Legal Help for Single Mothers in Texas

Last updated: September 2025

This hub collects real, on-the-ground legal help for single moms in Texas. Every program, number, and rule below links straight to an official source so you can act fast. Keep this page open while you make calls and fill out forms.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Stop an immediate court or CPS issue: Use the free attorney-staffed Family Helpline from [Texas Legal Services Center] (TLSC) at 1-844-888-6565 (M–F, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.), and open a “Guide & File” interview on [eFileTexas Self-Help] if you must file tonight. (tlsc.org)
Prevent a same-day or next-day utility shutoff: Call your electric company and ask for a “deferred payment plan” and “extreme weather” protections, then contact your county’s LIHEAP provider through [TDHCA’s CEAP page] or dial 1-877-399-8939 to reach the right office. (law.cornell.edu)
Get immediate protection from abuse: Ask the county attorney or a legal aid office for a no-cost protective order; start with [TexasLawHelp’s Protective Order Kit] and call the statewide [Texas Advocacy Project Hope Line] (1-800-374-4673) for advice while you file. (texascourthelp.gov)

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Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 at Your Fingertips

Child support and visitation help: [Texas OAG Child Support] 1-800-252-8014 and the [Texas Access & Visitation Hotline] 1-866-292-4636 (M–F, 1–5 p.m.). (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
Find legal aid near you: [TexasLawHelp “Get Legal Help”] (live chat M–Th 10 a.m.–2 p.m.) and the [State Bar LRIS] 1-800-252-9690 for a $20, 30‑minute lawyer consult. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)
Domestic violence services: [HHSC Family Violence Program] directory and [Texas Council on Family Violence] program finder; 24/7 National DV Hotline 1-800-799-7233. (hhs.texas.gov)
Energy bill help: [TDHCA CEAP] and “Help for Texans” at 1-877-399-8939; ask about crisis processing. (tdhca.texas.gov)
Disability rights support: [Disability Rights Texas intake] 1-800-252-9108 (M–Th, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.) and [DRTx intake process] (expect up to 10 business days for a decision). (disabilityrightstx.org)

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How to Get Free or Low‑Cost Legal Help in Texas (Start Here)

The fastest way to reach the right lawyer is to combine a legal aid intake with a backup referral. Call your region’s LSC‑funded office first, then line up a private lawyer referral if you get waitlisted.

Texas LawHelp: Use [TexasLawHelp.org] to screen for legal aid, grab step-by-step form packets (divorce, custody, eviction, protective orders), and LiveChat with a staff attorney or law student during posted hours. Texas courts also point self-represented Texans to [TexasCourtHelp] for court-approved protective order and fee-waiver forms. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)
Three main regional legal aid organizations: [Texas RioGrande Legal Aid] (TRLA), [Lone Star Legal Aid] (LSLA), and [Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas] (LANWT) cover the whole state. Start with your region’s hotline (see table below), and use [TexasLawHelp’s directory] if you’re unsure which one serves your county. (trla.org)
State Bar Lawyer Referral & Information Service: If legal aid can’t take your case, call [LRIS] at 1-800-252-9690 for a $20, 30‑minute consult, or search [eFileTexas Self‑Help] to file simple cases yourself via guided interviews. (texasbar.com)

Table — Core Legal Aid in Texas (Coverage, Intake, and Hours)

Region	Organization	Intake & Hours	What They Handle
Central, South, West, RGV, El Paso, Austin/Travis	[Texas RioGrande Legal Aid]	New universal numbers 1-956-996-8752 or 1-833-329-8752 (M–F, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.). Family law calls Tues/Thu only.	Family, housing, benefits, employment, disaster, veterans, more. (trla.org)
East, Gulf Coast, Houston, Piney Woods	[Lone Star Legal Aid]	1-800-733-8394 (phone intake M–Th, 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.); walk-in and online apply options.	Family, housing, consumer, disaster, public benefits, veterans. (lonestarlegal.org)
North and West Texas (DFW, Panhandle, Lubbock, Abilene)	[Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas]	Central Intake 1-888-529-5277 (M–F, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. & 1–4 p.m.); local office lines vary.	Family, housing, consumer, employment, education, veterans. (texvet.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use [TexasLawHelp LiveChat] to ask for a clinic or pro bono referral, and call [LRIS] to schedule a low‑cost consult. If you’re facing a tight deadline, file a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs and use [eFileTexas Self‑Help] to submit forms now. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)

