North Carolina
25 listings in North Carolina, plus 5 national lines that work everywhere.
Legal Aid of North Carolina Helpline
Free civil legal help for low-income North Carolinians with housing, benefits, family law, domestic violence protective orders, employment, and criminal record expunction. Apply by phone during weekday hours or online through JusticeHub at any time.
North Carolina Vital Records
Issues certified North Carolina birth certificates by mail, through VitalChek online or by phone, or in person at the Raleigh office by appointment only. The state search fee is $24 for the first copy; county Registers of Deeds can also issue birth certificates for births in their county.
North Carolina State ID Card
A North Carolina ID card is free for anyone 17 or older and is issued at any driver license office on a walk-in basis, with the card mailed within 20 business days. Bring proof of identity and age, a Social Security card or proof of your number, and one proof of NC residency (two for a REAL ID).
Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP)
North Carolina's SNAP program, called FNS, pays monthly food benefits on an EBT card based on income and household size, and people experiencing homelessness are specifically listed as likely to qualify. Benefits are counted from the date the application is received, even if it is incomplete, so apply right away through ePASS or a county DSS.
NC Medicaid Application
North Carolina expanded Medicaid in December 2023, so most adults with low income can get coverage. Apply online through ePASS (listed as Medical Assistance), by phone or walk-in at your county DSS, or by mailing a signed application; decisions take up to 45 days, 90 for disability.
SaySo (Strong Able Youth Speaking Out)
Statewide, youth-led advocacy group for people ages 14 to 24 who are or have been in foster care, group homes, or other out-of-home placements. Members get life-skills training, transition events like It's My Transition and LINK UP, mentorship, and a voice with legislators on foster care policy.
NC 211
Free, confidential information line that connects North Carolinians to verified help with housing, utilities, food, health care, and transportation. Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in the state and choose your language when prompted.
NC LINKS and Foster Care 18 to 21
North Carolina's Chafee independent living program (LINKS) for current and former foster youth ages 13 to 21, plus the Foster Care 18 to 21 extension that keeps young adults in care with financial support and case management while they work or go to school. Education and Training Vouchers up to $5,000 a year and the NC Reach scholarship are also run from here.
National lines that work in North Carolina
Lifeline free phone program
Free or discounted phone and service for people on Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or low income. Apply online or through a carrier.
SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential treatment referral for substance use and mental health. Finds local programs that take your insurance or none.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for any mental health or substance use crisis. Available to anyone in any program.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
24/7 confidential help for anyone affected by domestic violence. Advocates connect you to local shelters and legal help.
National Human Trafficking Hotline
24/7 confidential hotline for survivors of trafficking and people who suspect it. Connects to vetted local services.