Legal Help for Single Mothers in New Mexico
Legal Help for Single Mothers in New Jersey
Last updated: September 2025
This hub gives you fast, practical steps to get legal help and emergency aid in New Jersey. Every paragraph includes direct links to official programs so you can act right away. Keep this page open while you call, apply, and screenshot what you need.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call the statewide legal hotline now: Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ) Hotline at 1-888-576-5529 for free civil legal advice and intake, or apply online through LSNJ’s intake portal if phone lines are busy. Expect hold times at peak hours; ask for language access or TTY if needed, and request a same‑day callback for urgent court dates. (lsnjlaw.org)
- Stop a shutoff or eviction clock today: Use the State’s new Eviction Defense Guide to map your exact next steps, and call the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) Customer Assistance at 1-800-624-0241 to set a payment plan and ask about the Winter Termination protections. These two actions can buy you time the same day. (nj.gov)
- Apply for benefits you can use this month: Screen and apply through NJHelps for SNAP food help, WFNJ cash aid, and NJ FamilyCare health coverage, then call your county Board of Social Services from the State directory to confirm your application was received. Keep your case number and upload documents the same day. (njhelps.gov)
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Free legal help: LSNJ Hotline 1-888-576-5529 and office locator for local legal services; request interpreters or TTY services when you call. (lsnjlaw.org)
- Emergency shelter and DV help: NJ Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-572-7233 and NJ Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-601-7200 for 24/7 confidential support and safety planning. (njcedv.org)
- Benefits and case status: NJHelps for SNAP/WFNJ/NJ FamilyCare screening and County Boards of Social Services directory to reach your local office quickly. (njhelps.gov)
- Utility help and shutoff prevention: BPU Customer Assistance 1-800-624-0241 and DCAid utility programs for LIHEAP/USF/other aid. Ask about Winter Termination protections. (nj.gov)
- Health coverage: NJ FamilyCare 1-800-701-0710 for application help and renewal support; request live translation or TTY 711. (nj.gov)
How to Get a Lawyer Fast in New Jersey
Start here: LSNJ Hotline at 1-888-576-5529 for free civil legal advice on housing, public benefits, family law, debt, and more, with callbacks when lines are crowded. Ask for help if you have a hearing coming up and note your docket number and deadlines. (lsnjlaw.org)
Also use these statewide resources: LSNJ’s Get Legal Help page lists regional offices by county, and the NJ State Police Legal Services page lists additional legal help contacts and civil rights information. Keep copies of orders and notices in one folder. (lsnj.org)
If your case involves disability or special education: Community Health Law Project helps low‑income people with disabilities on housing, benefits, and family law, and Disability Rights NJ handles disability rights issues. Call the LSNJ hotline first for referrals if you are unsure where to start. (chlp.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask court staff at NJ Courts Self-Help Landlord/Tenant to point you to pro se forms and filing packets, and try Volunteer Lawyers for Justice for debt, eviction, or family law clinics in select counties. If denied due to income, ask about “advice only” clinics that do not require full representation. (njcourts.gov)
Fast Snapshot — Core Programs Single Moms Use Most
| Program | Who it helps | Typical value or protection | Where to apply or call |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP food help | Low- to moderate‑income households; NJ has a $95 minimum monthly SNAP benefit | Monthly EBT food benefit; NJ adds a state supplement to ensure at least $95 per household | NJ SNAP overview and SNAP eligibility 2024–2025; apply via NJHelps (nj.gov) |
| WFNJ cash (TANF) | Parents with minor children and very low income | Monthly cash aid, work supports, child care, and Emergency Assistance in crises | WFNJ apply and WFNJ overview (nj.gov) |
| NJ FamilyCare | Free or low‑cost health coverage for kids and many parents | Full Medicaid/CHIP benefits, many get zero‑premium coverage | NJ FamilyCare Contact and DMAHS info (nj.gov) |
| LIHEAP/USF utilities | Low‑income households with high energy costs | One‑time LIHEAP and monthly USF credits; Fresh Start arrears forgiveness | DCA LIHEAP/USF page and BPU assistance hub (nj.gov) |
| Child care help (CCAP) | Working or in school/training; low to moderate income | Subsidized child care via approved providers; copays resumed Aug 2024 | As of Aug 1, 2025, CCAP is paused to new apps; see CCAP status update and copay policy; check Head Start as Plan B. (childcarenj.gov) |
