There are two types of cash assistance available through Public Assistance.

If you qualify, OWF will help you get job training, find employment and receive some benefits as long as you are working toward independently supporting yourself and your family.

It is important to note that OWF cash benefits are limited to thirty-six (36) months in a lifetime and do not have to be consecutive. OWF is a temporary tool to help you become independent.

Ohio’s Disability Financial Assistance (DFA) program is designed to give some financial support to disabiled individuals with little or no income while they wais for disability income from (Social Security, SSI, Worker’s Compensation, etc...) to be approved. This program also comes with medicaid.

If you are approved for DFA, you can receive up to $115 per month and you will also receive a Medicaid card which covers all Medicaid approved medical services. You will be required to sign form Authorization for Reimbursement of Interim Assistance Initial Payment.

To be eligible for benefits, all OWF adults and minor heads of households are required to participate in a self-sufficiency agreement and work activity assignments. Self Sufficiency Contract (SSC) non-compliance could result in a sanction. Click the following link to learn more about work activities, participation requirements, and sanctions.

Could I be eligible?

To qualify for OWF, families must have at least one minor child or a pregnant woman must be in her 3rd trimester and meet income standards set by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

A minor child is an individual who has not attained the age of 18 or an individual who has not attained age 19 and is a full time student in secondary or vocational school.

The OWF Monthly Payment Standards are:

How do I apply?

Complete and submit an application in one of the following ways:

• In person at agency during regular business hours (M-F 8:00 am – 4:00 pm)
• Complete a phone application by calling 1-844-640-6446
• Fax to agency at 740-432-1952
• Mail to Guernsey County, 324 Highland Avenue, Cambridge, OH 43725
• Slip in drop box at the agency front door (24/7)
• Apply online through the State of Ohio – Online Benefit Application
• E-Mail the agency at [email protected].gov

What verifications are needed?

• Proof of citizenship, or alien registration card/I-9
• Social Security Card
• Birth Certificate
• Proof of all income (employment, child support, disability, unemployment, etc)
• Additional verifications may be requested or required

What happens after I submit my application?

• You or your Authorized Representative are required to have an interview. Applicants are seen Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm by appointment only.
• Special appointments can be arranged if you are unable to come during regular business hours.
• After your initial interview, an appointment to discuss your work activity assignment and self-sufficiency contract will be required.
• Eligibility determination is required within 30 days of application.

What changes do I need to report?

If you do not tell your GCJFS about a change, you may not get all the benefits you are entitled to receive OR you may receive more benefits than you should. If you get help you shouldn’t have received, you may have to pay it back.

Cash Assistance Payment Method

The EPPICard™ will be mailed to the current address we have listed in your case. Should you have any questions concerning your balance, or if you lost your card and need a replacement, please call: EPPICard™ Customer Service at 1-866-320-8822, 24 hours a day/7 days a week, or click here to access their website.