How to Get Food Stamps in Your State
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Find out if you are eligible for SNAP benefits.
Find out if you are eligible for food stamps by using the SNAP Pre-Screening Eligibility Tool listed in the resources below. In most cases, low-income families, individuals, the elderly, disabled and homeless have food stamp eligibility. - 2
Apply online, in person, by mail or by fax.
Apply online, in person, by mail or by fax depending on the type of application process your state allows. Many states offer online applications - check out the "SNAP Online Applications Listed by State" in the resources below. If you don't have a computer or internet connection at home, you can visit your local library and use their computer instead.
If your state doesn't have an online application, locate the SNAP office in your area and request a paper application. State SNAP offices and hotline phone numbers can be found under "SNAP Office Locator" (interactive national map) and "SNAP Hotlines Listed by State" (phone numbers list by state) in the resources below. When applying in person, be sure to bring a few snacks and a drink - you may be there for several hours filling out forms and waiting for an interview. Some SNAP offices allow you to fax your application in when it's completed, so be sure to check with a SNAP office representative for application submission options. - 3). Since SNAP is a federal program run by state and local agencies, keep in mind that the application process and documentation requirements may vary in each state. If you need food stamps for your entire family, you also have the option to apply for SNAP benefits at your local Social Security Office (assuming that is more convenient for you). If you are unable to apply in person, you can appoint someone to apply and interview for SNAP benefits on your behalf.
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Be prepared to present proof of identity and other documents.
Submit your application and wait for a SNAP representative to schedule an interview for you. You will find out during your interview if you are eligible for the SNAP food stamp program. The SNAP representative may ask you to bring specific documents for your interview. Be prepared to present any of the following items: driver's license, birth certificate, social security card, proof of income, proof of residency, childcare expenses, housing expenses, utility bills, medical bills (if over age 60), alien registration card, unemployment records, pension statements, alimony statements, income tax returns, rental income, bank records, stock and bond certificates, trust fund agreements, passport, etc. (this is not an exhaustive list). - 5
Let the SNAP office know if you need food stamps immediately.
If you need food stamps immediately, inform the SNAP office about your situation. If you qualify, you can receive emergency food stamps within a week. Otherwise you will receive food stamp benefits within 30 days. - 6
Don't expect to receive a fortune in food stamps.
Don't expect to receive a fortune in food stamps every month. In 2009, the allotment payout ranged from $200 for one person to $1,200 for a family of eight. Check out the "How Much Money Will I Receive?" link in the resources below for the most up to date food stamp allotment listings per family member. - 7). If your application is approved and you receive a SNAP EBT card, be sure to protect the card and your four digit pin number! Using a SNAP EBT card is like using a bank debit card - anyone can use it if they have the pin number. It's hard to replace lost or stolen EBT cards, so if you lose or misplace the card, you and your family will go without the extra money until it's replaced.
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Discontinue using SNAP when you get back on your feet financially.
Once you get back on your feet financially, discontinue using the SNAP food stamp program. When you no longer need the money, leave it in the system for someone else who does.
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