Legal Help for Single Mothers in Montana
Legal Help for Single Mothers in Montana
Last updated: September 2025
This guide gives fast, practical steps and direct contacts so you can act today. It links to official state and federal resources and trusted nonprofits that serve Montana families.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Get immediate safety help: If you’re in danger, call 9-1-1. For civil protection, file for an Order of Protection the same day at your local courthouse and ask a victim advocate to help. Start with the statewide network through the Montana Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence via its regional directory on MCADSV and request forms on Montana Courts – Domestic Violence Forms. (mcadsv.com)
- Stop an eviction clock: If you were served court papers, you usually have only five business days to file an Answer. Use the guided tools on MontanaLawHelp – Eviction and ask for free help from Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA). (montanalawhelp.org)
- Open or enforce child support: Enroll online with the state’s Child Support Services Division on DPHHS – CSSD Enroll and call 1-800-346-5437 for case questions via DPHHS – CSSD Contact. (intake.hhs.mt.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy
- Public Assistance case help: Call 1-888-706-1535 or find your local office on DPHHS – Office of Public Assistance. For Medicaid questions, use Montana Healthcare Member Services. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Utility shutoff problems: Call the Montana Public Service Commission (PSC) Consumer Assistance at 1-800-646-6150 and read “How do I get help” on PSC – Consumer Assistance. (psc.mt.gov)
- Work and discrimination issues: For unpaid wages, start a claim at DLI – Wage & Hour; for discrimination in work, housing, or public services, call 1-800-542-0807 at the Human Rights Bureau. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
- Disability rights and accommodations: Call 1-800-245-4743 for Disability Rights Montana (CAP & P&A); ask courts for interpreters using Motion to Appoint Interpreter. (disabilityrightsmt.org)
- Find local resources 24/7: Dial 2-1-1 or search Montana 2‑1‑1; in a mental health crisis dial 988. (montana211.org)
How to Get Immediate Protection From Violence in Montana Today
If you or your child are in danger, act now. File a petition for a Temporary Order of Protection (TOP) at your closest court and ask for same‑day review. The Montana Judicial Branch provides printable forms and clear steps on Montana Courts — Domestic Violence (Orders of Protection), and advocates can guide you through safety plans and court prep via MCADSV – Programs by Region. (courts.mt.gov)
- Where to go and what to expect: Courts can issue an immediate temporary order for up to 20 days and must set a full hearing within 20 days; the order can be extended until the hearing if continued. Read the state statute on MCA 40‑15‑201 & 40‑15‑202 and MCA 40‑15‑202. (leg.mt.gov)
- Get an advocate and safe shelter fast: Use county hotlines like YWCA Missoula – Pathways Crisis Line at 1-406-542-1944 and HAVEN Bozeman – 24/7 Line at 1-406-586-4111, or reach Abbie Shelter (Flathead County) at 1-406-752-7273 for local help. (ywcamissoula.org)
- Protect your address and papers: Ask to keep your new address confidential in court and apply for the state’s Address Confidentiality Program. After you receive a permanent order, request a wallet‑sized Hope Card to show law enforcement quickly. (dojmt.gov)
- Local Court Help: If you need forms checked or help filling them out, book time with the Court Help Program or email the Helena Self‑Help Law Center at statelawlibraryselfhelp@mt.gov as listed on State Law Library – Self‑Help Center. (courts.mt.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply with MLSA for free legal help (expect a callback in 3–5 business days), or use AskKarla.org for email advice from pro bono attorneys while you await representation. If denied or ineligible, request low‑cost referrals from the State Bar Lawyer Referral Service at 1-406-449-6577. (mtlsa.org)
What To Do If Your Landlord Tries to Evict You This Week
