General Information

You may apply for any of our programs by completing an application at our agency.  If you are unable to come in or stay for an interview you may leave it at or mail it to our agency.  

 Applications are available at our office anytime during regular office hours which are 8:00 am-5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, or you can request that an application be mailed to you by calling (910) 455-4145. 

To better serve you, we have extended our hours of operation for applications and recertifications to 7:00 am-6:00 pm, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. 

Confidentiality

All information that you provide is confidential.  Information will only be given to persons directly connected with administering the programs for which you apply.  

Eligibility

To be eligible for assistance, applicants must meet certain general requirements.  For most programs you must:   

• Live in North Carolina  
• Apply in the county where you live  
• Be a U.S. Citizen or meet certain requirements if you are an immigrant  
• Meet the specific requirements of each program for which you are applying   

Before we can determine whether you are eligible, most of the information that you give us must be verified.  Eligibility will be based on your income, resources, and for some programs, certain household expenses.  You will be notified in writing as soon as a decision about your application has been made.  

Required Verifications 

Each program has different verification requirements.  The most important things for you to bring to your first interview are:   

• Identification and Social Security Numbers for each person that you are applying for; and  
• Proof of any income that you have received in the month before the month you are applying in and proof of any income for the month of application   

The information that you give may be matched against Federal, State and Local records including the Employment Security Commission, Department of Motor Vehicles, and the Department of Corrections, to determine if it is accurate and truthful.  

Time Standards 

With some exceptions, action on applications and/ or reapplications must be taken within:   

• Thirty days of application for Food Stamps (seven days if the household qualifies for emergency services);  
• Forty-five days for WFFA; and  
• Up to 90 days for some Medicaid programs where disability must be established.  

Appeal

If you disagree with any decision of action concerning your application, you have the right to request a conference with the agency or file an appeal.  In most cases, if you file an appeal within 10 days of your advance notice to reduce or terminate your benefits, your benefits will continue until after your appeal has been heard and a decision has been made.   

To request a hearing for any program call our office at (910) 455-4145.