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1. How do I apply?

You may apply:

• Electronically: for cash/food/emergency/childcare assistance
• Electronically: for health care
• Fax: you can fax your completed application to Le Sueur County Department of Human Services (DHS) - Attention Financial Intake at 507-357-6122
• In person at our office at:
  88 S Park Avenue
  LeCenter, MN 56057
• Mail: call 507-357-8288 and ask our receptionist to mail you an application

2. Do I have to apply in person?

• Not necessarily, however, cash and food programs require an interview with an eligibility worker. We can do the interview in our office (face to face) or we can offer a phone interview when program rules allow.

3. How long will it take before I am approved?

• Cash and Food program eligibility is determined within 30 days
• Health care program eligibility is determined within 45 days

4. What date will my benefits start?

• Cash and Food programs are prorated from the date we receive your application (this becomes your actual application date). We encourage you to complete the forms in our lobby, or to drop off page 1 of your application as soon as possible to maximize your benefits.

5. How are benefits issued?

Cash and food benefits are deposited onto an electronic benefit transfer (EBT)card. Food funds can only be accessed when using your card to purchase food items at a grocer. Cash benefits can be accessed at any ATM or a vendor that is licensed to accept EBT cards.

6. Do you think someone may be collecting benefits fraudulently?

Access phone numbers and websites to call fraud hotlines.

7. What healthcare costs does Medical Assistance cover?

We determine eligibility for the programs.  To find out what is covered, please talk to your medical provider or call the number on the back of your Minnesota Health Care Card (1-800-938-3224).    

8. Do you use gross income or net income in determining program eligibility?

We use your gross income, which is the income before any taxes are taken out.    

9. When will my benefits be on my EBT Card?

Benefits are available on the same day every month, even on weekends or holidays. View a chart of benefit availability:             Cash / Food Benefits Chart

10. How do I get a new EBT card?

You can request an EBT card by calling EBT Customer Service at 1-888-997-2227.    

11. How do I find other program resources to help me in my community?

You can call 211, which is a United Way Information and Referral Service.  You can also try an online directory to locate resources in your community at MinnesotaHelp.Info.