August 28, 2023
Sonja Dosti | Public Information Officer
PHONE: 559 | 600 - 1224EMAIL: sdosti@fresnocountyca.gov
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TRANSITIONS TO NEW STATEWIDE DATA SYSTEM
FRESNO, CA – The Fresno County Department of Social Services (DSS) is excited to announce the transition to a new statewide data system. Starting at 6:00 a.m. on September 4, 2023, Fresno County clients receiving services from DSS will have access to the statewide online portal, benefitscal.com.
This new portal will allow residents to apply for services, view their benefit amounts, and submit reports, documents, and/or renewals. Clients can also track their application status. To use BenefitsCal.com, clients will need to create a new account and follow the prompts to link their existing case to continue online access. The Department is available to assist with this if needed.
If residents are clients of the Department of Social Services, there will be no changes to their cases, case numbers, EBT, or BIC card(s).
If clients must submit documents or an application in the last few days of August, they are encouraged to provide these documents as soon as possible to avoid delays. If clients need to apply for benefits, the existing sites will be available, and they will be redirected to the appropriate application sites.
Because of the migration to the new site, the DSS lobbies and call center will experience adjusted hours of operation.
Lobby and Call Center business hours:
- Friday, September 1, 2023: DSS lobbies and the call center will be closed to the public.
- Monday, September 4, 2023: DSS lobbies and the call center will be closed in observance of Labor Day.
- Tuesday, September 5, 2023: DSS lobbies and the call center will have reduced hours from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
From September 5-8, DSS anticipates long wait times as the new system is implemented. We encourage the public to have patience during this time and utilize the online portal when possible.
At 5 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 31, MyBenefitsCalWIN.org and DSSPASS, will redirect anyone accessing these sites to either GetCalFresh.org for food benefits or HealthforCalifornia.com site for Medi-Cal benefits.
Applications are also available at the DSS local offices and can be found in the application bins located next to the front lobby doors.
For more detailed information on these changes, visit our informational website at: FresnoCountyCA.gov/BenefitsCalFresno.