Your Free Guide to the Food Stamps Application Process
Your Free Guide to the Food Stamps Application Process
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Introduction
Applying for food stamps can be a crucial step in ensuring that you and your family have access to nutritious food. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the process, making it easier for you to navigate and understand the steps involved. Whether you’re a single individual or part of a larger household, this guide will help you determine your eligibility, understand the benefits, and complete the application process smoothly.
Overview of the Food Stamps Program
SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a federal aid program designed to help low-income individuals and families purchase food. Established to combat hunger and malnutrition, SNAP provides monthly benefits that can be used to buy food items at authorized retailers. The benefits are delivered through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card at participating stores.
SNAP’s history dates back to the 1930s, evolving through various reforms to better meet the needs of those it serves. Today, it remains a vital resource for millions of Americans, offering financial support to ensure that they have access to healthy and sufficient food.
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/services/basic-needs/family-assistance/contact-family-assistance-administration-f |
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 | http://www.dcca.gov.mp/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://dcgis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/SimpleViewer/index.html?appid=ffc9e2992d9f429489b84110284f81a8 |
Florida | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotlines: 1-866-762-2237 / 850-300-4323TTY: 711/ 1-800-955-8771 | https://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/access/map.shtml |
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 | http://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/Pages/DCFOfficeLocatorMap.aspx |
Kentucky | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 800-372-2973TTY: 1-785-296-1491 | https://prdweb.chfs.ky.gov/Office_Phone/index.aspx# |
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.aspx |
Nebraska | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-800-383-4278TTY: 711 / 1-800-833-7352 | http://dhhs.ne.gov/DD%20Documents/DHHS-DD%20Main%20Directory.pdf#search=locations |
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/contactus/districtoffices.htm |
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/programs/njsnap/cbss/index.html |
New Mexico | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 800-432-6217TTY: 1-877-294-4356 / 711 | https://www.hsd.state.nm.us/LookingForAssistance/Field_Offices_1.aspx |
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 | http://www.nd.gov/dhs/locations/countysocialserv/ |
Ohio | Food Assistance Program (FAP) | Hotline: 1-866-244-0071 TTY: 711 | http://jfs.ohio.gov/county/county_directory.pdf |
Oklahoma | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 1-866-411-1877TTY: 711 | http://www.okdhs.org/countyoffices/Pages/default.aspx |
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 | http://servicios.adsef.pr.gov/contactenos.aspx |
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/ |
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://www.dshs.texas.gov/regions/default.shtm |
U.S. Virgin Islands | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Hotline: 340-774-2399 | http://www.dhs.gov.vi/contact/index.html |
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://dcf.vermont.gov/main-contacts |
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 Can Get Food Stamps?
Eligibility for SNAP benefits is determined based on several factors, primarily focusing on income, household size, and certain expenses. The program is designed to assist those who are most in need, and eligibility requirements are structured to reflect that aim.
General Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for SNAP, applicants must meet specific income guidelines, which vary by household size. Generally, households must have a gross monthly income at or below 130% of the federal poverty line and a net monthly income at or below 100% of the poverty line.
Additionally, households must meet certain asset limits, although some resources, such as a primary home and retirement accounts, are excluded from these calculations.
Specific Eligibility Groups
Certain groups may have slightly different eligibility requirements or considerations. For instance, working families with low incomes, unemployed individuals, seniors, and persons with disabilities may all qualify for SNAP. Each group may have specific documentation or conditions that need to be met to ensure eligibility.
Non-Citizen Eligibility
Legal immigrants may also qualify for SNAP, provided they meet specific requirements. These typically include residing legally in the U.S. for at least five years, receiving disability-related assistance or benefits, or being under 18 years old. Documentation proving immigration status will be required as part of the application process.
Understanding the Benefits of Food Stamps
SNAP benefits extend beyond just providing financial assistance for food. They play a critical role in ensuring nutritional support, reducing food insecurity, and promoting overall health and well-being.
Nutritional Support
SNAP helps ensure that individuals and families have access to a variety of healthy food options. This support is crucial in promoting balanced diets, which can lead to better health outcomes and improved quality of life.
Financial Relief
By covering some of the costs associated with purchasing food, SNAP allows recipients to allocate their limited financial resources to other essential expenses such as housing, utilities, and medical care. This relief can significantly reduce financial stress and improve economic stability.
Health Benefits
Adequate nutrition is linked to numerous health benefits, including lower rates of chronic diseases, improved cognitive function, and better physical health. SNAP helps prevent malnutrition and supports recipients in maintaining a healthier lifestyle.
Applying for Food Stamps
Applying for SNAP benefits requires preparation and an understanding of the application process. Gathering necessary documents and knowing where and how to apply are essential steps to ensure a successful application.
