How to apply for Department of Social Services resource centers — New Haven

Who it's for

The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) handles applications for programs such as SNAP food help and HUSKY Health (Medicaid). DSS resource centers in New Haven County are in New Haven (50 Humphrey Street) and Waterbury (249 Thomaston Avenue). At a resource center you can have an eligibility interview, pick up or fill out applications and forms, get general information, and pick up mail, EBT cards and income verifications. Resource centers are open Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To make an appointment for an in-person interview, call the DSS Benefits Center at 1-855-626-6632 (Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). You can also apply for benefits, renew and upload documents any time online at www.connect.ct.gov. Documents can be left in the outside drop-boxes or mailed to the DSS Scanning Center, PO Box 1320, Manchester, CT 06045.

What you'll need

• Call the DSS Benefits Center to ask what to bring

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Department of Social Services resource centers — New Haven. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need call the DSS Benefits Center to ask what to bring — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

varies by program