FirstLink, North Dakota 211
Free help finding shelter, food, health care and more. Dial 211 or text your zip code to 898211. Open 24 hours.
Official page: myfirstlink.org
Find Help in North Dakota: Where to Start with 211, SNAP, Medicaid and ID
A simple first step guide for North Dakota: dial 211, apply for SNAP and Medicaid through the state Self Service Portal, get a state ID card, reach 988, and find free legal aid.
Need help tonight?
Start here
Hi friend. If things feel like too much right now, you don't have to figure it all out at once. Start with one call to 211, then take the next small step from this page.
Quick answers
What is 211 in North Dakota and how do I reach it?
FirstLink answers the 211 helpline in North Dakota. Dial 211, or text your zip code to 898211. The page says it is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and it is free and confidential.
Official page: myfirstlink.org
How do I apply for SNAP and Medicaid?
Apply online in the state Self Service Portal. You can also print the Application for Assistance and return it to your local human service zone office, or ask for an application by mail. The Customer Support Center can answer questions at 866 614 6005 or 701 328 1000.
Official page: hhs.nd.gov/applyforhelp
Can I get a North Dakota ID card if I don't have a home?
The state ID card has no fee if you are 18 or older. It costs $8 if you are under 18, or $8 to replace a lost card. You apply in person at a driver license site. A Relief Agency or Shelter Certification is accepted as proof of address. If you can't show the address documents, call 855 633 6835.
Official page: dot.nd.gov/driver/id-card-requirements
What if I'm in crisis or thinking about suicide?
Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. The state says 988 can also help with everyday stress like food needs and health coverage. If you use a TTY, call 711 or 800 366 6888.
Official page: hhs.nd.gov/crisis
Where can I get free legal help?
Legal Services of North Dakota helps low income and older North Dakotans for free. If you are under 60, call 800 634 5263. If you are 60 or older, call 866 621 9886. Phone hours are Monday to Thursday, 9 am to 3 pm Central. You can also apply online at lsnd.org.
Official page: lsnd.org
Your next steps
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Bunkly tip: write 211 and 988 on a piece of paper and keep it in your wallet or bag. If your phone dies or gets lost, you can still ask someone to dial for you.
Who to call in North Dakota
Here are official places to start. Other places may also help. Each place decides who it can serve, and hours change, so call ahead when you can.
Customer Support Center, North Dakota Health and Human Services
Questions about SNAP, Medicaid, energy help and child care help. Apply online in the Self Service Portal or on paper.
Official page: hhs.nd.gov/applyforhelp
Human Service Zones, North Dakota Health and Human Services
Find your county's office for SNAP, heating help, Medicaid and referrals. Search by county name.
Official page: hhs.nd.gov/service-locations/human-service/zones
North Dakota Department of Transportation
State ID card, no fee at age 18 and older. Call for guidance if you can't show the address documents.
Official page: dot.nd.gov/driver/id-card-requirements
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Free support by call, text or chat, any time.
Official page: hhs.nd.gov/crisis
Legal Services of North Dakota
Free civil legal help if you meet income rules and have a North Dakota legal issue. Under 60 call 800 634 5263.
Official page: lsnd.org
More help in North Dakota
Housing help in North Dakota (rent, eviction, utilities)Emergency Shelter Tonight in North Dakota: Fargo, Grand Forks, Bismarck and How to Get HelpNo cost Food Help in North Dakota: SNAP, WIC and Food BanksNo cost Clothing, Showers and Hygiene Help in North DakotaJobs and Job Training Help in North Dakota: Job Service, WIOA and Free CoursesHealth and Mental Health Help in North Dakota: Medicaid, 988 and ClinicsDomestic Violence Safety and Housing Help in North DakotaVeterans Help in North Dakota: Housing, Crisis Support and BenefitsYouth and Young Adults Help in North Dakota: Runaway, Housing and JobsGetting ID and Documents Back in North Dakota: State ID and Birth CertificateFree and Low Cost Phone and Internet Help in North Dakota: Lifeline and Text LinesFree Legal and Tenant Help in North Dakota: Eviction, Deposits and Legal AidHow to Make Blessing Bags in North Dakota: Food, Cold Weather and Heat Tips
Sources last checked Oct 28, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or housing. Each person chooses which options to use.