Preparation Before Applying
Before starting your application, gather all required documents, such as proof of income, identification, Social Security numbers for all household members, and proof of residence. Having these documents ready will streamline the process and reduce the likelihood of delays.
Application Methods
You can apply for SNAP through several methods:
- Online Applications: Many states offer online portals where you can fill out and submit your SNAP application electronically. This method is convenient and allows you to track your application’s progress.
- In-Person Applications: If you prefer, you can apply in person at your local SNAP office. This option allows you to ask questions and get immediate assistance if needed.
- Mail-In and Fax Applications: Some states allow you to download the application form, fill it out, and send it via mail or fax. Ensure you include all required documents to avoid processing delays.
How to Apply for Food Stamps by Location
The SNAP program recommends that you apply for SNAP as soon as you need assistance. There is no waiting period to receive food stamps, but it will take time for your application to be processed.
SNAP application methods vary by state: you can apply online, by mail, and in person. Find the application methods available for your state, territory, or tribe below.
Or, find your local office information in the section called “Contact Information by Location.”
Alabama
To apply for food stamps in Alabama, either register on the site and apply online or download and print your application for submission by fax, by mail or in person to a state agency.
Apply online: https://mydhr.alabama.gov/
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://mydhr.alabama.gov/content/forms/application-english.pdf |
| Spanish | https://mydhr.alabama.gov/content/forms/application-spanish.pdf |
Alaska
You cannot apply for SNAP online in Alaska. You need to download the application, fill it out, sign it and submit it by mail or fax. Find the submission information at the end of the application form.
Get printable application form:
http://dpaweb.hss.state.ak.us/e-forms/pdf/GEN-50C.pdf
American Samoa
Information about the application process for ASNAP is not available. Please contact your local benefits office to learn more. Find out how to contact your local office in the section called “Contact Information by Location” on page X of this guide.
Arizona
To get Nutrition Assistance in Arizona, apply online and submit both the application and documentation through the state portal. Or, request a paper application by phone or download your application online, print it, fill it out and sign it. Then send it either by fax or mail, or submit it in person.
Apply online: https://www.healthearizonaplus.gov/Login/Default
Get printable application form: http://arizonaselfhelp.org/static/applications/FA-001-English.585efd4b51e7.pdf
Arkansas
Apply online through the state portal or download your application, fill it out, sign it and send it by mail.
Apply online: https://access.arkansas.gov/Learn/Home
California
To apply for CalFresh, California residents can either apply online through the state portal and upload their documents, call the CalFresh line or download and fill out the application and submit it in person at their nearest county office.
Apply online: https://www.getcalfresh.org/
Apply by phone: 1-877-847-3663
Colorado
Residents have the option of applying online for SNAP benefits through PEAK or they can print the application form, fill it out and submit it at the nearest state agency.
Apply online: https://coloradopeak.secure.force.com/ABWEL?Language=EN
| 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 (CNMI)
To apply for the Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP) in CMNI, heads of households can print, fill out and sign the application and submit it in person at the Certification Unit Office or to a NAP officer. Find the contact information on page XX.
Printable application form:
https://iyb.nrh.mybluehost.me/nap/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/NAP-Application.pdf
Connecticut
To apply for food assistance in Connecticut, residents can either apply online through the state website or download and print the application form and send it by mail or submit it in person at the nearest DSS office.
Apply online: https://www.connect.ct.gov/access/jsp/access/Home.jsp
Delaware
You have the option of applying for SNAP benefits online or downloading the application form, filling it out and turning it in by mail.
Apply online: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/Common/SystemCompatibility?Origin=ApplyforBenefits
| 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
If you live in DC and wish to apply for SNAP benefits, either apply online through the DHS portal or download the application form and either send it by mail or visit the nearest DHS Service Center to submit it in person.
Apply online: https://districtdirect.dc.gov/ua/
Florida
Residents can apply for the Food Assistance Program online through ACCESS Florida or they can download the application form, fill it out and submit it by mail, by fax or in person at any of the Department of Children and Families Economics Self-Sufficiency Services offices.
Apply online: https://dcf-access.dcf.state.fl.us/access/scrflhomepage.do?performAction=changeLocale&language=english
Georgia
You cannot apply for SNAP online in Georgia. You need to print the application form or request a paper application by phone, and fill it out and submit it via mail, by fax or in person at any local county office.
Download the application from the Georgia Department of Human Services website here: https://dfcs.georgia.gov/snap-food-stamps (scroll down to the section that says “Get Prepared”)
Guam
In order to get the application process started, you will need to fill out and sign the Application for Public Benefits form and either send it by email or submit it in person at your local Bureau of Economic Security (BES) office.
