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Legal Help for Single Mothers in Washington

Legal Help for Single Mothers in Washington

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you fast, practical steps to protect your kids, your housing, and your income in Washington. Use the “If You Only Do 3 Things” box first, then scan the quick help box and the how‑to sections that follow. Every section ends with a Plan B.


If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

Quick help box — keep these 5 numbers and links handy

How to Stop an Eviction in Washington Today

Start by getting free legal screening or a direct lawyer if you qualify. Call the Eviction Defense Screening Line or, in King County, contact the Housing Justice Project right away after receiving a Summons and Complaint. Use WashingtonLawHelp (tenant forms) to file your written Answer before the deadline. (ocla.wa.gov)

Know your rights and next steps. Washington’s “right to counsel” for indigent tenants is in state law and run by the Office of Civil Legal Aid (OCLA); they fund local providers across all counties. If you only received a 14‑day notice (no court papers yet), call Tenants Union of Washington and your county Dispute Resolution Center to try to negotiate a repayment plan or fix issues before a case is filed. (ocla.wa.gov)

File essential papers on time. If you get served, most courts expect a quick Answer, and missing your deadline can lead to default. Use WashingtonLawHelp’s eviction form packets and ask the courthouse Family/Facilitator window for help locating the right room. King County’s help desks list hours at Family Law Facilitators and tenant legal clinics are posted at KCBA’s Housing Justice Project page. (washingtonlawhelp.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call CLEAR (statewide civil legal intake) to request brief advice or a referral; then ask your judge for a short continuance to secure a lawyer through OCLA’s network. If you live outside King County, ask a volunteer lawyer clinic via Washington 211 for urgent help. (washingtonlawhelp.org)

How to Get a Protection Order Fast (Domestic Violence, Stalking, Sexual Assault)

File online or go to your county courthouse. Use Washington Protection Orders to choose the right order and complete forms. For safety planning and overnight shelter, contact WSCADV’s Get Help Now or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1‑800‑799‑7233. (waprotectionorders.org)

Expect a fast temporary decision and a follow‑up hearing. After filing, courts often hold a same‑day or next‑day “ex parte” review for temporary orders and set a return hearing in about two weeks. Read the portal’s “filing process” page and ask about free interpreters under RCW 2.42/2.43 (court interpreter rights via AOC). Use WashingtonLawHelp (fee waiver forms GR 34) if you can’t afford fees. (waprotectionorders.org)

If firearms are part of your case, let the court know. Recent appellate decisions support firearm surrender orders in DV cases; ask your advocate or lawyer how local courts apply recent rulings. Use WashingtonLawHelp safety resources and ask your advocate about safe service and storage options in your county. (apnews.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call CLEAR to speak with a lawyer, and ask for help from a local DV program listed by county on WSCADV’s directory. Consider enrolling in the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) to keep your address off public records. (washingtonlawhelp.org)

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Washington Today

Call your utility and ask for a payment plan right now. If the company is investor‑owned (like PSE, Avista, or Cascade), call the UTC Consumer Help Line at 1‑888‑333‑WUTC if you receive a disconnection notice; UTC rules require prompt reconnection after payment arrangements. Ask for equal‑payment plans and winter protections (Nov 15–Mar 15). (utc.wa.gov)

Apply for energy bill help. Use LIHEAP (Commerce program) to schedule with your county provider; many utilities also offer their own discounts. In Seattle, apply for the Utility Discount Program (UDP) and Emergency Assistance Program (EAP) if your bill is past due. (commerce.wa.gov)

If you’re within 24–48 hours of shutoff, escalate. Call your provider’s supervisor, then the UTC hotline (escalation) for regulated utilities. If your city or PUD runs the utility (not UTC‑regulated), ask your city’s customer service and Washington 211 for local crisis funds or church rapid‑response funds. (utc.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Request an emergency hearing with the court if the shutoff risks health/safety (note a child’s medical needs) and ask your doctor for a shutoff‑delay letter; then apply again through LIHEAP providers and the UTC. (commerce.wa.gov)

Family Law: Custody, Parenting Plans, and Filing Without a Lawyer

Use the courthouse facilitators. King County lists walk‑in hours and locations for Family Law Facilitators; Spokane has a Family Court Facilitator you can call for appointments. Bring your draft forms from WashingtonLawHelp – Form Library for review. (kingcounty.gov)

Waive fees if you can’t afford them. Use GR 34 fee waiver forms + instructions and file the motion with your packet. If you need language access, courts must provide interpreters (see AOC Interpreter Program). (washingtonlawhelp.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask CLEAR for a referral to a legal aid attorney, or book a night clinic through KCBA Neighborhood Legal Clinics if your case is in King County. Consider family law clinics at Seattle U Law or Gonzaga Law Clinic if you’re nearby and low‑income. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)

Child Support: Getting It, Changing It, and Staying Safe

Open or manage a case with DCS. Call the KIDS Line (DSHS Division of Child Support) at 1‑800‑442‑KIDS or use DCS Online via Secure Access Washington to make payments or check status. Read WashingtonLawHelp’s child support guides before a hearing. (dshs.wa.gov)

Ask for Good Cause if unsafe. If seeking support could put you or your child in danger, talk to DCS about a Good Cause claim and safety options listed on DSHS Domestic Violence info. Consider ACP (Address Confidentiality Program) to keep your address private. (dshs.wa.gov)

Modify orders if income changed. Use WashingtonLawHelp forms and ask DCS to review for modification. For hearings with the Office of Administrative Hearings, see OAH preparation tips. (washingtonlawhelp.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call CLEAR for legal advice. If the other parent is interfering with visitation or you need a parenting plan, ask your county facilitator where to file next. (washingtonlawhelp.org)

Public Benefits You May Qualify For (and timelines)

TANF cash and one‑time Diversion help. TANF gives monthly cash if you’re pregnant or have kids; Washington’s 2025 payment standard is 706forafamilyofthree,withamountssetin∗[WAC388‑478‑0020](https://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=388−478−0020)∗.Ifyouonlyneedaone‑timeboost,askabout∗[DiversionCashAssistance(upto706 for a family of three, with amounts set in *[WAC 388‑478‑0020](https://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=388-478-0020)*. If you only need a one‑time boost, ask about *[Diversion Cash Assistance (up to 1,250)](https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/temporary-assistance-needy-families)* for rent, utilities, or car repair. Apply at Washington Connection or call 1‑877‑501‑2233. (apps.leg.wa.gov)

Basic Food (SNAP) and expedited service. If your food money is almost zero, ask for “expedited” SNAP—benefits must be issued within seven days if you meet the criteria. Use DSHS expedited SNAP rules and call 1‑877‑501‑2233. For job and training help while on SNAP, ask about BFET (education, training, support services). (dshs.wa.gov)

Apple Health (Medicaid) for pregnant people and kids. Apple Health covers pregnant individuals up to 210% FPL, with 12 months postpartum coverage. Check HCA’s pregnant coverage page and Apple Health Expansion income charts. If safety is a concern, HCA honors ACP participants. (hca.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal fast. Request a hearing with OAH (public assistance) and keep benefits going if timelines allow. The hearing can be requested by phone or online through OAH’s hearing request page. Use WashingtonLawHelp appeals info while you wait. (oah.wa.gov)

Income Protection at Work

Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML). You can take paid time off for your own serious health condition, bonding with a newborn or newly placed child, or caring for a family member. In 2025, the maximum benefit is $1,542/week. Apply within 30 days of your qualifying event at Paid Leave: Apply Now and see how benefits are calculated. Keep the Customer Care number (1‑833‑717‑2273). (paidleave.wa.gov)

If you lose your job. File unemployment online or by phone at ESD UI Claims (800‑318‑6022). Expect long waits in peak seasons; ESD notes phone lines can be lengthy in fall‑winter months. Use ESD contact info and language help if you need assistance. (esd.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Request an appeal through OAH (unemployment) and ask CLEAR for advice. If your employer owes wages, file a complaint with L&I (Equal Pay & Opportunities Act) or talk to a clinic via Washington 211. (oah.wa.gov)

Child Care and Pre‑K

Working Connections Child Care (WCCC). If you work or are in approved training, you may qualify for a child care subsidy. Check income limits, copays, and call the DCYF Child Care Subsidy Center at 1‑844‑626‑8687. Also call Child Care Aware Family Center at 1‑800‑446‑1114 for provider referrals. (dcyf.wa.gov)

