Starting Feb. 3, the Bureau Of Economic Security under the Department of Public Health and Social Services will require in-person appointments for public assistance benefits.

The mandatory interviews apply to programs like SNAP, Medicaid, the Medically Indigent program, and cash assistance, aiming to improve application processing times.

Renewal forms will be mailed out the week of Jan. 21 to those with benefits expiring at the end of February. Recipients must complete and bring the form to their scheduled interviews.

Officials warn that appointment slots are fully booked, and rescheduling missed appointments may be difficult. Beneficiaries are urged to check their mail and attend their appointments as required.