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Lost unemployment, need to update DSS for more food stamps. Can't get through - help!

Hey everyone, I'm in a tough spot and could use some advice. I recently lost my unemployment benefits and now I have no income at all. I'm trying to get more food stamps to help make ends meet, but I can't seem to get through to anyone at DSS. Has anyone been in a similar situation? What's the best way to update my case and get the help I need?

Fiona Sand

I've been there, it's rough. Here's what you need to do: 1. Call DSS first thing in the morning, like right when they open. Less wait time. 2. Have all your docs ready - proof of no income, last unemployment payment date, etc. 3. Be clear and concise about your situation. 4. Ask specifically for an 'income status update' and 'food stamp reassessment'. 5. Get the name of who you talk to and a case number for follow-up. 6. If they say they'll call back, ask for a timeframe and call them if they don't. Stay persistent! The system's a maze, but you'll get through it. Good luck!

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Mohammad Khaled

This is solid advice 💯 I'd add: write down everything they tell you. It's easy to forget details when ur stressed

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Alina Rosenthal

facts. and dont be afraid to ask them to repeat stuff or explain things. its your right to understand whats goin on with YOUR case

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Ellie Kim

Thanks so much for this! I'll definitely try calling first thing tomorrow. Fingers crossed 🤞

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Finnegan Gunn

ugh the DSS phone lines are the WORST. i swear they make it hard on purpose 🙄

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Miguel Harvey

fr fr its like they dont want us to get help smh

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Ashley Simian

Guys, let's not assume malice. The system's overloaded, especially since COVID. It sucks, but they're probably doing their best.

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Finnegan Gunn

@profile 6 found the DSS employee lol 🤡

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Oliver Cheng

I found a way to actually get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/I-LrYdFvoqA

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Taylor To

Sounds sketchy. Is this legit? Anyone else tried it?

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Oliver Cheng

Yeah, it's legit. I was skeptical too but it saved me hours of hold time. Worth every penny imo

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Ella Cofer

20 bucks? thats steep when ur already struggling 😬

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Oliver Cheng

@profile 9 I get that, but think about how much time you waste on hold. For me, it was worth it to actually talk to someone

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Kevin Bell

have you tried going to the office in person? sometimes thats faster than calling

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Savannah Glover

This happened to me last year. It took forever but I finally got my benefits increased. Don't give up!

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Ellie Kim

How long did it take you? I'm worried about making rent next month 😰

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Savannah Glover

It took about 3 weeks from when I first called to when I saw the increase. Hang in there!

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Felix Grigori

pro tip: if u cant get thru on the main line, try calling ur local county office directly. google '[your county] DSS office' for the #

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Felicity Bud

This! 👆 Local offices are usually way more helpful and less crowded

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