Camden County Board of Social Services: The Complete Guide (2025)

Camden County Board of Social Services: The Complete 2025 Guide

If you are reading this, chances are you are standing at a crossroads. Maybe you are sitting in your car in a parking lot on Federal Street, staring at the brick facade of the office, or maybe you are at your kitchen table at 11 PM with three different colored notices spread out before you. First, take a deep breath. Navigating the Camden County Board of Social Services isn't just about paperwork; it is about securing your peace of mind. To help you move quickly, here is the essential breakdown for 2025.

Quick Answer: Navigating Camden County Social Services

Digital-First Shift: Most renewals and new applications are now prioritized through the NJ OneApp portal to reduce physical wait times at the Market Street or Almonesson offices.
The Power of Three: Approval hinges on three pillars: verifiable Camden County residency, current gross income documentation for all household members, and valid social security numbers for every applicant.
* Renewal Warning: Benefits do not 'roll over' indefinitely; if you miss your redetermination window (usually sent 45 days before expiration), your NJ Families First card will be deactivated immediately without a grace period.

This guide is designed to be your bureaucracy whisperer. We are going to strip away the confusing legal jargon and give you the exact roadmap you need to get your SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF benefits approved without the typical headache.

Direct Directory: Department Contacts and Locations

Before you head out the door, you need to know where you are going and who to call. The system can feel like a maze, but having the direct line to the right department can save you three hours of being on hold. Below is the directory for the Camden County Board of Social Services departments. I recommend calling between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM for the shortest wait times.

If you are visiting in person, remember that the Market Street location is the primary hub. However, many specialized services like the Almonesson satellite office may have different hours. Always check the official Camden County NJ Social Services site before making a long trip.

The Master Application Checklist: Don't Leave Without These

The number one reason applications are denied isn't because you don't qualify—it is because a single document was missing or blurry. Treat this checklist like your golden ticket. You want to walk into that interview (or upload to the portal) with zero gaps in your story. Bureaucracy doesn't care about 'almost'; it only cares about 'verified.'

Proof of Identity: A valid NJ Driver’s License, Passport, or Birth Certificate for every person in the household.
Social Security Cards: Original cards for everyone applying for benefits.
Proof of Residency: A current lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a utility bill (electric/water) in your name dated within the last 30 days.
Income Verification: Last 4 consecutive pay stubs. If you are self-employed, bring your most recent tax return.
Unearned Income Proof: Letter from Social Security (SSI/SSD), Unemployment (UIB) statements, or Child Support order printouts.
Resource Documentation: Recent bank statements (checking and savings) and information on any vehicles you own.
Housing Costs: Your most recent rent receipt or tax bill, plus your latest heating/cooling bill (to maximize SNAP utility allowances).
Medical Expenses: If you are over 60 or disabled, bring receipts for out-of-pocket medical costs to help lower your countable income.
Child Care Costs: Records of what you pay for care while you work or attend school.
School Attendance: For children over 16, a letter from the school verifying they are still enrolled full-time.

Having these ready in a single folder—whether physical or a digital PDF—changes the vibe of your interview from 'stressful' to 'professional.' You are showing the caseworker that you are organized and ready for a win.

The Psychology of the Safety Net: Overcoming the 'Welfare' Stigma

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the 'shame' of the system. In my practice, I see so many high-functioning individuals feel a sense of failure when they have to walk into the Camden County Board of Social Services. This is a psychological trap. You are not 'taking' from a system; you are utilizing a safety net that you, or your community, have paid into through taxes for this exact moment of transition.

When you feel that tightness in your chest at the window, recognize it as 'Systemic Anxiety.' It is the fear that a large, impersonal machine will reject your worth based on a missing pay stub. To combat this, focus on the 'Stability Win.' This is about securing the fuel (SNAP) and the protection (Medicaid) your family needs to move from survival mode back into growth mode. Validating your own needs is the first step toward self-advocacy.

Remember, the caseworker is often as overwhelmed as you are. They are processing hundreds of files. When you approach the desk with a calm, prepared demeanor, you aren't just a number—you are a partner in the process. This shift in mindset from 'supplicant' to 'applicant' is crucial for maintaining your dignity throughout the bureaucratic journey.

Managing Your NJ Families First Card Like a Pro

Once you get that approval, your NJ Families First card (EBT) becomes your most important financial tool. But if you don't know the rules, you might find yourself stuck at the grocery store checkout with a 'declined' message. Let's make sure that never happens. Navigating the card system is about staying two steps ahead of the calendar.

• The Balance Check: Never guess your balance. Download the 'ConnectEBT' app or call the number on the back of your card before you shop. In New Jersey, you can also check your balance via the NJ 211 resource hub.
• The Benefit Schedule: Benefits are deposited on the same day every month based on the last digit of your case number. Mark this on your calendar.
• Restricted Items: Remember, SNAP is for food only. You cannot use it for hot prepared meals (like the rotisserie chicken from the deli), alcohol, tobacco, or household items like toilet paper. If you need those, look into TANF (General Assistance) funds which are more flexible.

If your card is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the Camden County office. If someone spends your benefits because they have your PIN, the state rarely replaces those funds. Guard that PIN like it is your bank account—because it is.

Common Myths vs. The Hard Rules

There is a lot of 'parking lot talk' about what you can and can't do at the Board of Social Services. Most of it is wrong. Misinformation can lead to you missing out on benefits you are legally entitled to. Let’s clear the air with some hard facts versus common myths.

One major rule to remember: Mandatory Reporting. If your income goes up by more than a certain amount (usually the 'reporting threshold' listed on your approval letter), you must tell the office within 10 days. If you don't, you might have to pay back the benefits later—and nobody wants that debt.

WorkFirst NJ: Navigating Requirements and Self-Advocacy

For those participating in WorkFirst NJ, the goal isn't just a job; it is 'Self-Sufficiency.' This program often requires you to participate in work activities for a set number of hours each week. Psychologically, this can feel like a burden when you are already managing a household, but try to frame it as 'Paid Skill Acquisition.'

The Camden County Board of Social Services provides child care vouchers and transportation assistance to make these work requirements possible. If you find that your assigned work activity is causing a mental health crisis or is physically impossible due to a disability, you have the right to request an 'Exemption' or a 'Deferral.'

Advocating for yourself in the WorkFirst program requires a paper trail. Keep copies of every medical note, every job search log, and every communication with your case manager. If you feel you are being treated unfairly, you have the right to a Fair Hearing. This is a legal process where an impartial judge reviews your case. Never be afraid to ask for a 'Fair Hearing'—it is a standard part of the system designed to protect you from administrative errors.

Next Steps: Your Path to Stability

You’ve done the hard work of researching, and that alone is a huge win. Bureaucracy is a beast, but you are now equipped with the map and the shield to handle it. Whether you are applying for the first time or fighting a 'notice of adverse action,' remember that you are your own best advocate.

Take the checklist we made, put your documents in a clean folder, and go in there with the confidence of someone who knows exactly what they are entitled to. If the wait gets long or the phone lines are busy, don't let it break your spirit. This is just a season of transition, and it doesn't define where you are going. You've got this, and Bestie is always in your pocket if you need a quick reminder of how strong you really are.

FAQ

1. Where is the Camden County Board of Social Services located and what are their hours?

The Camden County Board of Social Services main office is located at 600 Market Street, Camden, NJ 08102. They are generally open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, but it is highly recommended to arrive early as the intake line can become quite long by mid-morning.

If you cannot make it to the main office, you may be able to handle your business at the Almonesson satellite office or via the NJ OneApp portal. Always call (856) 225-8800 before visiting to ensure the specific department you need is available for in-person consultations that day.

2. How do I apply for SNAP in Camden County?

You can apply for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) online through the NJ OneApp website, which is the fastest way to get your application into the system. Alternatively, you can visit the Market Street office in Camden to fill out a paper application or mail one in.

Once your application is submitted, you will be scheduled for an interview, which is currently often conducted over the phone. Make sure your phone is on and you are in a quiet place during your scheduled interview window, as missing this call can result in an immediate denial of benefits.

3. How to check my NJ Families First EBT card balance?

To check your NJ Families First EBT card balance, you should call the customer service number at 1-800-997-3333 or log into the ConnectEBT mobile app. This is the most reliable way to see your current funds for both SNAP and TANF benefits.

You can also check your balance at most ATM machines or at the customer service desk of authorized grocery stores. It is a good habit to check your balance before shopping to avoid any issues at the checkout counter.

4. Can I apply for Medicaid at the Camden County social services office?

Yes, you can apply for Medicaid, known in New Jersey as NJ FamilyCare, at the Camden County Board of Social Services office. They have a dedicated Medicaid unit that handles applications for families, children, pregnant women, and aged or disabled individuals.

While you can apply in person, many people find it easier to apply online at the NJ FamilyCare website. If you have a complicated medical situation or need long-term care assistance, speaking with a caseworker in person at the Market Street office may be more beneficial.

5. What is the Camden County Board of Social Services phone number?

The primary phone number for the Camden County Board of Social Services is (856) 225-8800. This is the main switchboard that can connect you to SNAP, TANF, and General Assistance departments.

Because call volumes are extremely high, expect to be on hold for a significant amount of time. If you have a specific case worker, try to get their direct extension during your first interview to bypass the main queue in the future.

6. What documents do I need for a social services interview in NJ?

For a social services interview in NJ, you must provide proof of identity, residency, and all household income. This includes things like your Social Security card, a recent utility bill, and your last four pay stubs.

If you are paying for child care or have high medical expenses (if elderly or disabled), bring proof of those as well, as they can often increase the amount of SNAP benefits you receive. A full list of required documents is available on the Camden County Social Services website.

7. What should I do if my benefits are denied or suddenly stopped?

If your benefits are denied or closed, you have the right to request a Fair Hearing within 90 days of the decision date. You can do this by following the instructions on the back of your denial notice or by calling the office directly.

A Fair Hearing allows you to present your case before an Administrative Law Judge. It is often helpful to seek legal advice from South Jersey Legal Services if you feel your benefits were terminated in error.

8. Does Camden County Social Services offer emergency housing assistance?

Emergency assistance is available for individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless and are already eligible for TANF or SSI. This can include help with back rent, security deposits, or temporary shelter stay.

To access these services, you must go to the 600 Market Street office and ask for the Housing or Emergency Assistance unit. You will need to provide proof of your emergency, such as an eviction notice or a letter from a shelter.

9. How do I get child care vouchers in Camden County?

Child care vouchers are managed through the Child Care Services unit of the Board. To qualify, you generally must be working or attending a state-approved training program and meet specific income guidelines.

Once approved, the state pays a portion of your child care costs directly to a licensed provider. You may be responsible for a 'co-pay' based on your income level. You can start this process by calling (856) 225-8289.

10. Can I keep my benefits if I move to a different town?

If you move within Camden County, you must report your new address to the Board within 10 days to ensure you continue receiving notices and that your utility allowance for SNAP is calculated correctly. If you move out of the county, you will need to close your case in Camden and re-apply in your new county of residence.

You can report a change of address by calling the main office, mailing in a change report form, or updating your information through the NJ OneApp portal.

References

camdencounty.com — Camden County NJ Social Services Official Site

nj211.org — NJ 211 Resource Hub - SNAP

findhelp.org — Camden County Board of Social Services - findhelp.org