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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in New Hampshire

TANF in New Hampshire (FANF): A No‑BS Guide for Single Mothers

Last updated: August 2025

This is your step‑by‑step hub for getting cash assistance under TANF in New Hampshire. In New Hampshire, TANF is called Financial Assistance to Needy Families (FANF). It includes work‑required and work‑exempt TANF tracks. Everything here links to official state or federal sources so you can verify quickly.


Quick Help Box

What TANF Is Called in New Hampshire (and Why That Matters)

Start here: FANF is New Hampshire’s TANF cash assistance for families with a minor child. It has several “paths”:

  • New Hampshire Employment Program (NHEP): Work‑required TANF.
  • Family Assistance Program (FAP): TANF for households temporarily exempt from mandatory work (disability, caring for an infant or very ill family member, or other approved reasons).
  • Unemployed Parent (UPN/UPC): TANF track when the primary wage earner loses work and meets other rules.
  • Specialized tracks for certain hardship situations (short‑term or transitional cases), as defined in DHHS policy.

Official overview and policy detail are maintained by the NH Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS): NH DHHS — Financial Assistance to Needy Families (FANF).

Reality check:

  • TANF helps cover basics (rent, utilities, toiletries, kids’ needs), but it will not cover full living costs in most New Hampshire towns.
  • Work rules and deadlines can be strict on the NHEP path.
  • If something in your life makes participation unsafe or impossible (domestic violence, medical issues, no child care), tell your worker right away and ask in writing for an exemption or accommodation with proof.

Federal baseline rules that also apply to NH:

  • Lifetime limit: up to 60 months of federally funded TANF in your lifetime (some months may not count if the state uses certain funds or if you qualify for a hardship extension). Source: ACF/HHS — TANF Basics.
  • Typical work hours: single parent with a child under age 6 — 20 hours/week; otherwise 30 hours/week under federal standards. NH may set specifics in NHEP. Source: ACF/HHS — Work Participation.

For current NH‑specific tracks, exemptions, forms, and any local differences, use: NH DHHS — FANF program page and policy.

FANF at a Glance (Table)

Topic What to Know Where to Verify
Program name Financial Assistance to Needy Families (FANF) NH DHHS — FANF overview
Work program NHEP (work‑required) or FAP (exempt for good cause) NH DHHS — FANF/NHEP policy
Apply online NH EASY NH EASY — Official application
Decision timeline Usually within about 30 days of filing (if you complete your interview and verifications) NH DHHS — FANF policy on processing
Benefit delivery EBT card (cash account) NH DHHS — EBT basics
Lifetime limit Up to 60 months (with possible hardship exceptions) ACF/HHS — TANF Overview
Child support cooperation Required unless you have “good cause” (e.g., safety risk). NH DHHS — Child Support (BCSS)

Note: NH posts the exact cash amounts by family size and household situation on its Payment Standards page. Use this directly: NH DHHS — FANF Payment Standards.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the links above are unavailable, call 211 to ask for the nearest DHHS District Office and hours, or visit NH EASY to start your application and request an interview callback.

Who Is Eligible (and Quick Self‑Checks)

Start with these checks before you apply:

  • You live in New Hampshire and plan to stay.
  • You are caring for a child under age 18 (or under 19 if still in high school), or you’re pregnant and meet state criteria.
  • Your household meets income and resource limits set by NH DHHS for FANF.
  • You’re a U.S. citizen or a “qualified non‑citizen” (certain lawful immigration statuses per federal rules).
  • You agree to required work activities if placed in NHEP (unless exempt).
  • You agree to cooperate with child support unless you get “good cause” due to safety/domestic violence.

Official eligibility, including income and resource tests, are published by NH DHHS. See: NH DHHS — FANF Eligibility and Policy.

Income limits and payment standards:

Tip:

  • If you have child support assigned to the state, ask how NH treats “pass‑through” child support (some states pass a portion through to the family; rules vary over time). Verify current NH policy with your caseworker and the policy links above.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re just over income, ask about Diversion or short‑term assistance options in FANF policy, or ask about SNAP, Child Care Scholarship, and Medicaid to stabilize your budget. Start with NH EASY.

How Much Cash Could You Get?

Most important action: check the current state chart.

  • New Hampshire posts an official table showing the maximum monthly cash benefit (payment standard) by family size and household type. Do not rely on old numbers floating around the web. Use: NH DHHS — FANF Payment Standards (official chart).
  • If you have earnings, the state applies “disregards” (ignores a set portion) before counting income against your grant. The exact disregard rules and examples are in policy here: NH DHHS — FANF Financial Eligibility.
  • Your grant may be smaller if you receive other countable income (like unemployment) or larger if you qualify for certain deductions. Confirm with your worker using the official policy references above.