Move fast. If you get served an eviction lawsuit (unlawful detainer), you have five business days to file an Answer. Use the free guided Answer form on MontanaLawHelp – Eviction and bring your papers to a Self‑Help Law Center to review before filing. (montanalawhelp.org)
- Know Montana timelines: For nonpayment of rent, landlords can terminate if rent is not paid within three days after written notice; other violations often require 14‑day notice. See MCA 70‑24‑422, and month‑to‑month tenancies need 30 days under MCA 70‑24‑441. (law.justia.com)
- Get practical help: Call MLSA for legal aid and check if your county Self‑Help Center has appointments (e.g., Yellowstone County Self‑Help requires appointments; Flathead County Self‑Help provides form pick‑up with phone support). (courts.mt.gov)
- Avoid a default: If you cannot afford the court’s Answer fee, file a fee‑waiver request using the district‑court “Affidavit of Inability to Pay” form from Montana Courts – Prison Approved/Indigent Forms or ask the clerk for the indigency packet. (courts.mt.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for time to move, negotiate payment plans in writing, and request community help via Montana 2‑1‑1. For utility‑related housing emergencies, call the PSC Consumer Assistance line at 1‑800‑646‑6150 to try to stop a shutoff while you stabilize housing. (montana211.org)
How to Start or Enforce Child Support in Montana When Money Is Tight
Apply online with the state first; it is often the fastest path to wage withholding and enforcement. Use DPHHS – CSSD Enroll for Services and keep your case number handy. For live help or to reach your caseworker, call 1‑800‑346‑5437 on DPHHS – CSSD Contact. (intake.hhs.mt.gov)
- Fees and processing: Montana charges a 25onlineenrollmentfeeunlessyoureceiveSNAP,TANF,Medicaid/HMK,orotherlistedassistance(thenit’swaived)per[∗DPHHS–CSSDEnrollmentInfo∗](https://intake.hhs.mt.gov/SEARCHSIntakeApplicationApp/landing.jsf).Paymentsmadeviatheonlineportalincludea1.525 online enrollment fee unless you receive SNAP, TANF, Medicaid/HMK, or other listed assistance (then it’s waived) per [*DPHHS – CSSD Enrollment Info*](https://intake.hhs.mt.gov/SEARCHSIntakeApplicationApp/landing.jsf). Payments made via the online portal include a 1.5% transaction fee (capped at 20), with an additional variable card fee; see the update effective Feb 1, 2025 on DPHHS – CSSD Payment Information and the portal updates on DPHHS – CSSD. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Getting paid: Child support disbursements often go to a U.S. Bank ReliaCard automatically; allow 7–10 days after the first payment to receive the card as explained on DPHHS – CSSD Payment Information. You can track deposits on the ReliaCard site listed there. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Courts and guidelines: If you go through court instead of CSSD, find calculators and forms on Montana Courts – Child Support. For interstate support or registration issues, see MCA Title 40 Ch. 5 (Uniform Interstate Family Support) and CSSD’s guides on that page. (courts.mt.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your case is stalled, keep logs of each contact, ask for supervisory review via DPHHS – CSSD Contacts, and call MontanaLawHelp – Parenting/Support for forms to modify support. If you suspect your ex hides income, request enforcement tools (like income withholding or tax intercepts) through CSSD. (dphhs.mt.gov)
Appealing SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid Decisions
If DPHHS reduces or denies benefits, appeal right away. You can request a fair hearing and then—if needed—appeal to the Board of Public Assistance. Start with your case on DPHHS – Office of Public Assistance and read appeal steps on the Board of Public Assistance page; the board’s contact is hhsofh@mt.gov or 406‑444‑2470. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Health coverage questions: Call Montana Healthcare Programs – Member Services at 1‑800‑362‑8312 for Medicaid benefits, and use the online portal linked on that page to verify doctors and coverage. (dphhs.mt.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact MLSA for help with benefit appeals and ask Disability Rights Montana (CAP) for assistance if your issue involves disability services, employment supports, or vocational rehabilitation. (mtlsa.org)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Montana Today