| Eviction defense | Renters with a court date or threat | Step‑by‑step interactive guide to defenses and local help | DCA Eviction Defense Guide and NJ Courts LT self‑help (nj.gov) |
| Child support | Parents seeking orders or changes | File online, get enforcement or modification | NJ Child Support Get Started and 1‑877‑NJKIDS1 info (njchildsupport.gov) |
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in New Jersey Today
Make two calls first: Call your electric or gas company’s collections line and ask for a Deferred Payment Arrangement, then call BPU Customer Assistance at 1-800-624-0241 to review your rights and confirm the plan. Ask if you qualify for Winter Termination Program protections from November 15 to March 15. (nj.gov)
Use state protections and credits: If you were WTP‑eligible last winter, you should see automatic REAP credits of $25 applied monthly starting August 2025 until seven credits are used, and more USF relief is coming October 1, 2025 under a BPU decision to boost benefit levels. Confirm by checking your bill and asking your utility about REAP and USF updates. (nj.gov)
Apply for programs immediately: Submit a combined LIHEAP/USF application on DCAid; LIHEAP 2025 season is closed, but 2026 opens October 1, 2025, while USF still accepts through announced deadlines. Ask your caseworker about Fresh Start to erase arrears when you keep current payments. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)
If you also owe water/sewer: Check the State’s Winter Termination Program for water and sewer shutoff protection dates, and ask your city provider for hardship programs, payment plans, or referrals to NJBPU programs. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask BPU to intervene by filing a complaint through BPU Customer Assistance and text your ZIP code to 2‑1‑1 to get a call back about local utility funds and weatherization help. For medical‑device households, ask your utility to flag “life‑sustaining equipment” and request extra shutoff precautions. (nj.gov)
Food, Cash, and Health Coverage You Can Use Quickly
SNAP food help: NJ guarantees at least a $95 SNAP minimum; many single‑mom households qualify at higher amounts. Use NJHelps to apply and SNAP eligibility 2024–2025 to check the 185% FPL income chart and student/work rules. Expect 7–10 days for most decisions after your phone interview. (njhelps.gov)
WFNJ cash (TANF): Apply for WorkFirst NJ cash aid, child care, job search help, and Emergency Assistance supports at WFNJ Apply; most non‑crisis cases decide within about 30 days, with “immediate need” the same day if you lack shelter, utilities, food, or clothing. If you receive child support while on TANF, the State keeps most but you get a monthly pass‑through up to 100(onechild)or100 (one child) or 200 (two+). (nj.gov)
NJ FamilyCare health coverage: Call NJ FamilyCare at 1‑800‑701‑0710 for application help and renewal hours; they note longer hold times mid‑day, so try early morning or late afternoon. Hospitals and FQHCs can also check Presumptive Eligibility to cover urgent care while you apply. (nj.gov)
WIC for you and your kids: Check NJ WIC income rules (2025–2026) and find your nearest clinic through WIC local agencies; benefits now include fruit‑and‑vegetable cash value and a seasonal farmers’ market benefit. Ask for eWIC and language access. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Get a SNAP navigator at Community FoodBank of NJ or Food Bank of South Jersey to submit a complete app and documents, and search local pantries on CFBNJ’s map or Fulfill while your case is pending. Keep receipts for reimbursable medical or shelter costs that can raise your SNAP. (cfbnj.org)
Housing and Eviction Help
Use the State’s tenant tools first: The interactive Eviction Defense Guide gives tailored steps, defenses, and links to local case managers and legal aid. For forms like Hardship Stays and Orderly Removal, use NJ Courts landlord‑tenant packets and note deadlines on your judgment or warrant. (nj.gov)
Apply when rental waitlists open: The State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP) lottery opened January 13–31, 2025 for multiple categories; status checks are via WaitlistCheck after February 14. Keep watching the DCA SRAP page for the next opening and save an email alert. (nj.gov)
Find affordable listings fast: Use the NJ Housing Resource Center (NJHRC) to search for affordable rentals, units with accessibility features, and temporary housing; call 1-877-428-8844 if you can’t search online. NJHRC is run by NJHMFA for statewide listings. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the statewide legal line at LSNJ for emergency representation or advice, and ask your county welfare office about Emergency Assistance if you’re TANF‑eligible. Apply for utility help at DCAid so you don’t risk shutoff while seeking housing. (lsnjlaw.org)
Child Care, School Meals, and After‑School
Understand the 2025 child care pause: New Jersey’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is paused to new applications as of August 1, 2025 due to limited funds; children already enrolled keep help if still eligible, but no new children can be added to existing cases after July 31. Check the State notice for updates, and ask about Head Start or district pre‑K as alternatives. (childcarenj.gov)
Know the copay rules: Copayments resumed August 1, 2024 and are now assessed on a sliding scale; many families at or below 100% FPL still have copays waived. Ask your local CCR&R to run the calculator and confirm your redetermination date. (childcarenj.gov)
School meals: New Jersey expanded free school meal eligibility up to 224% FPL for many students. Check your school’s application and the State’s announcements so your kids don’t miss meals they qualify for. Submit your School Meals/Summer EBT application early each fall. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school nurse or social worker for immediate cafeteria access while your form processes, and contact your local food bank’s kids’ programs through CFBNJ or FBSJ for weekend and summer meals. (cfbnj.org)
Child Support and Custody Basics for Single Moms
Open or modify a child support case: File online at NJ Child Support or call 1‑877‑NJKIDS1; you can ask to modify orders if income changed. Payments can be enforced by income withholding, tax intercepts, or license actions. (njchildsupport.gov)
If you receive TANF: While on WFNJ, most child support collected goes to the State, but you’ll receive up to 100/monthforonechildorupto100/month for one child or up to 200/month for two or more as a pass‑through. Confirm this with your caseworker so you budget correctly. (nj.gov)
Safety first: If domestic violence is involved, ask about address confidentiality and safe service. Call NJCEDV hotline 1‑800‑572‑7233 and request court safety accommodations. (njcedv.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the court for a fee waiver using self‑help packets via NJ Courts, and call LSNJ for help with enforcing or changing orders if the online portal is confusing. (njcourts.gov)
Your Paycheck, Leave, and Taxes
Paid leave when a new baby or serious health issue hits: NJ Temporary Disability (TDI) and Family Leave Insurance (FLI) pay 85% of your average weekly wages up to $1,081/week in 2025. Apply through MyLeaveBenefits and track timelines carefully. (nj.gov)
Minimum wage: New Jersey’s statewide minimum wage for most workers rose to $15.49/hour effective January 1, 2025. Confirm your employer’s category and any tips rules through NJDOL and ask HR to verify your current rate on your next paystub. (nj.gov)
State earned income tax credit (NJEITC): For 2024 returns filed in 2025, NJEITC equals 40% of your federal EITC. See examples and age expansion details on the Division of Taxation’s EITC page and bookmark it before you file. (nj.gov)
Phone/internet discounts: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program stopped new enrollments and funding in 2024, but the Lifeline discount still exists. Ask your carrier about low‑cost plans and check FCC updates on the ACP wind‑down at fcc.gov/acp. (fcc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit a free VITA tax site through your county or Division of Taxation to check your credits, and speak to NJDOL if your leave approval stalls. Keep proof of wages and hours to resolve disputes. (nj.gov)
Regional Food and Community Help
North Jersey: Search CFBNJ’s pantry finder and contact Northeast NJ Legal Services for housing and consumer help in Bergen, Hudson, and Passaic Counties. Ask your school district about free breakfast and lunch expansions. (cfbnj.org)
Central Jersey: For Mercer County, the DV hotline is Younity (formerly Womanspace) at 609-394-9000; get food help through CFBNJ’s map. For Middlesex, check WIC clinic locations for infants and toddlers. (younitynj.org)
South Jersey: Use Food Bank of South Jersey’s locator and SNAP help, and check Fulfill in Ocean/Monmouth for pantries and kids’ programs. Ask about mobile distributions near you. (foodbanksj.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call or text 2‑1‑1 for a warm handoff to local programs, and ask your county social services for Emergency Assistance or rapid‑rehousing referrals. If phones are busy, leave a voicemail and follow up in writing to create a record. Use NJ 211 as a backup to reach statewide navigators. (nj.gov)
County Contacts — Start Here When You’re Told to “Call Your Local Office”
You can always use the State directory to find your local office’s phone and address, then bring or upload documents the same day.
| County | Main contact | Directory |
|---|---|---|
| Essex (Newark) | 973-733-3000 | County Boards of Social Services directory |
| Camden | 856-225-8800 | County Boards of Social Services directory |
| Bergen | 201-368-4200 | County Boards of Social Services directory |
Expect busier lines on Mondays and the day after holidays; ask for accommodations if you have a disability and use the online NJHelps portal to upload documents faster. (nj.gov)
Utility Help at a Glance — Programs You Can Stack
| Program | What it does | Key dates | Where to act |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter Termination Program | Stops shutoffs for eligible households for heat, water, and sewer during the winter | November 15–March 15 | WTP details and call BPU 1‑800‑624‑0241 (nj.gov) |
| REAP bill credits | Automatic $25 credits monthly for eligible households in 2025 | Starting August 1, 2025 | BPU REAP page (nj.gov) |
| LIHEAP + USF | One‑time energy grant + ongoing bill credits | LIHEAP 2026 opens Oct 1, 2025; USF rolling | DCA LIHEAP/USF and DCAid portal (nj.gov) |
| USF enhancements | Higher monthly credits coming | Effective October 1, 2025 | BPU announcement (nj.gov) |
Reality Check — Funding, Wait Times, and Delays
Funding can run out: Child care subsidies are closed to new applicants as of August 1, 2025, and some assistance programs run seasonally or by lottery. Always ask the worker to note your “date of request” so you can claim priority when funds return, and save your intake confirmation screen. CCAP status and SRAP waitlist info are your official sources. (childcarenj.gov)
Timelines are real: Non‑crisis WFNJ decisions often take up to 30 days, SNAP can be quicker after your interview, and SRAP may take months even if you made the lottery. Keep calling weekly to confirm your file is “complete,” not just submitted. Use NJHelps and county contact lists to nudge your case. (njhelps.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting an incomplete application: Upload ID, proof of address, proof of income, and rent/utility documents the same day through NJHelps or DCAid, and confirm “received” status in your portal. Missing pages cause the longest delays. (njhelps.gov)
- Not asking for emergency processing: If you lack food, shelter, utilities, or clothing, ask for “immediate need” in your WFNJ case and “expedited” in SNAP. Show shutoff or eviction notices. See WFNJ apply page and NJ SNAP main page for rules. (nj.gov)
- Missing court dates: Even if you can’t pay, you still must appear in eviction court. Use NJ Courts self‑help, and call LSNJ to prepare your defenses. (njcourts.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Legal help: LSNJ Hotline 1‑888‑576‑5529 and regional offices for civil issues. Save your intake number. (lsnjlaw.org)
- Stop shutoff: BPU Customer Assistance 1‑800‑624‑0241 and WTP rules; ask about REAP credits. (nj.gov)
- Apply for aid: NJHelps for SNAP/WFNJ/NJ FamilyCare and DCAid for energy and housing programs. (njhelps.gov)
- Health coverage: NJ FamilyCare 1‑800‑701‑0710 for live help and TTY 711. (nj.gov)
- Food now: CFBNJ find food and FBSJ locator for pantry hours and mobile sites. (cfbnj.org)
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot This
- Photo ID and SSNs: NJHelps upload tips and County directory to check needed IDs for your program. (njhelps.gov)
- Proof of address: Lease, letter from landlord, or utility bill; see Eviction Guide for rental documents to keep. (nj.gov)
- Income proofs: Last 30 days of paystubs, child support printout, or unemployment letter; ask NJ Child Support for a payment history if needed. (njchildsupport.gov)
- Bills: Past‑due notices for utilities and rent; apply at DCAid and call BPU for shutoff holds. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)
- Kids’ documents: Birth certificates, child care enrollment, IEPs; check WIC local offices if you need help documents for infants/toddlers. (nj.gov)
Diverse Communities — Targeted Help and Notes
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Reach Garden State Equality’s resource network for referrals and consider VLJ’s PRIDE Name Change Program if you need court‑ordered name changes; ask LSNJ for safe‑address options during filings. Accessibility and TTY services are available through LSNJ; request interpreters when you call. (vljnj.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Contact Community Health Law Project for disability‑related civil legal help and ask NJ FamilyCare about care coordination for your child’s specialists. Ask agencies for large‑print forms and TTY support when needed. (chlp.org)
Veteran single mothers: For housing, watch SRAP openings which prioritize veterans, and call your county Veterans Service Office. Ask NJDOL about veteran job preferences and leave benefits, and request DVSA counseling through your VA clinic. (nj.gov)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can seek help for domestic or sexual violence without risking benefits eligibility; call Manavi’s multilingual hotline at 1‑732‑435‑1414 and NJCEDV at 1‑800‑572‑7233. For benefits screening, NJHelps explains which programs check immigration status; ask for interpreters and written notices in your language. (manavi.org)
Tribal‑specific resources: For child welfare and cultural services, see National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) and BIA Eastern Region contacts. In New Jersey, consult the NJ Commission on American Indian Affairs for community links and events. Confirm local eligibility rules for each program before applying.
