m e l a w; t h e$ 427 maximum still applies. (gc.nh.gov)
Waiting week and first payment timeline: New Hampshire requires serving one unpaid waiting week per benefit year. NHES notes many claims finish initial processing within roughly 30 days, especially if there are no issues; keep filing weekly while you wait. See NHES glossary (“Waiting Period”) and claimant FAQs. (nhes.nh.gov)
Working part‑time: You can work part‑time and still qualify for a partial benefit. New Hampshire disregards 30% of your WBA; earnings above that reduce your benefit dollar‑for‑dollar for the week. Read Guidance for Returning to Work and the basis in RSA 282‑A:14 and RSA 282‑A:26. (unemploymentbenefits.nh.gov)
Work search is mandatory: Every week you file, you must record your work search activities and employer contacts unless NHES gives a waiver. Requirements are explained during your orientation workshop and in the weekly claim portal. (unemploymentbenefits.nh.gov)
Appeals if denied: You have 14 calendar days from the issue (mail) date on the decision to appeal; hearings are de novo and decisions usually arrive in 7–14 days after the hearing. File online via your claim portal or use the Appeal Tribunal address, and call Appeals at 603‑223‑6140 with questions. (nhes.nh.gov)

UI at a glance

Program	Who qualifies	How much	How long	Key steps
Unemployment Insurance (UI)	Able/available for work; lost work through no fault; doing weekly work search	$32-$ 427 WBA based on wage table in law	Up to 26 times WBA in a benefit year	File initial claim at NHES File for Benefits; submit weekly claims; serve waiting week
Partial UI while working part‑time	Same as UI; report all earnings	30% of WBA is disregarded; above that reduces $‑ f or ‑$	Counted against your 26 weeks	Learn more at Guidance for Returning to Work and RSA 282‑A:14
Appeals	Any claimant with an adverse determination	N/A	14‑day appeal deadline	Start at NHES Appeals and call 603‑223‑6140

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get into the portal or miss a deadline, go in person to a NHWORKS Job Center and ask for help re‑opening or appealing; call the Unemployment Hotline at 603‑271‑7700; and consider legal advice from 603 Legal Aid if you’re facing an appeal. (nhes.nh.gov)

Special UI Programs Single Moms Should Know

WorkShare (short‑time compensation): If hours were cut (not a full layoff), your employer can use WorkShare. You get a percentage of your normal WBA equal to the hours cut, and you are not required to job search. Read WorkShare details and the benefits and calculation examples. (nhes.nh.gov)
Return to Work (earn new skills while on UI): Up to 6 weeks of structured, unpaid training (max 24 hours/week) with continued UI and active work search during non‑training hours. See Return to Work and ask your local NHWORKS office to enroll. (nhes.nh.gov)
Reemployment services & job fairs: Use the NHJOBS portal and Virtual Job Fairs; staff can help with resumes and training options at your nearest NHWORKS center. (unemploymentbenefits.nh.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask NHES staff about WIOA Dislocated Worker (tuition help and on‑the‑job training), or WorkNowNH if you’re on Medicaid/SNAP/TANF—WorkNowNH can fund up to $6,500 in tuition, books, travel and child‑care registration while you train. (nhes.nh.gov)

Health Coverage After Job Loss

Take action now: Apply for Medicaid (Granite Advantage) or grab a Marketplace Special Enrollment Period—both triggered by job‑based coverage loss.

Granite Advantage Health Care Program (Medicaid for adults): For ages 19–64 with income at or below about 133% FPL; apply anytime through NH EASY or call 1‑844‑ASK‑DHHS. See Medicaid adult eligibility and contact Medicaid Services if you need language help. (dhhs.nh.gov)
State Continuation (NH’s “mini‑COBRA”) or Federal COBRA: If your employer’s plan is fully insured and small, NH State Continuation allows you to continue coverage (often 18 months) by paying the full premium plus 2%. Larger employers usually offer federal COBRA. NH Insurance Department can help compare options. (insurance.nh.gov)
Marketplace Special Enrollment: Loss of job‑based coverage gives you a 60‑day window to enroll at HealthCare.gov; navigators at Covering New Hampshire can help you pick a plan. Keep documentation; HealthCare.gov may request proof of loss within 30 days after plan selection. (healthcare.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call NH Insurance Department Consumer Services at 1‑800‑852‑3416 for escalation; ask Covering NH to compare Medicaid vs. Marketplace subsidies if your income dropped mid‑year. (insurance.nh.gov)

Child Care While You Job Hunt or Train

Apply right away: New Hampshire Child Care Scholarship can cover care while you job search, work, or attend approved training, with low or even $0 weekly family cost shares depending on income.