First, call your utility and ask for a payment arrangement; note the time and name of the representative. If you cannot resolve it, contact the PSC Consumer Assistance team at 1‑800‑646‑6150 and submit an online request. The PSC can help with regulated electric, gas, water, and telecom issues; find more details on PSC – What We Do For You. (psc.mt.gov)
- City water examples: For Missoula water emergencies or to ask about shutoffs, call Missoula Water Customer Service at 1‑406‑552‑6700; for Billings water/sewer billing or emergency after‑hours, use Billings Utilities Service Center at 1‑406‑657‑8315 (after‑hours emergency 406‑657‑8353). (ci.missoula.mt.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask nonprofit navigators through Montana 2‑1‑1 to search for emergency energy help, and report unfair billing practices to the Montana DOJ Office of Consumer Protection at 1‑800‑481‑6896. (montana211.org)
Affordable Legal Help and Self‑Help — Best Statewide Options
- Free civil legal aid: Apply to MLSA online (typical callback in 3–5 business days; note urgent deadlines in your application) and use MontanaLawHelp.org for forms and guided interviews. (mtlsa.org)
- Self‑help law centers: Book help through the Court Help Program or contact the Helena Self‑Help Law Center (406‑444‑9300) on the State Law Library page for remote appointments and kiosk sites in rural counties. (courts.mt.gov)
- Low‑cost/paid lawyers: Call the State Bar of Montana Lawyer Referral at 1‑406‑449‑6577 for a referral if you do not qualify for free aid. (montanabar.org)
- Civil rights: File discrimination complaints with the Human Rights Bureau at 1‑800‑542‑0807; for constitutional rights or systemic issues, contact the ACLU of Montana at 1‑406‑443‑8590. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
- Wage theft: File a claim with the DLI Wage & Hour Unit and read Montana’s wage and hour overview at DLI Labor Standards. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
- Language access: Ask courts to appoint an interpreter using Motion to Appoint Interpreter; DPHHS offers free language services and TTY relay noted on DPHHS – Language Assistance Services. (montanalawhelp.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re turned away, ask for reasons in writing and reapply after an income or case‑type change. For quick answers, post a civil legal question at AskKarla.org or, if eligible, use ABA Free Legal Answers – Federal (Veterans/VA) for VA benefits or discharge questions. (montanalawhelp.org)
Local Organizations, Charities, and Support Groups
- Missoula: Get 24/7 help at YWCA Missoula – Pathways (406‑542‑1944) and visit Missoula Self‑Help Law Center for forms and appointments. For broad resource referrals, call Montana 2‑1‑1 (Western region). (ywcamissoula.org)
- Bozeman / Gallatin County: Contact HAVEN’s 24/7 line at 406‑586‑4111, check the new Justice Center’s self‑help space on Gallatin County Justice Center, and call the county victim assistance at 406‑582‑2075 from the Gallatin County resources page. (havenmt.org)
- Kalispell / Flathead County: Reach Abbie Shelter at 406‑752‑7273 and the Flathead County Self‑Help Center at 406‑758‑2496 for civil forms review. For rural help, schedule a kiosk appointment via the Court Help Program. (abbieshelter.org)
- Helena / Lewis & Clark County: Call The Friendship Center hotline (406‑442‑6800) and visit the State Law Library Self‑Help Center (406‑444‑9300) for remote support. For discrimination issues, contact the Human Rights Bureau at 1‑800‑542‑0807. (thefriendshipcenter.org)
- Billings / Yellowstone County: Use YWCA Billings – Gateway Shelter (24‑hour help 406‑245‑4472) and schedule at the Yellowstone Self‑Help Law Center by email or phone. For city utilities payment issues, contact Billings Utilities Service Center at 406‑657‑8315. (billingsmt.gov)
- Great Falls / Cascade County: Call YWCA Mercy Home (800‑352‑7449) and note the Cascade Self‑Help Center location (Great Falls Public Library). For status updates on clinic hours, see the library’s notice on GFPL – Self‑Help Clinic. (dojmt.gov)
