- By mail to P.O. Box 11699, Tacoma, WA 98411.
- By fax to 888-338-7140.
- By drop box at a local DSHS office.
- Through MyDocs email.
Home and Community Services customers who believe they might be victims of cash-benefit theft should contact their assigned public benefits specialist. Developmental Disabilities Administration customers should call 855–873–0642.
No retroactive replacements:
DSHS did not receive authorization or funding to replace cash benefits stolen before July 1, 2024. If customers already reported stolen cash benefits prior to July 1, 2024, no further action is needed. There will be no retroactive cash replacements.
August 2023: Congress passed a law that enables DSHS to replace some food benefits stolen through skimming, cloning or similar fraudulent activity. Customers who believe they are victims of food benefits theft should submit a claim to have some food benefits replaced. Claims for food benefits replacement can be submitted in the same manner as cash benefits replacement claims.
Customers who had benefits stolen must submit the claim within 30 days of discovering the loss.
Customers are encouraged to continue to report benefits theft so DSHS can track these losses, and to continue to be diligent in protecting their personal information and preventing fraud by using the helpful tips included in this brochure.
For more information on how to prevent EBT fraud, visit the Economic Services Administration landing page.
Save time and skip waiting on hold.
Did you know you have several options to avoid long wait times in offices and on phones with our self-service options, online Client Benefit Account and other resources? Watch a short video about how to:
- Use the self-service options on our toll-free number (no waiting on hold!).
- Apply for services online using Washington Connection.
- Create a Client Benefit Account.
- Complete your medical-only eligibility review (no need for a phone or in-person interview!).
COVID-19 Policy and Program Changes
- The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Pandemic Time Limit Extension has ended.Learn more.
- Your food benefits changed.Here's what you need to know.
A Guide to Services
Local Community Services Offices provide many DSHS services. Your local CSO can provide you with details about these services and how to apply for them.
- Learn about services available at your Community Services Office.
- Locate an office near you.
- Apply for services, report a change or submit an eligibility review online.
- Watch a short video about how to:
- Use the self-service options on our toll-free number (no waiting on hold!).
- Apply for services online using Washington Connection.
- Create a Client Benefit Account.
- Complete your medical-only eligibility review (no need for a phone or in-person interview!).
- Spanish version video.
Community Services Division provides programs to support the mission of the Department of Social and Health Services. When we provide services, we work diligently to honor our commitment to our customers.
Apply Online -- DSHS Online Application for Benefits
Use the DSHS Online Application at https://www.washingtonconnection.org/home/ to:
- Start a new application.
- Report a change, such as address, income or family situation.
- Submit an eligibility review for continuing benefits.
- Ask "Am I Eligible?"
EITC
The Earned Income Tax Credit (or EITC) is for people who earn low-to-moderate incomes. EITC can reduce a worker's taxes and result in a refund. This means working families and individuals in Washington can keep more of what they earn. After January 15 Call 2-1-1 or 1-877-211-9274 Ask for Free Tax Prep.