Who qualifies & costs now: As of 2024–2025, NH raised eligibility to up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI), with cost shares of $0/ w ee k (\leq 100$ 5/week (≤138% FPL), or 7% of income (>138% FPL). Apply at NH EASY or call 1‑844‑ASK‑DHHS; see SR 24‑08 policy update and family info at NH Connections. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Job‑search coverage counts: The program allows care while actively seeking work, in employment, or in approved education. See criteria at Program 915 – Scholarship Criteria and NH Connections “How to Apply”. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Processing timelines & tips: You’re entitled to a decision within 30 days; if you’re homeless, you can get expedited child care within 7 days once linked to an enrolled provider. Keep proofs ready (ID, income, school/job search schedule). See Application process (FAM 901) and call 1‑844‑ASK‑DHHS for status. (dhhs.nh.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your NHWORKS counselor whether WorkNowNH can pay registration fees or help with short‑term care while you train. Contact NH Connections for provider options that accept scholarships. (nhes.nh.gov)

Food, Cash, and Emergency Help When Money Runs Out

Apply the same day: Use NH EASY to screen and apply for SNAP, Medicaid, and cash/emergency help.

SNAP (Food Stamps): Many households see approval in under 30 days; expedited SNAP can arrive in 7 days if you meet urgent criteria. For EBT card issues call 1‑888‑997‑9777, and check the 10/1/2024–9/30/2025 income and allotment figures in SR 24‑25. See DHHS EBT page for card tips. (dhhs.nh.gov)
FANF cash & Emergency Assistance (EA): If you have children and very low income, FANF (TANF) cash may help; EA can pay pieces of rent, utilities, deposits, or fuel to prevent homelessness or shutoff (caps apply, e.g., up to two months arrears; heat delivery up to $700). You can apply for EA even if you don’t get monthly cash, but you must meet FANF rules. (dhhs.nh.gov)
WIC & food banks: Check WIC via DHHS programs and pantry schedules at the NH Food Bank “Find Food” map; the Food Bank can also help you apply for SNAP by phone at 1‑877‑347‑7627. (dhhs.nh.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 NH for same‑day food, diapers, or gas card referrals; ask your CAP agency about pantry and CSFP locations. (211nh.org)

Keep the Heat and Lights On: How to Stop Utility Shutoff in New Hampshire Today

Act now: Call your utility right away and request a payment arrangement; then apply with your local Community Action Agency for the Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Electric Assistance Program (EAP).

Electric Assistance Program (EAP): Year‑round discounts of about 5%–86% off your electric bill, depending on income and household size. Get details on the NH Dept. of Energy’s EAP page and apply through your local CAP. (energy.nh.gov)
Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP): Benefits help pay for heating fuel or heat‑included rent during the winter season. In recent winters the DOE reported benefits ranging roughly from the mid‑ $200 s t oo v er$ 2,000 depending on usage and income. Apply early; in Strafford County, CAP notes processing can take up to 60 days. See DOE FAP notice and Strafford CAP instructions. (energy.nh.gov)
Winter disconnection protections: From Nov 15 to Mar 31, utilities can’t disconnect residential service if arrears are below these thresholds: $450 (h e a t in g c u s t o m ers),$ 225 (non‑heating electric), $125 (non‑heating gas). Utilities must also try to reach you 2–8 business days before any winter shutoff. Read PUC Winter Rules and Puc 1204.05 notice rules. (puc.nh.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinician for a medical necessity letter if you have a life‑threatening condition impacted by shutoff, and call the Department of Energy/PUC Consumer Division for help with payment plans. Check if your utility offers local relief funds like “Neighbor Helping Neighbor.” (puc.nh.gov)

Utility protections snapshot

Issue	What NH rules say	Where to act
Winter shutoff limits	$450 h e a t;$ 225 electric (non‑heat); $125 gas (non‑heat)	Ask utility for plan; cite PUC Winter Rules
Notice before winter shutoff	2–8 business days, by phone or in person	See En 1204.05
Discounted electric	5%–86% monthly discount	Apply via EAP
Heat help	Seasonal benefits; processing can take weeks	File early with your CAP

