8111 Quincy Ave., Cleveland, OH 44104

M-F: 8:00am-4:30pm.

Clients may begin the application process, renew, and/or update their case information by calling the Eligibility Contact Center: M-F: 8:00am-1:00pm (due to high call volume, caller may be given the option to receive a call back - if they choose this option they should get a call within a few business days). May also apply, renew, and/or update case information through website anytime (client must have an email address to do this). Applications are also at available Neighborhood Family Service Centers (NFSC) M-F: 9:00am-4:00pm. They can be faxed, scanned and emailed, or dropped off via drop boxes at any NFSC. Applications and free faxing/scanning and emailing are available at branches of the Cleveland, Cuyahoga, and Shaker Heights Libraries during their normal hours of business. Agency can look up most supporting documents through an electronic records search - the client will be notified if they need to supply any extra supporting documents. Documents may be faxed to the agency or scanned via computer (documents should include the client's case number or social security number). If needed, documents can be submitted by mail. Interviews are required for new applications (they are currently not required for renewals). In most cases, any interviews can be done through the Eligibility Contact Center. If applying by phone, the interview may be done during the phone call; if applying via website or paper, the agency will schedule an over the phone interview (client will be given a day and time frame to call in). It will take approximately five business days for any faxed or scanned documents to be processed and added to the client's case file. Workers who have been laid off MUST apply for unemployment before applying for food benefits. Current clients may phone the Ohio Direction Card Customer Service Line 24 hours a day/7 days a week to report any issues or if they have any questions about their case. Starting March 28th, 2025: Clients using the online be

Free

Residents of Cuyahoga County, aged 18-49 years who are an Able Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD). Must have gross income at 130% or less of the Federal Poverty Limit (FPL). Income can go as high as 200% FPL while on the program (amount of benefit will taper off as the client's household income nears the 200% limit). Clients must work (paid or unpaid) or participate in an approved work program at least 20 hrs/week (average of 80 hrs/month). Client has three months in a 36 month period in which they do not have to fulfill work requirements, they do not have to be used consecutively, and reset after three years of the enrollment date. The following are exempt from work requirements: those who are pregnant; those receiving Ohio Works First (OWF), unemployment compensation, SSI or other temporary or permanent disability benefits issued by governmental or private sources; enrolled at least half-time in any recognized school, training program, or institution of higher education; those who care for an incapacitated person who they live with (this is not a complete list of exemptions). Owning a home and car will not affect eligibility. Anyone who thinks they may be eligible is encouraged to apply. Serves U.S. Citizens and most documented refugees and foreign nationals. Generally, does not serve undocumented aliens, but many exceptions based on the client's situation may be made (such as domestic violence or human trafficking). Clients are encouraged to apply regardless of their immigration status; information on immigration status will not be shared with enforcement agencies. For striking workers who fall into this ABAWD category, and who have work requirements, their pre-strike income will be used to determine their eligibility.

Cuyahoga County, Ohio