Request Assistance (Ombudsman)
The DES Office of the Ombudsman can assist in resolving issues of concern when receiving or attempting to receive benefits and services from the Department. The Office of the Ombudsman is a confidential, independent, and impartial resource for members of the public when unexpected issues arise while interacting with the Department of Economic Security for human service needs.
Role of the Office of the Ombudsman
Advocacy
- Advocates for the process, not the customer
- Makes recommendations to improve the process
Inquiry
- Requests case information to assist in working towards a resolution to the problem within approved program guidelines
- Monitors responses to inquiries from programs to ensure everything is handled in a timely manner
Education
- Helps DES customers navigate through all DES program processes
- Refers customers to the appropriate programs for assistance
Contact
- Acknowledges all emails, letters, faxes or voice mails within 48 hours (Not including weekends and holidays)
- Attempts to eliminate the number of telephone calls and contacts consumers need to make in order to achieve resolution
- Contacts appropriate advocates to assist consumers with DES program issues
Programs Covered
ALL DES programs including, but not limited to:
- Nutrition Assistance (NA) formerly known as Food Stamps
- Medical Eligibility
- Unemployment (UI)
- Cash Assistance - Also known as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Child Care (CCA)
- Employment (JOBS/Maximus)
- Developmental Disabilities (DDD)
- Adult Protective Services (APS)
- Rehabilitation Services (RSA)