Housing Help and Reality Checks

Start here: Call 2‑1‑1 NH and ask for “Coordinated Entry” to get to your region’s housing partners, including Families in Transition and Harbor Care. You may be routed to shelters, prevention funds, or rapid rehousing based on openings. (211nh.org)

Rental assistance & vouchers: The statewide Housing Choice Voucher wait can be many years (NH Housing cites up to nine years), so don’t wait to apply and then forget it. Keep your contact info updated to avoid being skipped. The HUD NH page lists counselors and local help. (nhhfa.org)
Homeowners behind on payments: The pandemic Homeowner Assistance Fund has closed, but you can still get free foreclosure counseling via NH Banking Dept. or HUD‑approved counselors on the HUD NH site. (nhhfa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For eviction court, contact 603 Legal Aid quickly, and talk with your local Community Action about arrearage or deposit help. If you’re fleeing violence, use NHCADSV’s 24/7 line for emergency shelter options. (603legalaid.org)

Reemployment, Training Funds, and Credentials

First step: Visit your nearest NHWORKS Job Center and ask for a WIOA eligibility screening; bring an ID and your layoff notice. WIOA Dislocated Worker can fund tuition, credentials, or on‑the‑job training, and pay supportive services while you retrain. (nhes.nh.gov)

WorkNowNH (if on Medicaid/SNAP/TANF): Up to $6, 500 in t u i t i o n,$ 1,500 for books/fees, monthly travel stipends, and $100 toward child‑care registration. Apply through WorkNowNH or call 1‑833‑658‑4760. (nhes.nh.gov)
ApprenticeshipNH: Earn while you learn in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and early childhood. Check ApprenticeshipNH (CCSNH), and ask NHWORKS to connect you to open programs. (apprenticeshipnh.com)
Return to Work training while on UI: See above; six weeks of structured experience can speed hiring. Details at Return to Work. (nhes.nh.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about sector partnerships via Office of Workforce Opportunity and search the NHJOBS Recruitment Portal for entry roles with tuition benefits. (nheconomy.com)

Local Organizations, Charities, and Support Groups You Can Contact This Week

Food and essentials: NH Food Bank “Find Food” map and SNAP outreach line 1‑877‑347‑7627; call 2‑1‑1 NH for pantry and diaper referrals near you. (nhfoodbank.org)
Homelessness prevention & shelter: Families in Transition (Manchester/North Country), Harbor Care (Greater Nashua), and Coordinated Entry via 2‑1‑1 NH or 1‑844‑800‑9911. (fitnh.org)
Domestic & sexual violence support: NH Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence statewide 1‑866‑644‑3574; TTY via Relay NH at 1‑800‑735‑2964; DOJ’s OVW survivor resources. (nhcadsv.org)
Legal help (benefits, eviction, debt): Apply at 603 Legal Aid; specialty help via New Hampshire Legal Assistance. (603legalaid.org)
Family Resource Centers: Parenting support at Waypoint Family Resource Centers (Manchester, Nashua, Upper Valley and more) and Waypoint Concord FRC. (waypointnh.org)
Veterans: Contact the NH Division of Veterans Services at 603‑624‑9230 (toll‑free 1‑800‑622‑9230) and ask about the Veteran‑Friendly Business network for job leads. (dmavs.nh.gov)

Resources by Region (Where to Go First)

Region/County	NHWORKS Center	Community Action (LIHEAP/EAP)	Extra Local Help
Manchester (Hillsborough)	Manchester NHWORKS • 603‑627‑7841	Southern NH Services • 1‑800‑322‑1073	Families in Transition • 603‑641‑9441
Nashua (Hillsborough)	Nashua NHWORKS • 603‑882‑5177	Southern NH Services • 1‑800‑322‑1073	Harbor Care • 603‑882‑3616
Rockingham	Local NHWORKS	Rockingham CAP via SNHS • 1‑800‑556‑9300	HUD NH resources
Strafford	Somersworth NHWORKS • 603‑742‑3600	Strafford CAP • 603‑435‑2500	Waypoint Dover
Belknap/Merrimack	Concord NHWORKS • 603‑228‑4100	CAP Belknap‑Merrimack • 603‑225‑3295	HUD counselor list
Cheshire/Sullivan	Keene NHWORKS • 603‑352‑1904	Southwestern Community Services • 603‑352‑7512	2‑1‑1 NH for local shelters
Coos/Carroll/Grafton	Berlin/Conway/Littleton NHWORKS	Tri‑County CAP • 603‑752‑7001	HUD counselor AHEAD

