Legal Help for Single Mothers in Connecticut

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you direct, practical steps for legal problems single moms in Connecticut face most often. You’ll see what to do first, what papers to gather, where to call, and how to appeal if things go sideways. Throughout, you’ll find direct links to the exact offices and forms you need.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call a free legal intake line now: If you just got court papers or a shutoff/eviction notice, call the statewide intake hotline at Statewide Legal Services. Use the toll‑free hotline at 1-800-453-3320 or apply online through Statewide Legal Services intake and get self‑help materials at CTLawHelp.
• For eviction cases, ask for a lawyer through Right to Counsel: If you received a Notice to Quit or Summons, call 1-800-559-1565 and check your ZIP code eligibility at Eviction Help CT, then pull court forms from CT Judicial Branch Housing pages.
• Stop a utility shutoff today: Ask your utility to mark your account “financial hardship” or “medical protection,” and enroll in Matching Payment. Start at PURA’s payment assistance page and your utility’s program page like Eversource Matching Payment. If you heat your home, also apply for CEAP at HeatingHelp CT. (portal.ct.gov)

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Quick Help Box — Keep These Contacts Handy

• Free legal advice line: Call Statewide Legal Services at 1-800-453-3320 and browse CTLawHelp legal library for quick guides you can use the same day.
• Eviction Right to Counsel: Check eligibility at Eviction Help CT or call 1-800-559-1565; court forms and housing guidance live at CT Judicial Branch housing FAQ. (evictionhelpct.org)
• Domestic violence 24/7 line: Call or text CT Safe Connect (CCADV) at 1-888-774-2900; get restraining order forms from CT Judicial Branch. (ctsafeconnect.org)
• Benefits & hearings: Apply, upload docs, or request a fair hearing through DSS ConneCT/MyDSS and learn hearing steps at DSS OLCRAH. (portal.ct.gov)
• General help & shelter entry: Dial 2‑1‑1 or use 211ct.org for housing crisis lines, child care, and mobile crisis; if 2‑1‑1 doesn’t connect, call 1-800-203-1234. (uwc.211ct.org)

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How to Use This Guide

Each section starts with the most urgent action. You’ll see eligibility, applications, timelines, and a Plan B if your first attempt doesn’t work. Use the links mid‑paragraph to jump straight to forms, hotlines, and official agencies.

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Connecticut Today

Call your utility and ask for hardship protection first: Tell the agent you need a “financial hardship” or “medical protection” flag and a Matching Payment arrangement. Use PURA’s assistance overview and enroll in your utility’s program such as Eversource’s Matching Payment or UI/CNG/SCG bill help to block shutoff and start arrears forgiveness. (portal.ct.gov)

Apply for energy bill help immediately: Submit one online CEAP application to your local Community Action Agency through HeatingHelp CT (CEAP); CEAP benefits pair with utility matching to erase past‑due balances faster. When funds are low, seek one‑time grants from Operation Fuel through its statewide network. (portal.ct.gov)

Know your seasonal protections and discounts: From November 1 to May 1, the Winter Protection Plan blocks shutoffs for households marked “hardship” or with medical protection; low‑income electric customers may also qualify for a 10%–50% bill discount. Learn rules at CT HeatingHelp Winter Protection and discount details via DEEP’s BETP programs page. (portal.ct.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call PURA Consumer Affairs and ask them to conference your utility and set up a workable plan; start at PURA payment assistance. If fuel is almost out and you heat with deliverable fuels, ask your CAA about “Crisis” or “Safety Net” deliveries listed under DSS Energy Benefits/Crisis & Safety Net. (portal.ct.gov)

Reality Check — Utility Arrears Programs

Know the recent change: New enrollments into Eversource’s “New Start” and UI’s “Bill Forgiveness” ended October 31, 2024. Arrearage forgiveness now routes through Matching Payment for eligible hardship customers, so make sure your account is coded as hardship. See PURA’s program summary and Eversource’s bill‑help update. (portal.ct.gov)

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Eviction Defense and Housing Court — Free Lawyers, Forms, and Fast Moves