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Protective Orders and Safety Planning

If you’re unsafe, file for a protective order without delay. Courts can issue a temporary order quickly and set a final hearing within about two weeks.

Start the paperwork: Download [TexasCourtHelp’s Protective Order Kit] and related guides in English/Spanish. You can apply in your county of residence, the abuser’s county, or where the abuse occurred; there are no filing fees. Many county and district attorneys help survivors apply, and the statewide PROTECT registry improves enforcement. (texascourthelp.gov)
Get advocacy and a safety plan: Find a shelter or non‑residential center via [HHSC Family Violence Program] and the [Texas Council on Family Violence directory]; both can connect you to legal advocates. For sexual assault survivors, the [LASSA hotline] (1-844-303-SAFE, Option 1) provides legal advice and referrals. (hhs.texas.gov)
Key law: Texas Family Code Chapters 82 and 85 govern applications and issuance; courts can serve orders in open court, and service rules help speed delivery. Survivors can opt in to the [Protective Order Registry] for extra safety. (guides.sll.texas.gov)

Table — Protective Orders: What to Expect

Step	What it means	How long it can take
Temporary (ex parte) order	Judge can grant same‑day if immediate danger is shown; no abuser present. File at clerk’s office or with help from legal aid.	Often within 24–72 hours depending on court volume. (guides.sll.texas.gov)
Final order hearing	Both sides can present evidence; the order can include stay‑away, firearm restrictions, custody terms.	Typically set within ~14 days; confirm with your local court. (guides.sll.texas.gov)
Enforcement & registry	Law enforcement sees orders statewide through PROTECT; survivors may authorize limited public access.	Active on issuance; registry access for justice system is immediate. (txcourts.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call [Texas Advocacy Project] (1-800-374-4673) for attorney advice, use [TexasLawHelp LiveChat] to connect with a clinic, and apply for [Crime Victims’ Compensation] to help with relocation, rent, and counseling. (guides.sll.texas.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Texas Today

Act the same day you get a disconnection notice. Texas rules give you specific protections.

Ask your electric provider for a “deferred payment plan” and note that in extreme heat or cold, disconnections are paused. If an energy assistance provider pledges payment, disconnection must wait. These protections are in the electric rules for disconnection and bill payment. (law.cornell.edu)
Apply for CEAP (LIHEAP energy help) fast: Use [TDHCA’s CEAP page] and the “Help for Texans” line (1-877-399-8939). Crisis requests can be prioritized; local programs often process crisis files faster than routine files. Demand is high in 2025—apply early and call to confirm availability. (tdhca.texas.gov)
Medical protections if your child or you rely on powered medical devices: Ask your TDU for “Critical Care” or “Chronic Condition” designation using the PUC‑approved form; temporary protection begins while the utility processes complete forms. This does not erase the bill, but adds notice and disconnection protections. (law.cornell.edu)

Table — Utility Protections at a Glance

Problem	Your immediate step	Rule/source
Disconnection notice arrives	Request a deferred payment plan before the due date; ask for written confirmation.	[PUC disconnection rule]; [bill payment rule]. (law.cornell.edu)
Extreme heat or freeze	Tell your REP you’re invoking the “extreme weather” rule; ask for a deferred plan on bills due during the event.	[PUC Extreme Weather] definition covers heat advisories and hard freezes. (law.cornell.edu)
CEAP/LIHEAP pledge sent	Give your account number and the agency pledge; REPs must allow time (often up to 45 days) for the payment to arrive.	[PUC pledge timing] (45 days for energy assistance). (law.cornell.edu)
Powered medical equipment at home	Apply for Critical Care or Chronic Condition status through your TDU; physician certifies the condition.	[PUC §25.497] and Governor’s disability page with TDU contacts. (law.cornell.edu)