Real‑world example (how it works, not exact numbers):

  • A Manchester mom with two kids working part‑time has some earnings. DHHS applies disregards to her gross pay to get “countable income.” DHHS subtracts her countable income from the state’s payment standard for a 3‑person household. The difference is her monthly FANF amount on EBT.

Where to verify:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask your worker for a written “budget” showing how they calculated your benefit. If it looks off, request a supervisor review or file for a fair hearing with the DHHS Administrative Appeals Unit.

How to Apply (Fastest First)

  • Apply online now: NH EASY — Official State Application. Create an account, select Cash Assistance (FANF), and complete your e‑signature.
  • If you prefer in person: go to a DHHS District Office. Find locations and hours here: NH DHHS — District Office Locator.
  • If you need help with the application or can’t get to an office, ask DHHS for a phone interview or reasonable accommodation. See your NH EASY account messages after you submit.

Required documents (upload in NH EASY or bring to the office):

  • Photo ID (you, and any other parent in the home if applicable)
  • Social Security numbers (or proof you’ve applied for one)
  • Proof of New Hampshire residency (lease, dated mail, utility bill)
  • Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, award letters)
  • Bank statements (if applicable)
  • Birth certificates for children (or hospital records if just born)
  • Child care costs (if you’re working or in approved activities)
  • Rent/utility bills (for shelter cost verification if requested)
  • Proof of pregnancy (if applicable)

Where to verify:

Documents Checklist (Table)

Document Why DHHS Needs It Tip
Photo ID Identity verification for adult(s) applying Upload clear photos in NH EASY; keep originals safe
SSNs or proof applied Federal requirement for benefits You can still start the application while waiting for a new card
Proof of NH residency Confirms eligibility by state Lease, utility bill, or letter from shelter if homeless
Proof of income To calculate your countable income Include all pay stubs; highlight any unpaid time
Bank statements Check resource limits (if applicable) Redact full account numbers in copies
Birth certificates Prove relationship to the child Hospital record works short‑term if certificate pending
Child care receipts Work participation and deductions Keep weekly statements from your provider
Bills (rent/utilities) Verify shelter costs if requested Take photos of current bills

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re missing a document, submit the application anyway so your filing date is protected. Tell DHHS what you’re missing and when you can get it. If you’re homeless or fleeing violence, ask your worker what alternative proofs are acceptable (letters from a shelter or service provider often work).

Timeline: What Happens After You Apply

Most important action: complete your interview quickly and upload all proofs to avoid delays.

Typical timeline (your case may move faster or slower):

  • Filing date: the day you submit in NH EASY or the day DHHS receives your signed form.
  • Interview: usually scheduled within 1–2 weeks. Answer calls from “State of NH” or DHHS and check your NH EASY messages.
  • Verifications due: DHHS will give you a deadline (often 10 days) to upload or drop off missing documents. If you need more time, ask before the deadline.
  • Decision: most FANF decisions are issued within about 30 days of your application if your interview and verifications are done.
  • EBT card: mailed after approval. If you had an EBT card before, funds may load to the same card.

Timeline and appeal rights are described in DHHS policy: NH DHHS — FANF Policy and Administrative Appeals.

Application Timeline & What to Expect (Table)

Step Typical Timeframe What You Can Do
Submit application Day 0 Use NH EASY. Keep your confirmation number
Interview 1–2 weeks If you miss a call, contact the office via NH EASY messages to reschedule
Verification deadline Usually 10 days from DHHS request Upload documents in NH EASY; ask for an extension if needed
Decision issued Around 30 days Watch NH EASY inbox and mail; read the notice carefully
Benefits start Right after approval Set EBT PIN; ask about pending verifications that could change your amount

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you hear nothing after 30 days, send a message in NH EASY asking for status and whether anything is still needed. If the delay harms you, ask for a supervisor review and consider a fair hearing: NH DHHS — Administrative Appeals Unit.

Work Requirements: NHEP (and Exemptions)

Start here: if you’re assigned to NHEP, you must participate in approved work activities unless DHHS says you’re exempt or gives “good cause.”

Federal baseline hours:

  • Single parent with a child under 6: 20 hours/week.
  • Other single‑parent cases: 30 hours/week.

Source: ACF/HHS — TANF Work Participation.

NH specifics (activities, assessments, good cause, and exemptions) are in state policy: NH DHHS — NHEP/FANF Policy.

