How Do I Apply?
NOTE: Glossary words are highlighted. Click on any glossary word to see its definition.
To get more information on GA, you should call or visit your local Income Support Division (ISD) office:
· Income Support Division (ISD)
ISD Office Locations
This listing includes the address, phone number, and office hours of your local ISD office, as well as a map.
Telephone: 1-888-473-3676
To apply for GA, you need the following documentation:
· Proof of household income;
· A photo ID for the person filing the application;
· A SSN for all household members, and
· One of the following from the past 12 months:
o Highest gas or electric bill for 30 day's of service,
o Account history printout from a propane company, or receipts for two propane fills with the fewest days in between,
o A receipt for a wood purchase, OR
o A disconnect notice, if you have received one, or the cost of starting utility service at your home.
NOTE: There is one cash assistance application form for GA, TANF, LIHEAP, and Medicaid. You may need other documents as well. Your caseworker will give you a list of the proofs you need. If you do not have everything, you can sometimes sign a statement as proof.
Yes. Your caseworker at ISD will schedule an interview within 10 days of receiving your application. The interview usually takes place at the ISD office, but it can also be a home visit or take place somewhere that is convenient to both you and your caseworker.
The interview is confidential.
At the interview, your ISD caseworker will tell you more about the GA program and request some of your history that led you to apply for GA. Your caseworker will also make sure you have all of the information you need about GA, including your responsibilities, payment procedures, and other policies.
An ISD worker can help you fill out your application.
NOTE: Make sure you sign your application the first time you go to the ISD office even if there is no one available to help you that day. Your benefits will begin from the day you sign your application. Put as much information as you can on the application, sign it and leave it at the information desk. (The ISD must take your application that day.)
If you cannot get all the documents you need, you should still go to your appointment. You can get an extension if you need more time to get your documents together. You can also sign a form giving ISD permission to contact someone else for proof. If the ISD finds you eligible to get GA benefits, you will get benefits back to the date you signed your application, even if you needed extra time to bring in your documents.
If you cannot go to the ISD office, someone else can go for you. However, you must sign a note giving that person permission to do so.
The ISD will not usually take information for your GA application by telephone. You can mail or fax your application to ISD.
If you do not speak English, you may bring a friend or relative to translate for you.
ISD will decide if you are eligible within 60 days from the date you apply. At this time you will receive an EBT card of benefits if you are eligible, or a letter saying you are not eligible. If you are denied benefits, you may appeal.
ISD will generally review your case every six months. However, they can review your case any time they choose. If there is any change in your eligibility, ISD will send you a notice before stopping or reducing your benefits. If you do not agree with ISD, you can ask for a fair hearing. As long as you request the hearing right away, your benefits will continue until your case is heard.
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