Food Stamps
Purpose
Food Stamps is a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that can help provide money for nutritious food. The program uses an easy credit card format called Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) to purchase food at retail stores and farmers markets.
Who May Be Eligible
- All US citizens (Except persons receiving SSI/SSP benefits)
- Most immigrants - Legal Permanent Residents
What Verification Is Needed
- Identification (does not need to be a picture ID)
- Social Security number
- Proof of any income
- Proof of any assets - bank accounts, stocks
- Proof of expenses - rent receipt, utility bills, childcare receipts, medical receipts
How Much Income and Resources Can I Have
- Resource maximum $2,000 or $3,000 if someone is 60 years and over
- Income depends on the number of people in your household
| Household size |
Maximum Gross Income |
Maximum benefit amount |
| 1 |
$1,174 |
$200 |
| 2 |
$1,579 |
$367 |
| 3 |
$1,984 |
$526 |
| 4 |
$2,389 |
$668 |
| 5 |
$2,794 |
$793 |
| 6 |
$3,200 |
$952
|
| 7 |
$3,605 |
$1,052
|
How to apply
You can request an application be mailed to you or simply pick one up at any of our public contact offices.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Food Stamps?
Food Stamps are America's primary form of nutrition assistance. To alleviate the stigma associated with coupons, Food Stamps benefits are now provided via an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which works just like a normal debit card.
2. Do I have to be on Public Assistance to be eligible to receive Food Stamps?
No. Many recipients of Food Stamps are employed, elderly or disabled people who need assistance purchasing nutritional food.
3. How long does it take to receive Food Stamp benefits?
If you qualify for Food Stamps, you will receive them no later than 30 days from the date the office received your application. If you have very little or no income and less than $100 in cash, you may be eligible to receive Food Stamps within 3 days.
4. What is the average benefit from the Food Stamp Program?
The average monthly benefit is about $73 per person and almost $173 per household.
5. What foods are eligible for purchase with Food Stamps?
Households can use Food Stamps to buy any food or food product for human consumption as well as seeds and plants for use in home gardens to produce food. Households cannot buy:
- Alcoholic beverages and tobacco
- Lunch counter items or food to be eaten in the store
- Vitamins and medicines
- Pet food
- Any non-food items (except seeds or plants)
6. I am a single adult without dependents; can I apply for Food Stamp benefits?
Yes.
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