Q: What are the hours you are open?

We are open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Q: Where are you located? 

102 Camp Drive, Pittsboro, NC 27312 

Q: What holidays are you closed? 

We follow the same holiday hours as the State of North Carolina. Click here. 

Q: Are Social Services and Social Security the same agency?

No. Social Services is a county agency administering income assistance, Medicaid and social work programs. Social Security is a federal agency administering disability, social security benefits and Medicare benefits. Social Security’s toll free number is 1-800-772-1213.

Q: Are Medicare and Medicaid the same program?

No. Medicare is a health insurance program for all citizens over age 65 without regard to income, which is handled through Social Security.  You may contact them at 1-800-772-1213. Medicaid is a health insurance program for low-income children and adults, which we administer locally. You may apply for Medicaid benefits at your local Social Services Office.

Q: How do I apply for benefits offered by Social Services?

Applications for benefit services are taken at all local county Social Services offices. To apply, please visit the local county DSS office where you currently live. 

Q: Do I need an appointment for Chatham County Social Services? 

You do not need an appointment to submit an application. Applications are accepted on a “first come, first served” basis. If you are already receiving benefits/services and would like to see your worker, it is best to call your worker first to make sure they will be available. 

Q: Can I make an appointment to complete an application?

Applications are taken on a “first come, first served” basis. If you need special arrangements, please call the agency at 919-542-2759 and ask to speak with the Intake worker for the benefit for which you wish to apply. 

Q: When is the best time to come in to apply? 

Applications for programs are taken on a “first come, first served” basis. The agency opens at 8:00 AM. It is usually best to arrive as early as possible. The agency accepts applications for most programs anytime but it is best to arrive by 4:00 PM  if possible to complete the application. The agency does not close for lunch, but there is sometimes a longer wait during lunch hours since fewer staff members are available to take applications. 

Q: Are interpreter services available? 

Free interpreter services are available for anyone who speaks little or no English. Come to the agency and arrangements will be made for free interpreter services. 

Q: Does Social Services help with locating or helping secure low-income with housing?

No, but other resources are available. For a complete resource guide on affordable housing, click here.  

Q: What documents do I need to bring when applying for benefits/services?

You do not have to bring any item with you to apply for most benefits. However, you will be asked to provide information to process your application. Some things you may be asked to provide include:

Food Assistance

• One form of identification
• Birth Certificates for all household members
• Social Security Numbers for all household members
• Verification of income of any kind
• Verification of rent or mortgage
• Verification of current utilities

Medicaid:  

• Recent medical expenses
• Proof of any income
• Bank statements and account numbers
• Life insurance policies
• Social Security Number
• Health insurance policies
• Proof of legal immigrant status
• Verification of pregnancyBirth Certificates for family members

Work First:  

• Birth Certificates for family members
• Social Security Numbers for family members
• Proof of any income
• Verifications of any assets such as bank accounts, insurance policies, property, etc.