Common approved activities:

  • Work experience, subsidized or unsubsidized employment
  • Job search and job readiness training
  • GED or basic education (limits may apply) when needed for employment
  • Vocational training (time‑limited)
  • Community service or workfare (if assigned and available)

If you can’t participate safely:

  • Domestic violence survivors can request good cause and a temporary waiver from activities. Ask your worker in writing and provide any safe‑to‑share documentation (e.g., protection order, police report, letter from a DV advocate). See: NH DHHS — Child Support Good Cause & Safety Considerations.

Work Requirement Snapshot (Table)

Household Type Typical Weekly Hours Notes
Single parent, youngest child under 6 20 hours/week Federal baseline; NH case plan may vary
Single parent, youngest child 6+ 30 hours/week Federal baseline; check your IRP (plan)
Documented exemption (FAP) 0 You’re exempt while the exemption lasts; review dates matter

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your activity assignment doesn’t fit your situation (no child care, transportation barriers, health limits), ask for a new assessment and an updated plan. Put the request in writing on NH EASY so there’s a record.

Sanctions: What Happens If You Miss Requirements

Start here: communicate early. If you miss an appointment or activity, contact your worker as soon as you can. Many sanctions can be avoided if you show “good cause” (illness, no child care, unsafe situation, job interview conflict).

What sanctions look like:

  • Your cash benefit can be reduced or closed for non‑compliance after notice. Sanctions can escalate with repeated issues.
  • The notice explains what you missed, the deadline to fix it, and how to show good cause.

Where to verify:

Tip:

  • If you never got the appointment notice (wrong address, mail delays), tell DHHS immediately, update your address in NH EASY, and ask them to re‑notice you.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If DHHS won’t lift a sanction and you believe you had good cause, request a fair hearing promptly with the Administrative Appeals Unit. Keep proof of your reasons (doctor’s note, daycare closed notice, etc.).

Time Limits and Hardship Extensions

Start here: track your months. Many people don’t realize when they’re approaching the 60‑month lifetime limit.

  • Some months may not count if NH uses separate state funds or if you’re in an approved hardship category.
  • If you’re near the limit, ask DHHS in writing whether you qualify for a hardship extension and what proof they need.

Federal reference: ACF/HHS — TANF Time Limits.
State application: NH DHHS — FANF Time Limit & Extension Policy.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied an extension and face homelessness or loss of utilities, apply right away for other programs through NH EASY and call 211 to find emergency help (shelter, fuel assistance, local aid).

Child Support Cooperation and “Good Cause”

Start here: most TANF cases must cooperate with the state’s Bureau of Child Support Services (BCSS) to locate the other parent and set support.

  • If cooperation puts you or your child at risk (domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking), ask for “good cause” right away.
  • You can provide safe forms of proof (police report, restraining order, letter from a DV advocate, medical report). If you can’t get documents safely, talk to your worker; they can guide you.

Verify and learn how to claim good cause:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re told to cooperate and you believe it’s unsafe, ask for a supervisor review in writing and consider getting an advocate. New Hampshire Legal Assistance may help: New Hampshire Legal Assistance (NHLA) — statewide civil legal aid.

Getting and Using Your EBT

Start here: after approval, you’ll receive an EBT card by mail if you don’t already have one. Your FANF cash benefit loads to the card monthly.

  • PIN and card details: DHHS posts EBT basics, replacement steps, and fraud tips on its site. See: NH DHHS — EBT Information.
  • Keep your PIN private. DHHS and banks never ask for your PIN by phone or text.
  • Report card loss immediately through the number on the back of the card or via the official EBT portal linked by DHHS.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your card delivery is delayed, check your NH EASY messages for approval date and contact DHHS through your account. If you can’t get through, visit your District Office with ID and ask about card status.

If You’re Denied or Your Case Closes

Start here: read your notice. It explains the reason, your rights, and your deadline to appeal.

