Federal and State Agencies: Information and Services
Useful Information
Most state and federal government websites can be trusted to have free and reliable information.
Helpful Services
State and federal agencies often provide helpful services. We have listed some resources below by topic.
Note: The list below is intended to provide examples of useful federal and state government websites. It is not an exhaustive listing. Many other government websites also have useful information and services.
Family, Divorce, and Children
Texas Attorney General - Child Support Division
The Attorney General's Child Support Division is the official child support enforcement agency for the State of Texas. This office can provide services and information for parents who would like to start child support and modify or enforce existing child support. In some cases, they can also help settle paternity issues as part of this process.
U.S. Department of State - U.S. Passports & International Travel
The State Department's travel website gives information on international travel procedure and safety. For example, it tells you how to get passports for you and your family. Note that there are special rules for children.
Protection From Violence or Abuse
Office on Violence Against Women - U.S. Department of Justice
The Office on Violence Against Women provides federal leadership to reduce violence against women and help strengthen services to those experiencing such violence.
Texas Health and Human Services - Family Violence Program
The Family Violence Program promotes self-sufficiency, safety, and long-term independence of those experiencing family and dating violence. The program provides emergency shelter and support services to victims and their children, educates the public, and provides training and prevention support to various agencies.
Criminal Records and Traffic
Texas Department of Public Safety - DPS
The Texas Department of Public Safety is charged with protecting the citizens of Texas. Among other things, the DPS website tells you how to get a driver license and how to get your criminal history report.
Texas Department of Transportation - TXDOT
This website provides things like useful maps and information on to help you understand Texas traffic laws.
House and Apartment
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
HUD promotes affordable and fair housing.
Affordability: HUD has several programs to help you avoid foreclosure. There are also resources for renters.
Fair Housing: There are rules to protect people from housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial, and LGBT status. You can use the website to report violations.
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
The TDHCA provides services similar to HUD, but at the state level. You can use the website's Help for Texans tool to find resources near you.