Rural single moms: If you’re in counties like Salem, Sussex, or Warren, use NJHRC for rentals and request phone appointments for benefits through your county social services. Ask for mailed forms and larger print if broadband is limited. (nj.gov)
Single fathers: Most programs are gender‑neutral. Use NJ Child Support for custody/support changes and LSNJ for housing or benefits issues. Keep copies of parenting time orders when applying for aid. (njchildsupport.gov)
Language access: State hotlines and agencies offer interpreters and TTY. For NJ FamilyCare, request live translation and TTY 711; for courts, ask for an interpreter at filing. Check each site’s accessibility statement like NJDOH WIC pages. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to escalate to a supervisor and to note your language or disability accommodation needs in your case record. If you face discrimination, contact the Division on Civil Rights to learn how to file a complaint. (nj.gov)
Newark Water Bill Help, Camden Water Bill Help, and Trenton Notes
Newark water: Ask the City’s water provider about payment plans and hardship relief, then apply for energy/utility aid at DCAid and call BPU Customer Assistance to document your plan. Save confirmation numbers. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)
Camden water: Call your water utility customer service and ask for a medical or financial hardship plan; use BPU Customer Assistance as a backstop and request a budget plan. Also check WTP protections for winter months. (nj.gov)
Trenton water: The State has flagged issues at Trenton Water Works; log any service concerns and request written responses. Meanwhile, pursue WTP protections and BPU help if billing disputes arise. Keep photos and logs for hearings. (newjerseymonitor.com)
Tables — Timelines and What to Expect
Expected Decision and Wait Times
| Program | Typical timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP | 7–10 days after interview, faster if expedited | Apply via NJHelps and watch portal messages. (njhelps.gov) |
| WFNJ/TANF | Up to 30 days; “immediate need” same day | Request immediate need at intake. WFNJ apply (nj.gov) |
| NJ FamilyCare | Varies; call center can check file status | Try Mondays and Thursdays early or late. Contact (nj.gov) |
| SRAP | Months after lottery | Watch DCA SRAP page for updates. (nj.gov) |
| Utility help | USF rolling; LIHEAP opens Oct 1, 2025 | Apply at DCAid. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov) |
Phone Numbers to Save
| Service | Number | Link |
|---|---|---|
| LSNJ Hotline | 1-888-576-5529 | Call LSNJ (lsnjlaw.org) |
| BPU Customer Assistance | 1-800-624-0241 | BPU programs (nj.gov) |
| NJ FamilyCare | 1-800-701-0710 | Contact (nj.gov) |
| DV Hotline | 1-800-572-7233 | NJCEDV helplines (njcedv.org) |
| Sexual Assault Hotline | 1-800-601-7200 | NJCASA find help (njcasa.org) |
Where to Find Food Fast
| Region | Tool | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| North/Central | CFBNJ map | SNAP help here (cfbnj.org) |
| South | FBSJ locator | SNAP help here (foodbanksj.org) |
| Jersey Shore | Fulfill | Call 732-918-2600 for sites (fulfillnj.org) |
If Your Application Gets Denied
Read the notice and deadline: Appeal rights are short. For SNAP or WFNJ, request a fair hearing by the date shown; for Medicaid, file an appeal, and for housing/utilities, ask for a supervisor review and rehearing. Use LSNJ to prep your appeal. (lsnjlaw.org)
Fix common denial reasons: Upload missing documents through NJHelps or DCAid and get a written list of what is still needed. Ask for a language interpreter or disability accommodation if you didn’t have one the first time. (njhelps.gov)
Emergency coverage while you appeal: Ask about interim benefits, emergency food or shelter, and call BPU to keep utilities on during review. Save receipts for necessary expenses. (nj.gov)
Community and Faith‑Based Help
Culturally specific support: Manavi supports South Asian survivors with a 24/7 hotline and legal advocacy, and NJCASA’s directory lists county programs with language services. Ask about shelter, court accompaniment, and children’s counseling. (manavi.org)
Legal clinics and hotlines: LSNJ for civil issues and Northeast NJ Legal Services in Bergen/Hudson/Passaic; request large print or interpreter support. VLJ offers clinics in select counties. (lsnjlaw.org)
Food banks and pantries: Use CFBNJ’s map, FBSJ in the south, and Fulfill on the Shore. Ask about school backpack programs and mobile markets. (cfbnj.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 for a warm handoff to local churches and community centers that give food, diapers, or rent help. If you can’t get through, text your ZIP code to 898‑211 and request a callback. Use NJ 211 info to reach statewide information lines. (nj.gov)
