Why Would DSS Call Me?#

Has your phone been ringing off the hook with calls from an unfamiliar number? Do you wonder why DSS is calling you? You're not alone. Many people receive calls from DSS and are unsure why. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons why DSS might be reaching out to you and what you should do if you receive a call.

1. Eligibility Verification for Government Assistance:

One common reason for a DSS call is to verify your eligibility for government assistance programs such as food stamps, Medicaid, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). If you have applied for any of these programs, DSS may contact you to gather additional information or verify the information you provided on your application.

What to Do:

• Answer the call and provide the requested information accurately.
• Be prepared to provide proof of income, assets, and household composition.
• If you have any questions about the verification process, ask the DSS representative for clarification.

2. Child Support Enforcement:

If you are involved in a child support case, DSS may call you to discuss your child support obligations. This could include issues such as establishing paternity, setting child support payments, or enforcing child support orders.

What to Do:

• Listen carefully to the information provided by the DSS representative.
• Provide any requested information or documentation.
• If you have any questions or concerns, ask the DSS representative for clarification.

3. Adult Protective Services:

DSS may reach out to you if they have received reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an elderly person or an adult with disabilities. They may call to gather information, investigate the situation, or provide assistance to the individual in need.

What to Do:

• Cooperate with the DSS investigation.
• Provide any information you have about the alleged abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
• If you are concerned about your own safety or the safety of another person, contact DSS immediately.

4. Foster Care and Adoption Services:

If you are interested in becoming a foster parent or adopting a child, DSS may contact you to discuss the process and requirements. They may also reach out to you if you have been approved as a foster parent or adoptive parent to provide updates on potential placements.

What to Do:

• Listen carefully to the information provided by the DSS representative.
• Ask any questions you have about the foster care or adoption process.
• Provide any requested information or documentation.

5. Other Reasons:

In addition to the reasons mentioned above, DSS may also contact you for a variety of other reasons, including:

• To provide information about community resources and services.
• To conduct research or surveys related to social services programs.
• To follow up on a previous interaction or service provided by DSS.

What to Do:

• Listen carefully to the information provided by the DSS representative.
• Ask any questions you have about the reason for the call.
• Provide any requested information or documentation.

Conclusion:

If you receive a call from DSS, don't panic. It's likely that they are reaching out for a valid reason. By understanding the potential reasons why DSS might be calling you and knowing what to do if you receive a call, you can ensure that you are prepared to handle the situation appropriately.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What should I do if I receive a call from DSS but I'm not sure if it's legitimate?

• You can verify the legitimacy of the call by calling the DSS office directly.

2. What information should I have ready when I call DSS?

• Be prepared to provide your name, address, phone number, and Social Security number. You may also need to provide proof of income, assets, and household composition.

3. What if I disagree with the decision made by DSS?

• You have the right to appeal the decision. Contact DSS to request an appeal form.

4. How can I contact DSS?

• You can find the contact information for your local DSS office on the DSS website.

5. What if I need assistance with a DSS program or service?

• You can contact your local DSS office to speak with a representative who can help you.