Resources by Region (selected quick directory)
| Region | Domestic/Sexual Violence | Legal Self‑Help | General Help |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western (Missoula, Ravalli) | YWCA Missoula – Pathways | Missoula Self‑Help Law Center | Montana 2‑1‑1 Western |
| Southwest (Gallatin, Park) | HAVEN – Bozeman | Gallatin Justice Center info | Montana 2‑1‑1 |
| Northwest (Flathead) | Abbie Shelter | Flathead Self‑Help | Montana 2‑1‑1 NW |
| Central (Lewis & Clark, Cascade) | Friendship Center – Helena | State Law Library – Self‑Help | Montana 2‑1‑1 Central |
| Southeast (Yellowstone) | YWCA Billings – Gateway | Yellowstone Self‑Help | Montana 2‑1‑1 SE |
Diverse Communities — Targeted Help and Tips
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use the Human Rights Bureau to file discrimination complaints in work, housing, or public services, and contact the ACLU of Montana for civil‑rights questions (including name/gender marker legal info). Ask the Court Help Program about fee‑waiver forms if cost is a barrier. Accessibility: ask for interpreters using the Interpreter Motion. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Request accommodations or appeal VR decisions with help from Disability Rights Montana (CAP) and explore DPHHS program rights via Member Services. For court access, ask for large‑print forms and relay services (711) per DPHHS Language Assistance. (disabilityrightsmt.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Get benefits help from the Montana Veterans Affairs Division (406‑324‑3742) and VA health access updates via VA Montana Health Care news. For legal issues, you may qualify for ABA federal help through ABA Free Legal Answers – Federal (Veterans). (dma.mt.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: In Missoula, seek case management and legal navigation through IRC Missoula and community support at Soft Landing Missoula. For public benefits or Medicaid translation, use DPHHS Language Assistance. (welcome.rescue.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Contact your tribal court and local DV programs; e.g., CSKT Tribal Court (406‑275‑2740) and the statewide Montana Native Women’s Coalition (toll‑free 800‑352‑7449). The state’s Hope Card program recognizes tribal orders; see DOJ – Hope Cards. (csktcourt.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Ask for video kiosk appointments through Court Help Connect and confirm local sites on the library/courthouse list. For off‑hours help, use Montana 2‑1‑1 and the crisis line 988. (courts.mt.gov)
- Single fathers: You can use every resource in this guide. File for parenting plans on Montana Courts – Parenting Plans and apply for help from MLSA. If discriminated against based on sex or marital status in housing/work, contact the Human Rights Bureau. (courts.mt.gov)
- Language access: Tell each office you need an interpreter. Courts must provide interpreters when needed; use the Interpreter Motion. DPHHS offers free interpretation and TTY relay under its Language Assistance Services. (montanalawhelp.org)
Reality Check — Delays and Funding Gaps
Backlogs happen. MLSA sometimes limits intake briefly to catch up; during such periods they still prioritize emergencies like Orders of Protection and evictions, as described in an intake‑pause notice on MLSA’s site. Always flag any court deadline in your application, and call again if your situation becomes urgent. Consider parallel paths: Self‑Help Center forms and State Bar Lawyer Referral for a paid consultation if needed. (mtlsa.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing nothing after being served in an eviction or custody case. Use MontanaLawHelp tools right away and bring your draft to a Self‑Help Center to review before the deadline. (montanalawhelp.org)
- Leaving out proof. For Orders of Protection, bring texts, photos, police reports, and witnesses; see the state’s guide on Orders of Protection plus court forms on Montana Courts. (dojmt.gov)
- Not requesting fee waivers. Ask courts for “inability to pay” forms via Montana Courts – Indigent Forms and check with Self‑Help for local practices. (courts.mt.gov)