Find child care fast. Use Child Care Aware’s search tool and, in King/Pierce, Child Care Resources (family lines) for local assistance. If homeless or in crisis, ask DCYF about 12‑month approvals for families experiencing homelessness under WCCC rules. (childcareawarewa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Check if your toddler qualifies for ECEAP/Head Start via Child Care Aware and ask Washington 211 for local Head Start contacts. If you’re on SNAP and need training, ask about BFET child care supports. (childcareawarewa.org)

Safety and Privacy

Use the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP). ACP gives you a substitute address that Washington government agencies must accept. Call ACP (Secretary of State) 1‑800‑822‑1065 to enroll through a certified advocate. Apple Health providers must honor ACP; call HCA Apple Health ACP support if you hit barriers. (sos.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask WSCADV for an application assistant near you, and keep using WashingtonLawHelp safety guides while you set up mail forwarding and school records with ACP. (wscadv.org)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Legal and Practical Help

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Book the QLaw Foundation LGBTQ2S+ Legal Clinic for brief advice by phone (206‑235‑7235) and use WashingtonLawHelp (family safety + name/gender forms). If discrimination shows up in housing or work, ask Seattle’s Renting in Seattle team and L&I’s Equal Pay & Opportunities unit about next steps. (qlawfoundation.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Call Disability Rights Washington (DRW) at 1‑800‑562‑2702 for disability rights issues (education, access, abuse). Courts must provide interpreters per AOC’s Interpreter Program; ask for accommodations early and note your needs on forms from WashingtonLawHelp. (disabilityrightswa.org)

Veteran single mothers: Call the Women Veterans Call Center at 1‑855‑829‑6636 to enroll in VA care or connect to local women’s health and MST resources. For civil legal aid, ask about the NJP Veterans Project and use Washington 211 for nearby veteran‑friendly services. (womenshealth.va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Contact Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP) for immigration legal help (Seattle 206‑587‑4009; statewide toll‑free numbers listed). For public benefits and language access in hearings, ask OAH for an interpreter and use WashingtonLawHelp guides in multiple languages. (nwirp.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: Ask NJP (Get Legal Help) for Native American Unit referrals and check your tribe’s court or Resolution Washington DRCs for mediation of family matters. For ICWA or tribal court questions, start with OCLA Legal Help. (washingtonlawhelp.org)

Rural single moms: Use Washington 211 for ride vouchers and regional legal clinics; ask CLEAR for phone advice if you’re far from a courthouse. For remote hearings, request interpreter and phone/Zoom accommodations via OAH. (wa211.org)

Single fathers: The same programs apply. Use DCS (child support) to establish or modify support and WashingtonLawHelp parenting plan packets for custody filings. If DV is involved, ask WSCADV for survivor‑centered help. (dshs.wa.gov)

Language access: Courts provide interpreters at no cost for LEP and Deaf/Hard of Hearing litigants under RCW 2.42/2.43 (AOC Interpreter Program). Call for large‑print packets or ASL certified court interpreters via DSHS ODHH (court interpreter listings). (courts.wa.gov)

Resources by Region (examples you can copy today)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (save/screenshot)

Program Who to contact Typical timeline Where to start
Eviction defense OCLA Eviction Defense Same day to 1–3 days for callbacks Call statewide line or your county clinic (e.g., HJP)
Protection orders WA Protection Orders portal Same/next‑day temp order in many courts File online; ask WSCADV for an advocate
TANF/Diversion DSHS TANF/DCA Interviews in days; cash after approval Apply at Washington Connection
SNAP (Basic Food) DSHS (expedited rules) Expedited within 7 days Apply and request “expedited service”
Apple Health HCA eligibility pages Same month enrollment when eligible Apply online; call plan right away
Paid Leave Paid Leave WA Allow time for approval; back pay available Apply within 30 days of event
Child support DCS KIDS Line Varies; ask for review if income changed Call, then ask for modification forms

(ocla.wa.gov)

Application Checklist (printable)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check

  • Legal aid is overloaded: OCLA and NJP report not everyone can get a lawyer right away. Use WashingtonLawHelp packets while you wait, and ask a Dispute Resolution Center to mediate payment plans and parenting issues. (ocla.wa.gov)
  • Hold times happen: ESD notes long wait times during peak UI seasons. File online when possible and then call ESD UI Claims if needed. (esd.wa.gov)
  • Funding can change: Energy, rental, and legal aid funds shift each year. Always “call to confirm current availability” with Washington 211 and the program site (e.g., Commerce LIHEAP). (wa211.org)

Tables You Can Use Quickly

Court and Legal Hotlines

Service How it helps Contact
CLEAR civil legal intake Free advice/referral for low‑income adults CLEAR 1‑888‑201‑1014 (M‑F 9:15–12:15)
Eviction Defense Screening Screens for right‑to‑counsel OCLA Eviction Defense statewide
Domestic Violence 24/7 safety planning + referrals National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233
Washington 211 Local resources and referrals WA 211 or 1‑877‑211‑9274

(washingtonlawhelp.org)

TANF 2025 Cash Payment Standards (WAC 388‑478‑0020)

Family size Max grant
1 $450
2 $570
3 $706
4 $833
5 $959

Source: WAC 388‑478‑0020 (updated Jan 2024; still current Sept 2025). (apps.leg.wa.gov)

Paid Family & Medical Leave – 2025 Key Numbers

Item Amount
Max weekly benefit $1,542
Max total weeks (standard) Up to 12 (16 combined, +2 for pregnancy complications)

See Paid Leave benefit details and Apply Now. (paidleave.wa.gov)

Utility Help – Seattle Examples

Program What it does Where to apply
Utility Discount Program (UDP) ~60% SCL and 50% SPU discount; 2025 income table published Seattle UDP
Emergency Assistance Program (EAP) One‑time pledges for past‑due SPU/SCL bills EAP 2025 guidelines

(cityofseattle.org)

Apple Health (Medicaid) – Pregnancy & Postpartum

Group Income limit
Pregnant individuals Up to 210% FPL
Post‑pregnancy (12 months) Up to 210% FPL

Check HCA’s pregnant coverage and Apple Health Expansion. (hca.wa.gov)

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

County‑Specific Variations to Know

FAQs (Washington‑specific)

  1. How fast can I get SNAP if I have no money for food?
    Ask for “expedited service” and DSHS must issue benefits within seven days if you meet criteria. Apply and request expedited review; see DSHS expedited rules and call Washington 211 for food banks while you wait. (dshs.wa.gov)
  2. Can I get free legal help if I live outside King County?
    Yes—call CLEAR and use WashingtonLawHelp (self‑help packets). In many eviction cases, you may have a right to appointed counsel via OCLA. (washingtonlawhelp.org)
  3. How do I ask the court to waive fees?
    File under GR 34. Use fee waiver instructions + forms and ask the clerk where to submit. Interpreters are available under AOC Interpreter Program. (washingtonlawhelp.org)
  4. What if my landlord tries to shut off my utilities?
    Call your city utility and UTC hotline if the provider is regulated; shutting off to force you out may be illegal. Also apply to LIHEAP and call WA 211 for crisis funds. (utc.wa.gov)
  5. How much cash does TANF pay right now?
    As of January 2024 (current in Sept 2025), a family of three gets 706/month;see∗[WAC388‑478‑0020table](https://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=388−478−0020)∗.Ifyouonlyneedone‑timehelp,askfor∗[DiversionCashAssistance](https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community−services−offices/temporary−assistance−needy−families)∗upto706/month; see *[WAC 388‑478‑0020 table](https://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=388-478-0020)*. If you only need one‑time help, ask for *[Diversion Cash Assistance](https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/temporary-assistance-needy-families)* up to 1,250. (apps.leg.wa.gov)
  6. Can I get paid leave after childbirth if I just switched jobs?
    Maybe. PFML looks at your hours/wages over the base year, not one employer. Check eligibility and estimate benefit at Paid Leave WA, then apply within 30 days at Apply Now. (paidleave.wa.gov)
  7. How do I keep my address off public records if my ex is dangerous?
    Enroll in the Address Confidentiality Program and use the substitute address with DSHS, schools, and the courts. For Apple Health issues, call HCA ACP support. (sos.wa.gov)
  8. Where can I find childcare that accepts subsidies?
    Call Child Care Aware Family Center 1‑800‑446‑1114 and apply for WCCC if you work or are in training. Use Child Care Resources for King/Pierce local help. (childcareawarewa.org)
  9. I need an interpreter—will the court provide one?
    Yes. Courts provide interpreters at no cost under state law. Contact your court and see AOC Interpreter Program. Deaf/Hard of Hearing litigants can request certified legal ASL interpreters via DSHS ODHH listings. (courts.wa.gov)
  10. Where do I report a shutoff or billing problem with my utility?
    Investor‑owned utilities: file with the UTC Consumer Protection team (1‑888‑333‑WUTC). City/PUD utilities: use your city/PUD customer service and call WA 211 for payment help. (utc.wa.gov)

