Tips for Applying for Social Services

"Verification" means proving what you say is true. Find out what is needed for the service you are asking for. Agencies need copies of things for their file folder on you. It shows that they have checked out your story. They are only doing their job. For instance, you have to prove you are yourself, and that you are a resident of the US. They want proof of your address, and usually that you are eligible financially. (meaning you don't have much money)

Collect the documentation that is required and know where it all is.

For who you are, let's start with your birth certificate. That can prove that you were born in the US and are therefore, a citizen. If you don't have this, get a copy by going to the Health District at 109 Austin Drive - 360-337-5235. They often want a social security card. If you don't have a copy of this, apply for a new one by calling 800-772-1213. Their office in Bremerton is at 4040 Wheaton Way. Suite 105 or look it up on the web at http://www.ssa.gov

If you need a picture ID, you can take your birth certificate to the Department of Motor Vehicles, 4841 Auto Center Way, Suite 101 - 360-478-6975 and get an identity card. Sometimes your driver's license will work and you don't need a birth certificate (because they know that you needed the birth certificate to get the driver's license).

Proof of where you live can be as simple as a letter or bill addressed to you at home, just bring that. Proof of income, if required, can be a copy of your pay stub, or a letter from your employer.

In addition to copies of this stuff you'll probably have to fill out a scary application. Don't sweat it. Just do your best, leave blank what you don't understand, and ask for help completing it when you take it in. Just explain your situation to the intake worker and ask them what to put in the blank places. Don't turn it in til it's done, don't lie and keep a copy of the application for your own files!

Sometimes it takes a long time to get everything together, so be prepared for that. Fill up your survival bag and take a day off. Many agencies see people in the order they arrived, so get there early and leave yourself time to get through it. Stay calm.

• Use your best manners.
• Keep track of whom you have talked to.
• Keep your worker informed of changes.
• Always update your address/phone number etc.
• Provide additional information as requested.
• Keep your own copies of everything.
• Be persistent. Don't get discouraged and quit!
• Remember that the end result will be worth it!