- Ignoring interpreter needs. File the Interpreter Motion early and request language/TTY services per DPHHS Language Assistance. (montanalawhelp.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First Step | Official Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Free civil legal aid | Apply online | MLSA – Apply |
| Court forms help | Book appointment | Court Help Program |
| Child support | Enroll online / call | DPHHS – CSSD / 1‑800‑346‑5437 |
| Benefits appeal | Ask for fair hearing | DPHHS – OPA |
| Utility shutoff | Call utility, then PSC | PSC Assistance |
County‑Specific Notes You Should Know
- Yellowstone County (Billings): The Self‑Help Law Center operates by appointment only; email or call per the Yellowstone Self‑Help page. Keep YWCA Gateway’s hotline (406‑245‑4472) from the City’s Domestic Violence page. (courts.mt.gov)
- Cascade County (Great Falls): The Self‑Help Center is now at the Great Falls Public Library; confirm hours on the Self‑Help NE Region page or the library’s clinic notice. (courts.mt.gov)
- Gallatin County (Bozeman): The self‑help space is in the new Justice Center opened in 2025; see county updates on the Justice Center news. Use HAVEN’s 24/7 line at 406‑586‑4111 via HAVEN. (gallatinmt.gov)
- Flathead County (Kalispell): Contact the Flathead Self‑Help Law Center for phone assistance and form pickup. For domestic violence, call Abbie Shelter at 406‑752‑7273. (courts.mt.gov)
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot This
- Photo ID and proof of Montana address: Driver’s license, lease, or letter; ask for fee‑waiver forms from Montana Courts if needed. (courts.mt.gov)
- Papers for your legal issue: Court notices, parenting plans, child support orders; download standard packets from Montana Courts – Forms and MontanaLawHelp. (courts.mt.gov)
- Evidence: Screenshots, texts, bank statements for support/benefits/wage claims; see filing basics on Court Help Program. (courts.mt.gov)
- Income proof: Pay stubs, SNAP/TANF/Medicaid letters for CSSD/fee waivers; review CSSD’s fee policy on DPHHS – CSSD Enroll. (intake.hhs.mt.gov)
- Interpreter or disability requests: File the Interpreter Motion and ask DPHHS for language or TTY relay via Language Assistance. (montanalawhelp.org)
Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied
- Ask for the reason in writing: Keep a file. Then fix the issue (income proof, jurisdiction, timing) and reapply to MLSA. For interim advice, use AskKarla.org or schedule with a Self‑Help Center. (mtlsa.org)
- Escalate urgent cases: For imminent hearings, tell MLSA intake you have a court date, and call the Court Help Program for immediate forms help. If you can pay for one hour, call the State Bar LRIS. (courts.mt.gov)
Timelines You Can Expect (typical)
| Issue | Typical Time | Source |
|---|---|---|
| MLSA callback | 3–5 business days (faster if urgent deadline noted) | MLSA – Apply |
| Order of Protection hearing | Within 20 days of TOP; emergency hearing for respondent within 3 working days | MCA 40‑15‑202 |
| Eviction Answer deadline | 5 business days from service (not calendar days) | MontanaLawHelp – Eviction |
| CSSD online payment clearing | A few days for bank/card to clear; ReliaCard 7–10 days after first payment | DPHHS – CSSD Payment Info |
Common Questions, Straight Answers (Montana‑specific)
- How do I file for an Order of Protection without a lawyer? Use the printable forms on Montana Courts – Domestic Violence and ask a local advocate from MCADSV’s directory to help you complete them. The court can issue an immediate temporary order and set a hearing within 20 days under MCA 40‑15‑201 and 40‑15‑202. (courts.mt.gov)
- What if I was served with eviction papers and payday is next week? File an Answer within five business days using the MontanaLawHelp Answer tool, bring it to a Self‑Help Center to review, and ask the judge for a payment plan. If you need more time, request it at the first hearing. (montanalawhelp.org)
- Can I start child support without a divorce? Yes. Apply with CSSD on DPHHS – Enroll or file in district court using Montana Courts – Child Support resources. Fee waivers are available if you’re low‑income. (intake.hhs.mt.gov)
- How much does CSSD cost? Montana’s online enrollment fee is 25unlessyoureceivequalifyingpublicassistance,per[∗DPHHS–CSSDEnrollment∗](https://intake.hhs.mt.gov/SEARCHSIntakeApplicationApp/landing.jsf).Onlinepaymentsincludea1.525 unless you receive qualifying public assistance, per [*DPHHS – CSSD Enrollment*](https://intake.hhs.mt.gov/SEARCHSIntakeApplicationApp/landing.jsf). Online payments include a 1.5% transaction fee capped at 20; see DPHHS – CSSD Payment Info. (intake.hhs.mt.gov)
- Where can I get help in Spanish or another language? Courts accept the Interpreter Motion, and DPHHS provides free interpreters and accessible formats under Language Assistance Services. (montanalawhelp.org)
- I need legal help but I make a bit too much for MLSA. What now? Ask the State Bar LRIS for a referral; also check the Court Help Program for do‑it‑yourself forms and clinics. (montanabar.org)
- How do I challenge workplace discrimination or eviction for “familial status”? File a complaint within 180 days with the Human Rights Bureau, and keep copies of notices and texts; you can consult MLSA for advice. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
- I’m deaf/hard‑of‑hearing. How do I call agencies? Use Montana Relay 711 and request TTY accommodations through DPHHS Language Assistance, and note on court filings that you need an interpreter via the Interpreter Motion. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Can I get help appealing VR (vocational rehab) decisions? Yes—contact the Client Assistance Program at Disability Rights Montana for fair hearing support. (disabilityrightsmt.org)
- Who helps with complaints about regulated utilities? The PSC Consumer Assistance team at 1‑800‑646‑6150; for scams or unfair business practices, contact the Montana DOJ – Office of Consumer Protection. (psc.mt.gov)
Three Handy Tables You Can Save
A. Fast Contacts for the Big Issues
| Topic | Where to start | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic violence | Montana Courts DV Forms | MCADSV – Find an Advocate |
| Evictions | MontanaLawHelp – Eviction Answer | Court Help Program |
| Child support | DPHHS – CSSD Enroll | Montana Courts – Child Support |
| Benefits appeal | DPHHS – OPA | Board of Public Assistance |
B. Self‑Help Law Centers — Where to Call First
| Area | Phone | Page |
|---|---|---|
| Helena (State Law Library) | 406‑444‑9300 | Self‑Help Center – Helena |
| Yellowstone (Billings) | 406‑869‑3531 | Yellowstone Self‑Help |
| Flathead (Kalispell) | 406‑758‑2496 | Flathead Self‑Help |
| Cascade (Great Falls – library) | 406‑899‑7109 | Cascade Self‑Help location |
C. Domestic/Sexual Violence Hotlines (by county hub)
| County Hub | Hotline |
|---|---|
| Missoula (YWCA Pathways) | YWCA Missoula – 406‑542‑1944 |
| Gallatin (HAVEN) | HAVEN – 406‑586‑4111 |
| Lewis & Clark (Friendship Center) | Friendship Center – 406‑442‑6800 |
| Flathead (Abbie Shelter) | Abbie Shelter – 406‑752‑7273 |
| Cascade (YWCA Mercy Home) | YWCA Mercy Home – 800‑352‑7449 |
Real‑World Examples
- You need a same‑day Order of Protection: Go to district court, complete the sworn petition from Montana Courts DV Forms, and ask the clerk to get it to a judge immediately. Call a local advocate via MCADSV’s directory to help collect evidence (texts, photos). The judge may issue a temporary order and set your hearing within 20 days under MCA 40‑15‑202. (courts.mt.gov)
- You were served an eviction on Friday: Use the weekend to complete the guided Answer on MontanaLawHelp, then file by Wednesday (five business days). Ask Court Help to review your Answer first thing Monday. (montanalawhelp.org)
- You need child support but can’t pay a lawyer: Apply at DPHHS – CSSD Enroll now and call 1‑800‑346‑5437 to confirm your case is active. If you don’t hear back in a week, call again and document the date/time; also ask MLSA if you qualify for advice while CSSD processes your case. (intake.hhs.mt.gov)
“What to Do if This Doesn’t Work” — Back‑up Options by Topic
- Domestic/Sexual Violence: If a clerk refuses your filing or there are delays, call the Office of Victim Services at 1‑800‑498‑6455 for guidance and ask about the Hope Card once your order is permanent. (dojmt.gov)
