Division of Family Assistance
The Division of Family Assistance administers programs and services for eligible New Hampshire residents providing financial, medical, and food & nutritional assistance, help with child care costs, and emergency help to obtain and keep safe housing
- Agency
- New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 603-271-4427
- Application Period
- Income Limit
The Division of Family Assistance administers programs and services for eligible New Hampshire residents providing financial, medical, and food & nutritional assistance, help with child care costs, and emergency help to obtain and keep safe housing.
The Division of Family Assistance administers programs and services for eligible New Hampshire residents providing financial, medical, and food & nutritional assistance, help with child care costs, and emergency help to obtain and keep safe housing.
Impact Reports
The Role of Family Assistance in New Hampshire: Addressing Economic Hardship
5/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report outlines how the Division of Family Assistance's programs support families in need by providing essential resources and reducing economic stressors.
Source: New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
Coverage Area: state
Understanding the Impact of Rising Costs on Assistance Needs
3/22/2023 | Coverage: national
This research explores how increasing living costs and stagnant wages are driving more families to seek assistance, with a focus on the implications for public assistance programs.
Source: Urban Institute
Coverage Area: national
Welfare Myths and Realities: The Truth About Assistance Programs
11/10/2021 | Coverage: national
This publication from the American Psychological Association challenges common misconceptions about welfare, providing evidence of its importance in supporting vulnerable populations.
Source: American Psychological Association
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
American Rescue Plan Act
3/11/2021This act provided additional support to families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic through direct payments and extended unemployment benefits.
Child Tax Credit Expansion
12/13/2014This expansion increased the credit available to families, aiming to reduce poverty and support child development.
Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act
8/22/1996This legislation overhauled the welfare system by introducing work requirements and block grants for states, transforming family assistance programs.
Economic Opportunity Act
7/30/1964This act created various programs to combat poverty, including Head Start and Job Corps, enhancing family assistance through educational support.
Social Security Act Enactment
8/14/1935The Social Security Act established a system of old-age benefits and aid to families with dependent children, which laid the groundwork for future family assistance programs.
FAQ
To apply for assistance, you can fill out an application form online through the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services website, or you can visit your local district office. You will need to provide necessary documentation, including proof of income, residency, and household size. Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed, and you will be notified of the eligibility decision.
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver's license or ID)
- Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs or tax returns)
- Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement)
- Social Security numbers for all household members
Having these documents ready will help streamline the application process.
Here are the steps to take once you have gathered your documents:
- Visit the NH Department of Health and Human Services website.
- Complete the online application form or print it to submit by mail.
- Schedule an appointment with your local district office if needed.
- Submit your application along with the required documents.
Following these steps will ensure your application is processed efficiently.
Reference: https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dfa/apply.htm
Eligibility for assistance varies based on individual circumstances; please consult with a representative for specific guidance.
To renew your assistance benefits, you must complete a renewal application before your current benefits expire. You can do this online or by visiting your local district office. The renewal application will require updated information about your household, including income and changes in family circumstances. It is crucial to submit this information on time to avoid any lapse in benefits.
Reference: https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dfa/renewal
Renewal requirements may vary; always check current guidelines as they can change.
The Division of Family Assistance (DFA) in New Hampshire offers various services aimed at supporting families in need. These services include financial assistance through Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), food assistance via the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and healthcare assistance through Medicaid. The DFA also provides resources for child care support and employment services.
Reference: https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dfa/