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Call or Go to a DSHS Office

When applying for DSHS programs (or if you are already enrolled), you will need to talk with DSHS about your application or benefits. Review the information below to decide if you should call or go to a DSHS office to get the help that you need.

dshs logo

Did you lose food during the recent storm?

Current recipients of Basic Food (food stamps) could be eligible for replacement benefits if food was destroyed by recent power outages. Clients must make their report within 10 days of the initial loss of food.

To report a loss and request benefit replacement, clients can:

Call the DSHS Customer Service Center
1-877-501-2233
Monday–Friday 8am-5pm

Over the phone you can:

  • Get information & report changes about any of your benefits
  • Apply for child care
  • Complete an interview or periodic reviews for benefits
  • Request a Replacement EBT (Food Stamps) Card

*The best time to call is early in the day.

When calling DSHS, follow these steps to reach the department you need.

You can also access the automated Answer Phone (24 hours a day). No “live” DSHS staff answer this line but you can get information about your case if you know your client ID and social security number.

Go to a DSHS Office – click here to find your local office

  • Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday
    • 8am – 5pm (Full Service)
    • EBT Card Issuance/Replacement: 10am – 2pm

When you go into a DSHS Office you can:

  • Apply for benefits or submit documents
  • Have an in-person interview or benefits review
  • Pick up your EBT (Food Stamps) Card
  • Report changes for any of your benefits
  • Meet with WorkFirst/Social Services case managers

If you need an emergency supply of food or medical coverage

The fastest way to receive these emergency food or medical benefits is to
go into a DSHS office and apply between 8am – 2pm.

The average wait time ranges from 20-45 minutes, but may take up to a couple hours during peak times. Most people are able to receive benefits the same day.

Tips for Contacting DSHS

DSHS is very busy helping clients access health, food and cash benefits. We found the following tips to be helpful:

  • Collect your personal information (Client ID, Social Security Numbers, income, etc) before you call or visit DSHS about benefits.
  • Call or visit a local office early in the day – 8-9am is best. Wait times increase as the day goes on.
  • Avoid Mondays, the day after holidays, or the day after state closures, if possible.
  • When calling DSHS, follow these steps to reach the department you need.

Questions about Your DSHS Services Card

services card

DSHS no longer uses paper medical coupons. Every individual enrolled in DSHS medical programs now receives a plastic “Services Card.” Bring the card with you to medical, dental and vision appointments. Learn about using your new Services Card.

If you have questions about your Services Card, eligibility for services or choosing/changing your Healthy Options plan, call the following:

Customer Service for Provider One/Healthy Options
1-800-562-3022

Monday 7am-5pm; Tues – Friday 7am -1pm
Call to choose or change Health Plans, request a replacement for a Provider One card or get help with medical billing questions. The best time to call is early in the day.

Customer Service for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
1-800-562-3022 extension 16136

Mon – Fri 8:00am – 2:00pm
Call for information about your child’s medical benefits or premium. The best time to call is early in the day.

Use the following self service options to avoid wait times on the phone: