N.C. Gen. Stat. § 108A-52
Any person who believes that he or another person is eligible to receive electronic food and nutrition benefits may apply for such assistance to the county department of social services in the county in which the applicant resides. The application shall be made in such form and shall contain such information as the Social Services Commission may require. Upon receipt of an application for electronic food and nutrition benefits, the county department of social services shall make a prompt evaluation or investigation of the facts alleged in the application in order to determine the applicant's eligibility for such assistance and to obtain such other information as the Department may require. Upon the completion of such investigation, the county department of social services shall, within a reasonable period of time, determine eligibility.
N.C. Gen. Stat. § 108A-52