What to Do If “Contact Your Local Office” Is the Answer

Spanish summary / Resumen en español (traducción generada por IA)

Nota: Traducción generada con herramientas de IA. Verifique detalles con las fuentes oficiales enlazadas.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

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 information is general and not legal advice. Programs change, funding runs out, and courts follow local rules. Confirm current availability, timelines, and forms with the linked official sources or your local office before you apply or file. For emergencies, call 911 or the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline and seek immediate help from a local advocate through WSCADV. (acf.hhs.gov)

Extra: Save these two Washington‑specific contacts

Tip: Keep a notes app with these links, your case numbers, and a photo of your ID. Back up your documents to email. Use Washington 211 whenever you’re not sure where to start—they’ll steer you to the right desk. (wa211.org)

Learn more:

  1. Eviction Defense | Office of Civil Legal Aid
  2. Filing Process – Washington State Protection Orders
  3. Home – Washington 211 – Washington 211
  4. WashingtonLawHelp.org | Helpful information about the law in Washington.
  5. Eviction Assistance offered by King County Bar Association’s Housing Justice Project at the King County Courthouse in Seattle
  6. Division of Child Support | DSHS
  7. Get help – Washington State’s Paid Family and Medical Leave
  8. Pregnant individuals | Washington State Health Care Authority
  9. Washington Law Help
  10. Home – Washington State Protection Orders
  11. Washington state appeals court finds firearm surrender orders in abuse cases are constitutional
  12. Consumer Complaints
  13. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Washington State Department of Commerce
  14. File a Complaint
  15. Family Law Facilitators – King County, Washington
  16. Ask the court for a fee waiver | Washington Law Help
  17. General Legal Clinics offered by King County Bar Association’s Neighborhood Legal Clinics
  18. Domestic Violence Information | DSHS
  19. Form Library | Washington Law Help
  20. WAC 388-478-0020:
  21. Expedited Service for Basic Food | DSHS
  22. General Public Assistance Hearing Information | Washington State Office of Administrative Hearings
  23. Apply now – Washington State’s Paid Family and Medical Leave
  24. How to apply for unemployment benefits | Employment Security Department
  25. Hearing Requests | Washington State Office of Administrative Hearings
  26. Working Connections Child Care | Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families
  27. Family Services – Child Care Aware WA
  28. Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) | WA Secretary of State
  29. Get Help Now – Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (WSCADV)
  30. Family Matters – QLaw Foundation
  31. Request Services – Disability Rights Washington
  32. Women Veterans Call Center – Women Veterans Health Care
  33. Contact Us | NWIRP.org
  34. Washington State Courts – Court Interpreters – Court Interpreter Program
  35. Housing Justice Project – Sound Legal Aid
  36. Family Court Facilitator | Spokane County, WA
  37. https://www.kitsap.gov/sc/Pages/eviction_resources.aspx/
  38. Payments | DSHS
  39. Utility Discount Program – Utilities | seattle.gov
  40. Find Legal Help | Office of Civil Legal Aid
  41. ESDWAGOV – Resources for Legislative and other government staff
  42. How Paid Leave works – Washington State’s Paid Family and Medical Leave
  43. I Need Help – RentinginSeattle | seattle.gov
  44. Family Court Facilitator | Spokane County, WA
  45. https://www.kitsap.gov/sc/Pages/eviction_resources.aspx/
  46. Contact Us – Child Care Aware WA
  47. Contact the Division of Child Support | DSHS
  48. The National Domestic Violence Hotline | The Administration for Children and Families

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