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Economic Support

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The Economic Support unit determines eligibility and maintains benefits for the following federal and state programs:
Health Insurance Marketplace/Affordable Care Act (Health Coverage and Medical Assistance)
Medicaid (Medical Assistance)
FoodShare (Food Stamp)
Kinship Care
Caretaker Supplement (C-Supp)
Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP)

Frequently Asked Questions

General information regarding benefits available through the Economic Support Unit can be located at: ww.dhs.wisconsin.gov/, www.access.wisconsin.gov or http://homeenergyplus.wi.gov.

  • How do I apply for benefits?

    Benefits can be applied for online at: www.access.wisconsin.gov or by calling or visiting the Marathon County Department of Social Services at 1000 Lake View Drive, Suite 400, Wausau, WI.  Phone: 888-445-1621.

  • How do I apply for energy assistance in Marathon County?

    An application for energy assistance can be completed at Energy Services, Inc.  The location and phone number for this agency can be found at http://esiwi.com. 

  • If eligible for FoodShare what type of benefit is received?

    FoodShare benefits are given to individuals in the form of a plastic “Wisconsin Quest” card. Each month the benefit amount you are eligible for is credited to your account and you my draw on the benefit to buy food items at participating food stores. The Quest card works like a bank debit card; the dollar amount of the FoodShare benefits are put into the account and each time you buy food items, the amount you spend is taken out of your account.

  • I'm on Medicaid. How do I find a doctor or dentist? How do I change my doctor or dentist?

    To find or change a doctor or dentist, you will need to contact your HMO. If you do not know how to get in touch with your HMO, call the Enrollment Specialist at 1-800-362-2002 (TTY and translation services are available) to get your HMO’s phone number.

    If you are not in an HMO and need help finding a doctor or dentist, call Recipient Services at 1-800-362-3002.

  • What can I buy with my FoodShare benefits?

    FoodShare benefits can only be used to buy food, plants and seeds to grow food. You will not be charged sales tax on items bought with FoodShare benefits. FoodShare benefits cannot be used to buy:

    • Any nonfood items, such as pet food, soaps, paper products, household supplies, grooming items, toothpaste, and cosmetics
    • Alcoholic beverages and tobacco
    • Vitamins and medicines
    • Any food that will be eaten in the store
    • Food that is hot when you buy it

  • What is Caretaker Supplement?

    Wisconsin’s Caretaker Supplement (CTS) is a cash benefit for parents who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Through CTS, parents receive $250 per month for the first eligible child and $150 per month for each additional eligible child.

  • Where do I apply for Child Care assistance?

    Child Care assistance can be applied for through Marathon County Social Services, 1000 Lake View Drive, Suite 400, Wausau, WI 54403, or call 888-445-1621.

  • Who is eligible for Medicaid benefits?

    Medicaid is available for families with minor children in the household, pregnant women, individuals over age 65, blind or permanently disabled persons who meet the Federal and State requirements for the program.