Home / Programs / SNAP

SNAP - Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

Formerly Known As: Food Stamps

Program Type: Federal Nutrition Assistance

Status: Ongoing

Administered By: State governments

Overview

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, helps low-income individuals and families buy nutritious food. Benefits are provided through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card that works like a debit card at authorized retailers.

Key Features

  • Monthly benefits loaded onto EBT card
  • Can be used to buy food at authorized grocery stores and retailers
  • Cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicines, or hot prepared foods
  • Benefits are based on household size, income, and expenses
  • Emergency benefits available in some situations

Eligibility

To be eligible for SNAP, you must meet:

  • Income Limits: Gross monthly income typically must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level
  • Asset Limits: Most households must have assets below certain limits (varies by state)
  • Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) must work or participate in work programs
  • Citizenship: U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens
  • Residency: Live in the state where applying

How to Apply

To apply for SNAP benefits:

  1. Contact your state's SNAP office (Department of Social Services or similar)
  2. Complete an application (available online, by phone, mail, or in person)
  3. Provide required documentation:
    • Proof of identity
    • Proof of income
    • Proof of expenses (rent, utilities, child care, etc.)
    • Social Security numbers for all household members
  4. Complete an interview (usually by phone)
  5. Receive decision within 30 days (or 7 days for emergency cases)

Benefit Amounts

Benefit amounts are calculated based on:

  • Household size
  • Monthly income
  • Deductible expenses (housing, child care, medical expenses for elderly/disabled)
  • Maximum benefit amounts are set annually by the USDA

Using SNAP Benefits

Benefits are provided via an EBT card:

  • Works like a debit card at authorized retailers
  • PIN required for transactions
  • Can check balance online or by phone
  • Benefits expire if not used within a certain period (varies by state)
  • Can be used at farmers markets in many areas

Emergency SNAP

Emergency SNAP benefits may be available if:

  • Your household has less than $150 in monthly income and less than $100 in liquid resources
  • Your rent/mortgage and utilities are more than your monthly income and liquid resources
  • Benefits can be issued within 7 days

Resources

Related Programs

Explore other related assistance programs: