Form DSS-8227. Important Information You Need to Know
Form DSS-8227 provides important information and guidelines for individuals applying for various benefits and services from the North Carolina Division of Social Services. The form outlines essential details about citizenship, immigration status, and the requirement to provide social security numbers. It also explains exceptions, eligibility criteria, and considerations for immigrants and applicants facing special circumstances.
The primary purpose of Form DSS-8227 is to ensure that individuals applying for Medicaid, Health Choice, Food and Nutrition Services, and Work First benefits understand the requirements related to citizenship, immigration status, and social security numbers. The form informs applicants about eligibility criteria, exceptions for specific situations, and the impact of their immigration status on benefit eligibility. It aims to provide clear and accurate information to help applicants make informed decisions and complete their applications correctly.
Instructions:
1. Non-Discrimination Policy: The North Carolina Division of Social Services emphasizes its commitment to non-discrimination based on race, color, national origin, disability, sex, or age in programs, services, activities, and employment.
2. Language Assistance: If you require assistance understanding English, inform us. We will arrange for an interpreter or interpreter service, which is provided free of charge. This service ensures efficient communication during the application process, without delaying your application or benefits.
3. Citizenship and Immigration Status: Applicants seeking Medicaid, Health Choice, Food and Nutrition Services, or Work First benefits must provide information about their citizenship and immigration status.
4. Social Security Number Requirement: Applicants for the aforementioned benefits must also provide their social security numbers. If you lack a social security number, we can assist you in obtaining one. This will not result in application delays.
5. Privacy and Reporting: Social security numbers will not be used to report individuals to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
6. Eligibility for Other Family Members: In cases where an individual cannot provide required documentation for eligible immigration status or a valid social security number, they may be ineligible for benefits. However, other eligible household members can still receive benefits.
7. Battered Immigrants: Battered immigrants, including non-abusive parents of battered children, may be eligible for benefits with verification of their battered status from USCIS or the Executive Office of Immigration Review.
8. Emergency Medicaid: Applicants seeking only emergency Medicaid are exempt from providing social security numbers or citizenship/immigration status information.
9. Change in Immigration Status: Receiving Medicaid, Health Choice, Food and Nutrition Services, or Work First benefits generally does not affect the ability of immigrants to become Legal Permanent Residents. However, exceptions exist for long-term institutional care and specific benefits like Work First or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
10. Applicant/Recipient Acknowledgment: Applicants/recipients are required to sign the form, indicating their understanding of its contents.
This form is designed to ensure that individuals applying for benefits from the North Carolina Division of Social Services are informed about the requirements and implications of citizenship, immigration status, and social security numbers. It aims to facilitate accurate and informed application submissions.