Call the Right to Counsel hotline the same day you’re served: If you received a Notice to Quit or a Summons and Complaint, call 1‑800‑559‑1565 and check your ZIP code or qualifying factors at Eviction Help CT; the CT Judicial Branch notice confirms who can qualify. You’ll also find free clinics and self‑help at CTLawHelp’s eviction section. (evictionhelpct.org)

File your Appearance and Answer to avoid default: Download housing forms and instructions from CT Judicial Branch housing FAQ and e‑file or submit at the clerk’s office; ask a Court Service Center for help filling forms. If you can’t find a lawyer right away, ask a Law Librarian by chat or email to locate the right practice book section. (jud.ct.gov)

Combine rent help with defense: If arrears are your main issue, ask the court for time to seek aid, and check current rental help via 2‑1‑1 Housing while working with Connecticut Fair Housing Center if any discrimination issues arise. For tenants in covered areas or with qualifying factors (veterans, subsidized housing, elderly, disability, or children in the home), RTC representation is prioritized; program background is posted by the CT Bar Foundation. (uwc.211ct.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Statewide Legal Services at 1‑800‑453‑3320 for advice and referrals; if you’re outside covered RTC ZIP codes, SLS can connect you to Connecticut Legal Services, Greater Hartford Legal Aid, or New Haven Legal Assistance for housing defense. (slsct.org)

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Family Safety, Custody, and Child Support — Move Fast and Document Everything

If you need protection, file for a restraining order now: Use the court’s packet “Relief from Abuse” and file forms JD‑FM‑137 and JD‑FM‑138; the court may grant an ex parte order the same day. Instructions and forms are on CT Judicial Branch’s restraining order page, while 24/7 safety planning is available through CT Safe Connect. (jud.ct.gov)

For child support issues, call the child support line: For enforcement, modification, or payment questions, contact Support Enforcement Services (SES) at 1‑800‑228‑KIDS and the State Disbursement Unit at 1‑888‑233‑7223; DSS’s Office of Child Support Services handles establishment and modifications. Forms and case lookups are posted at CT Judicial Branch child support. (jud.ct.gov)

If you’re a survivor, tap victim compensation: The Judicial Branch Office of Victim Services can reimburse certain costs not covered by insurance; apply with an advocate’s help from CT Safe Connect. (jud.ct.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a Court Service Center to review your forms, and contact Connecticut Legal Services or New Haven Legal Assistance if violence or safety is present; also see Center for Children’s Advocacy for school and child‑specific issues. (jud.ct.gov)

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Food, Medical, and Cash Benefits — Fast Applications and Faster Appeals

Apply online and note appeal deadlines upfront: Submit SNAP, HUSKY, and cash aid (TFA) through DSS ConneCT/MyDSS and write down the date of any denial. Most DSS programs require you to request a hearing within 60 days; SNAP gives you 90 days. File by phone, fax, mail, or the portal per DSS Hearing Request rules. (portal.ct.gov)

Know the current SNAP amounts and income rules: As of October 1, 2024, maximum monthly SNAP benefits for the 48 states/DC increased (family of 4 max $975), and CT uses broad‑based categorical eligibility up to 200% FPL. See USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA and DSS SNAP eligibility table for the latest amounts and income limits. (fns.usda.gov)

Use WIC if pregnant or with young kids: Start online or by phone through CT WIC How to Apply; WIC adjunctively accepts SNAP/TFA/HUSKY as proof of income, and the WIC state office number is 1‑800‑741‑2142. For extra groceries, check CT Foodshare Mobile Pantry. (portal.ct.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Statewide Legal Services for benefits appeals help, and ask DSS Hearing Office to continue benefits while the hearing is pending when timelines allow; SNAP decisions are due within 60 days of your request. (portal.ct.gov)

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Child Care While You Work or Go to School — Care 4 Kids

Apply and get on the waitlist right away: Use the online screener at Care 4 Kids and check the Enrollment Management Waitlist Status page for selection dates. New applications must be under 60% of State Median Income (SMI); active families can stay on up to 85% SMI. (ctcare4kids.com)

Know current income caps and fee rules: For 2025‑2026, new‑applicant limits are posted at Care 4 Kids income guidelines, and family fees are capped at or below 7% of income as of January 1, 2025 per Care 4 Kids announcements. If you’re on the list, your “invite off” date depends on application date and “order of need.” (ctcare4kids.com)