(nhes.nh.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If phones go to voicemail, go in person to NHWORKS during 8:00–4:30 and bring IDs; ask the front desk to book a WIOA intake and a CAP appointment. Use 2‑1‑1 NH after hours. (nhes.nh.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing the 14‑day appeal window: If you’re denied unemployment, appeal within 14 calendar days. Submit online in your claim portal or email the Appeal Tribunal; late appeals need a good‑cause explanation. (nhes.nh.gov)
Stopping weekly claims while pending: Keep filing weekly with NHES so you can be paid retroactively once cleared. Don’t wait for the decision to start weekly claims. (nhes.nh.gov)
Skipping the LIHEAP/EAP combo: Apply for both Fuel Assistance and Electric Assistance at the same interview to save time. (energy.nh.gov)
Not documenting your work search: The weekly portal requires your entries. Review work search guidance and keep screenshots or a paper log. (unemploymentbenefits.nh.gov)

Reality Check

Unemployment amounts: The maximum WBA in NH is still $427/week in 2025 unless law changes; efforts to raise it stalled this year. Don’t plan a budget on higher amounts; confirm your WBA in your NHES determination. See RSA 282‑A:25 and context on 2025 legislation. (gc.nh.gov)
Voucher waits: Housing Choice Voucher wait times can reach many years. Apply, but focus on immediate prevention through 2‑1‑1 Coordinated Entry and CAP prevention funds. (nhhfa.org)
LIHEAP timelines: Processing can take several weeks. If you’re at 1/4 tank or less or have a shutoff notice, call your CAP instead of applying online to flag the emergency. (straffordcap.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

File UI: NHES File for Benefits; weekly claim via portal; hotline 603‑271‑7700. (nhes.nh.gov)
Power/heat help: Apply through local CAP for LIHEAP & EAP; winter rules at PUC. (energy.nh.gov)
Food: NH EASY for SNAP; EBT 1‑888‑997‑9777; NH Food Bank map. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Child care: NH Child Care Scholarship; policy update SR 24‑08; apply at NH EASY. (nh-connections.org)
Training: WIOA Dislocated Worker; WorkNowNH; ApprenticeshipNH. (nhes.nh.gov)

Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

Photo ID: NHES list of what you’ll need and NH EASY acceptable proofs. (nhes.nh.gov)
Social Security numbers and dates of birth: For all household members—needed for UI and SNAP/Medicaid. (nhes.nh.gov)
Separation proof: Layoff letter, reduced‑hours note, or last pay stub for UI and WorkNowNH. (nhes.nh.gov)
Income proofs: Pay stubs, benefits letters for SNAP and Child Care Scholarship. (nh-connections.org)
Bills/notices: Utility bills, shutoff notice, or fuel level for LIHEAP/EAP via CAP. (energy.nh.gov)
Child care provider info: Provider name/vendor if applying for Child Care Scholarship. (nh-connections.org)

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

Unemployment denied: File a written appeal within 14 days via your NHES portal or email/fax per instructions. Keep filing weekly; consider calling 603 Legal Aid if your hearing is complex. (nhes.nh.gov)
SNAP/Medicaid/Child Care denied: Read the notice for the exact reason. Fix missing proofs in NH EASY or ask for a fair hearing by calling 1‑844‑ASK‑DHHS. Use NH Food Bank SNAP Outreach for help with SNAP paperwork. (dhhs.nh.gov)
LIHEAP/EAP delayed: If you have <¼ tank or an active shutoff notice, call your CAP office to flag an emergency; point to winter rules if a shutoff is pending. (energy.nh.gov)

