Navigating social services can be complex, especially when you need assistance in Washington State. The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) offers a wide range of programs and support for individuals and families. This guide provides key contact information to help you access the right resources quickly and efficiently. Most DSHS offices operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding weekends and holidays.
Applying for Assistance Programs
If you are looking to apply for or manage your benefits related to cash assistance, food assistance, Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) referrals, or Medicaid (specifically for individuals 65 and older, blind or disabled, receiving SSI, or Medicare eligible), there are several ways to get in touch.
For online applications and to manage your existing cases, the Washington Connection website is your primary resource:
This portal allows you to apply for various services, review your case details, report changes, and find answers to frequently asked questions.
For general inquiries about how to apply for services, you can visit the DSHS website for detailed instructions:
How to apply for services | DSHS (wa.gov)
If you prefer to speak with someone directly or need immediate assistance, you can call the following number:
(877) 501-2233
This helpline can guide you through the application process and answer questions about eligibility and program details.
Child Support Services
For all matters related to child support, whether you need to make payments, receive support, or establish a child support order, the Division of Child Support (DCS) is the relevant department.
You can find comprehensive information about child support services on the DCS website:
Division of Child Support | DSHS (wa.gov)
For specific inquiries or to contact the Division of Child Support directly, please visit their contact page:
Contact the Division of Child Support | DSHS (wa.gov)
You can also reach them by phone at the following toll-free number:
800-442-KIDS (5437)
This line is available to assist with any questions or concerns regarding child support in Washington State.
Employment Verification for DSHS Employees
For organizations or individuals needing to verify the employment of a DSHS employee, please use the following contact information:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (360) 725-5830
These details are specifically for employment verification purposes and should not be used for other inquiries.
Becoming a Paid Caregiver for a Family Member
If you are interested in becoming a paid caregiver for a family member through Washington State programs, Consumer Direct Care Network Washington is a key resource.
For initial inquiries and information, you can reach out via email:
Email: [email protected]
Detailed information about the process and requirements for becoming a paid caregiver is available on the DSHS website:
Becoming a Paid Caregiver | DSHS (wa.gov)
You can also explore career opportunities with Consumer Direct Care Network Washington through their careers page:
Careers – Consumer Direct Care Network Washington (consumerdirectwa.com)
For phone inquiries, please call:
(866) 214-9899
This number can provide assistance with understanding the steps to become a paid caregiver and answer any related questions.
Background Check Information
For questions related to background checks required for certain social service roles or programs, the Background Check Central Unit (BCCU) is the responsible department.
Information about the background check process can be found on the BCCU website:
Background Check Central Unit | DSHS (wa.gov)
To contact the BCCU directly, please use the details provided on their contact page:
Contact BCCU | DSHS (wa.gov)
Public Records Requests
To request public records from DSHS, you can submit your request electronically or via mail.
Email requests can be sent to: [email protected]
You can also find electronic forms and additional information on the DSHS website:
Electronic DSHS Forms | DSHS (wa.gov)
For mail correspondence, please use the following address:
DSHS Public Records Office
Office of Information Governance
P.O. Box 45131 Olympia, WA 98504-5131
For phone inquiries regarding public records requests, you can call:
(360) 902-8484
Language Testing, Interpreter Services, and Medical Interpretation
For inquiries related to language testing, interpreter certifications, credits, testing, or medical interpretation services within DSHS, please contact:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (360) 890-0672
This department handles language access services to ensure DSHS services are accessible to everyone.
Reporting a Lost or Stolen Quest/EBT Card
If you need to report a lost or stolen Quest or Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, you can use the cardholder portal:
Cardholder Portal (fisglobal.com)
For EBT issuance related queries during business hours (9:00am-4:00pm, Monday through Friday), please call:
(888) 328-9271
Reporting Privacy Violations (HIPAA or other information)
To report a privacy violation, including HIPAA breaches or other information privacy concerns within DSHS, you can contact the Privacy Office.
For more information about privacy practices at DSHS, visit:
Privacy | DSHS (wa.gov)
You can report violations via email to: [email protected]
Or by mail to:
DSHS Privacy Officer
PO Box 45135
Olympia, WA 98504-5135
Reporting Patient Abuse or Neglect at Western State Hospital
To report suspected patient abuse or neglect specifically at Western State Hospital, please call:
(253) 671-7599
This dedicated line ensures immediate attention to patient safety and well-being at this facility.
Reporting Suspected Abuse of an Elderly or Vulnerable Adult
To report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of elderly or vulnerable adults, the Adult Protective Services (APS) Central Intake is the point of contact.
Email reports can be sent to: [email protected]
You can also report concerns online through the DSHS website:
Report Concerns Involving Vulnerable Adults Website
For phone reporting, please call the toll-free number:
(877) 734-6277
Filing a Civil Rights Complaint
To file or report a civil rights complaint related to DSHS services, you have several options.
Phone: 800-737-0617 Option 5 or (360-902-7998)
Fax: 360-902-7540
Email: [email protected]
For complaints or questions not covered above, you can use the online Customer Complaint Form:
Online Customer Complaint Form
Written correspondence can also be sent to:
Community Relations team
PO Box 45131 Olympia, WA
Washington Relay Service for TTY/TDD users
Individuals who use TTY or TDD devices can access all DSHS services through the Washington Relay Service by dialing:
1-800-833-6384
This service ensures that DSHS services are accessible to individuals with hearing or speech disabilities.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive starting point for accessing Washington Social Services. For more detailed information about specific programs and services, please visit the official Washington State Department of Social and Health Services website.