Keep documents ready: You’ll need proof of work/training or school, income, child identity, and the provider’s details; 2‑1‑1 Child Care can help you find openings via 211 Child Care and 211 Child Care search. (ctunitedway.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider to hold a slot with a letter showing you’re “invite‑pending,” and call Care 4 Kids customer service for status updates; if delays risk job loss, document that and ask legal aid about hearing rights for adverse actions. (ctcare4kids.com)

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Health Coverage — HUSKY and Marketplace Options

Start with HUSKY (Medicaid/CHIP): Parents and caretaker relatives generally qualify for HUSKY A around 138% FPL as of late 2024; children remain eligible at higher levels via HUSKY B. See eligibility charts at HUSKY How to Qualify and HUSKY B band details at DSS HUSKY B. If you recently lost HUSKY A due to the October 2024 change, you may get up to 12 months of Transitional/Extended Medical Assistance per DSS HUSKY A Transition FAQ. (portal.ct.gov)

If over income for HUSKY, try Access Health CT: Compare plans and see if “Covered Connecticut” applies to you through Access Health CT Get Help; call 1‑855‑805‑4325 for live assistance. If you need time off for pregnancy or caregiving, you can also apply for income replacement through CT Paid Leave. (accesshealthct.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Statewide Legal Services about Medicaid fair hearings if coverage was reduced in error, and check DSS Hearing Request for appeal windows and continued coverage rules. (portal.ct.gov)

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Worker Rights, Pay, and Leave — Practical CT Rules

Minimum wage: Connecticut’s minimum wage is $16.35/hourasofJanuary1,2025,andwillincreaseto$16.94/hour on January 1, 2026. See the Governor’s official announcements for 2025 wage and 2026 wage, and check CT DOL pages for enforcement. (portal.ct.gov)

Paid family and medical leave (income replacement): You can apply 30 days before leave and, once documents are received, decisions typically take about five business days from the third‑party administrator Aflac. Start an application at CT Paid Leave and review CT‑FMLA eligibility at CT DOL CTFMLA guide. (ctpaidleave.org)

Unpaid, job‑protected leave (CT‑FMLA): Most employers with one or more employees are covered; file complaints with DOL if your rights are denied. Learn the basics and complaint process through CT DOL CTFMLA and see any new school employee expansions summarized by Shipman & Goodwin’s update. (portal.ct.gov)

Unpaid wages or overtime: File a wage claim with DOL; note the current backlog (about 8–10 months to assignment) and call 860‑263‑6790 for form help. Start at DOL Wage Complaint page and see Wage & Workplace Standards for more contact options. (portal.ct.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use Connecticut Free Legal Answers to ask a short employment question online, or ask a local bar referral service for a half‑hour paid consult with a private attorney. (ct.freelegalanswers.org)

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Discrimination at Work, School, Credit, or Housing

File with CHRO quickly: You generally have up to 300 days to file; housing complaints are handled by the Housing Discrimination Unit (860‑541‑3403). See steps at CHRO How to File and CHRO Contact page; you can also file fair housing complaints with HUD. (portal.ct.gov)

Keep a clean paper trail: Save texts, emails, notices, screenshots, and photos. If you suspect housing discrimination, call CT Fair Housing Center and CHRO’s Housing Unit, then ask Statewide Legal Services whether legal aid can represent you. (ctfairhousing.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If CHRO can’t take your complaint, ask about “dual filing” with EEOC or HUD and get legal advice through Connecticut Free Legal Answers while you look for counsel using FindALawyerCT (CBA). (ct.freelegalanswers.org)

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Record Clearing — Clean Slate and Pardons

Check if any convictions were erased automatically: Connecticut’s Clean Slate law removes certain convictions after waiting periods; if a post‑2000 eligible conviction didn’t clear, you can request a review. Start at the state’s Clean Slate portal and eligibility guide for steps and hearing request instructions. (portal.ct.gov)

If your conviction is pre‑2000, you must petition: Use the Judicial Branch form JD‑CR‑202 and file where you were sentenced; see Petition for Clean Slate Erasure for locations and detailed filing directions. For relief beyond Clean Slate, apply for a pardon through the Board of Pardons and Paroles ePardon portal. (portal.ct.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Statewide Legal Services for advice, and consider an absolute pardon if you’re not Clean Slate eligible; court Law Libraries can help you find rules and sample filings through Law Library Services. (portal.ct.gov)

