NEWS RELEASE
‘MyDSS’ App Latest Improvement in Connecticut’s Digital Government Drive
Web-based App Helps Public Connect with Department of Social Services 24/7 on Any Device
(HARTFORD, CT) —As part of state government’s efforts to make services more accessible to the public, the Department of Social Services (DSS) has launched a new app designed for families and individuals eligible for the agency’s vital food, healthcare and other safety-net services.
Called ‘MyDSS,’ the app is accessible through mobile phones, laptops and tablets by visiting www.mydss.ct.gov. It lets DSS clients check on eligibility status and monthly benefit amounts, view notices, report changes and handle other transactions directly from their mobile devices.
“The MyDSS app gives Connecticut residents quick and convenient access to their DSS benefit accounts, and a lot more,” Commissioner Deidre S. Gifford said. “Simply put, this technology links consumers to important information they need in real time. It also allows document verification and many other key steps to be completed right from a smartphone or other screen, without having to visit or call the agency.”
With MyDSS, clients can:
- Create or access a DSS online benefit account (‘MyAccount’);
- Check benefit status/details;
- View/download notices and proof-of-benefits letter;
- Upload proofs including pictures of documents;
- Manage account details including email, password and security questions;
- Update personal details including address, income and household members; and
- Request a fair hearing.
In addition, clients will soon be able to use MyDSS to renew benefits, check electronic benefit transfer (EBT) balances and access other services.
MyDSS is easy to navigate across devices with multiple self-service options, and is designed to work with existing DSS online MyAccounts. Clients will find there is less need to spend time on the phone with the DSS Benefits Center, and less need for in-person trips to a DSS office to get information about their benefits.
“We understand that not all DSS clients have smartphones and computers but, for the great number who do, immediate access to benefit accounts can be right at your fingertips, any time of day or night,” Commissioner Gifford said. “We encourage clients and their authorized representatives to check out MyDSS and get it for their phone, laptop or tablet.”
DSS clients can visit www.mydss.ct.gov to open a MyDSS app account; save the app to a mobile device (for example, by clicking on the ‘Add to home screen’ option on a smartphone); and to learn more about how MyDSS works.
General online access to DSS, including service application and renewal options, is available through the agency’s ‘ConneCT’ portal at www.connect.ct.gov.
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For immediate release: February 3, 2022
Media contact:
David.dearborn@ct.gov, Department of Social Services