NCDHHS Alerts

NCDHHS Alerts are text and email messages that can be sent to Food and Nutrition Services applicants/recipients (FNS) and Medicaid applicants/beneficiaries. The messages allow the NC Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) to share important information in English or Spanish.

This provides NCDHHS another way to communicate and make individuals aware of helpful information and programs that are available to them. FNS recipients and Medicaid beneficiaries may opt in to receive these alerts beginning Feb. 24, 2020 and may opt out at any time.

Types of Messaging  
NCDHHS Alerts are informational only, will not contain personal confidential information and are separate from client benefit notices received from your county Division of Social Services (DSS). Messages will not include any information regarding eligibility or an individual’s case.

Types of messages people will receive include wellness alerts, such as flu shot reminders; shelter openings and locations during disasters; promotion of energy assistance programs; and other helpful information. Standard message and data rates apply.

Opting In
Individuals can opt in for NCDHHS Alerts while completing an application for benefits on ePASS, through their “linked” ePass Account Profile page, or by asking their caseworker to sign them up during any regular visit to their county DSS office. When opting in, people should select a preferred method of communication – text message or email.

Linking an ePASS Account    
Only people with a linked ePASS account can opt in for NCDHHS Alerts on their ePASS Account Profile page. To create a linked account, people must complete the Remote Identity Proofing (RIDP) process from their Account Home page to verify their identity. Once the RIDP process is completed, the individual will see an option to opt in for NCDHHS Alerts. 

Updating Preferred Method of Communication    
NCDHHS Alerts contact preferences can be updated through a person’s linked ePASS Account Profile page or by asking a caseworker during any regular visit to their county DSS office. Making updates to your preferred communications method for NCDHHS Alerts is separate from updating contact information for your benefit notices.

Opting Out
Individuals can opt out from receiving NCDHHS Alerts through their linked ePASS Account Profile page, by talking to their caseworker during any regular visit to their county DSS office, or by replying STOP to any text message from NCDHHS.

Assistance
For additional information or support related to NCDHHS Alerts, contact the EBT Customer Service Center at 1-866-719-0141.