City water bills: you can request payment plans to stop shutoff—see [Dallas Water Utilities Payment Plans] (214-651-1441), [Houston Water Utility Billing] (713-371-1400), [SAWS Payment Arrangements] (210-704-7297), and [City of Austin Utilities] (512-494-9400). Rate hikes and billing fixes have been active this year, so ask for current relief programs before you pay. (dallas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial [211 Texas] to find emergency utility funds and local charities, and apply with [TDHCA CEAP] again when new slots open. If health is at risk, ask your doctor to document “medical necessity” and request expedited review with your TDU under [Critical Care rules]. (unitedwayhouston.org)

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Housing, Evictions, and Keeping a Roof Over Your Kids

Texas eviction timelines are fast. File an Answer, go to court, and appeal on time if needed.

Timeline basics: Landlords must give a written Notice to Vacate (often 3 days unless your lease allows more). After filing, justice courts set a hearing at least 10 days out. If you lose, you generally have 5 days to appeal before a writ of possession. Use [Texas State Law Library’s Eviction Process guide] for the most current steps and forms. (sll.texas.gov)
Answer and ask for a jury: Use the [TexasLawHelp Eviction Answer toolkit] or [Texas Justice Court resources] to timely file your Answer and, if you want, a jury demand. If you appeal and can’t pay fees, file the [Statement of Inability] to continue without costs. (guides.sll.texas.gov)
New 2025–2026 changes: The Legislature passed measures to accelerate removal of true squatters and speed parts of the eviction process; some provisions took effect September 1, 2025, with more slated for January 1, 2026. Verify current rules for your county and use legal aid if you’re misidentified. (statesman.com)

Table — Texas Eviction Quick Timeline (Typical)

Step	Normal time	Notes
Notice to Vacate	Often 3 days (check lease or federal program rules)	CARES‑Act‑covered properties can require longer notice. (sll.texas.gov)
Court hearing	Set at least 10 days after filing	Show up with your Answer and documents. (sll.texas.gov)
Appeal window	~5 days after judgment	File appeal bond/cash or [Statement of Inability]. (tarrantcountytx.gov)
Writ of Possession	After appeal period	Constable posts notice before removal. (sll.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the judge for extra time to move, call [TexasLawHelp LiveChat] to look for a same‑day housing clinic, and apply for [Crime Victims’ Compensation relocation] if violence or stalking is involved. [TDHCA] notes that pandemic rental aid programs closed in 2023, so focus on legal defenses and local aid. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)

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Child Support, Custody, and Parenting Time

Open, change, or enforce orders: The [OAG Child Support Division] can establish paternity, set support, and help with enforcement. If you’re concerned about safety, use [Get Child Support Safely] and request address confidentiality. The [Access & Visitation Hotline] (1-866-292-4636, M–F 1–5 p.m.) gives free info on visitation and modifications. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
Standard Possession Order (SPO) basics: Courts start with the SPO presumption but can tailor schedules for age, distance, and safety. Parents living ≤50 miles apart can elect expanded pick‑up and drop‑off times under the 2021 updates. Review Chapter 153 of the [Texas Family Code] and the OAG’s [Parenting Time Overview] to understand your options. (statutes.capitol.texas.gov)
Paying and receiving child support: Use the OAG’s [Smart e‑Pay portal] or MoneyGram (Receive Code 14681); allow about seven business days for payments to post. A 2025 modernization improved the online Self‑Service Portal—use it to track payments in real time. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)