County‑by‑County Variations That Matter
- Office hours and drop‑off: Some counties close earlier or require appointments. Check your County Board of Social Services entry and ask about drop boxes or secure email for documents. (nj.gov)
- Eviction calendars: City courts like Newark or Camden may have heavier dockets. Use Eviction Defense Guide to prepare and arrive early with copies of everything. (nj.gov)
- Legal aid coverage: Programs like Northeast NJ Legal Services and LSNJ divide service areas by county; if one office can’t take your case, ask for a referral. (northeastnjlegalservices.org)
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can I get a lawyer for eviction: Call the LSNJ Hotline and use the Eviction Defense Guide the same day; ask for same‑day advice if you have court within 48 hours. (lsnjlaw.org)
**Does New Jersey really guarantee at least 95inSNAP∗∗:Yes,theStatetopsupanylowerfederalamountto95 in SNAP**: Yes, the State tops up any lower federal amount to 95 per household monthly; it appears on your EBT card automatically. See the NJ SNAP eligibility page for details. (nj.gov)
What if my power still gets shut off after March 15: Call BPU Customer Assistance at 1‑800‑624‑0241 immediately and ask for a complaint to be opened; apply for USF/LIHEAP at DCAid to document ability to pay. (nj.gov)
Is child care help available right now: CCAP is paused to new applications as of Aug 1, 2025, but current families continue if eligible. Ask your school district about free pre‑K and Head Start as alternatives; watch the State CCAP page for reopening. (childcarenj.gov)
How do I find affordable rentals without a voucher: Search NJHRC and filter by “accepts voucher” off to see any affordable listings; call landlords in the morning and keep notes. Ask your municipality’s housing office about local preferences. (nj.gov)
Can I change child support if my hours were cut: Yes, request a modification at NJ Child Support and gather proof of income change. Call LSNJ for help with forms. (njchildsupport.gov)
What income counts for NJ FamilyCare: They use MAGI rules similar to Medicaid/CHIP. Call NJ FamilyCare for live help and ask your clinic about Presumptive Eligibility. (nj.gov)
What tax credits should I check at filing time: Check NJEITC and the State child tax credit updates on Treasury news before you file; free VITA prep is available. (nj.gov)
Does New Jersey help with phone or internet bills: The federal ACP stopped new enrollments and funding in 2024, but FCC Lifeline discounts remain. Also ask your carrier about low‑income plans and community Wi‑Fi. (fcc.gov)
Where do I report discrimination in housing or benefits: Contact the Division on Civil Rights and ask LSNJ for help documenting issues. Keep screenshots and letters for your record. (nj.gov)
Spanish — Resumen Rápido para Madres Solteras en Nueva Jersey
Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA para su conveniencia. Verifique siempre los detalles en los sitios oficiales.
- Asistencia legal gratuita: Llame a LSNJ al 1-888-576-5529 y use la Guía de Defensa contra el Desalojo para pasos inmediatos. (lsnjlaw.org)
- Beneficios de comida, dinero y salud: Solicite por NJHelps; revise SNAP y NJ FamilyCare para cobertura médica. (njhelps.gov)
- Servicios de violencia doméstica y sexual: Llame al Línea de Violencia Doméstica 1‑800‑572‑7233 y Línea de Agresión Sexual 1‑800‑601‑7200 para ayuda 24/7. (njcedv.org)
- Servicios de utilidad: Llame a BPU 1‑800‑624‑0241 y solicite ayuda en DCAid; revise protección invernal WTP. (nj.gov)
- Alimentos ahora: Busque despensas con CFBNJ y Food Bank of South Jersey; Fulfill en la Costa. (cfbnj.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ) and LSNJ Hotline for free civil legal help. (lsnj.org)
- NJ Department of Community Affairs (DCA) including LIHEAP/USF, Eviction Guide, and SRAP. (nj.gov)
- NJ Department of Human Services including NJ SNAP, WFNJ, and County Boards directory. (nj.gov)
- NJ Department of Labor including Family Leave/TDI and 2025 wage/benefit updates. (nj.gov)
- NJ Board of Public Utilities including customer assistance, REAP, and USF enhancements. (nj.gov)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
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
Important: This guide is general information, not legal advice. Program rules and funding can change during the year. Always confirm details with the official agency websites linked above or by calling their hotlines, and request language and disability accommodations if needed.
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