Welfare Department

The Welfare Department:

The North Hampton Welfare Department is dedicated to providing temporary, emergency financial assistance to residents in need, in accordance with New Hampshire state law (RSA 165). Its primary goal is to ensure that individuals and families facing financial hardship have access to basic necessities such as:

Food

Shelter

Utilities

Medical needs

The department works to assess each applicant’s situation fairly and confidentially, offering support while encouraging long-term self-sufficiency. It also serves as a resource for connecting residents with other local, state, and federal assistance programs.

Eligibility Criteria for Local Welfare Assistance

1. Residency

You must be a current resident of North Hampton, NH.

There is no minimum length of residency required by law—assistance is based on need, not how long you've lived in town.

2. Financial Need

You must demonstrate that you lack sufficient income or resources to meet basic living expenses.

This includes reviewing:

Income (wages, unemployment, Social Security, child support, etc.)

Assets (bank accounts, vehicles, property)

Expenses (rent, utilities, food, medical bills)

3. Documentation Requirements

Applicants are typically required to provide:

Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, ID card)

Proof of residency (e.g., lease, utility bill)

Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters)

Bank statements

Bills or eviction/shut-off notices

Any other documents relevant to your financial situation

4. Willingness to Comply with Guidelines

Applicants must:

Apply for all other available benefits (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid, unemployment)

Participate in a work program if able-bodied and unemployed (per RSA 165:31)

Follow a repayment agreement if required (some towns may ask for repayment if the applicant later becomes financially stable)

5. No Disqualification Based on Past Assistance

You cannot be denied help just because you’ve received assistance before.

However, fraudulent applications or failure to comply with program rules may result in denial or termination of aid.

How Eligibility Is Determined

The welfare officer will conduct a confidential interview and complete a written application with you. They will assess:

Your monthly income vs. necessary expenses

Your living situation and household size

Any emergency circumstances (e.g., job loss, illness, domestic violence)

They use written guidelines (required by law) to ensure fair and consistent decisions.