  • If you want to appeal, request a fair hearing as soon as possible. Your notice will explain how; see also NH DHHS — Administrative Appeals Unit.
  • If you fix the issue quickly (e.g., upload the missing document), you may not need a hearing. Ask DHHS to reopen your case if you cured the problem by the deadline.
  • Keep copies of everything you submit, plus a simple log (date, what you sent, how).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Plan B: If FANF Isn’t Enough or You Don’t Qualify

Start with NH EASY — you can apply for multiple programs together: NH EASY. If you can’t get TANF or need more help, consider:

  • SNAP (Food Stamps): You can apply together with your FANF application. SNAP has expedited service for households with very low income. For current maximum allotments and income limits (updated each federal fiscal year), see USDA/ACF links from the state portal or apply via NH EASY.
  • NH Child Care Scholarship: Helps pay for child care so you can work, look for work, or participate in NHEP. Find eligibility, co‑pays, and provider info here: NH DHHS — Child Care Scholarship.
  • Medicaid for parents and kids (and pregnancy coverage): Apply and check eligibility via NH EASY or see NH DHHS — Medicaid.
  • WIC for pregnant and postpartum parents and young children: Nutrition support; income rules differ from TANF. See NH Department of Health — WIC Program via the DHHS site.
  • Utility and heating help: Fuel assistance (LIHEAP) and Electric Assistance Program (EAP) are run through Community Action Agencies. Start at NH DHHS — Energy Assistance or dial 211 to find your local agency.
  • Emergency housing and homelessness prevention: In many counties, the entry point is your local Community Action Agency. Use 211 or 211 New Hampshire.

Note on exact numbers:

  • Many of these programs update benefit amounts every year (especially SNAP and Child Care Scholarship co‑pays). Always rely on the official pages linked above for the current 2024–2025 figures. If the state posts a calculator or eligibility tool, use it for the most accurate amounts.

Plan B Programs (Quick Reference Table)

Program What It Covers Where to Apply/Verify
SNAP Food budget each month on EBT NH EASY — Apply
Child Care Scholarship Helps pay licensed care while you work/participate in NHEP NH DHHS — Child Care Scholarship
Medicaid/CHIP Medical coverage for you and kids NH EASY — Apply
WIC Healthy foods, formula support, nutrition counseling DHHS WIC page on nh.gov DHHS
LIHEAP/EAP Heating and electric bill help 211 or DHHS energy assistance page

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re stuck between programs (denied here, pending there), preserve your housing and utilities first. Call 211 to locate rent/utility relief and a local case manager who can help you push applications over the finish line.

Real‑World Examples

  • Concord single mom, 1 child, part‑time retail: She applies via NH EASY. DHHS counts part of her wages after disregards and sets a smaller FANF grant than the “maximum.” She also adds SNAP and the Child Care Scholarship to cover daycare, making work possible. She schedules her NHEP activity around her actual shifts after asking for a plan adjustment when her schedule changed.
  • Manchester mom fleeing violence with 2 kids: She asks for “good cause” not to cooperate with child support. She provides a copy of her protective order and a letter from an advocate. DHHS grants the good cause; she’s temporarily placed in a work‑exempt TANF track (FAP) while she stabilizes, then transitions to NHEP when safe.
  • Nashua mom, pregnant and recently laid off: She applies for FANF and Medicaid via NH EASY. She uploads a doctor’s note confirming pregnancy. When the FANF interview conflicts with a prenatal appointment, she messages her worker through NH EASY to reschedule, preventing a denial.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re not getting responses, ask for a supervisor in writing through NH EASY and keep copies. If deadlines are tight, visit the District Office with your documents and ask them to time‑stamp your copies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting to apply until you have every document. File now to lock in your date; submit missing proofs after.
  • Ignoring NH EASY messages and mailed letters. Deadlines are short — often 10 days.
  • Not telling DHHS about new work hours, new baby, or a move. Changes can raise or lower your benefit and prevent overpayment letters later.
  • Missing NHEP appointments without asking for a new time or explaining good cause.
  • Not asking for “good cause” when safety is an issue with child support.
  • Assuming the “maximum” grant applies to you. Earnings and other income reduce your exact amount.
  • Forgetting to track your 60‑month clock. Ask how many TANF months you’ve used.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If a mistake leads to a sanction or overpayment, contact your worker immediately to fix it or set up a repayment plan. You can also seek advice from New Hampshire Legal Assistance (NHLA).

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Access

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers
    • Make sure your household composition is recorded correctly (co‑parents, guardianships).
    • If you face discrimination, file a complaint and request a new worker. Use NH DHHS — Office of Client Services and consider legal help through NHLA.
  • Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child
    • Ask about FAP (work‑exempt) status with medical proof and your provider’s note on limitations.
    • Request reasonable accommodations for interviews and NHEP activities in writing through NH EASY.
  • Veteran single mothers
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms
    • TANF is limited to citizens and certain “qualified” non‑citizens (e.g., lawful permanent residents after a waiting period, some humanitarian statuses).
    • Verify eligibility with DHHS and, if needed, get advice from an immigration‑savvy nonprofit via 211.
  • Tribal‑specific resources
    • If you’re a citizen of a federally recognized tribe, ask about Indian Child Welfare Act protections, TANF coordination with tribal services, and any tribal assistance that may not count as income. Use 211 for referrals if you’re not sure where to start.
  • Rural single moms with limited access
    • Request phone interviews, use NH EASY for uploads, and ask about mileage help or bus passes through NHEP.
    • If internet is an issue, libraries and District Offices often provide public access points.
  • Single fathers
    • FANF is for any eligible parent or caretaker relative with a minor child. All the same rules apply.
  • Language access
    • You have the right to free interpretation and translated notices. Ask DHHS for your preferred language on all calls and in NH EASY messages.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied an interpreter or accommodation, put the request in writing, ask for a supervisor, and consider help from NHLA or call 211 for advocacy referrals.

