What is SNAP and How to Apply
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), formerly called food stamps, is a government program that helps people buy the food they need for healthy lives. Across the United States, 9.5 million families and children use SNAP to buy food. It is the largest program working to fight hunger in America. SNAP helps many people stretch their budgets because the money they would use on food can go towards other needs like medical bills, utilities, and rent.
Want to learn more about SNAP?
Your local food bank can walk you through the application process and help you learn if you may be eligible for monthly SNAP assistance.
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Commonly asked questions about SNAP
How does SNAP work?
People using SNAP receive monthly funds through a benefits card, similar to a debit card, to buy groceries at local stores or farmers' markets. The amount you receive each month depends on your income and family size
Is SNAP the same as Food Stamps?
SNAP is sometimes called other names. You may hear SNAP called food stamps or EBT. Some places also have a different name for SNAP, like Link or CalFresh. All these names refer to the same program - SNAP, a monthly benefit to help make food more affordable.
Who is eligible for SNAP?
SNAP is for everyone - families, seniors, people with disabilities, people who are unemployed or employed, and veterans or active military. SNAP is here to help you whenever you may need it.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for SNAP. Every state has different requirements for eligibility. These requirements might include:
Household income must be at or below a certain level
Household resources or assets, such as savings and bank accounts, must be less than a certain amount
At least one U.S. citizen or person with an eligible immigration status must live in the household
Check with your local SNAP office or your local food bank for help understanding if you are eligible. There is no risk to see if you are eligible for SNAP.
How do you apply for SNAP?
You may be able to apply for SNAP online, by mail, or by phone during the pandemic. Because each state has a different application form and process, we recommend connecting with a local SNAP application counselor for complete details.
Once you submit your SNAP application, it may take 30 days for your local SNAP office to process it. You may need to complete an interview with your SNAP office during your application review.
Is there help to apply for SNAP?
The Feeding America network can help you apply for SNAP today. A local SNAP Application Assistance team member can help you through the screening and application process or connect you with a local organization that can help.
Local SNAP Application Assistance teams may also be able to help with WIC , assistance for electricity and heating, unemployment insurance, income tax returns, and Medicaid enrollment.
What can you buy with SNAP?
Where can you shop with SNAP?
You can purchase food at many local grocery stores , convenience stores, farmer's markets, and even some online delivery services like Walmart and Amazon.
Are pandemic-related SNAP increases ending?