Table — Child Support & Parenting Time Tools

Need	Where to go	Tip
File/modify/enforce	[OAG Child Support]	Call 1-800-252-8014 or use the Self‑Service Portal. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
Visitation questions	[Access & Visitation Hotline]	Keep your order in hand when calling. (txaccess.org)
Parenting order forms	[TexasLawHelp forms]	Use the guided interviews to reduce errors. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask [TexasLawHelp LiveChat] about a local family law clinic; call the [State Bar LRIS] for a low‑cost consult; and consider limited-scope (“unbundled”) representation if you just need help with a hearing or drafting. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)

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Immigration and Safety for Moms and Kids

If abuse, stalking, or trafficking is involved: Call the [LASSA legal hotline] (1-844-303-SAFE, Option 1) for confidential attorney advice on protective orders, VAWA, U‑visas, housing, and privacy. [Tahirih Justice Center–Houston] (713-496-0100) supports immigrant survivors of gender‑based violence; [American Gateways] and [RAICES] provide low‑ or no‑cost legal help by appointment. (tlsc.org)
Prepare for waits: Many nonprofits report heavy demand and staffing shifts in 2025. Call, leave a safe callback number, and ask about urgent triage clinics or waitlists. Use [TexasLawHelp] for immediate forms and safety planning guides while you wait. (houstonchronicle.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Check [Immigration advocates at American Gateways] for telephone screening days, use [RAICES central line] (1-833-372-4237) to book the next consult, and contact [Tahirih’s national intake] (1-866-575-0071) if you are a survivor of gender‑based violence. (americangateways.org)

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CPS, School, and Disability Issues

CPS questions: Call the [Family Helpline (TLSC)] at 1-844-888-6565 (M–F, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.) to learn your rights in an investigation, service plan, safety plan, kinship care, or court. The [Texas Indigent Defense Commission] links to Parent Resource Guides and highlights defense projects for CPS cases. (tlsc.org)
Children with disabilities and school services: For special education disputes, request records and use the campus ARD process; if you need legal advocacy about disability rights, apply through [Disability Rights Texas] (intake M–Th, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.). (disabilityrightstx.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask [TexasLawHelp] for school law clinics, and call [LRIS] to locate an attorney for due process hearings or CPS defense. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)

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Money, Debt, and Clearing Your Record

Bankruptcy or debt collection: Legal aid often gives advice on Chapter 7/13 and debt lawsuits; use [TexasLawHelp’s consumer law guides] and LSLA/LANWT/TRLA intake lines for screening. If sued, answer on time using eFile guides at [eFileTexas Self-Help]. (efileandservetx.zendesk.com)
Expunctions and nondisclosure: Free clinics pop up year‑round; TRLA and local bars run record‑clearing events. Check legal aid calendars on [TexasLawHelp] and watch local announcements for expunction clinics. (lmtonline.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call [LRIS] for a low‑cost consult and ask about sliding‑scale fees or limited-scope services; search [TexasCourtHelp] for nondisclosure forms approved by the judiciary. (texasbar.com)

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Diverse Communities and Inclusive Help

