If you call DTA
When calling the DTA Assistance Line, DTA has a recording with the prompts you can push to get information in your language. The Assistance Line is recorded in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Haitian Creole. It has a separate prompt (#7) to push for other languages.
If you select a language other than English, then:
- You should be connected to a bilingual DTA worker, or
- The DTA worker should do a three-way call with you, and a free interpreter on a language line interpreter service.
If you call the Senior Assistance Office at (833) 712-8027 if you are 60 or older, or get cash from DTA and call your cash worker, DTA must provide a free interpreter.
DTA cannot ask you to have a child, friend, or other person you know interpret. They must provide a free interpreter under federal law.
If you are at a DTA office
Tell the DTA person you talk to that you need an interpreter.
If they cannot understand you, they should show you a "How can we help you" board. This is a board that has many languages listed on it. If you see your language, point to it so DTA knows which language you need an interpreter to speak. If they still cannot understand you, they should use the "Language Line" over the phone to get help figuring out which language you need.