Economic Services

Current UpdatesThe Rowan County Department of Social Services has created an e-mail address that all public assistance recipients can use to ask questions about their applications/cases. You do not need to know who the caseworker is in order to submit a question.

Please be aware that the email DSSEconomicServices@rowancountync.gov is NOT A SECURE EMAIL. Therefore the information sent to this address is not private.

If you wish to apply for public benefits, you can do so by:

  • going to the ePass website at https://epass.nc.gov/CitizenPortal/application or,
  • print an application from NCDHHS website or pick up a paper application at Rowan County DSS agency and return by mail
  • contact the agency to have an application mailed to you or,
  • complete a phone application for Medicaid benefits.

Please note that due to the COVID-19 restrictions, Rowan County DSS caseworkers, per guidance from NCDHHS, are not completing face-to-face applications or interviews. Please contact the agency at 704-216-8330 with any questions.

If you wish to send verification documents (such as income verification, rent, etc.), please fax the documents to the agency at 704-216-7937 or upload the documents to the secure portal by clicking here. This portal IS A SECURE UPLOAD.

Please note that documents received are pulled each work day to add to customer’s record.

Para recibir asistencia en español, llame al 704-216-8428 y deje un mensaje de voz. Alguien le devolverá la llamada lo antes posible.


Application for Benefits

Applications for Benefits can be made:
  • at your local DSS office
  • online at the ePass portal
  • by mail phone, or by fax with a printed application. 
Phone requests for printed applications can be made by calling 704-216-8330. The date of the application is based on when the local DSS agency receives the document in the agency. Applications must be signed by the applicant and it is important to list as much information on the application as possible. Applicants are welcome to send any verification with the application regarding eligibility requirements.

NC Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) set policies and guidelines for the following programs administered through the local Department of Social Services. For more information, please visit NCDHHS’ website.

Notice of Your Rights Under Hawkins v. Cohen

This notice contains important information regarding beneficiary rights as a result of a federal lawsuit filed in 2017, on behalf of Medicaid beneficiaries in North Carolina.  Download Notice in English (PDF) or Descarga la Noticia en Espanol (PDF).

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