- Evictions: If you missed the Answer deadline, file a motion asking to set aside default if you have grounds, and get help from MLSA. For repairs/reprisal issues, read the statute on MCA 70‑24‑422/441. (mtlsa.org)
- Wages/Work: If your employer won’t pay, file a claim at DLI Wage & Hour. If you believe discrimination is involved, call the Human Rights Bureau within 180 days. (erd.dli.mt.gov)
Quick Help for Utilities (City‑Specific)
- Missoula Water Bill Help: Customer service is 406‑552‑6700 per Missoula Water; if you need a payment plan or have a shutoff notice, call right away and then escalate to the PSC Consumer Assistance team if unresolved. (ci.missoula.mt.us)
- Billings Water Bill Help: Call 406‑657‑8315 for the Billings Utilities Service Center. If you need more time or a dispute review, ask for a supervisor and then file with PSC Consumer Assistance. (billingsmtpublicworks.gov)
Regional and Tribal Notes
- Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes: Contact the CSKT Tribal Court about Orders of Protection and family cases, and use the Hope Card for permanent orders. For tribal DV program listings, check the Montana Native Women’s Coalition. (csktcourt.org)
- Statewide DV coverage: For a list of advocates by reservation and county with 24/7 reach‑ins, use MCADSV – Programs by Region and confirm current hotlines. (mcadsv.com)
Tips for Better Results
- Front‑load deadlines: Tell MLSA or Court Help your hearing date first; many teams triage by deadline on MLSA – Apply. Put “court date” in the subject line if you email. (mtlsa.org)
- Keep proof organized: Create a folder for each issue. Courts prefer clean, labeled exhibits; review filing guidance on Court Help Program. (courts.mt.gov)
- Confirm phone hours: CSSD and Self‑Help have set hours; check CSSD and your regional Self‑Help page before you call. (dphhs.mt.gov)
Quick Reference — Legal Rights Snapshots
| Topic | Key Right | Where to Read |
|---|---|---|
| Protection Orders | Hearing within 20 days; immediate TOP possible | MCA 40‑15‑201/202 |
| Evictions | 3‑day nonpayment notice; 14‑day most curable breaches; 30‑day month‑to‑month | MCA 70‑24‑422/441 |
| Discrimination | File within 180 days | Human Rights Bureau – Filing |
| Utilities | PSC complaint escalation | PSC Consumer Assistance |
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA; verifique los detalles con las fuentes oficiales enlazadas.
- Órdenes de Protección: Use los formularios de Cortes de Montana – Violencia Doméstica. Un juez puede otorgar una orden temporal de inmediato y fijar una audiencia dentro de 20 días según MCA 40‑15‑202. Llame a una defensora local por medio de MCADSV. (courts.mt.gov)
- Desalojos: Solo tiene cinco días hábiles para responder una demanda de desalojo. Use la herramienta de MontanaLawHelp y pida ayuda al Programa de Autoayuda de la Corte. (montanalawhelp.org)
- Manutención de niños: Inscríbase en línea con DPHHS – CSSD o llame al 1‑800‑346‑5437. Revise tarifas y pagos en DPHHS – Pagos CSSD. (intake.hhs.mt.gov)
- Asistencia de beneficios públicos: Llame a 1‑888‑706‑1535 para Oficina de Asistencia Pública. Para apelaciones, vea Junta de Asistencia Pública. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Servicios en su idioma: Pida un intérprete con el formulario de Solicitud de Intérprete y servicios gratuitos de idioma en DPHHS. (montanalawhelp.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA)
- Montana Judicial Branch – Court Help Program
- Montana DPHHS — Child Support Services Division (CSSD)
- Montana DPHHS — Office of Public Assistance
- Montana Department of Labor & Industry — Human Rights Bureau
- DLI — Wage & Hour (Filing a Wage Claim)
- Montana Public Service Commission — Consumer Assistance
- Montana DOJ — Office of Victim Services (Hope Card & ACP)
- Montana 2‑1‑1
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 provides general legal information for Montana and links to official resources. It is not legal advice. Laws and agency rules change; confirm details with the linked agencies or a licensed Montana attorney. Use the State Bar Lawyer Referral for paid consultations, and apply to MLSA for free help if you qualify. (montanabar.org)
🏛️More Montana Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Montana
- 📋 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
