Washington State Department of Social and Health Services Home page

How to apply for services

You can get the application at your local Community Services Office (CSO) ,or you can call and ask that an application be sent to you.

You may complete an on-line application by using the WashingtonConnection.org web site.

On WashingtonConnection.org you can:

Do you need to print the application? A printable version of the application is available in English and several other languages.


Turn in your application.

You can get the application at your local Community Services Office (CSO) ,or you can call and ask that an application be sent to you.

You may complete an on-line application by clicking here. Use the on-line application to:

  • Start a new application.
  • Report a change.
  • Submit an eligibility review.

Do you need to print the application? A printable version of the application is available in English and several other languages.


Have an interview.

Some programs don't require an interview; others do. At the end of your interview you will be told whether or not additional information, or verification, is needed to make a decision on your case. If more information is needed, we will always request it in writing.


Submit requested information.

You can mail us requested information to our office. Please do not turn in original documents. If you bring items to our office, you can request a receipt.


When all information is received, we decide if you qualify for services.

We can serve you better if we get all the information we request in a timely manner. Please ask if you need help getting information. If we do not receive all the information, you may not get all the benefits you need. When a decision is made on your case you will get a decision in writing.


We Will Provide You Help

  • If you need an interpreter, we will provide you one quickly, at no cost to you.
  • If you need help filling out forms or other services, our office staff can help you.
  • If you are hearing impaired, all offices have TTY or Voice Relay service.


How to Apply For and Use Basic Food Benefits
DSHS Publication 22-297. A 16 page booklet in several Languages: