SNAP 101: A Guide to Understanding Food Stamps
SNAP 101: A Guide to Understanding Food Stamps
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What is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly referred to as SNAP and formerly known as Food Stamps, is a federal initiative designed to help individuals and families with limited incomes afford nutritious food. Each month, participants receive benefits on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which functions like a debit card at authorized grocery stores and markets, allowing them to purchase eligible food items.
For more than 75 years, SNAP has been administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through its Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). While its core mission is to reduce food insecurity, the program also supports long-term well-being by offering resources like nutrition education and employment assistance. These services are designed to provide households with both immediate relief at the checkout line and tools to build healthier, more stable futures.
The “Big, Beautiful Bill” and Its Impact on Food Assistance
In 2025, a sweeping piece of legislation nicknamed the “Big, Beautiful Bill” was signed into law by President Donald Trump. The bill, which emphasizes tax reductions that primarily favor higher-income households, also brings significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
To offset the cost of these tax cuts, parts of the law reduce funding for food assistance. According to analysis from the Urban Institute, roughly 22.3 million households may see their SNAP benefits reduced—or lose them entirely. This shift could affect millions of children, older adults, and people with disabilities who currently rely on SNAP for essential grocery support.
Today, SNAP reaches more than 40 million people across the United States. As noted by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the program has long served as a lifeline for families striving to put healthy meals on the table. These new policy changes may alter how accessible that support is for many.
What’s Changing With SNAP: Work Requirements
As of mid-2025, stricter work rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are now in effect. Previously, adults without children could only receive benefits for a limited time unless they worked at least 20 hours per week or qualified for an exemption. The new law expands these requirements to cover groups that were once excluded, including:
- Adults between the ages of 55 and 64
- Parents with children aged 14 or older
- Veterans
While designed to encourage steady employment, these rules are already raising concerns. Reporting work hours incorrectly—or failing to meet the required threshold—could lead to reduced benefits, even for people who are employed.
Research from the Urban Institute suggests that about 3.5 million working families may lose at least $25 each month, with some losing as much as $108. For households already balancing tight budgets, those cuts can make a noticeable difference in the grocery aisle.
Tighter Oversight Means Some States Could Reduce Benefits
The latest changes to federal food assistance don’t only affect families — they also put states in a difficult position. For the first time, states with too many mistakes in how they manage SNAP could be required to pay part of the program’s expenses. Mistakes might include sending aid to someone who isn’t eligible or giving a household the wrong benefit amount.
The law sets the bar at a 6% error rate. Any state that goes over that level will now be on the hook for 5% to 15% of program costs. Federal data shows that in 2024, the national average error rate was above 10%, which means many states were already failing to meet the new standard before the rules even began.
Policy experts warn this change could push states to cut back on assistance, or in the worst cases, drop SNAP entirely. Even people who technically qualify could lose their benefits if they miss paperwork deadlines or have trouble recertifying. Families with children face added risks, since losing SNAP could also take away access to free or reduced school meals and summertime food support.
On top of this, eligibility has been narrowed to only U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, leaving fewer households able to apply for help.
How Families Can Navigate the New SNAP Rules
With the recent changes to SNAP, it’s easy to feel uncertain about how your benefits may be affected. Taking proactive steps can help you safeguard your access to food assistance and prevent unexpected interruptions. Here are some important actions to take:
1. Track Your Work Hours Carefully
If the updated work requirements apply to you, make sure you meet the 20-hour-per-week minimum. Keep your pay stubs or other proof in a safe place, and submit them promptly if your local office requests verification.
2. Learn Whether the Rules Apply to You
The new law extends work requirements to more people, including adults aged 55–64, parents of teens, and veterans. If you fall into one of these groups, contact your state’s SNAP office to see what documents you need to provide.
3. Stay on Top of Renewals
Even if you remain eligible, missing a renewal date or failing to send paperwork could stop your benefits. Mark important deadlines on a calendar and respond quickly to letters or notices from your caseworker.
4. Watch for State-Level Changes
Because states now face financial penalties for high error rates, some may tighten their programs. Pay attention to announcements from your local agency and follow local news to stay informed about potential changes that could impact your household.
5. Confirm Your Citizenship or Residency Status
Only U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents qualify under the new law. If you’re unsure about your status, reach out to your SNAP office or a local legal aid group for guidance.
6. Seek Help if You’re Struggling
If your benefits are reduced or delayed, community resources can step in. Food banks and nonprofits often provide emergency food support. Additionally, legal aid organizations may offer help for navigating the appeals process.
7. Stay Informed and Involved
Sign up for updates from your state agency or advocacy groups like the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP). Getting accurate information quickly can help you act in time, and being part of community discussions can also make your voice heard.
How SNAP Works
SNAP is managed by state governments, which means the process and program names may look slightly different depending on where you live. At its core, here’s how the program functions:
- Application process: A household representative applies through their state’s agency. The application asks for detailed information about income, expenses, and household size.
- Eligibility check: Each household is assigned a caseworker who will interview the household’s representative and review eligibility for benefits. Some states offer online pre-screening tools. You can also use the federal Benefit Finder questionnaire, which takes about 20–30 minutes to complete.
- Combined programs: In some states, SNAP applications are linked with other benefits (like Medicaid), though eligibility is determined separately.
- Approval and benefits: If approved, you’ll receive monthly funds. The amount depends mainly on your household’s income, qualifying expenses, and size. SNAP benefits are not considered taxable income.
Once enrolled:
- Using your benefits: Funds are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card.
- Where you can shop: Most grocery stores, farmers’ markets, co-ops, and some convenience stores accept EBT. Look for the “EBT” sign at checkout.
- State-to-state use: Although SNAP is administered at the state level, you can use your EBT card at qualified retailers in any U.S. state.
Because program details can differ, check your local SNAP office for the official program name, application process, and contact information. Check out the contact information section to learn more about how to contact your local office.
SNAP-Approved Foods
SNAP benefits cover most foods meant for people to eat at home. Beyond everyday groceries, some less obvious items—like bottled water or bags of ice—are also eligible. The main focus of SNAP is on staple foods, which form the core of a balanced diet. These fall into four main categories:
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Includes fresh, frozen, canned, or dried options.
- Examples: apples, applesauce, apple juice.
- Meat, Poultry, and Fish
- Covers different kinds of protein such as beef, chicken, or pork.
- Live animals are generally excluded, with rare exceptions for food consumption.
- Dairy Products
- Includes milk, cheese, yogurt, infant formula, and plant-based substitutes.
- Available in fresh, canned, dried, or powdered forms.
- Breads, Cereals, Pasta, and Rice
- Covers baked goods, grains, and packaged starches.
- Examples: bread, rolls, tortillas, pitas, pasta, rice.
SNAP makes it possible to purchase these items in grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and other retailers that accept EBT, giving households flexibility to choose foods that work for their needs.
Accessory Foods and Other SNAP-Eligible Items
In addition to staple foods, SNAP benefits also cover many accessory foods—items that are often eaten as snacks, desserts, or meal supplements. Package size doesn’t matter: a staple food (like an apple) stays a staple even in snack-size form, while chips or candy are always considered accessory foods.
Examples of Snacks:
- Chips (potato, corn, vegetable, pita, tortilla, wheat)
- Snack mixes, corn nuts, popcorn, pretzels, pork rinds
- Crackers, cheese curls, and onion ring snacks
Examples of Desserts
- Baked goods: brownies, cupcakes, pastries, snack cakes, muffins, pies, churros
- Sweets: candy, chocolate, mints, marshmallows, fudge, toffee, nougat, brittle, marzipan
- Frozen treats: ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato, sorbet, sherbet, Italian ices, granita, snow cones, ice pops
- Other desserts: pudding, gelatin desserts, custard, whipped cream, sweet rolls, scones, doughnuts, frozen carbonated drinks
Examples of Meal Supplements
- Spices, seasonings, condiments, extracts
- Oils, fats, gravies, bouillon
- Sweeteners (natural or artificial), baking soda, baking powder
- Carbonated and non-carbonated drinks
- Cooking wine, food additives, and other flavoring agents
Special Purchases
- Gift baskets/holiday items: Eligible only if the food makes up more than half of the value. (Not eligible if the package includes alcohol, tobacco, or pet products.)
- Seeds and plants: Allowed if they produce food for the household.
- Hunting and fishing gear in Alaska: Certain tools, such as nets, rods, and hooks, are eligible for households without nearby stores (an ID card is required).
- Military commissary surcharges: Covered so families can access goods at cost.
- Container deposits: Allowed if required by state law and included in the purchase price.
- Sales tax: Covered if included in the price of the SNAP-eligible item.
SNAP’s inclusion of accessory foods and other eligible purchases gives households more flexibility—not just for meals, but also for the smaller items that make everyday life more manageable.
Items You Cannot Buy with SNAP
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of groceries, there are important limits. Certain foods and household products are excluded because they are considered ready-to-eat, non-food items, or products not intended for home consumption.
Prepared and Heated Foods (Not Covered)
SNAP cannot be used for foods prepared for immediate eating, whether hot or cold. Examples include:
- Hot foods: pre-made pizza, soup, coffee, or tea served hot
- Cold prepared foods: sandwiches, deli salads, fruit cups, cheese or meat trays, soft-serve or scooped ice cream
- Heated foods: any food warmed by the store or restaurant at the point of sale
Live Animals (Not Covered, with Limited Exceptions)
Most live animals are ineligible because they could be used as livestock or pets. Exceptions include:
- Shellfish such as lobster, crab, or clams
- Live fish, as long as they are removed from water before leaving the store
- Other animals or birds, if slaughtered on-site before being taken home
Other Non-Eligible Purchases
SNAP benefits also cannot be used for:
- Alcoholic beverages (except cooking wine or extracts)
- Tobacco and nicotine products
- Vitamins, medicines, and dietary supplements
- Paper goods, cleaning supplies, and toiletries
- Pet food and pet supplies
- Gardening tools and non-edible plants
- Cooking equipment or utensils
- Clothing, hardware, fuel, or gasoline
- Firearms, ammunition, or explosives
- Retailer service charges (e.g., grocery bag fees or delivery fees)
- Any item not meant for human consumption
These restrictions are in place to ensure SNAP funds are used directly for food that supports nutrition and home meal preparation.
Additional Food Restrictions by State
Alongside federal rules, some states are beginning to add their own limits on which foods can be bought with SNAP benefits. These restrictions are rolling out gradually and focus mostly on sugary drinks, candy, and other items considered less nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the current plans and timelines as of September 2025.
| State | When it Starts | Restrictions |
| Arkansas | 07/01/26 | No soda, candy, or drinks with less than 50% real fruit or vegetable juice. |
| Colorado | 03/01/26 | No soft drinks. |
| Florida | 01/01/26 | No soda, energy drinks, candy, or prepared desserts. |
| Idaho | 01/01/26 | No soda or candy. |
| Indiana | 01/01/26 | No soft drinks or candy. |
| Iowa | 01/01/26 | All taxable foods are restricted, except edible plants and seeds that grow food. |
| Louisiana | 01/15/26 | No soda, energy drinks, or candy. |
| Nebraska | 01/01/26 | No soda or energy drinks. |
| Oklahoma | 01/01/26 | No soft drinks or candy. |
| Texas | 04/01/26 | No sweetened drinks or candy. |
| Utah | 01/01/26 | No soft drinks. |
| West Virginia | 01/01/26 | No soda. |
These restrictions mean that what you can buy with SNAP may look a little different depending on where you live. It’s essential to stay informed through your state’s SNAP office to understand how these rules may impact your household.
Shopping Online With an EBT Card
Technology has changed the way that SNAP recipients can use their benefits. In 2025, all states will allow families to use EBT cards online to buy food with SNAP benefits, as long as the food they are buying is SNAP-approved. Not every store has this feature, so it’s important to know which ones allow EBT to be used online.
Check out the table below to find out which stores allow you to buy SNAP-approved food online with an EBT card. This information is current as of September 2025.
| State | Approved Retailers |
| Alabama | ALDI, Amazon, Boozer Farm, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Family Dollar, Fresh Value, Food City, Fountain Heights Farms, Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, Greer’s Cash Saver, Hill’s Foodland, Hometown Market of Limestone County, Kroger, Marino’s Market, Piggly Wiggly (Deatsville), Publix, Rouse’s Markets, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, WaWa, Whole Foods, Winn-Dixie, Wright’s Markets, Inc. |
| Alaska | Amazon, Costco, Carr’s, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Fred Meyer, Safeway, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart |
| Arizona | AJ’s Fine Foods, Albertsons, ALDI, Amazon, Basha’s (Food City), Basha’s Dine, Basha’s, Black Ranch LLC, Cardenas Markets, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Eddie’s Country Store, El Super, Family Dollar, Fresca Zona, Fry’s Food, Go-Puff, Los Altos Ranch Markets, Rosebird Farms, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Smart and Final, Smith’s Food and Drug, Speedway (22962526), Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Local Cooperative, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Arkansas | 10 Box Cost Plus, Albertsons, ALDI, Amazon, Brookshire’s Food and Pharmacy, City Markets, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Harps Food Stores, Hays Supermarket, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Super 1 Foods Brookshires, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| California | Albertsons, ALDI, Amazon, Andronico’s Community Markets, Avenue 33 Farm, Bel Air, Big Square, Black Mountain Farm, Bristol Farms, Brothers Fresh, Brothers Marketplace, Cardenas Markets, Co-opportunity Market, Costco, Coyote Family Farm, CVS Banners, Dare 2 Dream Farms, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, El Super, ExtraMile by Jacksons, Family Dollar, Farm Fresh Eggs, Foggy Bottom Boys, Food 4 Less (Kroger), Food 4 Less (PAQ), FoodMaxx, Foods Co, Gelson’s Markets, Glen Ellen Village Market, Go-Puff, Gong’s IGA Market, Gus’s Community Market, Holiday Market, Island Pacific Market, Jacksons Food Stores, Jimbo’s Naturally, Lazy Acres, Lucky Supermarkets, Mandela Partners, Mar Val Foods, Mountain Bounty Farm, Nob Hill, Northgate Markets, Pavilions, Prime Time Nutrition, Raley’s, Ralphs, Rancho San Miguel Markets, Ray’s Food Place, Rite Aid, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Sav Mor, Save Mart Supermarkets, Singing Frogs Farm, Smart and Final, Speedway (22962526), Sprouts Farmers Market, Stater Bros., Super King Market, Superior Grocers, Target, The Market by Superior, Thrive Market, Urban Tilth, Victory Produce, Vons, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods, Winter Sister Farm |
| Colorado | Albertsons, Amazon, City Market, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Demonale Farms LLC, Dollar General, Family Dollar, Go-Puff, King Soopers, Podunk’s Ranch, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Sprouts Farmers Market, Syed Farms, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Connecticut | ACME, ALDI, Amazon, Big Y, BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Food Bazaar, Geissler’s Supermarket, Go-Puff, Massaro Community Farms, Northwest Corner Farm, Oxen Hill Farm, Price Chopper Supermarkets, Price Rite, Radical Roots Farm, Rite Aid, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, ShopRite, Stew Leonard’s, Stop & Shop, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Delaware | ACME, ALDI, Amazon, BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Food Lion, Giant of Maryland, Go-Puff, Redner’s Markets, Rite Aid, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, ShopRite, Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, WaWa, Wegmans, Weis Markets |
| District of Columbia | ALDI, Amazon, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Giant of Maryland, Go-Puff, Safeway, Shoppers Food Warehouse, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, WaWa, Wegmans, Whole Foods |
| Florida | ALDI, Amazon, BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Earth Fare, Family Dollar, Freshfields Farm, Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, Greer’s Cash Saver, Harvey’s Supermarket, Hitchcock’s Markets, Kai Kai Farm, Margist Market, Milam’s Markets, Mt. Plymouth Grocery, Publix, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Sedano’s, South Florida Kosher, Speedway (434300), Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, WaWa, Western Beef, Whole Foods, Winn-Dixie |
| Georgia | ALDI, Amazon, BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Earth Fare, Family Dollar, Food City, Food Lion, Go-Puff, Harvey’s Supermarket, Kroger, Little Giant Farmers Market, Lowes Foods, Nam Dae Mun Farmers Market, Piggly Wiggly (HAC), Pinewood Springs Farm, LLC, Publix, Rag & Frass Farm, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Shoppers Value Foods (Macon), Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods, Winn-Dixie |
| Hawaii | Amazon, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Down to Earth Organic and Natural, Farm Link Hawaii, Kohala Food Hub, Maui Hub, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Secret Forest Farm, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Idaho | Albertsons, Amazon, Broulim’s, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, ExtraMile by Jacksons, Family Dollar, Fred Meyer, Hoagland Meat, Jacksons Food Stores, Manito Super 1 Foods, Inc., Rite Aid, Rosauers Supermarkets, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Smith’s Food and Drug, Super 1 Foods Brookshires, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods, Yoke’s Fresh Market |
| Illinois | ALDI, Alpine Mobil, Amazon, Angelo Caputo’s Fresh Market, Billy Doe Meats, Capri IGA, Costco, County Market (Niemann Foods), CVS Banners, Dashmart, Dave’s Supermarket, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dierberg’s Markets, Inc., Elgin Fresh Market, Fairplay Foods, Family Dollar, Finding Justice A Flower and Vegetable Garden, Food 4 Less (Kroger), Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, Harvest Market, HyVee, Jewel Osco, Kroger, Local Market, Mariano’s, Meijer, Metropolis Big John Grocery, Midnight Sun Farm, Otter Oaks Farm, Ruler Foods, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Schnuck’s Market, Supermercados El Guero, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Tony’s Fresh Market, Top Box Foods, Walgreens, Walmart |
| Indiana | ALDI, Amazon, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Food 4 Less (Kroger), Giant Eagle, Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, Huckleberry Farms, Jay C Foods, Jewel Osco, Kroger, Martin’s Super Market, Mavourneen Farm, Meijer, Pay Less, Perkins Good Earth Farm, Ruler Foods, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Schnuck’s Market, Strack and Van Til, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Town and Country, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Iowa | ALDI, Amazon, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Go-Puff, HyVee, Jewel Osco, New Pioneer Food Co-op, Ramsey’s Market, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Target, Vorthmann Legacy, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Kansas | ALDI, Amazon, Costco, Country Mart, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dillon’s, Dollar General, El Rancho, Family Dollar, Harps Food Stores, HyVee, King Cash Saver, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Merc Co+Op, The Merc Co-op, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Kentucky | ALDI, Amazon, Boxcar Acres, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Food City, Food Lion, Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, Kroger, Mammoth Valley, Meijer, Ruler Foods, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Louisiana | Albertsons, Amazon, Armstrong Farms, Brookshire’s Food and Pharmacy, Butcher Boy, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Family Dollar, Go-Puff, Piggly Wiggly (LA), River Queen Greens, Rouse’s Markets, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Spring Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, Super 1 Foods Brookshires, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Veggi Farmers Cooperative, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods, Winn-Dixie |
| Maine | Amazon, BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dharma Farm, Dollar General, Family Dollar, Frith Farm, Go-Puff, Hannaford, Little Ridge Farm, New Spoke Farm, Rustic Roots Farm, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Shaws, Target, Thrive Market, Tozier’s Family Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Maryland | ACME, Ad Astra Farms, ALDI, Amazon, Balducci’s, BJs Wholesale Club, Captain Family Farms, LLC, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Food Lion, Geresbeck’s Food Market, Giant Eagle, Giant of Maryland, Go-Puff, Martin’s, Price Rite, Redner’s Markets, Rite Aid, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Seven Mile Market, Sheetz, Inc., Shoppers Food Warehouse, ShopRite, Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, WaWa, Wegmans, Weis Markets, Whole Foods |
| Massachusetts | 2 Cents Homegrown, ALDI, Amazon, Ancient Ponies Farm, LLC., Atkin’s Fruit Bowl, BJs Wholesale Club, Brothers Marketplace, Chaves Market, Costco, CVS Banners, Daily Table, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Full Well Farm, Geissler’s Supermarket, Go-Puff, Hannaford, Hilltown Mobile Market, McKinnon’s Supermarkets, Oakdale Farms, Price Chopper Supermarkets, Price Rite, Ring Bros. Marketplace, Rite Aid, Roche Bros, Shaws, Star Market, Stop & Shop, Target, Taste Health, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Wegmans, Whole Foods |
| Mississippi | ALDI, Amazon, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Froogel’s, Greer’s Cash Saver, Roger’s Supermarket LLC, Rouse’s Markets, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, States Produce, Superlo Foods, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods, Winn-Dixie |
| Michigan | ALDI, Amazon, BJs Wholesale Club, Bridge Street Market, Capital City Market, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Dearborn Fresh Market, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Earth Fare, Family Dollar, Freddie’s Family Market, Garden Fresh Market, Ghost House Farm, Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, Martin’s Super Market, Meijer, North Harvest CSA, Quality Dairy Co., Rite Aid, Rivertown Market, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Sanctuary Farms, Save A Lot, SharKar Farm, Stillwind Farm, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Wesco, Whispering Wild Market Farm, Whole Foods, Woodward Corner Market |
| Minnesota | ALDI, Amazon, Cash Wise, Coborn’s, Costco, County Market (Jerry’s Enterprises, Inc.), Cub Foods, CVS Banners, Daily Cart, Dashmart, Dollar General, Ernie’s Food Market, Family Dollar, Go-Puff, Goldenrod Market Garden, Hornbacher’s, Hugo’s Family Marketplace, HyVee, Jerry’s Foods, Lunds and Byerly’s, Mackenthun’s Fine Foods, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Target, Thrive Market, Ukura’s Big Dollar, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Missouri | ALDI, Amazon, Blue Parkway Sun Fresh, Bratcher’s Market, Cameron Market, Costco, Country Mart, County Market (Niemann Foods), CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dierberg’s Markets, Inc., Dollar General, Family Dollar, FavTrip Independence, FavTrip KCMO, Gerbes, Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, Harps Food Stores, Harter House, Hays Supermarket, HyVee, King Cash Saver, Kroger, Price Cutter, Ramey, Ruler Foods, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Schnuck’s Market, Sliced Bread Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, Sweet Springs Market, Target, The Heirloom Farm, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods, Woods Supermarket |
| Montana | Albertsons, Amazon, Costco, CVS Banners, Darlow’s Quality Foods, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Manito Super 1 Foods, Inc., Reynolds Market, Rosauers Supermarkets, Safeway, Smith’s Food and Drug, Super 1 Foods Brookshires, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Yoke’s Fresh Market |
| Nebraska | ALDI, Amazon, Baker’s Plus, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Go-Puff, HyVee, Safeway, Salt Creek Farm Cooperative, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Setting D Ranch, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Nevada | Albertsons, Amazon, Cardenas Markets, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, El Super, ExtraMile by Jacksons, Family Dollar, FoodMaxx, Go-Puff, Island Pacific Market, Jacksons Food Stores, La Bonita Supermarkets, Lin’s Fresh Market, Mariana’s Supermarkets, Marketon, Rite Aid, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save Mart Supermarkets, Smart and Final, Smith’s Food and Drug, Speedway (434300), Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, Thrive Market, Vons, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| New Hampshire | ALDI, Amazon, Bascom Farm, BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Dollar General, Family Dollar, Go-Puff, Hannaford, McKinnon’s Supermarkets, Orange Door Farm, Price Chopper Supermarkets, Price Rite, Rite Aid, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Shaws, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| New Jersey | 4th Ave Halal Meat Market, A.T. Buzby Farm, ACME, Aisle One Kosher, ALDI, Amazon, Aqui Market, BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Duane Reade, Enlightened Farm, Family Dollar, Food Bazaar, Food Circus Super Markets, Inc. DBA Super Foodtown, Go-Puff, Kings Super Markets, Morton Williams, Price Rite, Rite Aid, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, ShopRite, Sprouts Farmers Market, Stew Leonard’s, Stop & Shop, Target, The Fresh Market, TheFreshGrocer, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, WaWa, Wegmans, Weis Markets, Whole Foods |
| New Mexico | Albertsons, Amazon, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), El Super, Family Dollar, Ranch Market, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Smith’s Food and Drug, Speedway (22962526), Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, Thrive Market, United Supermarkets, LLC, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| New York | 3 Guys From Brooklyn, A & C Supermas Inc. DBA C-Town Fresh Market, ACME, ALDI, Alpine Mobil, Amazon, Balady Market, BJs Wholesale Club, Camellia Meats, City Acres – Fidi, City Acres – Long Island City, Costco, CVS Banners, Dash’s Market, Dashmart, DeCicco and Sons, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Duane Reade, Duncan’s Fish Market, Evergreen Kosher, Fairway Market, Family Dollar, Ferreira Foodtown, Food Bazaar, Foodtown G3 – Allerton Ave., Foodtown G3 – Bellerose, Foodtown G3 – New Rochelle, Foodtown G3 – Rego Park, Foodtown-Freshtown, Gitto & Sons Health Food Inc., Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, Gourmet Garage, Grand Union, Grand Union Cortland, GreenStar Food Co-op, Hannaford, Hawthorne Valley Farm, Hub on the Hill, J&T Nanda Corp. DBA C-Town Fresh Market, Janus New York Inc – Billy’s Marketplace, Kinney Drugs, Lemonade Supermarket, Liberty West Indian and American Groceries, Manhattan Fruit Market, Metro Acres, Moisha’s Kosher Discount Supermarket, Inc., Morton Williams, My Foodtown, Oatka Creek Farm, P&C Fresh – Cortland, P&C Fresh – Ithaca, Pathmark, Phillies Bridge Farm, Piggly Wiggly (NY), Pioneer Supermarket, Price Chopper Supermarkets, Price Rite, Rego Fresh – Zaher Meat Corp, Rite Aid, Rock Steady Farm, Roxbury Farm CSA, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Schneider’s of Kirkwood, ShopRite, Skip’s on the Ridge, Sleeping Lion Farm, Stew Leonard’s, Stop & Shop, Target, The Butcher’s Choice Meat Market, The Fresh Market, The Meadow Farmstead, LLC, Thistlemint Farm, Thrive Market, Tops Market, Trade Fair Supermarket, Turner Farm, Walgreens, Walmart, Wegmans, Weis Markets, Western Beef, Whole Foods |
| North Carolina | 1203 AM Farm, ALDI, Amazon, BJs Wholesale Club, Carlie C’s, Clark’s Produce, Compare Foods, Compare Foods Clayton, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Deep Roots Market, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Earth Fare, Fairvalue Grocery Stores, Family Dollar, Food Lion, Go-Puff, Harris Teeter, Lowes Foods, Piggly Wiggly (Kinston), Publix, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Sheetz, Inc., Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, WaWa, Wegmans, Whole Foods |
| North Dakota | ALDI, Amazon, Cash Wise, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Hornbacher’s, Hugo’s Family Marketplace, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart |
| Ohio | ALDI, Amazon, BJs Wholesale Club, Brookfield Sparkle Market, Buehler’s Fresh Foods, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Dave’s Supermarket, Inc. DBA Dave’s Supermarket, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Earth Fare, Fairfax Market, Family Dollar, Giant Eagle, Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, Groceryland, House of Meats – Alexis, House of Meats – Glendale, House of Meats – Holland, House of Meats – Maumee, House of Meats – Point Palace, House of Meats – Starr Ave, HP Nemenz IGA, Jerky Pro, Kroger, Lucky’s, Marc’s, Meijer, Rite Aid, Ruler Foods, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Sheetz, Inc., Stark Fresh, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Today’s Harvest, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Oklahoma | ALDI, Amazon, Apple Market, Costco, Country Mart, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Doc’s Food Stores, Inc., Dollar General, Family Dollar, FireLake Discount Foods, Go-Puff, HAC Inc. DBA Cash Saver, Harps Food Stores, Homeland Food Stores, Oasis Fresh Market, Phelps Market, Prime Time Nutrition, Reasor’s, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Sooner Foods, Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, United Supermarkets, Walgreens, Walmart, Warehouse Market, Whole Foods |
| Oregon | Albertsons, Amazon, Astoria Co-op, Bend Food 4 Less, Chesed Farm, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Dollar General, ExtraMile by Jacksons, Family Dollar, Fred Meyer, Full Cellar Farm, Go-Puff, Holiday Market, Lane County Bounty, Lucky Crow Farm, Mega Foods, Milky Fork Farm, New Seasons Markets, Organics to You, Our Mother’s Garden, QFC, Ray’s Food Place, Rite Aid, Rosauers Supermarkets, Roth’s Fresh Markets, Safeway, Stop and Go Shell, Target, Thrive Market, Union Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Pennsylvania | ACME, ALDI, Amazon, BJs Wholesale Club, Burkholder’s Market, Costco, Cottman Food Market, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Dave’s Super Duper, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, East End Food Coop, Family Dollar, Giant Company, LLC, Giant Eagle, Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, Grove City County Market, Karn’s Fancy Foods, Lake Region IGA, Martin’s, Mignosi Super Foodtown, Mignosi’s Super Foodtown, Price Chopper Supermarkets, Price Rite, Redner’s Markets, Rite Aid, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Sheetz, Inc., ShopRite, Sprouts Farmers Market, Stauffers of Kissel Hill, Target, The Fresh Market, TheFreshGrocer, Thrive Market, Tops Market, Walgreens, Walmart, WaWa, Wegmans, Weis Markets, Whole Foods |
| Rhode Island | ALDI, Amazon, BJs Wholesale Club, Brigido’s, Cartwheel RI, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Go-Puff, Price Rite, Shaws, Stop & Shop, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| South Carolina | ALDI, Amazon, Anderson Ministries, BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Earth Fare, Family Dollar, Food Lion, FoodShare SC, Go-Puff, Kroger, Lowes Foods, Opie Drive-Thru Grocery, Publix, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Speedway (434300), Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| South Dakota | ALDI, Amazon, Buche Foods, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, HyVee, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart |
| Tennessee | ALDI, Amazon, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Earth Fare, Family Dollar, Food City, Food Lion, Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, H.G. Hill Foods Store, Hilltop Supermarket, Kroger, Memphis Cash Saver, Piggly Wiggly (Henderson), Publix, Ruler Foods, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Sprouts Farmers Market, Superlo Foods, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Texas | Albertsons, ALDI, Amazon, Brookshire Brothers, Brookshire’s Food and Pharmacy, Central Market, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, El Rancho, El Super, Farmer’s Fresh Meat, Farmshare Austin, Fiesta Mart, FRESH by Brookshire’s, Go-Puff, H-E-B, Harvest Natural Market, Joe V’s Smart Shop, Lewis Food Town, Linda’s Mini Mart, Little Red Box Grocery, Pyburn’s Farm Fresh Foods, Randalls, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Spring Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, Super 1 Foods Brookshires, Target, Texas Tribal Buffalo Project, Thrive Market, Tom Thumb, United Supermarkets, LLC, Walgreens, Walmart, Wheatsville Food Coop, Whole Foods |
| Utah | 10 Box Cost Plus, Albertsons, Amazon, Costco, CVS Banners, Dan’s Fresh Market, Dashmart, Davis Food and Drug, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dick’s Fresh Market, Dollar General, ExtraMile by Jacksons, Family Dollar, Fresh Market, Jacksons Food Stores, Lin’s Fresh Market, Macey’s, Openshaw Farms, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Smith’s Food and Drug, Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
| Vermont | ALDI, Amazon, Brattleboro Food Co-op, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Dollar General, Family Dollar, Footprint Farm, Grand Union Cortland, Hannaford, Price Chopper Supermarkets, Rite Aid, Shaws, Target, Thrive Market, Tops Market, Walgreens, Walmart |
| Virginia | ALDI, Amazon, BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Earth Fare, Family Dollar, Food City, Food Lion, Giant of Maryland, Go-Puff, Martin’s, Publix, Rite Aid, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Sheetz, Inc., Shoppers Food Warehouse, Speedway (434300), Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, The Fresh Market, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, WaWa, Wegmans, Weis Markets, Whole Foods |
| Washington | 7-Eleven, A&J Select Market, Albertsons, Amazon, Costco, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Fred Meyer, Go-Puff, Haggan, Helsing Junction Farm, Huckleberry’s Natural Market, New Seasons Markets, Olympia Food Co-Op, QFC, Rite Aid, Rosauers Supermarkets, Safeway, Sprouts Farmers Market, Super 1 Foods Rosauers, Swanson’s Foods – Aberdeen, Swanson’s Foods – Hoquiam, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods, Yoke’s Fresh Market |
| West Virginia | ALDI, Amazon, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Dollar General, Family Dollar, Food Lion, Giant Eagle, Go-Puff, Martin’s, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Sheetz, Inc., St. Marys Galaxy, Sunset Berry Farm, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Weis Markets |
| Wisconsin | ALDI, Amazon, Basha’s Dine, Capital Centre Market, Costco, County Market (Jerry’s Enterprises, Inc.), CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Go-Puff, Gordon Food Services, HyVee, Jerry’s Foods, Lou Perrine’s Gas and Grocery, Marketplace Foods, Meijer, Metro Market, Miller and Son’s Supermarket, Monterrey Market, Pick N Save, Ptacek’s IGA, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Save A Lot, Schnuck’s Market, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods, Williamson Street Grocery Co-op, Woodman’s Markets |
| Wyoming | Albertsons, Amazon, Broulim’s, CVS Banners, Dashmart, Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), Dollar General, Family Dollar, Hines General Store, Safeway, Sam’s Club Scan and Go, Smith’s Food and Drug, Target, Thrive Market, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods |
Contact Information by Location
| Location | Program Name in Location | Contact Information | Office Directory |
Alabama | Food Assistance | Toll-free number: 1-833-822-220TTY: 1-833-822-2202 / 711 or 1-800-548-2546 | https://dhr.alabama.gov/county-office-contact/ |
Alaska | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 800-478-7778 | http://dhss.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/contacts.aspx |
American Samoa | American Samoa Nutrition Assistance Program (ASNAP) | Hotlines: 684-633-7720684-633-7451 | Not available |
Arizona | Nutrition Assistance | Hotline: 1-800-352-8401 General information: 1-855-432-7587TTY: 711 | https://des.az.gov/find-your-local-office |
Arkansas | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 1-800-482-8988 / 501-682-8375TTY/TDD: 501-682-7958 | https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/offices |
California | CalFresh | Hotline: 1-877-847-3663TYY: 711 | https://cdss.ca.gov/county-offices |
Colorado | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-536-5298TTY: 800 | https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdhs/contact-your-county |
| Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands | CNMI Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP) | Hotlines: 670 237-2800Email: support@cnminap.gov.mp | https://governor.cnmi.gov/contact/ |
Connecticut | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-855-626-6632TTY: 711 | https://portal.ct.gov/dss/About-the-Department-of-Social-Services/Contact |
Delaware | Food Supplement Program | Hotline: 1-800-372-2022TTY: 711 | https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/contact.html |
District of Columbia | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 202-807-0405TTY: 711 | https://dhs.dc.gov/service/find-service-center-near-you |
Florida | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 1-866-762-2237 / 850-300-4323TTY: 711/ 1-800-955-8771 | https://www.myflfamilies.com/contact-us |
Georgia | Georgia Food Stamp Program | Hotline: 1-877-423-4746 TTY: 1-800-255-0135 | https://dfcs.georgia.gov/locations |
| Guam | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 671-735-7245 | http://www.dphss.guam.gov/content/contact-us |
Hawaii | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 855-643-1643 TTY: 711 | http://humanservices.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Addresses-for-Benefits-Offices-Statewide.pdf |
Idaho | Idaho Food Stamps | Hotline: 1-877-456-1233 TTY: 711/ 1-800-377-3529 | https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/ContactUs/tabid/127/Default.aspx |
Illinois | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-843-6154 TTY: 711/ 1-800-447-6404 | http://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?module=12 |
Indiana | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-877-768-5098 or 1-800-457-8283DFR toll-free phone: 1-800-403-0864TTY: 711 | https://secure.in.gov/apps/fssa/providersearch/map |
Iowa | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-877-347-5678 / 1-800-972-2017 TTY: 1-800-735-2942 | https://dhs.iowa.gov/dhs_office_locator |
Kansas | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-888-369-4777 | https://www.dcf.ks.gov/Pages/contacts.aspx |
Kentucky | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 800-372-2973TTY: 1-785-296-1491 | https://kynect.ky.gov/benefits/s/find-dcbs-office?language=en_US |
Louisiana | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-888-524-3578 TTY: 1-844-224-6188 | http://www.dss.state.la.us/directory |
| Maine | Food Supplement Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-442-6003 TTY: 711 | https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/about/contact/offices |
Maryland | Food Supplement Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-332-6347 TTY: 1-800-735-2258 | http://dhr.maryland.gov/local-offices/ |
Massachusetts | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-877-382-2363TTY: 711 / 1-800-720-3480 / 1-866-930-9252 (SPA) | https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-transitional-assistance/locations?_page=1 |
Michigan | Food Assistance Program (FAP) | Hotline: 1-855-275-6424TTY: 711 | https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx |
Minnesota | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 800-657-3698 (toll-free)TTY: 1-800-627-3529 | https://mn.gov/dhs/general-public/about-dhs/contact-us/counties-and-regional-offices/ |
Mississippi | Food Assistance Program (FAP) | Hotline: 1-800-948-3050General assistance: 601-359-4500TTY: 711 / 1-800-735-2466 | https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/contact/ |
Missouri | Food Stamp Program (FSP) | Hotline: 1-800-392-1261TTY: 1-800-735-2966 | https://dss.mo.gov/dss_map/ |
Montana | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-855-373-4636TYY: 406-444-1421 | https://dphhs.mt.gov/HCSD/OfficeofPublicAssistance |
Nebraska | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-383-4278TTY: 711 / 1-800-833-7352 | https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Public-Assistance-Offices.aspx |
Nevada | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 1-800-992-0900 / 775-684-0615 (ext. 40500)TTY: 1-800-326-6888 / 1-800-992-0900 (voice) | https://dwss.nv.gov/Contact/Welfare/ |
New Hampshire | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-852-3345 (ext. 9700)TTY: 1-800-735-2964 / 711 | https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/about-dhhs/locations-facilities |
New Jersey | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 1-800-792-9773 / 1-800-687-9512TTY: 1-800-701-0720 | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/counties/ |
New Mexico | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 800-432-6217TTY: 1-877-294-4356 / 711 | https://www.hca.nm.gov/lookingforassistance/field_offices_1/ |
New York | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 1-800-342-3009 / 718-557-1399 (NYC only)TTY: 711 / 212-504-4115 (NYC only) | http://otda.ny.gov/workingfamilies/dss.asp |
North Carolina | Food and Nutrition Services | Hotline: 1-800-662-7030TTY: 711 | https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/local-dss-directory |
North Dakota | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-755-2716TTY: 1-800-366-6888 | https://www.hhs.nd.gov/human-service/zones |
Ohio | Food Assistance Program (FAP) | Hotline: 1-866-244-0071 TTY: 711 | https://jfs.ohio.gov/about/local-agencies-directory |
Oklahoma | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-866-411-1877TTY: 711 | https://oklahoma.gov/okdhs/contact-us.html |
Oregon | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 1-800-723-3638 / 503-945-5600TTY: 503-945-5896 | https://www.oregon.gov/DHS/Offices/Pages/Self-Sufficiency.aspx |
Pennsylvania | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 1-800-692-7462 / 1-800-451-5886TTY: 1-800-451-5886 | https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Assistance/Pages/Find%20Facilities.aspx |
Puerto Rico | Programa de Asistencia Nutricional (PAN) | Hotlines: 311 / 787- 289-7600TTY: 1-800-877-8339 | https://serviciosenlinea.adsef.pr.gov/programas/programa-asistencia-nutricional-pan.html |
Rhode Island | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-855-697-4347TTY: 711 / 1-800-745-6575 (Voice) / 1-800-745-5555 | http://www.dhs.ri.gov/DHSOffices/DHS-14FieldOfficeListingRev%2001-20.pdf |
South Carolina | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-616-1309TTY: 711 / 1-800-735-8583 | https://dss.sc.gov/contact-dss/ |
South Dakota | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 1-877-999-5612 / 1-866-854-5465TTY: 711 | https://dss.sd.gov/findyourlocaloffice/ |
Tennessee | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-866-311-4287TTY: 711 | https://www.tn.gov/content/tn/humanservices/for-families/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/office-locator-family-assistance.html |
Texas | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 211 (toll-free) / 1-877-541-7905TTY: 711 | https://yourtexasbenefits.com/Screener/FindanOffice |
U.S. Virgin Islands | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 340-774-2399 | https://dhs.vi.gov/contact-us/ |
Utah | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 1-866-526-3663 / 1-800-331-4341TTY: 711 / 1-800-346-4128 | https://jobs.utah.gov/jsp/officesearch/#/map |
Vermont | 3SquaresVT | Hotline: 1-800-479-6151 TTY: 711 / 1-800-253-0191 | https://www.healthvermont.gov/find-your-local-health-office |
Virginia | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-552-3431TTY: 1-800-828-1120 / 711 | https://www.dss.virginia.gov/localagency/index.cgi |
Washington | Basic Food | Hotline: 1-877-501-2233 TTY: 711 | https://www.dshs.wa.gov/office-locations?field_geofield_distance%5Bdistance%5D=100&field_geofield_distance%5Bunit%5D=3959&field_geofield_distance%5Borigin%5D=&field_office_type_tid%5B0%5D=9651 |
West Virginia | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-642-8589 TTY: 866-430-1274 (TTY) or 800-676-3777 (Voice) / 1-800-676-4290 (SPA) | https://dhhr.wv.gov/bcf/Pages/MapList.aspx |
Wisconsin | FoodShare | Hotline: 1-800-362-3002TTY: 711 / 1-800-947-3529 | https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/forwardhealth/imagency/index.htm |
Wyoming | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 307-777-5846TTY: 711 / 1-800-452-1408 (TTY/Voice) | https://dfs.wyo.gov/about/contact-us/ |
Who Qualifies for SNAP Benefits?
SNAP has specific rules that determine who can participate and how much assistance each household is eligible to receive. While individual states run the program, the core eligibility standards are set at the national level to ensure consistency.
The main factors that influence eligibility include:
- Income: Your household earnings must fall within federal and state limits.
- Work rules: Some applicants are required to meet specific employment or training requirements.
- Resources: Assets such as savings or property may affect eligibility.
- Residency: You must apply in the state where you currently live.
Each state may have slight differences in how these rules are applied, but all applications are reviewed against these broad guidelines.
SNAP Rules on Residency and Citizenship
To qualify for SNAP, you need to meet both residency and citizenship status rules.
Residency Requirements
- You must apply for benefits in the state where you currently live.
- If you move, your benefits don’t automatically transfer. You’ll need to close your old case and reapply in your new state.
Citizenship and Immigration Status
SNAP is available to U.S. citizens and certain legally present non-citizens. The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) of 2025 updated the law and narrowed which non-citizen groups can get SNAP.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may still qualify for SNAP only if you belong to one of the following eligible groups under the new law:
- Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR)
- Cuban-Haitian Entrants
- Compacts of Free Association (COFA) Migrants
SNAP Income Eligibility Requirements
SNAP uses income limits to determine if a household is eligible for benefits. Generally, households must have income below both a gross income limit and a net income limit based on the federal poverty level. These income limits are updated annually for inflation.
Gross vs. Net Income Limits
In most cases, a household must meet both the gross and net income limits to qualify for SNAP. Here’s what these terms mean:
- Gross Income: The household’s total income before any taxes or allowable deductions are taken out (all non-excluded income).
- Net Income: The household’s income after subtracting allowable deductions (such as certain expenses like housing, child care, medical costs, etc.)
What is the federal poverty level (FPL)?
The federal poverty level (FPL) is a yearly income guideline used to decide if households qualify for programs like SNAP. It reflects the minimum income a family is estimated to need for essentials such as food, housing, and clothing.
Each year, the Department of Health and Human Services updates the FPL using inflation data from the Consumer Price Index and adjusts it for household size.
The FPL differs from the poverty threshold, which is set by the Census Bureau to measure the number of people living in poverty. The FPL builds on that data but is used directly for program eligibility.
For SNAP, the annual net income limit equals 100% of the federal poverty line. Below are the 2025 FPL income limits for the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C.:
| Family Size | Annual Income Limit |
| 1 | $15,650 |
| 2 | $21,150 |
| 3 | $26,650 |
| 4 | $32,150 |
| 5 | $37,650 |
| 6 | $43,150 |
| 7 | $48,650 |
| 8 | $54,150 |
| For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $5,500 for each additional person. | |
The 2025 FPL chart for Alaska is as follows:
| 2025 POVERTY GUIDELINES FOR ALASKA | |
| Persons in family/household | Poverty guideline |
| 1 | $19,550 |
| 2 | $26,430 |
| 3 | $33,310 |
| 4 | $40,190 |
| 5 | $47,070 |
| 6 | $53,950 |
| 7 | $60,830 |
| 8 | $67,710 |
| For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $6,880 for each additional person. | |
The 2025 FPL chart for Hawaii is as follows:
| 2025 POVERTY GUIDELINES FOR HAWAII | |
| Persons in family/household | Poverty guideline |
| 1 | $17,990 |
| 2 | $24,320 |
| 3 | $30,650 |
| 4 | $36,980 |
| 5 | $43,310 |
| 6 | $49,640 |
| 7 | $55,970 |
| 8 | $62,300 |
| For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $6,330 for each additional person. | |
To calculate 100 percent of the FPL, divide your household’s net annual income by the FPL and multiply it by 100.
Example: if a household of three living in one of the 48 contiguous U.S. states earns $80,000 as annual net income, first divide $80,000 by the FPL for a family of three, $24,860. The result is 3.22.
Next, multiply 3.22 by 100, which equals 322%.
This is above the 100% FPL threshold, so the example family would not qualify for SNAP benefits.
Income Eligibility for the 48 Contiguous U.S. States, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands
The table below shows figures that are valid from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. The gross monthly income requirement is based on 130 percent of the federal poverty line. To calculate 130% of the FPL, divide your household’s gross monthly income by the FPL for your household size and then multiply the result by 130.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income | Net Monthly Income |
| 1 | $1,696 | $1,305 |
| 2 | $2,292 | $1,763 |
| 3 | $2,888 | $2,221 |
| 4 | $3,483 | $2,680 |
| 5 | $4,079 | $3,138 |
| 6 | $4,675 | $3,596 |
| 7 | $5,271 | $4,055 |
| 8 | $5,867 | $4,513 |
| Each additional member | +$596 | +$459 |
Income Eligibility for Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Northern Mariana Islands
Alaska Monthly Income Requirements (Effective 10/1/2025)
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income | Net Monthly Income |
| 1 | $2,118 | $1,630 |
| 2 | $2,864 | $2,203 |
| 3 | $3,609 | $2,776 |
| 4 | $4,354 | $3,350 |
| 5 | $5,100 | $3,923 |
| 6 | $5,845 | $4,496 |
| 7 | $6,590 | $5,070 |
| 8 | $7,336 | $5,643 |
| Each additional member | $746 | $574 |
Hawaii Monthly Income Requirements (Effective 10/1/2025)
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income | Net Monthly Income |
| 1 | $1,949 | $1,500 |
| 2 | $2,635 | $2,027 |
| 3 | $3,221 | $2,555 |
| 4 | $4,007 | $2,082 |
| 5 | $4,692 | $3,610 |
| 6 | $5,378 | $4,137 |
| 7 | $6,064 | $4,665 |
| 8 | $6,750 | $5,192 |
| Each additional member | $686 | $528 |
Puerto Rico Annual Income Requirements
Puerto Rico does not list the annual income requirements on its website. Anyone interested in learning more about income limits in Puerto Rico should contact ADSEF at 1-787-289-7600 and speak with a representative or the 311 helpline.
Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands Monthly Income Requirements (2024-2025)
| Household size | Gross Monthly Income |
| 1 | $1,632 |
| 2 | $2,215 |
| 3 | $2,798 |
| 4 | $3,380 |
| 5 | $3,963 |
| 6 | $4,546 |
| 7 | $5,129 |
| 8 | $5,712 |
Asset Rules for SNAP: The Impact of Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE)
Thanks to the BBCE policy, most states no longer count your savings or personal property toward SNAP eligibility. This change empowers families to build a financial safety net while still qualifying for critical food assistance. However, a small number of states still maintain asset tests. If you’re applying in one of these locations, your savings may impact your eligibility.
States With Asset Limits
| State | Asset Limits |
| Arkansas | $5,500 |
| Idaho | $5,000 |
| Indiana | $5,000 |
| Nebraska | $25,000 for liquid assets |
| Texas | Asset limit of $5,000 (excludes one vehicle up to $22,000 & includes excess vehicle value) |
SNAP Income Deductions
When SNAP reviews your application, it doesn’t just look at your household’s gross income. Certain deductions are subtracted first, which helps lower your “countable income” and may improve your eligibility.
Every state applies a standard deduction, but the exact amount depends on the size of your household. Larger households receive a higher deduction to reflect greater basic expenses.
The chart below shows the current standard deduction amounts by household size:
| Standard Deduction Amount (2025-2026) | |||||
| Area | Household Size (by Number of Members) | ||||
| 1-2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6+ | |
| 48 states + DC | $209 | $223 | $261 | $299 | |
| Alaska | $358 | $374 | |||
| Hawaii | $295 | $300 | $344 | ||
| Guam | $420 | $445 | $522 | $598 | |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | $185 | $223 | $261 | $299 | |
*Information for American Samoa, the Mariana Islands (CNMI), and Puerto Rico was not available online. Please contact their main offices for more information.
Other SNAP Income Deductions
Beyond the standard deduction, households may qualify for additional deductions that lower countable income. These are designed to account for necessary expenses and make benefits more accessible to families who face higher costs. Households may deduct:
- 20% of earned income
- Dependent care costs needed for work, job search, training, or education
- Court-ordered child support payments
- Excess shelter costs if they are more than half of your income (with a cap unless someone in the household is elderly or disabled)
- Medical expenses over $35 per month for elderly or disabled members
The maximum amounts for shelter and homeless shelter deductions vary by region. The chart below provides the current limits for 2025-2026:
| Regions | Max. shelter deductions | Max. homeless shelter deductions |
| 48 contiguous states + DC | $744 | $198.99 |
| Alaska | $1,189 | $198.99 |
| Hawaii | $1,003 | $198.99 |
| Guam | $873 | $198.99 |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | $586 | $198.99 |
* Deductions for American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico are not available. Please contact your local office to learn more.
Work Requirements
Under the new rules from the Big, Beautiful Bill, work requirements for SNAP are stricter than before. If you are between the ages of 18 and 64, you must meet federal work rules to stay eligible unless you qualify for an exemption.
What the Rules Require
To comply with SNAP work rules, you must:
- Work or volunteer at least 80 hours per month (about 20 hours per week), OR
- Take part in an approved employment or training program, AND
- Accept suitable job offers when they are made to you.
You cannot quit a job or reduce your hours below this threshold without a valid reason.
Who Is Exempt?
Some individuals are not required to meet these rules. Exemptions include:
- Parents or caregivers of a child under 6, or of a person who is unable to care for themselves
- Individuals who are physically or mentally unable to work
- People regularly attending an alcohol or drug treatment program
- Students enrolled at least half-time in school, college, or training
- Older adults aged 65 or above
- Pregnant women
If you are an able-bodied adult without dependents (ABAWD) and you do not meet these rules, your SNAP benefits are limited to three months within a three-year period. After that, benefits will stop.
To restore benefits, you must show compliance with the work rules for at least 30 consecutive days before your case can be reopened.
Waivers to ABAWD Time Limits
The three-month time limit for ABAWDs isn’t always fixed. In certain circumstances, states can request a temporary waiver to prevent affected adults from losing access to food assistance during especially difficult economic times.
A waiver may be granted if:
- The state shows there are too few jobs available locally, making it unreasonable to expect people to find steady work.
- The national unemployment rate rises above 10%, signaling widespread economic hardship.
When a waiver is in place, ABAWDs in that state or region can continue receiving SNAP even if they don’t meet the normal time-limit rules. These waivers are designed as a safety net during periods of high unemployment or limited job opportunities.
Student SNAP Eligibility
College students face special rules when applying for SNAP. If you are an able-bodied student between the ages of 18 and 64, you must meet the regular income requirements and one of the conditions below to qualify:
- Receive benefits from a Title IV-A public assistance program
- Participate in a state or federally funded work-study program
- Work at least 20 hours per week
- Be a single parent enrolled full-time, caring for a child under 12
- Care for a child under 6 years old
- Care for a child ages 6–11 and lack access to adequate child care, making it impossible to both study and work 20 hours per week
- Be enrolled in an approved employment or training program, such as:
- The Workforce Investment Act
- Section 236 of the Trade Act of 1974
- The Food Stamp Act or a similar state/local program
SNAP for People Experiencing Homelessness
SNAP benefits are available to people without stable housing who meet program eligibility rules. You do not need a permanent address to apply. Whether you are staying in a shelter, living temporarily with friends or family, or sleeping outside, you can apply for benefits through your state’s SNAP office.
