SNAP Benefits

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP for short, is a government welfare program net that ensures adequate income for people to afford nutritious food and allows them to participate in the economy. The federal government pays for the majority of the cost of SNAP, while states pay a small share and administer the program. Puerto Rico, Guam, and American Samoa are not part of SNAP but instead receive capped block grants for nutrition assistance. The majority of SNAP participants are low-paid working families and households with children and elderly or disabled members. SNAP is also the most responsive federal program during economic downturns and serves as an important safety net for households with no other source of income. In a typical household, SNAP benefits decline only 24 to 36 cents for every additional dollar earned. This helps SNAP participants stay on track to reach their long-term self-sufficiency and financial stability goals.

SNAP Eligibility

SNAP applicants are encouraged to check with their local offices for required documents. People can apply online, by phone or fax, or by completing and dropping off an application form. The local office will set up an interview with a case manager and review all of the required documentation.

To qualify for SNAP benefits, households must meet income eligibility standards and have assets that fall below limits set by the USDA. In addition, able-bodied adults without dependent children age 16 to 59 must register for work and accept suitable jobs. During a normal month in 2015, nearly half of SNAP participants who were able to work did so.

After reviewing all of the documents, an intake worker will determine a household’s eligibility category. The categories depend on a household’s income, expenses, and other factors. Generally, households with incomes below 130% of the federal poverty guideline qualify for SNAP benefits. Households with a higher income will need to prove they meet stricter requirements.

Households must reapply for SNAP every six or 12 months and report any changes in income or expenses that may affect their benefits. Some able-bodied adults, such as those caring for children or elderly family members, must work or participate in a job training program to continue receiving benefits.

How to Apply for SNAP?

Individuals and households must submit an application, undergo an interview, and meet certain requirements to receive SNAP benefits. In New York State, for example, individuals can apply for SNAP benefits by visiting their local county board of social services or using our statewide SNAP application website. SNAP provides monthly benefits on Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards that can be used to purchase food at grocery stores and some farmers’ markets. Individuals can use their EBT card to buy food for themselves and their families or to purchase seeds and plants to grow food.

Once your application has been submitted, a local department of social services or SNAP office will review it to determine if you are eligible and how much you’ll receive. If they need more information than what you provided on your application, they will contact you to schedule an interview. You can do this in-person, by phone, or with a representative.

At the interview, you will need to provide information about your family, including your name, birth date, sex, and how many people live in your home. You will also be asked to give them proof of your income, such as pay stubs or utility bills. Depending on your situation, you may be able to apply for emergency or expedited benefits without an interview. You will receive a decision on your application within 30 days.

Households must reapply for SNAP every six or 12 months and report any changes in income or expenses that may affect their benefits. Some able-bodied adults, such as those caring for children or elderly family members, must work or participate in a job training program to continue receiving benefits.