What is the Food Stamp Program?

The Food Stamp Program, now known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), helps low-income individuals and families buy healthy food that they need.

If you qualify for food stamps, you will be given an Electronic Benefits Transfer Card (EBT) that you can use in participating establishments. The EBT card works like a debit card. The amount of benefits you’re given will be added to your account while you are in the program. If you have some benefit “cash” left at the end of the month, that amount will carry over to the following one.

The amount you receive, and how long you will be receiving it, will be based on your application.

Why do I need Food Stamps?

If your food budget is not enough for you and your family, food stamps can help you with the balance. Most groceries and farmers’ markets now accept food stamp EBT cards. You don’t need to worry too much about where you need to shop for food when using SNAP benefits.

Am I Qualified?

Specific requirements vary with each state. However, general eligibility guidelines are as follows:

•             You are a U.S. citizen or have a certain legal alien status

•             You are a legal resident of your state

•             You meet the income and resource limits for your state

For more info, contact your local SNAP office.  You can find their number from our directory here.

How do I qualify?

Although SNAP is a Federal government program, it is run by state or local agencies. You can apply in any of the local or social security offices near your area. Some state agencies have online applications.

Usually, each applicant must file an application form, attend an interview and provide proof about your submitted information, like those for household resources, income and SSS numbers of household members.

You should also remember these when filing for SNAP:

If you are employed, you must bring a letter from your employer stating your gross and net wages for the past month.

If you are unemployed, you must bring proof that you were terminated.

If you are a student, you must provide proof of education expenses and other proof of income (grants, loans etc.).

Where Do I Apply?

For more information on your local Food Stamp office or website, please search out directory here.