Toll-Free Hotline for Public Benefits Questions

December 3, 2004

A toll-free number is now open for anyone having problems getting food stamps, Medicaid, Old Age Pension, Colorado Works, Child Health Plan Plus or other public benefits because of the State's new computer system, CBMS.

The number to call in the Denver area is (303) 573-5669, ext. 308. From other parts of the state, call 1-866-480-CBMS (2276).

This phone number will reach the Colorado Center on Law and Policy, a non-profit organization that helps lower income individuals and families. Its mission is to provide critical advocacy that was formerly provided by federally-funded legal services programs.

The Center has filed a lawsuit to get the state to fix the new computer system, which is apparently holding up many benefits. The new system went into effect Sept. 1, 2004. Those being affected by the computer system are invited to call and tell their stories. Center staff may be able to help by providing referrals and other information.

Maureen S. Farrell, one of the attorneys at the Center, hopes that people will call as soon as possible to share their stories. "The hearing in the court case is the week of Dec. 6th and we need their stories to demonstrate the hardship and suffering they are experiencing because the system is not working as it should. Their stories, we hope, will ultimately help get the system fixed and fixed more quickly," she said.