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask [TexasLawHelp] for name/gender marker form guides and clinic schedules, and use [TLF’s & local bar clinics via LRIS] if you need private counsel. For safety, the [Texas Advocacy Project] and [HHSC Family Violence Program] connect you to inclusive shelters and legal advocates. Accessibility note: ask for large‑print forms and private filing accommodations. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply with [Disability Rights Texas] for disability rights issues (TTY/VP lines available), and call [211 Texas] to locate respite and special‑needs services during court months. Ask courts for CART/ASL and “readers” if needed. TTY services available through DRTx and your court coordinator on request. (disabilityrightstx.org)
Veteran single mothers: Use [Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans] clinic calendars, [TRLA Veterans Advocacy Project] listings, and [Texas Veterans Commission] connections for coordinated legal and benefits help. Expect 4–5 weeks for case placement at some clinics—plan early. (texasbar.com)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: Call [LASSA] for legal advice, [RAICES] for removal defense and humanitarian relief consults, and [American Gateways] for VAWA/U/T visa screening. Ask each to provide interpreters; most do. Language access: request translated forms on [TexasLawHelp en Español] for family and housing cases. (tlsc.org)
Tribal-specific resources: If ICWA may apply, tell your lawyer and court immediately. For tribally connected families in Texas, contact the [Alabama‑Coushatta, Kickapoo, or Ysleta del Sur Pueblo] governments through the BIA regional directories, and consult [TexasLawHelp] for ICWA basics. Accessibility note: ask the court to arrange remote participation if travel is a hardship. (Use [TexasCourtHelp] for remote hearing tips.) (texascourthelp.gov)
Rural single moms: Transportation and internet can delay filings—use [eFileTexas Self‑Help] and request phone/Zoom hearings when permitted. For utility shutoffs, ask your TDU about [Critical Care/Chronic Condition] status and call [TDHCA’s CEAP] line from any landline to reach your county provider. (efileandservetx.zendesk.com)
Single fathers: Every resource here is available to dads raising kids, too. Use the [Access & Visitation Hotline] for visitation questions and [OAG Child Support] to modify support when income drops. Language access: ask the clerk for Spanish forms if needed. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)

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Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call Today)

Houston area: [Lone Star Legal Aid – Houston] for intake details and hours; connect to the [211 Texas/United Way HELPLINE] for local aid; use [Houston Water Billing] for payment plans or W.A.T.E.R. Fund info. (lonestarlegal.org)
Dallas–Fort Worth: [Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas] centralized intake (1-888-529-5277); [Dallas Water Utilities Payment Plans] for preventing shutoff; [State Bar LRIS] for low‑cost private attorneys if needed. (texvet.org)
San Antonio: [Texas RioGrande Legal Aid] for civil issues; [SAWS Payment Arrangements] for water bills; [Access & Visitation Hotline] for parenting time help. (trla.org)
Austin/Central Texas: Use [TexasLawHelp LiveChat] for clinics and [City of Austin Utilities] for payment plans; [American Gateways] (Austin) for immigration consults. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)
El Paso & West Texas: [TRLA] (El Paso office) through the universal number and [Disability Rights Texas – West Texas] for disability rights; confirm local CEAP slots via [TDHCA Help for Texans]. (trla.org)
Rio Grande Valley: [TRLA] covers RGV counties; use [211 Texas] to find DV shelters and rent/utility aid; check county announcements for CEAP application days. (trla.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing short deadlines
- Courts move fast—especially in evictions and CPS. Use [TexasCourtHelp] to learn your deadline, and file a [Statement of Inability] if you can’t pay fees. (texascourthelp.gov)
Not documenting safety and harassment
- Save texts, emails, and photos; ask advocates via [HHSC Family Violence Program] and [Texas Advocacy Project] to help you prepare a detailed affidavit. (hhs.texas.gov)
Waiting too long to ask for utility protections
- Call before the cut‑off date and reference [PUC disconnection rules]; apply for [CEAP] even if waitlists exist. (law.cornell.edu)

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Reality Check — 2025 Funding and Delays

Demand is very high this year. Houston’s utility aid had over 100,000 applicants for about 5,000 slots; legal aid and disability rights groups have also posted limited intake windows due to funding. Expect delays and call early in the day; keep calling if lines are busy. (houstonchronicle.com)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need	Who to call / Where to click	Notes
Legal aid	[TRLA] • [LSLA] • [LANWT]	Call during posted intake hours; try morning and late afternoon. (trla.org)
Lawyer referral	[State Bar LRIS] 1‑800‑252‑9690	$20 for 30‑minute consult. (texasbar.com)
DV/SA legal help	[Texas Advocacy Project] • [LASSA]	Hope Line 1‑800‑374‑4673; LASSA 1‑844‑303‑SAFE. (guides.sll.texas.gov)
Child support & visitation	[OAG Child Support] • [Access & Visitation Hotline]	1‑800‑252‑8014 and 1‑866‑292‑4636. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
Utilities	[PUC rules] • [TDHCA CEAP]	Ask for deferred plan; apply for crisis help. (law.cornell.edu)
CPS info	[Family Helpline] 1‑844‑888‑6565	Anonymous, lawyer‑staffed info line. (tlsc.org)
Court forms	[TexasCourtHelp] • [eFileTexas Self‑Help]	Guided interviews and filing tips. (texascourthelp.gov)