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Stop a Shutoff or Eviction Where You Live — Location‑Specific Contacts

Hartford Utility Shutoff Help: Call Greater Hartford Legal Aid at 860‑541‑5000 for legal advice on notices or winter protection, then ask PURA about your rights using PURA assistance. For court forms and fee waivers, walk into the Hartford Court Service Center. (ghla.org)

Bridgeport Eviction Help: If you’re served with papers, call Eviction Help CT first to check RTC coverage, then contact Connecticut Legal Services (Bridgeport/Stamford offices). File an Appearance fast using CT Judicial Branch housing forms. (evictionhelpct.org)

New Haven Housing Defense: Call New Haven Legal Assistance at 203‑946‑4811 and check for a free lawyer via Eviction Help CT; get in‑person help at the New Haven Court Service Center. (nhlegal.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Legal Aid Providers — Who Covers Your Town

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Appeals, Deadlines, and Timelines — What to Expect

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Energy Help — What CEAP and Matching Payment Can Do Together

Understand benefit layering: CEAP basic benefits are set each program year; fuel‑heated households may receive crisis and “safety net” deliveries on top of basics. Read current ranges and crisis rules at DSS Energy Benefits page and use HeatingHelp CEAP to apply. The protection window for hardship/medical hardship is Nov 1–May 1 per Winter Protection details. (portal.ct.gov)

Pair CEAP with Matching Payment: For every dollar you pay and every dollar CEAP pays, your utility can forgive a dollar of arrears under Matching Payment. See Eversource MPP and PURA’s program overview. (eversource.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to speak to a supervisor at your utility and request a budget billing recalculation; if still denied, contact PURA Consumer Affairs and bring in a medical certification if someone at home has a serious illness. (portal.ct.gov)

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Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for safety planning that respects privacy with CT Safe Connect and use CHRO’s complaint process if you face discrimination at school, work, or housing. Court interpreters and accommodations are free: request them early at Judicial Branch LEP page. (ctsafeconnect.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask Disability Rights Connecticut about disability‑related rights, and use Center for Children’s Advocacy for special education or school discipline issues. If you need court interpreter/ADA aids, request them early under Judicial Branch LEP/ADA info. (disrightsct.org)

Veteran single mothers: Contact CT Veterans Legal Center for referrals (many cases require a clinician referral), and use the Hartford Vet Center for counseling and 24/7 crisis line (988, then press 1). For eviction defense, RTC serves veterans statewide via Eviction Help CT. (ctveteranslegal.org)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: For trusted immigration counsel, reach out to Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) or IRIS; for public benefits, DSS does not require citizenship for WIC and many services per CT WIC rules. If language is a barrier, ask for interpreters from DSS or the court at LEP services. (cirict.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: Members of federally recognized tribes can access health and social services through Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Health Services and contact tribal courts at Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Court; Mohegan members can reach the Mohegan Tribal Court or community services via the tribal center. For state housing or utility issues, still use 2‑1‑1 and PURA programs. (mashantucketpequottribalhealth.com)

Rural single moms with limited access: Ask 2‑1‑1 for mobile legal clinics or transportation vouchers, and use Connecticut Free Legal Answers to get written advice online. For oil or propane emergencies, ask your local CAA via CEAP. (uwc.211ct.org)

Single fathers: All services here apply; SES and OCSS help parents of any gender. Start at CT Judicial Branch child support and DSS child support overview for parenting plan and support changes. (jud.ct.gov)

Language access: The courts provide interpreters free of charge; request them before your date through Judicial Branch LEP and ask DSS for interpreters by phone or in person via DSS language services. If you need large print, CART, or TTY, tell clerks in advance; library chat at Law Libraries can point you to translated forms. (jud.ct.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to respond to court papers: File an Appearance and Answer quickly using housing forms and ask Eviction Help CT if you qualify for a free lawyer. Court deadlines are short; late responses risk default. (jud.ct.gov)
• Skipping the utility hardship designation: Without the “hardship” code, some protections don’t apply. Ask for hardship or medical protection and enroll in Matching Payment; rules live at PURA’s page. (eversource.com)
• Not appealing benefit denials on time: Mark your calendar. You usually have 60 days (90 for SNAP) to request a hearing. File through DSS OLCRAH and ask about continued benefits. (portal.ct.gov)