Receiving Your EBT Card
If you don’t have a fixed address, you can still get your EBT card by using:
- The address of an authorized representative
- The address of a shelter where you are staying
- Your local SNAP office
Proof of Identity
Your SNAP worker will need to confirm your identity. Common documents include:
- Birth certificate
- Social Security card
- Voter registration card
- Work or school ID badge
If you don’t have one of these, your SNAP office or shelter staff may be able to help confirm your identity.
Food Access Without a Kitchen
If you don’t have access to appliances to cook meals, SNAP can still be used for:
- Ready-to-eat foods from grocery stores
- Food that can be prepared and eaten in a shelter
- Meals at some soup kitchens or shelters that are authorized to accept SNAP
Other Notes
- Youth under 18 who are not living with parents can apply for SNAP on their own.
- Work requirements may vary depending on your situation. SNAP workers can also connect you to training or job opportunities if you are interested.
Reporting Household Changes
Your SNAP eligibility depends on your household’s current circumstances. When certain details about your household change, you must notify your SNAP office. The frequency of reporting can differ: some households must report monthly, others every few months, and some only when changes actually occur. Your caseworker will explain which schedule applies to you.
Changes You Must Report
- Income and assets: Report if someone in your home starts or loses a job, changes hours, or gains/loses access to money or resources.
- Address: If you move, you’ll need to update your mailing address and share any changes in rent or utility costs.
- Household size: Notify your office if someone moves in or out, a baby is born, a household member passes away, or there’s a marriage or divorce.
Why It Matters
Failing to report changes could result in you receiving benefits to which you’re not entitled. If that happens, you may be asked to repay those benefits later.
How to Report
- In writing: Many offices recommend sending a written note about the change.
- By phone: You can also call your local SNAP office directly.
How to Apply for SNAP by State
If your household needs help buying food, you can apply for SNAP right away—there’s no required waiting period to submit your application. Keep in mind, though, that it may take some time for your state to review and approve your case.
Application options differ depending on where you live. In most states, you can apply:
- Online through your state’s SNAP portal
- By mail, by sending in a paper application
- In person at your local SNAP office
Check below to see the specific methods available in your state or territory.
Alabama
If you live in Alabama, you can apply for SNAP in several ways:
Online: Create an account through the state’s benefits portal and complete your application there.
On paper: Download and print the application, then submit it by mail, fax, or hand-deliver it to your local Department of Human Resources office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://mydhr.alabama.gov/content/forms/application-english.pdf |
| Spanish | https://mydhr.alabama.gov/content/forms/application-spanish.pdf |
Alaska
To apply for SNAP in Alaska, you can:
- Apply online through the Alaska Connect Portal.
- Apply on paper by downloading the SNAP application, filling it out, signing it, and then submitting it by mail or fax. Submission details are provided at the end of the form.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | http://dpaweb.hss.state.ak.us/e-forms/pdf/GEN-50C.pdf |
American Samoa
Details about applying for the American Samoa Nutrition Assistance Program (ASNAP) are not posted online. To start an application or get more information, contact your local benefits office directly.
Arizona
In Arizona, you can apply for Nutrition Assistance in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application and upload documents through the Health-e-Arizona PLUS portal.
- On paper: Request a form by phone or download it online. Once completed and signed, return it by mail, fax, or in person to your local office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://des.az.gov/sites/default/files/dl/FAA-0001A.pdf?time=1757206422036 |
| Spanish | https://des.az.gov/sites/default/files/dl/FAA-0001A-S.pdf?time=1757206422036 |
Arkansas
You can apply for SNAP in Arkansas in two ways:
- Online: Use the Access Arkansas portal to complete and submit your application.
- On paper: Download the application, fill it out, sign it, and mail it to your local Department of Human Services office.
California
California residents have several ways to apply for CalFresh. You can submit your application online, by phone, or in person:
- Online: Complete your application and upload any required documents at the official state portal: https://www.getcalfresh.org/
- By Phone: Call the CalFresh line at 1-877-847-3663 to apply over the phone.
- In Person: Download and fill out a paper application, then submit it at your local county office.
Colorado
Colorado residents can apply for SNAP benefits either online or in person:
- Online: Submit your application through the PEAK portal: https://peak.my.site.com/peak/s/afb-welcome?language=en_US
- In Person: Print and complete a paper application, then take it to your nearest state agency for submission.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9eaXW7_92zSZjA5djJoX1JxSWc/view |
| Spanish | https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BztoLK7fIWYlVFVYeWN4VWwybVFYWmhEOHpyUFBXcUEycm1v/view |
Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands
In the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), heads of households can apply for the Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP) in person:
- In Person: Print, complete, and sign the NAP application, then submit it either to the Certification Unit Office or directly to a NAP officer.
Printable application form:
Connecticut
Residents can apply for food assistance online, by mail, or in person:
- Online: Submit your application through the state website: https://www.connect.ct.gov/access/jsp/access/Home.jsp
- By Mail or In Person: Download and complete a paper application, then mail it or bring it to your nearest DSS office.
Delaware
Residents can apply for SNAP benefits online or by mail:
- Online: Complete your application through the state portal: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/Common/SystemCompatibility?Origin=ApplyforBenefits
- By Mail: Download and fill out the application form, then submit it via mail.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/files/form100e.pdf |
| Spanish | https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dss/files/form100s.pdf |
District of Columbia
DC residents can apply for SNAP benefits online, by mail, or in person:
- Online: Submit your application through the DHS portal: https://districtdirect.dc.gov/ua/
- By Mail or In Person: Download and complete a paper application, then mail it or bring it to the nearest DHS Service Center.
Florida
Residents can apply for the Food Assistance Program online, by mail, by fax, or in person:
- Online: Submit your application through ACCESS Florida: https://myaccess.myflfamilies.com/
- By Mail, Fax, or In Person: Download and complete the application form, then submit it via mail, fax, or at a local Department of Children and Families Economic Self-Sufficiency Services office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORM | |
| English | Go here, then click “Government Assistance Application” to download the form directly. |
Georgia
In Georgia, you can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the Georgia Gateway portal.
- By phone: Call (877) 423-4746 to apply.
- On paper: Download or request an application, then complete and return it by mail, fax, or in person at your local county office.
Guam
To apply for SNAP in Guam, complete and sign the Application for Public Benefits form, then submit it in one of the following ways:
- By email: Send the form to PublicAssistance@dphss.guam.gov
- In person: Deliver the completed application to your local Bureau of Economic Security (BES) office.
Hawaii
Hawaii residents can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the Public Assistance Information System.
- By mail: Download, complete, and sign the application form, then send it to your local Processing Center.
- In person: Bring your filled-out form along with the required documentation to a local Processing Center.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORM | |
| English | https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/BESSD-Application_June-2015.pdf |
Idaho
Idaho residents can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Apply through Idalink
- By phone: Call 877-456-1233 (toll-free).
- By email: Send a completed application to MyBenefits@dhw.idaho.gov
- By fax: Submit a completed application to 1-866-434-8278 (toll-free).
- By mail: Send a completed application to Self-Reliance Programs, PO Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0026.
- In person: Visit your local Field Office.
Illinois
You can apply for SNAP in Illinois using one of these methods:
- Online: Apply through ABE (Application for Benefits Eligibility).
- By phone: Call the ABE Help Line at 1-800-843-6154.
- On paper: Download the application form and submit it by mail or in person at your nearest Family Community Resource Center.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=86436 |
| Spanish | https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=86437 |
Indiana
In Indiana, you can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the FSSA Benefits Portal
- On paper: Download and print the application, then bring it to your local SNAP office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://forms.in.gov/Download.aspx?id=12306 |
| Spanish | https://forms.in.gov/Download.aspx?id=12460 |
Iowa
Residents of Iowa can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Apply through the Iowa Service Portal.
- By phone: Call (855) 944-FOOD (3663).
- By email: Send a completed application to imagingcenter4@dhs.state.ia.us
- By fax: Submit to 515-564-4017.
- By mail or in person: Deliver your application to your local Department of Human Services office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://dhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/470-0462.pdf?050520202156 |
| Spanish | https://dhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/470-0462S.pdf |
Kansas
Kansas residents can apply for SNAP using one of the following methods:
- Online: Submit your application through the DCF Self-Service Portal
- On paper: Download, print, and complete the application form, then submit it by mail, fax, or in person at your local Department for Children and Families office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | http://content.dcf.ks.gov/ees/KEESM/Forms/ES-3100.pdf |
Kentucky
You can apply for SNAP in Kentucky in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the Kentucky Online Gateway.
- By phone: Call 1-855-306-8959 to apply with the help of a caseworker.
- On paper: Download and complete the application, then mail, fax, or deliver it in person to your local Department for Community Based Services office.
Louisiana
Louisiana residents can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Apply through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal
- By phone: Call 1-888-524-3578 to apply with assistance.
- On paper: Download and fill out the application, then submit it by mail, fax, or in person at a Department of Children and Family Services office.
Maine
Maine residents have several options for applying for SNAP:
- Online: Submit your application through My Maine Connection.
- By phone: Call (855) 797-4357 to apply with assistance.
- By mail: Send completed applications to: Office for Family Independence, 114 Corn Shop Lane, Farmington, ME 04938
- By fax: Send completed application to 207-778-8429.
- By email: Send completed application to Farmington.DHHS@Maine.gov
- In person: Deliver your application at your local Department of Health and Human Services office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/SNAP%20TANF%20or%20MaineCare%20General%20Application%20updated%204.30.24.pdf |
Maryland
Maryland residents can apply for SNAP in two main ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the Maryland Benefits Portal.
- On paper: Download and complete the application, then return it by mail, fax, or in person to your local Department of Human Services office.
Massachusetts
Residents of Massachusetts can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Apply through DTA Connect.
- By phone: Call 877-382-2363 and press 7 to apply directly.
- By fax: Send completed applications to 617-887-8765.
- By mail: Submit your completed form to: DTA Document Processing Center, P.O. Box 4406 Taunton, MA 02780
- In person: Visit a local DTA office, through a SNAP outreach partner, or at a community kiosk.
Michigan
In Michigan, you can apply for SNAP in two main ways:
- Online: Complete and submit your application through the MI Bridges platform.
- On paper: Download and fill out the form, then return it by mail, fax, or in person at your local Department of Health and Human Services office.
Minnesota
Minnesota residents can apply for SNAP in the following ways:
- Online: Submit your application through MN Benefits.
- On paper: Download the form, complete it, and return it by mail or in person to your local county human services office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/Public/DHS-5223-ENG-pform |
| English for Elderly | https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/Public/DHS-5223F-ENG |
Mississippi
Mississippi residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Complete and submit your application through Access MS.
- On paper: Download the application form, fill it out, and return it by mail, fax, or in person at your local county office.
Missouri
Missouri residents can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the Missouri Department of Social Services portal.
- By mail: Send completed applications to Family Support Division, P.O. Box 2700, Jefferson City, MO 65102.
- By fax: Send completed application to 573-526-9400
- In person: Deliver your application at any Family Support Division office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://dssmanuals.mo.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/snap-application.pdf |
| Spanish | https://dssmanuals.mo.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/snap-application-spanish.pdf |
Montana
Montana residents can apply for SNAP using any of these methods:
- Online: Apply through the Montana DPHHS portal.
- By email: Request an application form by writing to hhssspapplicationcustomersupport@mt.gov, then complete and return it.
- By phone: Call 1-888-706-1535 for assistance.
- In person: Visit your local Office of Public Assistance to apply directly.
Nebraska
You can apply for SNAP in Nebraska in two ways:
- Online: Complete and submit your application through iServe Nebraska.
- On paper: Download and fill out the application, then mail it to your local Department of Health and Human Services office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English & Spanish | https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/ACCESS-Nebraska-Printable-Applications.aspx#:~:text=Application%20for%20Benefits%3A%20%28EA%2D117%29 |
Nevada
Nevada residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application through Access Nevada.
- On paper: Download and complete the form, then mail it to your local Welfare Office.
New Hampshire
To apply for SNAP in New Hampshire, you can:
- Online: Submit your application through NH Easy.
- On paper: Print and complete the form, then send it by mail to your local District Office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://nheasy.nh.gov/forms/E/800.pdf |
| Spanish | https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/bfa-800sp.pdf |
New Jersey
New Jersey residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application through NJHelps.
- On paper: Download, complete, and sign the application form, then mail it.
New Mexico
New Mexico residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Complete your application through YesNM.
- On paper: Fill out and sign the application, then mail it or deliver it in person to your nearest field office.
New York
In New York, you can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application through MyBenefits.
- On paper: Complete the application and turn it in at your local SNAP center.
New York City
If you live in New York City, you can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application through ACCESS NYC and upload the required documents.
- By fax: Send your completed form to 917-639-1111.
- By mail or in person: Submit your application at any SNAP center.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS (NYC) | |
| English | https://access-nyc-s3-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2017/03/SNAP_ApplandRecert_EN.pdf |
North Carolina
In North Carolina, you can apply for SNAP in three ways:
- Online: Submit your application through ePASS.
- In person: Visit your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office.
- By mail: Download and print the application, fill it out, sign it, and mail it to your local DSS office.
North Dakota
North Dakota residents can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the Self Service Portal (SSP).
- On paper: Complete a paper application and return it by mail or in person to your local Human Service Zone office.
- By request: Submit a request to the Customer Support Center to have an application mailed to you.
Ohio
Ohio residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the Ohio Benefits portal.
- In person: Complete a paper application and turn it in at your local county agency.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application through OKDHSLive.
- On paper: Download and complete the form, then return it to your local county office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/okdhs/documents/searchcenter/okdhsformresults/08mp001e.pdf |
Oregon
Oregon residents can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application through ONE Oregon.
- By phone: Call 800-699-9075 to apply with assistance.
- On paper: Download and complete the form, then mail it or deliver it in person to your local self-sufficiency office.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania residents can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application through COMPASS.
- On paper: Download and complete the application, then return it by mail.
- In person: Bring your completed form to your local county assistance office.
Puerto Rico
In Puerto Rico, SNAP is known as the Programa de Asistencia Nutricional (PAN). Residents can apply in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application at www.adsef.gobierno.pr.
- By phone: Call 787-289-7632 or 787-981-8056 (toll-free).
- In person: Visit a local PAN office to apply directly.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Complete and submit your application through HealthSourceRI.
- On paper: Fill out a paper application and return it by mail or in person to your nearest Department of Human Services office.
South Carolina
Residents of South Carolina can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the DSS Portal.
- On paper: Download and complete the form, then submit it by mail, fax, or in person at your local Department of Social Services office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://dss.sc.gov/media/bhdc2w4c/mfi-dss-form-3800-april-2024.pdf |
| Spanish | https://dss.sc.gov/media/vlqfgvcd/mfi-dss-form-3800-april-2024-spa.pdf |
South Dakota
South Dakota residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Complete your application through the SD DSS Online System.
- On paper: Fill out a paper application and return it by mail or in person at your local Department of Social Services office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://dss.sd.gov/formsandpubs/docs/SNAP/301Application.pdf |
Tennessee
Tennessee residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the DHS portal.
- On paper: Print and complete the form, then submit it in person at your nearest Department of Human Services county office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/human-services/hs/hs-0169/hs-0169.docx [Word document download] |
| Spanish | https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/human-services/hs/hs-0169/hs-0169sp.docx [Word document download] |
| Arabic | https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/human-services/hs/hs-0169/hs-0169a%20FA%20application%20and%20addendum.docx [Word document download] |
| Somali | https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/human-services/hs/hs-0169/hs-0169s%20FA%20application%20and%20addendum.docx [Word document download] |
Texas
Texas residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application through Your Texas Benefits.
- In person: Visit your local Health and Human Services office to apply directly.
U.S. Virgin Islands
In the U.S. Virgin Islands, SNAP applications are completed using a paper form. You can download the form online (when available), request one by phone, or pick it up at a local office. After you fill out and sign the form, it may be submitted in person, by fax, by email, or by mail to one of the addresses listed on the application. For the most current details, visit the U.S. Virgin Islands SNAP page on the USDA website.
Utah
Utah residents can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Submit your application through the MyCase portal.
- On paper: Download the form, complete it, and return it by mail, fax, or in person at your local office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://jobs.utah.gov/forms/61app.pdf |
| Spanish | https://jobs.utah.gov/forms/61appsp.pdf |
Vermont
Vermont residents can apply for 3SquaresVT (the state’s SNAP program) in two ways:
- Online: Apply through MyBenefits.
- On paper: Fill out the application form and submit it by mail or in person at your local district office.
Virginia
Virginia residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application through CommonHelp.
- In person: Complete an application form and turn it in at your nearest local agency.
Washington
Washington residents can apply for SNAP in several ways:
- Online: Apply through Washington Connection.
- By phone: Call 877-501-2233 for assistance.
- On paper: Print the application form, complete it, and submit it by mail, fax, or in person at your local DSHS Community Services Office.
West Virginia
West Virginia residents can apply for SNAP in two ways:
- Online: Submit your application through WV PATH.
- On paper: Download the application form, complete it, and mail it to your local office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://dhhr.wv.gov/bcf/Services/familyassistance/Documents/DFA_SNAP_1%20%2007_11_19%20–%20approved.pdf |
Wisconsin
Wisconsin residents can apply for FoodShare (the state’s SNAP program) in several ways:
- Online: Apply through ACCESS Wisconsin.
- On paper: Download and complete the form, then submit it by mail, fax, or in person at your local agency.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/forms/f1/f16019b.pdf |
| Spanish | https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/forms/f1/f16019bs.pdf |
| Hmong | https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/forms/f1/f16019bh.pdf |
Wyoming
Wyoming residents can apply for SNAP in the following ways:
- By mail: Download, complete, and send the application to your local Department of Family Services (DFS) office.
- By fax: Submit your signed form by fax to your DFS office.
- In person: Deliver the completed application directly to a local DFS office.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1r9Supds1XkerGakMvZVUjK5hCyhfM-co/view |
| Spanish | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VsvlJfjAM7EVvyrC6HD8RcetDQTXCYnE/view |
Information & Documents You’ll Need to Apply for SNAP
When you apply for SNAP, you’ll need to provide documents that confirm your household’s personal and financial situation. These documents help verify each person’s identity, citizenship or residency status, income, and expenses. Some households may also need to show proof of disability, school enrollment, or medical costs.
Proof of Identity
- Driver’s license or state ID
- School ID
- Birth certificate
- Health insurance card
- Voter registration card
Proof of Citizenship or Legal Residenc
- Birth certificate
- Naturalization certificate
- Permanent resident card (green card)
- Employment authorization card
- USCIS correspondence or status letter
- U.S. passport
Proof of Residency
- Utility bill
- Rent or mortgage receipt with address
- Official mail addressed to you
- Library card with address
- Voter registration card
Proof of Income (Earned or Unearned)
- Recent pay stubs or employer statement
- Social Security, SSI, or Veterans Benefits letters
- Retirement or disability benefit statements
- Alimony or child support documents
- Unemployment benefits paperwork
- Self-employment income records
Proof of Medical Expenses (for elderly or disabled applicants, if over $35/month)
- Bills, invoices, or payment receipts
- Prescription labels or pharmacy printouts
- Receipts for travel or lodging to get medical care
- Health insurance premium statements
- Medicare Part D card
- Medical equipment invoices or agreements
Proof of Other Expenses
- Child care receipts or child support records
- Rent or mortgage bills
- Utility bills
- Property tax or insurance statements
- Wage statements with child support deductions
Proof of Resources (if required in your state)
- Bank statements
- Stock or bond certificates
- Real estate deed or appraisal
Important Notes
- Each state may accept additional types of documents—check with your local SNAP office for guidance.
- If you cannot provide a requested document, speak with a caseworker about alternatives while your application is being reviewed.
- SNAP applications can take up to 30 days to process. In urgent cases, you may qualify for expedited benefits, which provide food assistance within a few days.
Do you really need to go to an interview?
Yes. An interview is a required step for nearly all SNAP applicants before benefits can be approved. After you submit your application, your state SNAP office will contact you—usually by phone, mail, or through the state portal—to set up a time. Most interviews are done by phone, though some states still conduct them in person.
Why Interviews Are Required
The SNAP interview serves several purposes:
- Confirming application details: A caseworker will review the information you provided and may compare it with records from other government databases. If more proof is needed, you’ll have extra time to submit additional documents.
- Verifying identity: You may be asked to confirm who you are and, if needed, provide another form of ID. This helps prevent fraud and ensures that benefits are paid to the intended recipient.
- Checking for expedited benefits: During the interview, the caseworker will determine if you qualify for emergency SNAP, which can provide help within a few days, or if you will receive benefits on the regular schedule.
- Reviewing work requirements: The interviewer will go over your employment status. Unless you qualify for an exemption, you’ll need to be either working or actively seeking employment.
- Understanding household size: How many people live in your household affects both your work requirements and the amount of SNAP benefits you may receive.
How to Get Emergency SNAP Benefits
Some households may qualify for expedited SNAP benefits—sometimes referred to as emergency SNAP—which provide food assistance more quickly than the standard process. If you qualify, your benefits must be issued within 7 days of submitting your application.