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Application Checklist (Print or Screenshot)

Photo ID and proof of address: DL/state ID, lease, or a recent bill. Use [TexasLawHelp’s forms] to attach if filing. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)
Income proof: Last 30–60 days of pay stubs or benefits letter for [CEAP LIHEAP] and legal aid eligibility. (tdhca.texas.gov)
Case papers: Court orders, petitions, notices; download missing forms at [TexasCourtHelp] or complete via [eFileTexas Self‑Help]. (texascourthelp.gov)
Safety evidence: Photos, texts, police/shelter reports; ask [HHSC Family Violence Program] about advocate letters. (hhs.texas.gov)
Utility details: Account numbers, shutoff notice, doctor letter for [Critical Care status] if needed. (law.cornell.edu)

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If Your Application Gets Denied

Ask why in writing: Legal aid must tell you if it’s a conflict, income, or funding issue. Then try a second program using [TexasLawHelp’s directory] or call the [State Bar LRIS] to speak with a private attorney. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)
Appeal or reapply: TRLA posts an internal appeal email; other programs have complaint processes—ask for the policy. If CEAP denies you, reapply when funding cycles reopen (watch [TDHCA] updates and local community action agencies). (trla.org)
Secure interim help: Use [211 Texas] to bridge with rent/utility or safety funds, and check [TexasCourtHelp] for fee waivers to keep your case moving. (unitedwayhouston.org)

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FAQs (Texas‑Specific)

How fast can I get a protective order if I’m in danger: Courts can issue a temporary ex parte order quickly, then set a full hearing—often within about two weeks. Start with [TexasCourtHelp’s Protective Order Kit] and ask your county attorney or [HHSC Family Violence Program] center to help you file. (texascourthelp.gov)
What if my power could be disconnected during a heat advisory: Ask your REP to apply the “extreme weather” rule and offer a deferred plan; then call your CEAP provider through [TDHCA]. If an assistance pledge is sent, your REP must hold off for the allowed time. (law.cornell.edu)
My landlord filed an eviction—what’s my first step: File an Answer immediately using [TexasLawHelp’s tools], go to court, and bring documents. If you lose, you have about five days to appeal; use the [Statement of Inability] if you cannot pay appeal costs. (guides.sll.texas.gov)
Can I get help moving if my home is unsafe because of violence: Yes. The [Crime Victims’ Compensation Program] can cover moving costs, deposits, utilities, and rent (up to $5,000 for crimes after 8/31/2023). Apply online and submit receipts within 30 days after moving. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
Who helps with CPS questions when I can’t afford a lawyer: Call the [Family Helpline (TLSC)] to understand your rights and the process; [TIDC’s Family Representation resources] explain parent and child attorney roles. (tlsc.org)
How do I change a child support or visitation order: Start with the [OAG Child Support Division] for administrative changes and use the [Access & Visitation Hotline] for schedule questions. If safety is an issue, read [Get Child Support Safely]. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)
I need a lawyer but can’t pay full fees: Call the [State Bar LRIS] for a $20 consult and ask about limited‑scope services; check [TexasLawHelp] for clinics. (texasbar.com)
How do I file without paying fees: Use [TexasCourtHelp] to download the Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs and file it with your case under Rule 145; courts may set a hearing to review it. (txcourts.gov)
Where can I e‑file forms if I don’t have a lawyer: Use [eFileTexas Self‑Help] guided interviews and submit through an EFSP listed at [eFileTexas.gov]; some providers offer free e‑filing for self‑represented parties. (efileandservetx.zendesk.com)
Are rent relief programs still open: The statewide Texas Rent Relief closed in 2023. Focus on legal defenses, [211 Texas] for local aid, and ask your judge about mediation or payment plans. (tdhca.texas.gov)