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“Reality Check” — Delays, Shortages, and Workarounds

Expect phone holds and callbacks: 2‑1‑1 now uses a callback feature due to high demand; you can usually get a return call within 24 hours while you search 211ct.org yourself. Use email/chat when offered. (uwc.211ct.org)

Child care slots are tight: Waitlists move, but not fast. Watch Care 4 Kids waitlist updates and ask schools/churches about on‑site programs while you wait; document your job risk for priority. (ctcare4kids.com)

Utility credits shift year to year: Rates, credits, and arrearage programs change. Read PURA updates and your utility’s announcements, and always reconfirm by phone before you rely on a promise. (portal.ct.gov)

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Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot This

• Photo ID: License, state ID, or other government photo ID; see DSS ID guidance and Judicial Branch ID rules.
• Proof of income: Pay stubs, child support, unemployment, or self‑employment ledger; review DSS SNAP income list and Care 4 Kids income pages. (portal.ct.gov)
• Proof of expenses: Rent/lease, utilities, child care bills; use CEAP and utility hardship paperwork. (portal.ct.gov)
• Family documents: Birth certificates, custody orders, protective orders; get forms at Judicial Branch forms and safety help at CT Safe Connect. (ctsafeconnect.org)
• Proof of crisis: Eviction/summons, shutoff notice, medical letters; housing forms are at Housing FAQ and medical hardship rules under Winter Protection. (jud.ct.gov)

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Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

• Ask why in writing: Request the exact regulation or reason. For DSS cases, request a fair hearing through OLCRAH and upload more proof in MyDSS. (portal.ct.gov)
• Show up to hearings: For SNAP, hearings and decisions should wrap within 60 days; phone hearings are common. Read SNAP hearing timelines and ask for interpreters via Judicial Branch LEP for court matters. (portaldir.ct.gov)
• Escalate to legal aid: Call SLS, then your regional office (CLS, GHLA, NHLAA). For disability‑related issues that cross systems, contact DRCT. (ctlegal.org)

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Resources by Region

Greater Hartford: For family, housing, and benefits help, call GHLA and use 2‑1‑1 search for shelters and rental help; for discrimination, contact CHRO. Court form help is available at the Hartford Court Service Center. (ghla.org)

New Haven area: Call NHLAA for legal help, check Eviction Help CT for RTC eligibility, and use CT Foodshare mobile pantry if groceries are tight. Court services are listed at Judicial Branch. (evictionhelpct.org)

Fairfield/Bridgeport/Stamford: Contact CLS Bridgeport/Stamford, and for DV support reach CT Safe Connect; for worker pay issues, start at DOL Wage & Workplace Standards. (ctlegal.org)

Eastern CT (New London/Norwich/Willimantic): Call CLS New London & Willimantic, apply for CEAP in Access/TVCCA through HeatingHelp CT, and use 2‑1‑1 for Coordinated Access to shelter. (ctlegal.org)

Waterbury/Litchfield/Torrington: For housing and benefits, contact CLS Waterbury, check RTC via Eviction Help CT, and use PURA assistance for utility disputes. (ctlegal.org)

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More Places to Turn — Local Orgs, Churches, and Support Groups

• 2‑1‑1 directory for faith‑based help: Use 2‑1‑1 search to find Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, YWCA, and town social services; ask about food pantries and rent funds. For DV services by town, Safe Connect can link you to a local center from CCADV. (uwc.211ct.org)
• Legal clinics and one‑time consults: Look for clinics at Judicial Branch Legal Clinics and post a question at Connecticut Free Legal Answers if you can’t travel. Veterans can ask about clinics through CVLC. (jud.ct.gov)

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Tables You Can Use Fast

Legal Aid at a Glance

Emergency Hotlines

Utility Programs Snapshot

Court Help Points

Benefits and Appeals Mini‑Guide

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How to Use Free and Low‑Cost Legal Help

