Apply for DHS Benefits

DHS is Processing Paper Applications and Forms

The RIBridges system the State uses to determine eligibility for health and human service programs is currently offline. At this time, DHS is processing paper applications and forms submitted through our regional offices, secure drop boxes, or by mail. See below for a list of downloadable paper forms DHS is currently collecting, including but not limited to:  

There are multiple ways to apply for RI Department of Human Services benefits and support, and you can apply for multiple programs simultaneously. More information on the rights and responsibilities of our customers can be found here. 

Customer Portal Tutorial

The Department of Human Services has a new video on how to navigate the application process on the Customer Portal (healthyrhode.ri.gov). View the full video below.

A graphic promoting DHS' Customer Portal and Mobile App
Resources to help you with the Customer Portal and links to download the mobile app can be found on our Tech Resources page. Click anywhere on the picture and it will take you there.

There are multiple ways to apply for RI Department of Human Services benefits and support, and you can apply for multiple programs simultaneously. More information on the rights and responsibilities of our customers can be found here. 

Our staff use a state-of-the-art eligibility system known as RIBridges to determine eligibility for our programs and Medicaid, which is administered by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. The web-based system is also used to get other affordable healthcare coverage options offered by HealthSource RI (HSRI). HSRI is available to answer health coverage questions Monday through Friday 8AM to 6PM through their contact center, 1-855-840-4774. The three state agencies designed RIBridges together.

The following are the ways to apply for DHS benefits and Medicaid.  

Apply Online

By going to HealthyRhode RI.

  • BEFORE APPLYING ONLINE, please view the HealthSourceRI Browsers table list for the most common internet browsers compatibility. Make sure your web/internet browser is up to date.
  • To apply for any of the available human service programs, select the 'HealthyRhode RI' link shown above.

Need help with using the HealthyRhode RI and the Customer Portal? How to guides can be found here. 

Apply by Mail

By filling out the Application for Assistance that is available below in English, Spanish and Portuguese. The application can be mailed to DHS or put in any of our secure drop boxes at all DHS offices and regional locations. 

Please mail the completed application to:

RI Department of Human Services 

P.O. Box 8709 

Cranston, RI 02920-8787 

Application for Health Coverage Only

Customers also have the option to fill out a paper application for health coverage only. Applications for health coverage can be downloaded below:

Protect Children Against COVID-19

A young girl wearing a mask gets vaccinated

The COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to keep our children safe. The long-term effects of a pediatric COVID case can be serious and last months. The most common side effect of the COVID vaccine, which provides lasting protection, is a sore arm. The best way to protect children against COVID-19, including the Delta variant, is to get them vaccinated.

Like other pediatric vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccine was thoroughly tested on children before being recommended. Finding a vaccine is easy and getting vaccinated is free. Parents will be able to find available vaccine sites, including school-based vaccination clinics, and FAQs at the Rhode Island Department of Health website. 

Apply in Person

Customers may submit an application in person by putting a paper application in any of our secure drop boxes located at all DHS regional offices. In addition to the availability of in-person services at regional offices, you may seek application assistance and support through outreach vendors.

A graphic reminding DHS customers to return requested documents.

Application Reminders

Fill out applications as honestly and completely as possible. Depending on the benefit(s) or program(s) you are applying for, additional documentation may be needed such as proof of identity, income, assets/resources and expenses. 

Click here to view the ways to apply for Long Term Services and Supports, and its Application for Assistance Cover Sheet.

Community-supported application assistance is available with our Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) vendors. Learn more here. 

Elderly and Simplified Application (ESAP)

Use this application for SNAP benefits if:

  • Everyone in the household is age 60 or older or disabled, and purchases and prepares food together and does not receive any earnings from work; OR
  • All household members age 60 or older or disabled, with no earnings from work, purchase and prepare food separately from other household members.

Additional information about ESAP is available here.