Apply & Recertify for Benefits

You can submit an application for any of the following programs using a single application for benefits:

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF, financial assistance)
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as food stamps)
• Medical Assistance (Medicaid, Alliance, and other medical assistance programs available through DHS)

All applications must be signed and dated and submitted to DHS to begin processing. Verification documents or changes may be submitted using any of the methods below.

How Do I Apply, Recertify/Renew, or complete a SNAP Mid-Certification?

You may submit an initial application (all programs) or complete a recertification/renewal (all programs), or submit a SNAP mid-certification in one of three ways:

1. Online
   Use the District Direct website. You can see if you qualify, apply for, renew benefits, and complete a SNAP mid-certification without visiting a Service Center and waiting in line.
2. Mobile Phone
   Use the District Direct Mobile Application You can see if you qualify, apply for, renew benefits, and complete a SNAP mid-certification without visiting a Service Center and waiting in line. The app is available for iPhone (IOS) on Apple App Store or for Android Devices at the Google Play store.
3. Paper Applications (Mail, In-Person, or Fax)
   Download the appropriate paper application or form from the list below:

Integrated Application for Public Assistance Benefits (used to apply for Medical Assistance, SNAP, TANF, and Cash Assistance)
English – Spanish – Amharic – French – Simplified Chinese

Retroactive Medicaid Coverage
English – Spanish

Alliance and Immigrant Children’s Program Renewal – 1209
English – Spanish – Amharic – French – Simplified Chinese

Burial Assistance Application
English – Spanish – Amharic

You can mail the application to:
Department of Human Services | Economic Security Administration
Case Record Management Unit
P.O. Box 91560
Washington, DC 20090

Fax the Application to (202) 671-4400

Locate the Service Center closest to you to drop off or pick up an application/form.

All applications must be signed and dated and submitted to DHS to begin processing. Verification documents or changes may be submitted using the online public benefits application.

Residents with questions about their public benefits provided by DHS should contact the DHS Public Benefits Call Center at (202) 727-5355 from 7:30 am - 4:45 pm, Monday - Friday.

Mid-certifications & Recertifications of Public Benefits

District residents who received amid-certification notice or recertification notice for food and cash benefits are encouraged to complete the recertification process using the District Direct mobile app or the DC Benefits online portal.