Income Security

PLS obtains and protects public benefits for people with low-incomes who live right here in Western North Carolina, including:

  • SNAP (Food Stamps) and WorkFirst denials, calculations, overpayments and sanctions
  • SSI and Social Security disability benefits, terminations, overpayments and garnishments
  • Medicare and Medicaid and other disability or health care benefits
  • VA benefits
  • Unemployment benefits
  • Childcare vouchers

 

Learn more about the Disability Access Program for those with serious disabilities.

Learn more about the SOAR Program, assisting people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with SSI and SSDI benefits.

Do You Need Help?

Apply online  for services or call PLS at (828) 253-0406 or toll-free at (800) 489-6144.

SNAP BENEFITS UPDATE
UPDATED NOV. 14, 2025
Full SNAP benefits are returning now that the federal government shutdown has ended.

North Carolina recipients will receive full November benefit payments on Friday, November 14. The bill that reopened the government will fully fund SNAP benefits through September 2026. View the NCDHHS webpage for the latest updates.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

  • SNAP recipients received full November benefits on Nov. 14
  • December benefits will be issued on their usual schedule
  • SNAP benefits will be fully funded through September 2026
  • Check your balance with the ebtEDGE app or call 1-888-622-7328

Need Help Getting Food:SNAP Update FlyerFind a food pantry close to you:
NC 211: Dial 2-1-1 | nc211.org
MANNA Food Bank: (828) 290-9749 | mannafoodbank.org

View our flyer for more information