Local Help: Nonprofits, Charities, and Community Partners

Use 211 to find up‑to‑the‑minute contacts for your town. Here are reliable statewide starting points:

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If an agency has no funds today, ask when to check back and request a written list of alternative providers. Keep calling — funding often reopens mid‑month or after quarterly grant releases.

Resources by Region (Examples)

  • Manchester area
  • Nashua area
    • Check 211 for Nashua‑specific rent and utility assistance programs and food pantries.
  • Concord area
    • Use 211 and your local Community Action Program; ask about fuel assistance and electric discounts.
  • Seacoast (Portsmouth/Dover/Rochester)
    • 211 can route you to Seacoast shelters, CAP programs, and legal aid clinics.
  • Keene/Monadnock
    • 211 for CAP and local church‑based emergency funds; ask about diaper banks and WIC clinics.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask the nearest hospital social work office or school district’s McKinney‑Vento liaison for direct referrals if you’re unstably housed; they often know current openings.

Quick Reference Tables You Can Save

Eligibility Snapshot

Factor Key Point Where to Verify
Residency Must live in NH NH DHHS — FANF Eligibility
Child in home Under 18 (or 19 if still in HS) DHHS policy
Income & resources Must meet state standards NH DHHS — FANF Payment/Income Standards
Citizenship/Immigration Citizens and certain qualified non‑citizens DHHS policy and ACF/HHS
Work rules NHEP unless exempt NH DHHS — NHEP Policy
Child support Cooperation unless “good cause” NH DHHS — BCSS

Steps to Apply

Step Action
1 Apply at NH EASY
2 Complete your interview (phone/in‑person)
3 Upload requested proofs within the given deadline (often 10 days)
4 Watch for your decision (around 30 days)
5 If approved, set up your EBT and NHEP plan if assigned

NHEP Good‑Cause and Exemptions

Situation What to Ask For Proof Ideas
Domestic violence risk Good cause and temporary waiver Protection order, advocate letter
Medical limits Exemption or reduced hours Doctor’s note detailing limits
No child care Activity change or delay Provider closure note, waitlist proof
Transportation barriers Different activity or support Repair estimate, bus route limits

City‑Specific FAQs (New Hampshire)

  • Manchester — Where do I apply in person?
  • Nashua — Can I do my TANF interview by phone?
    • Yes, phone interviews are common. After you apply on NH EASY, watch for messages to confirm your interview method and time. If you need a different time, request it in NH EASY.
  • Concord — How fast will I get a decision?
    • Most FANF decisions are made within about 30 days if you complete the interview and submit proofs. Check your NH EASY inbox and mail for updates.
  • Dover/Rochester — What if I can’t get a daycare spot?
    • Tell your worker in writing. Ask for an NHEP activity that fits your situation and apply for the Child Care Scholarship through NH EASY. Keep your daycare waitlist letter.
  • Keene — I missed my appointment. Will I be sanctioned?
    • Contact DHHS immediately through NH EASY to reschedule and explain why you missed it. If you had good cause (illness, no childcare, emergency), provide proof to avoid a sanction.

What to Do If You Need Numbers Right Now

For TANF/FANF in New Hampshire, the state posts official, current dollar amounts (by family size and household type) on its Payment Standards page. Because these figures change, do not rely on static lists posted elsewhere.

  • Use this official source to pull the exact amounts for August 2025: NH DHHS — FANF Payment Standards.
  • If you need help reading the chart, message your worker in NH EASY and ask them to show your budget calculation in writing.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), ACF/HHS, USDA, and established nonprofits.

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.

Last verified August 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Program rules and dollar amounts change. Always verify final eligibility, time limits, sanctions, and exact cash benefit amounts with New Hampshire DHHS:

If anything here conflicts with DHHS policy or your written notice, follow the official DHHS instructions.

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