Who Qualifies
To receive expedited benefits, you must be eligible for SNAP and meet at least one of these conditions:
- Your household’s monthly income is under $150, and you have less than $100 in cash or bank accounts.
- Your combined cash, bank funds, and monthly income are less than your housing costs (rent or mortgage plus utilities).
- You or someone in your household is a migrant or seasonal farm worker with little or no income at the time of application (the state defines what counts as “little income”).
How It Works
You don’t need to request expedited service separately. Every SNAP office automatically checks applications for expedited eligibility when they are submitted.
SNAP Benefit Amounts
Your SNAP benefit amount, also called your allotment, is based on your household’s net income and size. The calculation works like this:
- Multiply your net monthly household income by 30%. SNAP rules assume families spend about one-third of their income on food.
- Subtract that amount from the maximum monthly allotment for your household size.
- The result is the monthly benefit your household will receive.
Minimum Allotments (2025-2026)
- 48 contiguous states & Washington, D.C.: $24
- Alaska: $31–$48 (depending on location)
- Guam: $35
- Hawaii: $41
- U.S. Virgin Islands: $31
Maximum Allotments (2025-2026)
See the chart below for the maximum benefit amounts by household size, effective Oct. 1, 2025 – Sept. 30, 2026.
| SNAP Benefits by Household Size (48 States + D.C.) | |
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit (10/1/2025 – 9/30/2026) |
| 1 | $298 |
| 2 | $546 |
| 3 | $785 |
| 4 | $994 |
| 5 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $1,421 |
| 7 | $1,571 |
| 8 | $1,789 |
| Each additional person | $218 |
| SNAP Benefits by Household Size (Guam) | |
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit (10/1/2025 – 9/30/2026) |
| 1 | $439 |
| 2 | $806 |
| 3 | $1,157 |
| 4 | $1,465 |
| 5 | $1,743 |
| 6 | $2,095 |
| 7 | $2,315 |
| 8 | $2,637 |
| Each additional person | $322 |
| SNAP Benefits by Household Size (U.S. Virgin Islands) | |
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit (10/1/2025 – 9/30/2026) |
| 1 | $383 |
| 2 | $703 |
| 3 | $1,009 |
| 4 | $1,278 |
| 5 | $1,521 |
| 6 | $1,827 |
| 7 | $2,019 |
| 8 | $2,300 |
| Each additional person | $281 |
| SNAP Benefits by Household Size (Alaska) | |||
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit (10/1/2025 – 9/30/2026) | ||
| | Alaska Urban | Alaska Rural 1 | Alaska Rural 2 |
| 1 | $385 | $491 | $598 |
| 2 | $707 | $901 | $1,097 |
| 3 | $1,015 | $1,295 | $1,576 |
| 4 | $1,285 | $1,639 | $1,995 |
| 5 | $1,529 | $1,950 | $2,374 |
| 6 | $1,838 | $2,344 | $2,853 |
| 7 | $2,031 | $2,590 | $3,152 |
| 8 | $2,314 | $2,950 | $3,591 |
| Each additional person | $282 | $360 | $438 |
| SNAP Benefits by Household Size (Hawaii) | |
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit (10/1/2025 – 9/30/2026) |
| 1 | $506 |
| 2 | $929 |
| 3 | $1,334 |
| 4 | $1,689 |
| 5 | $2,010 |
| 6 | $2,415 |
| 7 | $2,668 |
| 8 | $3,040 |
| Each additional person | $371 |
Allotment details for American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), and Puerto Rico are not published. To learn more, reach out directly to your local benefits office.
How long can you get SNAP benefits?
When you’re approved for SNAP, your household is assigned a certification period—the length of time you’re eligible before you need to renew. States are required to give the longest certification period allowed for your situation.
Standard Timeframes
- Most households are certified for up to 12 months.
- Households with an elderly or disabled member can be certified for up to 24 months. States must still check in at least once after the first 12 months.
- Households living on a reservation are always assigned a 24-month period. If they move away, the state can decide whether to keep or shorten that period.
Shorter Certification Periods
Some households only qualify for short-term certification:
- ABAWDs (able-bodied adults without dependents): usually limited to 3 months or less.
- Unstable households: those with no net income may also be limited to 3 months or less.
- Migrant or seasonal farm workers: may only get 1–2 months at a time if their work situation changes quickly.
- Expedited SNAP applicants: may start with a short certification (1–2 months) until missing information is verified, after which a new period is set.
When Certification Can Be Cut Short
States can end or shorten your certification period if your household:
- No longer meets eligibility requirements
- Fails to report required changes
- Provides incomplete or inaccurate income information when asked
Things to Know About EBT Cards
When you’re approved for SNAP, your benefits are issued on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which functions similarly to a debit card. Before you can begin using it, you’ll need to set up your account and PIN.
Setting Up Your EBT Card
- Activate your card: Call the customer service number provided in your SNAP approval letter. Be ready to confirm your personal information and EBT card number.
- Choose a PIN: Select a four-digit personal identification number (PIN) you’ll use at checkout. Pick something easy to remember but hard for others to guess. Never share your PIN with anyone you don’t want using your card.
- Check your balance: Once activated, your monthly benefits will be automatically loaded to the card. You can check your balance by phone, online through your state’s EBT portal, or on your last store receipt.
Using Your EBT Card
- At the store: Swipe or insert your EBT card like a debit card and enter your PIN. Eligible locations include:
- Supermarkets and grocery stores
- Big-box retailers like Walmart or Target
- Many pharmacies, such as CVS and Walgreens
- Gas stations and convenience stores
- Farmers’ markets and food co-ops
- Travel: Your EBT card can be used in other states across the U.S., though it is not valid in Puerto Rico.
To find approved retailers near you, use the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator.
If You Lose Your EBT Card
- Report it immediately by calling your state’s EBT customer service line. They will cancel the old card to protect your balance.
- Request a replacement card during the same call. A new card is typically mailed within seven business days.
- Important: Benefits already spent by someone else before you reported the card lost cannot be replaced.
For state-specific instructions, visit the USDA’s EBT directory and select your state.
Renewing SNAP Benefits: When Is It Necessary?
If you want your SNAP benefits to continue without interruption, you need to renew them before your current certification period ends. This process is often called recertification or redetermination. Think of it as simply checking in with your SNAP office to confirm that your household information is still correct.
Completing your recertification on time means your benefits will keep coming—typically for another year, or two years if your household includes seniors or someone with a disability. Miss the deadline, and your benefits will stop when the current period ends.
The exact steps for recertification can vary depending on the state you live in. Some states may ask you to attend an in-person interview, but most allow you to complete it over the phone. You’ll also need to submit a recertification application.
About 45 days before your benefits expire, most states will send a notice—sometimes called a Notice of Expiration (NOE) or a recertification notice. This notice is important because it typically lays out:
- When your current certification period ends
- The deadline to submit your recertification application
- What happens if you miss the deadline
- Your right to have your application accepted as long as it’s signed and includes your household’s name and address
- Alternate ways to submit your application if you can’t visit a SNAP office in person
- Where to send your application
- Your right to request a fair hearing if your application is denied
- Special instructions for households receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- A reminder that missing an interview could delay or deny benefits, and that you’re responsible for rescheduling and providing required documents
Federal rules require that the NOE be sent at least one day before your current certification period ends, and usually, you’ll have up to 15 days before your benefits expire to send your application.
The recertification form you receive often comes pre-filled with your current information, so all you need to do is correct any changes and submit it.
Pro tip: Don’t wait until your recertification to update your SNAP office about household changes. Reporting updates promptly helps prevent delays or issues with your benefits.
Summer EBT Program: Keeping Kids Fed After School Ends
When the school year ends, many families lose access to the free or reduced-price meals their children rely on during the day. The Summer EBT program—often called SUN Bucks— helps fill that gap by providing grocery money during the summer months.
Each eligible school-aged child can receive $120 in food benefits for the summer. Families use these funds through an EBT card at the same types of stores that accept SNAP.
The program is active in several states and U.S. territories, and the name may differ depending on where you live. For the 2025-2026 year, states and territories participating in SUN Bucks include:
- Alabama
- American Samoa
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Guam
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Puerto Rico
- U.S. Virgin Islands
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
Who Qualifies for SUN Bucks?
Children are usually enrolled automatically if their household already receives SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR benefits, or if they receive free or reduced-price school meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).
Families who don’t meet these automatic criteria may still qualify by applying directly through their state or territory’s Summer EBT agency, as long as they meet income guidelines.
How Families Receive SUN Bucks
The way your family gets SUN Bucks depends on how the program is run where you live. Benefits may be:
- Loaded onto your existing SNAP EBT card
- Issued on a new, separate EBT card
- Delivered by another method set by your state or territory
What You Can Buy with SUN Bucks
SUN Bucks can be used to purchase the same grocery items allowed under SNAP, including:
- Fresh, canned, or frozen fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Bread, cereal, and grains
- Dairy products
- Packaged snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
They cannot be used for hot or prepared foods, cleaning supplies, toiletries, medicine, alcohol, or other non-food household products.
Other Tips to Slash Your Grocery Bills
Even with SNAP, many families find themselves stretching every dollar at the grocery store. With food prices continuing to rise, a few simple habits can make a big difference in how far your money goes.
Smart Shopping Strategies
- Check your kitchen first: Look through your pantry, fridge, and freezer before shopping so you don’t buy items you already have on hand.
- Write a list—and stick to it: A written list helps you avoid impulse buys and gives you a clear estimate of what your total should be at checkout.
- Plan meals in advance: Prepping meals for the week helps reduce waste and keeps food from spoiling in the fridge. It also gives you a chance to build meals around sale items.
- Shop sales and use store apps: Many stores post weekly sales online or in newsletters. Apps and loyalty cards can also unlock extra discounts.
- Buy in bulk when it makes sense: Items like rice, pasta, oats, and canned goods often cost less per serving when bought in larger packages.
Extra Ways to Save
- Compare unit prices: Look at the “price per ounce” or “price per pound” tags on the shelf to see which size offers the best deal.
- Skip pre-packaged items: Whole fruits, blocks of cheese, or heads of lettuce are usually cheaper than pre-cut or pre-shredded versions.
- Try store brands: Generic or store-brand items often taste the same as name brands but cost much less.
- Shop seasonal produce: Fruits and vegetables that are in season are not only fresher but also more affordable.
- Limit convenience foods: Frozen dinners, snacks, and individually packaged items are convenient but usually cost more per serving.
- Use coupons wisely: Combine coupons with store sales for maximum savings, but avoid buying items you wouldn’t normally purchase.
- Consider discount outlets and farmers’ markets: Some communities have stores or markets with reduced prices on perfectly good food that may be close to its “best by” date.
By Admin –