County Integrates NYS Mobile Application
to Allow DCFS Clients to Scan Documents
New app streamlines the submission of documents during COVID-19 pandemic
Poughkeepsie, NY… Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro has announced the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services (DCFS) clients, such as those who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Home Emergency Assistance Program (HEAP) and Medicaid, can now access New York State’s mobile application, NYDocSubmit, to quickly and simply scan required documents, and submit that documentation to DCFS staff from the safety of their home during the current Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
The NYDocSubmit app, available for free download via the Apple App Store and Google Play, allows DCFS clients to utilize their iPhone or Android phone to take a photo of their document, enter their identifying information and securely upload the documentation to the County. More information is available on the DCFS website.
During the pandemic, every Dutchess County Government department, including DCFS, continue to serve residents, primarily through phone and email contact to adhere to federal social distancing guidelines. Use of the NYDocSubmit app is another option for DCFS clients to comply with such related pandemic-related protocols.
County Executive Molinaro said, “Though Coronavirus/COVID-19 first touched our community more than a month ago, Dutchess County Government remains open for business. While we may have limited our in-person interactions with residents, the vital services, including those provided by our Department of Community and Family Services, are still being fulfilled at the high level residents come to expect from us. The addition of the NYDocSubmit app is another great tool for Dutchess County residents to easily submit their documents to DCFS and facilitate the benefit process. I urge all DCFS clients to utilize the new app, as Dutchess County Government remains ready to serve.”
A NY.gov ID is required to use the NYDocSubmit app. Residents who do not have a NY.gov ID can create one my.ny.gov, which can also be used to request help to reset a password.
In addition to the aforementioned programs administered by DCFS, residents can also use the NYDocSubmit app to send pictures of documents for proof of:
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Age/Identity;
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Citizenship or Current Alien Status;
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Income;
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Medical Documentation;
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Household members;
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Residence;
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Resources;
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Shelter/Utility Expenses; and Social Security Number (SSN) or proof application for a SSN.
Residents can also use the NYDocSubmit app to submit documents related to a change in their household circumstances that must report to DCFS. Documents containing sensitive information, such as HIV status, domestic violence information or confidential addresses, should be submitted to DCFS via postal mail or fax. Residents will receive a confirmation page will appear in the NYDocSubmit app if the picture of their document was uploaded successfully; this confirmation page will include the name for whom the document was submitted, the document category selected, the date and time of the upload and a tracking number.
Initial applications or recertification applications for any benefits program or to submit a periodic report cannot be submitted through the NYDocSubmit app. Residents must visit myBenefits.ny.gov to apply online for SNAP and HEAP, or to check if they are able to get help from multiple human services programs; they can also contact DCFS directly at DCFSinfo@dutchessny.gov for information on filing an application for TA, SNAP, HEAP or Medicaid. Residents can upload pictures of documents for other household members, as well as individuals living outside their household.
Clients in receipt of SNAP, whose employment has been affected – either because they are currently unemployed or are experiencing a decrease in hours worked due to the pandemic – should report these to changes to DCFS as soon as possible as it may affect their SNAP benefit amount.
The NYDocSubmit app is not monitored for emergencies, and residents must call DCFS at (845) 486-3000 to request help with an emergency situation.