Start with a statewide intake: Call SLS for screening, then they route cases to CLS, GHLA, or NHLAA based on your town and legal issue; learn about the eviction Right to Counsel hotline at Eviction Help CT. (slsct.org)

Use the court’s free help desks: Visit Court Service Centers for form reviews and notarizing; ask Law Libraries to locate statutes and practice book sections relevant to your case. If you’re stuck at home, post a question on Connecticut Free Legal Answers. (jud.ct.gov)

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FAQs — Connecticut Legal Questions Single Moms Ask Most

1. How do I get a free lawyer for my eviction in Connecticut: Call 1‑800‑559‑1565 and check Eviction Help CT; the Judicial Branch notice explains the program. If you’re ineligible, apply at SLS for advice and referral. (evictionhelpct.org)
2. What if I already have a shutoff notice: Ask for hardship or medical protection and Matching Payment through PURA programs and Eversource MPP; apply for CEAP immediately. (portal.ct.gov)
3. My SNAP was cut — how long do I have to appeal: You have 90 days for SNAP; request a hearing via DSS OLCRAH and read SNAP timelines. (portal.ct.gov)
4. Where can I get help fast for a restraining order: Use CT Safe Connect for safety planning and go to Judicial Branch restraining order forms for JD‑FM‑137/138. Court Service Centers can help you file. (ctsafeconnect.org)
5. What are the current SNAP amounts: For FY2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025), a family of 4 maxes at $975; see USDA FY2025 COLA and CT’s SNAP tables for full amounts and income limits. (fns.usda.gov)
6. Can I get a court interpreter: Yes, free. Request through Judicial Branch LEP before your court date; DSS can provide interpreters for benefits appointments via DSS language services. (jud.ct.gov)
7. How do I clear an old record: Check Clean Slate; if your conviction is pre‑2000, file JD‑CR‑202. For broader relief, apply via the ePardon portal. (portal.ct.gov)
8. Do I qualify for HUSKY: Parents/caretakers up to about 138% FPL may qualify under HUSKY A; see charts at HUSKY Qualify and HUSKY B for kids/CHIP. If over income, try Access Health CT. (portal.ct.gov)
9. What’s the minimum wage in Connecticut right now: It’s $16.35/hour(sinceJanuary1,2025)andrisesto$16.94/hour on January 1, 2026; see the Governor’s 2025 wage notice and 2026 notice. (portal.ct.gov)
10. How do I ask a lawyer a question online: Post a civil question at Connecticut Free Legal Answers; you’ll get a response by email when a volunteer answers. For referrals, use FindALawyerCT. (ct.freelegalanswers.org)

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Spanish — Resumen rápido (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

• Desalojo: Llame a Eviction Help CT al 1‑800‑559‑1565 para ver si califica para un abogado gratis; formularios en Corte de Vivienda. (evictionhelpct.org)
• Corte de protección: Para órdenes de restricción, use formularios de la corte y pida ayuda y seguridad a CT Safe Connect (1‑888‑774‑2900). (jud.ct.gov)
• Apoyo de energía: Pida “protección por dificultad” y Matching Payment; solicite CEAP en HeatingHelp CT. (eversource.com)
• Beneficios (SNAP/HUSKY): Aplique en DSS ConneCT; para apelaciones vea OLCRAH. (portal.ct.gov)
• Línea general 2‑1‑1: Busque ayuda local en 211ct.org; si no conecta, llame 1‑800‑203‑1234. (uwc.211ct.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Connecticut Judicial Branch
• Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut
• Connecticut Legal Services
• Greater Hartford Legal Aid and New Haven Legal Assistance
• CT Bar Foundation — Right to Counsel
• CT Department of Social Services and DSS Hearings (OLCRAH)
• USDA FNS — SNAP FY2025
• PURA Consumer Services and HeatingHelp CT (CEAP)
• CT Paid Leave and CT DOL CTFMLA
• CHRO complaint process

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.

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Disclaimer

This information is general legal information, not legal advice: For advice about your situation, talk to a lawyer through Statewide Legal Services or a local legal aid office like CLS. Rules change often; always confirm current eligibility and deadlines with DSS, CT Judicial Branch, or PURA before you act. (slsct.org)

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🏛️More Connecticut Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Connecticut

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery