Cash Assistance

​​SNAP and cash assistance annual reviews

SNAP and cash assistance programs are now requiring a yearly recertification form to be completed.  If your case is due for review, you will receive the forms in the mail.  For additional information about the recertification process, you can view Department of Human Services' notice on helping people navigate public assistance recertifications. 

Completed recertification forms and verifications can be submitted to Dakota County in the ways listed below. 

COVID-19 update

Due to COVID-19, walk-in assistance at the Northern Service Center lobby is limited, but some in-person services are available by appointment for those who have no other options to apply for public assistance benefits. For all other public assistance questions or needs, we are serving our customers over the phone, postal mail and online. Please contact your worker directly or call 651-554-5611 to reach our office as needed. 

Getting your forms

Forms are needed during the application, recertification and verification process.

Apply online

• Minnesota Department of Human Services ApplyMN website.
• Before applying, you can see if you are eligible for public assistance programs by using the Bridge to Benefits screening tool.
• Access applications, renewals and verification forms online at the Minnesota Department of Human Services eDocs website.  
• Combined Application Form  

By mail

• Request mailed forms by calling 651-554-5611 or 1-800-247-1056

In person

• Northern Service Center, 1 Mendota Road W., West St Paul, MN 55118
• Forms can be picked up between 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Submit forms

• By email to eeadocs@co.dakota.mn.us  or directly to your worker
• By fax at 651-554-5748
• By delivering to drop box at the front of the Northern Service Center, 1 Mendota Road W, West St. Paul, MN 55118
• By mail to Northern Service Center, 1 Mendota Road W, Suite 100, West St. Paul, MN 55118
  

Program eligibility

Cash assistance can be used for the basic needs of shelter, utilities and personal needs. The amount a family is eligible to receive is based on current income and basic needs. If you qualify, you may receive child care assistance.

Minnesota Family Investment Program/Diversionary Work Program
These programs are for low-income families with children as well as pregnant women. It includes both cash and food assistance. The programs' goal is to help overcome obstacles, so participants can find gainful employment. Find out more from the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

General Assistance/Minnesota Supplemental Aid
Cash programs for adults without children, including those that have a serious illness, disability or other issues that limit their ability to work.  Find out more from the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

Information you need to provide

In addition to the application form, you will be required to provide verification of identity, age, citizenship, residence, property, income and more.  A list of acceptable verification is available.

Accessing services

All benefits are entered on an EBT card. For assistance with a lost or stolen card, call EBT Customer Service at 1-800-997-2227.