Diverse Communities

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use inclusive advocates via NHCADSV’s 24/7 line for safety planning and shelter, and apply for benefits with interpreter/communication support through DHHS Customer Service at 1‑844‑ASK‑DHHS. For health coverage, navigators at Covering NH offer free, confidential plan help. (nhcadsv.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for accessibility and large‑print forms through NHES/UI and request accommodations at NHWORKS. Explore NH Vocational Rehabilitation (workers’ comp VR contact) and parent supports via New Hampshire Family Voices. TTY available through Relay NH at 1‑800‑735‑2964. (nh.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Contact the NH Division of Veterans Services (603‑624‑9230) for claims, childcare stipends tied to training, and job leads through the NH Veteran‑Friendly Business network; ask NHES for priority of service in job counseling. (dmavs.nh.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can apply for NH EASY regardless of country of origin if you have eligible status; ask DHHS for interpreter services. For safety, call NHCADSV, which serves survivors regardless of immigration status. Use 2‑1‑1 NH to find ESOL, legal clinics, and culturally‑specific supports. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources: If you or your child are affiliated with a tribe, you can still use NH benefits. For child support questions that involve tribal courts, use the federal OCSS state directory and ask DHHS to coordinate. (acf.hhs.gov)
Rural single moms with limited access: Ask NHWORKS to schedule phone orientations; use 2‑1‑1 NH to find volunteer driver programs and mobile food pantries. If broadband is an issue, file UI at the nearest NHWORKS resource room. (211nh.org)
Single fathers: All programs above serve single fathers too. For parenting plan and visitation help, see DHHS and the federal Access & Visitation contact list and call 603 Legal Aid for guidance. (acf.gov)
Language access and TTY: Ask any agency for interpreter services. Use Relay NH at 1‑800‑735‑2964 and DHHS “Get Help in Your Language” (via Medicaid contacts). (dhhs.nh.gov)

Program & Timeline Tables You Can Use

Unemployment: amounts, timing, and work rules

Item	Details	Where to verify
Max weekly benefit	$427/week (unchanged)	RSA 282‑A:25
Duration	Up to 26 weeks (26×WBA)	NHES Glossary
Waiting week	One unpaid week per benefit year	Glossary
Partial earnings	First 30% of WBA disregarded; above that $‑ f or ‑$ reduction	Guidance • RSA 282‑A:14
Appeal deadline	14 calendar days from mail date	NHES Appeals

(gc.nh.gov)

Energy and utilities at a glance

Help	Who	Typical help	How to apply
EAP (electric discount)	Income‑eligible households	5%–86% discount on monthly bill	NH DOE EAP via CAP
LIHEAP/Fuel Assistance	Heat‑burdened households	Seasonal fuel credits; crisis deliveries	Your CAP
Winter shutoff rules	All residential	Thresholds: $450/$ 225/$125; extra notice	PUC Winter Rules

(energy.nh.gov)

Health coverage after job loss

Path	When to use	Cost	Where to get help
Granite Advantage (Medicaid)	Income ≤~133% FPL	Often $0 premiums	NH EASY • Medicaid contacts
Marketplace SEP	Lost employer plan	Subsidized premiums	HealthCare.gov (SEP) • Covering NH
COBRA/State Continuation	Want to keep the same plan	Full premium + 2%	NHID COBRA/Continuation

(dhhs.nh.gov)

Family supports while you work or train

Support	What it covers	Key limits	Where to apply
Child Care Scholarship	Care while job search, work, or training	Income to 85% SMI; $0/$ 5/7% cost share	NH Connections • NH EASY
WIOA Dislocated Worker	Tuition, OJT, supports	Must meet dislocated worker rules	NHWORKS/WIOA
WorkNowNH	Tuition, fees, travel, child‑care registration	For Medicaid/SNAP/TANF enrollees	WorkNowNH

(dhhs.nh.gov)

Housing and legal

Need	Where to go	Notes
Find prevention/shelter	2‑1‑1 NH • Families in Transition • Harbor Care	Ask for “Coordinated Entry”; have IDs ready
Eviction defense	603 Legal Aid • NHLA	Apply early; upload your court papers
HUD counselors	HUD NH	Free foreclosure and rental counseling

(211nh.org)

County‑Specific Notes That Can Change Your Plan

Hillsborough/Rockingham: Southern NH Services (SNHS) runs fuel/electric help; call 1‑800‑322‑1073 and ask about weatherization add‑ons when you apply for LIHEAP/EAP. Use Manchester NHWORKS for fast resume help. (nhes.nh.gov)
Strafford: Strafford CAP says crisis cases should call instead of applying online; have your latest bill and fuel gauge/percent ready. (straffordcap.org)
Belknap/Merrimack: CAP Belknap‑Merrimack central line 603‑225‑3295 can book LIHEAP/EAP in one call; check Concord NHWORKS for group workshops. (nhes.nh.gov)
Cheshire/Sullivan: Southwestern Community Services handles LIHEAP; Keene NHWORKS can schedule mock interviews. (nhes.nh.gov)
Coos/Carroll/Grafton: Tri‑County CAP covers LIHEAP; check Berlin/Conway/Littleton NHWORKS for rural job leads and apprenticeships. (nhes.nh.gov)

Ten Frequently Asked Questions (with straight answers)

How much will unemployment pay me in New Hampshire: Your WBA comes from your past wages, capped at $427/week; maximum total is 26×WBA. Confirm your WBA on your Monetary Determination from NHES and see the law at RSA 282‑A:25. (nhes.nh.gov)
Do I have to wait a week: Yes—NH has a one‑week waiting period per benefit year. Keep filing weekly. See NHES glossary and claimant FAQs. (nhes.nh.gov)
How many jobs do I need to apply to weekly: NHES requires a weekly work search and proof; the exact activities/contacts are covered in your orientation and weekly claim portal prompts. See Eligibility & Work Search and weekly claim page. (nhes.nh.gov)
Can I work part‑time and still get UI: Often yes. NH disregards 30% of your WBA, and earnings above that reduce your weekly benefit dollar‑for‑dollar. See Guidance for Returning to Work and RSA 282‑A:14. (unemploymentbenefits.nh.gov)
How fast can I get SNAP: Standard timeline is up to 30 days; expedited cases may be 7 days. Apply at NH EASY and call EBT at 1‑888‑997‑9777 with card questions; see current limits in SR 24‑25. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Will child care be covered while I job search: Yes, if you meet income and program criteria. Child Care Scholarship covers job search, work, and training; rules updated in SR 24‑08. (nh-connections.org)
How do I stop a winter shutoff: Ask your utility for a plan and apply for LIHEAP/EAP now. Winter rules protect you under certain arrearage thresholds; read PUC Winter Rules. (energy.nh.gov)
Where do I get health insurance right now: Apply for Medicaid (Granite Advantage) if income fits; otherwise enroll via a Special Enrollment Period at HealthCare.gov; navigators at Covering NH can help. (dhhs.nh.gov)
How do I get child support started or enforced: Apply with BCSS; statewide numbers: 603‑271‑4427 or 1‑800‑852‑3345. The federal OCSS directory confirms contact details. (dhhs.nh.gov)
I’m a veteran—who can help with benefits and jobs: Call NH Division of Veterans Services at 603‑624‑9230, and tell NHES you’re a veteran for priority of service. Check NH Veteran‑Friendly Businesses for hiring leads. (dmavs.nh.gov)

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique detalles llamando a cada agencia.

Desempleo (UI): Presente su solicitud por Internet en NHES – Solicitar beneficios y siga reclamando cada semana. Para ayuda, llame al 603‑271‑7700 o visite oficinas NHWORKS. (nhes.nh.gov)
Comida (SNAP): Solicite en NH EASY. Para su tarjeta EBT, llame al 1‑888‑997‑9777. Consulte límites actuales en SR 24‑25. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Seguro médico: Aplique para Medicaid – Granite Advantage o use un Período Especial en HealthCare.gov; navegue con [Coveringingnewhampshire.org/get-help).
Cuidado infantil: Beca de Cuidado Infantil cubre trabajo/búsqueda/estudios; reglas en SR 24‑08.
Ayuda con servicios públicos: Llame a su Agencia de Acción Comunitaria para LIHEAP/EAP y revise reglas de desconexión de invierno.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

New Hampshire Employment Security (NHES)
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
New Hampshire Department of Energy & Public Utilities Commission and PUC Winter Rules
New Hampshire Housing and HUD New Hampshire
2‑1‑1 New Hampshire
RSA statutes and NHES Appeals
FNS SNAP directory and DHHS EBT

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

Information accuracy: Program amounts, dates, and eligibility can change during the year with new budgets or rules. Always confirm current availability with the agency before applying. Use NHES for unemployment rules and DHHS/NH EASY for benefit updates.

Legal and safety: For legal questions, apply to 603 Legal Aid. If you’re unsafe, call NHCADSV 24/7 at 1‑866‑644‑3574 or 911 in an emergency.

Final Notes to Save Time

File early, file weekly, document everything: Use the NHES portal and keep your work‑search logs and confirmations.
Bundle appointments: Ask your CAP office to process LIHEAP + EAP at the same time, and request budget billing from your utility.
Keep key numbers handy: NHES 603‑271‑7700; DHHS 1‑844‑275‑3447; 2‑1‑1 NH; EBT 1‑888‑997‑9777; NHCADSV 1‑866‑644‑3574; NH Veterans 1‑800‑622‑9230. Use the links above to confirm hours and current policies.

With this plan, you can file for income now, keep the heat and lights on, and line up training and child care so you can land your next job. Keep the links in this guide—almost everything can be done online, by phone, or in person at the NHWORKS and CAP offices listed.

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