District residents who received a notice to complete the recertification or mid-certification process for food and cash benefits are encouraged to do so as soon as possible.

How To Recertify Public Benefits

You may complete the recertification and mid-certification process by downloading the District First mobile app or contacting the Call Center. 

• District First Mobile App
  Visit the Google Play or Apple App stores to download District First to your mobile device. District First provides the ability to apply and recertify public benefits for food, cash, and medical assistance. To learn more about District First, click the image below to view a helpful video or visit the District First information page here.  
• Call Center
  Contact DHS at (202) 727-5355 to check the status of your public benefits and if you are unsure if you should complete the recertification process. 

You may also complete the recertification process online using the DC Benefits Portal, visiting an open DHS Service Center (for recertification form pick up and drop off only), or returning your form by mail to DHS at the following address:

Department of Human Services | Economic Security Administration
Case Record Management Unit
P.O. Box 91560
Washington, DC 20090

DHS Service Centers Open in the District

• Taylor Street located at 1207 Taylor Street NW
• H Street located at 645 H Street NE
• Congress Heights located at 4049 South Capitol Street SW

The Anacostia Service Center and Fort Davis Service Center are temporarily closed to help enforce social distancing and mitigate the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

District First Information Video

Click the image below to view the video.