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Ask about it
Tell us more about what you need. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Programs in the District of Columbia
District of Columbia programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Department of Employment Services
Unemployment Compensation
Unemployment compensation provides temporary payments to eligible workers who lose work through no fault of their own.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Department of Employment Services
DC Paid Family Leave
Paid Family Leave provides eligible workers wage replacement during qualifying family, medical, or prenatal leave.
Ways to apply:Online
Department of Employment Services
Workers' Compensation
Workers' compensation provides benefits to employees with work-related injuries or illnesses.
Ways to apply:PaperIn person
Department on Disability Services
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Vocational rehabilitation helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, or keep a job.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhoneIn person
Department of Health
Vital Records
DC Vital Records maintains birth and death records and provides eligible people with certified copies.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Department of Motor Vehicles
Driver Licenses
DC DMV issues driver licenses to eligible District residents.
Ways to apply:OnlineIn person
Department of Motor Vehicles
Non-Driver Identification Cards
DC DMV issues identification cards to residents who need photo identification but do not drive.
Ways to apply:OnlineIn person
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal programs
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Social Security Administration
Replace a Social Security card
Get a free replacement Social Security card if yours was lost, stolen or damaged. Many people can ask online.
Request it online with a my Social Security account, or visit or call Social Security. It is always free.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Talk to a person
- Answers, Please
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988