Financial Assistance Resources

Contact the Department of Public Welfare, Chester County Assistance Office

Location: 100 James Buchanan Drive, Thorndale

Phone: (610) 466-1000 or Toll Free (888) 814-4698

Fax: (610) 466-1130

What to bring: 

• Your child’s Social Security Card

• Medical Evaluation (must have five axis diagnoses)

• Make a copy of Social Security card and

• Medical Evaluation (for the County Assistance Office to keep)

You can also apply online using Compass - www.compass.state.pa.us

If you want to find out if you qualify for Pennsylvania health and human services, apply for new benefits, finish your application or check your status, you're in the right place.

By using COMPASS you can apply at any time during the day or night from home, a library or any location with Internet access.

COMPASS is an online application for Pennsylvanians to apply for many health and human service programs.

You do not have to be turned down first by Social Security to apply.

It may take 2-3 weeks to receive your ACCESS card. You will first receive an ELIGIBLE NOTICE paper then your ACCESS card will follow.