Indiana welfare offices reopen to foot traffic

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration has reopened Division of Family Resources offices in all 92 counties for Hoosiers preferring in-person service.

The offices had been closed to the public since March 20 in an effort to help limit the spread of the coronavirus.

FSSA had been processing applications for food and cash assistance and health coverage virtually and continues to strongly encourage Hoosiers to apply for benefits or check the status of their cases either online at www.fssabenefits.in.gov or by phone at 800-403-0864.

Division of Family Resources staff are required to wear face coverings and take other protective measures for themselves and the public. The agency is encouraging all visitors to wear masks while inside or around others. Face coverings will be required wherever local mandates are in place.

DFR offices are open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. local time.

Due to social distancing requirements and capacity limitations, FSSA says clients may be required to wait outside. Each office is currently equipped with a drop box, where any paperwork or documents can be left by applicants or clients without requiring them to enter a building.