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

Para ayuda legal gratuita o de bajo costo en Texas, empiece con [TexasLawHelp.org] (chat en vivo de lunes a jueves) y llame al [State Bar LRIS] al 1-800-252-9690 para una consulta de 30 minutos por $20. Para manutención de niños y visitas, contacte a [OAG Child Support] (1-800-252-8014) y a la [Texas Access & Visitation Hotline] (1-866-292-4636, lunes–viernes 1–5 p.m.). Para violencia familiar, use el [Programa de Violencia Familiar de HHSC] y la línea [LASSA] (1-844-303-7233). Si enfrenta corte de luz, pida un plan de pago y protección por “clima extremo” según [PUC] y solicite ayuda de servicios públicos por [CEAP de TDHCA] (1-877-399-8939). Para desalojos, use los formularios de [TexasLawHelp] y presente su Respuesta de inmediato. Para dudas de CPS, llame a la [Family Helpline] (1-844-888-6565). Para presentar documentos sin pagar cuotas, use la [Declaración de Incapacidad de Pago] en [TexasCourtHelp] y el portal [eFileTexas] para presentar en línea.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

[TexasLawHelp.org] (Texas Legal Services Center)
[Texas Office of Court Administration | TexasCourtHelp & eFileTexas]
[Texas Office of the Attorney General – Child Support & Crime Victims’ Compensation]
[Texas Department of Housing & Community Affairs – CEAP / Help for Texans]
[Public Utility Commission of Texas – Customer Protection Rules]
[HHSC Family Violence Program]
[Texas State Law Library]

Last verified September 2025, next review 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 guide provides general legal information for Texas and links to official resources. It is not legal advice for your specific situation. Talk to an attorney for guidance about your case; use [TexasLawHelp.org] and the [State Bar LRIS] to find the right help quickly. (launchpad.texaslawhelp.org)

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Notes on timelines and availability

Utility protections and LIHEAP/CEAP processing vary by county and funding cycles; always call your local provider to confirm current slots. [TDHCA CEAP] posts statewide contacts and updates. (tdhca.texas.gov)
Eviction and protective order timelines can differ by court and recent law changes. Check [Texas State Law Library] updates and ask your clerk for local rules. (guides.sll.texas.gov)
OAG and hotline hours may change; verify current hours on [OAG Child Support] and [Texas Access] sites. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)

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End of guide.

Learn more:

🏛️More Texas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Texas

Legal Help for Single Mothers in Texas

Legal Help for Single Mothers in Texas

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 at Your Fingertips

How to Get Free or Low‑Cost Legal Help in Texas (Start Here)

Table — Core Legal Aid in Texas (Coverage, Intake, and Hours)

Protective Orders and Safety Planning

Table — Protective Orders: What to Expect

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Texas Today

Table — Utility Protections at a Glance

Housing, Evictions, and Keeping a Roof Over Your Kids

Table — Texas Eviction Quick Timeline (Typical)

Child Support, Custody, and Parenting Time

Table — Child Support & Parenting Time Tools

Immigration and Safety for Moms and Kids

CPS, School, and Disability Issues

Money, Debt, and Clearing Your Record

Diverse Communities and Inclusive Help

Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call Today)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check — 2025 Funding and Delays

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Application Checklist (Print or Screenshot)

If Your Application Gets Denied

FAQs (Texas‑Specific)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

About This Guide

Disclaimer

Notes on timelines and availability

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