Apply by email: send your application form to PublicAssistance@dphss.guam.gov
If you wish to submit your completed application in person, find the contact information on page XX.
Hawaii
Residents need to print the application form, fill it out, sign it and submit it in person. You will need to also bring the required documentation. The application form also includes the vote registration application form at the end, which you can choose to complete. Otherwise, simply tick the “NO” box.
Get printable application form: http://humanservices.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/BESSD-Application_June-2015.pdf
Idaho
Apply online through Idalink, by phone, or in person/by mail by printing the application form and submitting it with copies of the required documentation.
Apply online: https://idalink.idaho.gov/
Apply by phone (toll-free): 1-877-456-1233
Illinois
Locals can apply online through ABE or download the application form and either mail it or submit it in person at any Family Community Resource Center.
Apply online: https://abe.illinois.gov/abe/access/
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | http://www.dhs.state.il.us/onenetlibrary/12/documents/Forms/IL444-2378B-IES.pdf |
| Spanish | http://www.dhs.state.il.us/onenetlibrary/12/documents/Forms/IL444-2378BS-IES.pdf |
Indiana
Residents can apply online or download and print an application form to submit it at a local SNAP office.
Apply online: https://fssabenefits.in.gov/bp/#/
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://forms.in.gov/Download.aspx?id=12306 |
| Spanish | https://forms.in.gov/Download.aspx?id=12460 |
Iowa
To request SNAP benefits, residents can apply online through OASIS or download an application form and submit it by fax, by mail or in person at a local Department of Human Services office.
Apply online: https://dhsservices.iowa.gov/apspssp/ssp.portal
| 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 |
Apply by fax: 202-690-7442
Kansas
Residents can apply for benefits online or they can do so by mail, by fax or in person. To submit their application offline, they simply need to download and print the application form, fill it out and sign it before sending it.
Apply online: https://cssp.kees.ks.gov/apspssp/sspNonMed.portal
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | http://content.dcf.ks.gov/ees/KEESM/Forms/ES-3100.pdf |
| Spanish | http://content.dcf.ks.gov/ees/KEESM/Forms/ES-3100SPA.pdf |
Kentucky
Apply online for benefits through the Benefind portal, or print a copy of the form and mail it, fax it or submit it to a local Department for Community Based Services office in person.
Apply online: https://benefind.ky.gov/
Apply by fax: 502-573-2007
Louisiana
To apply for SNAP benefits, locals will need to either submit an online application through the CAFÉ Customer Portal or print an application form and send it by fax, by mail or submit it in person at any Department of Children and Family Services office.
Apply online: https://sspweb.ie.dcfs.la.gov/selfservice/selfserviceJSPController?id=0.08774569067928584&tab=1&fromPilot=true
Maine
Residents can apply online through the My Maine Connection platform. Otherwise, they can download the application form and, once it is filled out and signed, submit it in person at their local Department of Health and Human Services office or send it by mail or fax.
Apply online: https://www1.maine.gov/benefits/account/login.html
Get printable application form: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/public-assistance/pdf/GeneralApp-080117.pdf
Apply by fax: 1-207-778-8429
Maryland
Apply online through the state portal or submit a paper application to the Department of Human Services by mail, by fax or in person.
SNAP name in Maryland:
Apply online: https://mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us/
Apply by fax: 800-332-6347
Massachusetts
Massachusetts locals can apply online for SNAP benefits or they can print the application form, fill it out and send it by mail or fax.
Apply online: https://dtaconnect.eohhs.mass.gov/
Apply by fax: 877-382-2363
Michigan
Residents of this state can apply for food stamps online through the state’s MI Bridges platform or download and submit their application form by mail, by fax or in person at the nearest Department of Health and Human Services office.
Apply online: https://newmibridges.michigan.gov/s/isd-landing-page?language=en_US
Minnesota
Either apply online or by mail/in person by downloading the paper application, filling it out and submitting it to your local county human services office. Residents of 60 or older have a different application form (DHS-5223F).
Apply online: https://mnbenefits.mn.gov/
| 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
Residents can either apply online through the Access MI platform or download the paper application form and turn it in by mail, by fax or in person at any local county office.
Apply online: https://www.access.ms.gov/Application
Missouri
Submit a printed and filled out paper application by mail, by fax or in person at any Family Support Division office, or complete your application online.
Apply online: https://formsportal.dss.mo.gov/content/forms/af/moa/my-dss/family-support-division/FS-1/fs-1.html
| 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
Apply for food stamps online, or request an application form to be sent to you via email and fill it out and send it back.
Apply online: https://apply.mt.gov/access/accessController?id=0.9425123149004698
Request an application form via email: hhssspapplicationcustomersupport@mt.gov
Nebraska
Apply online through ACCESS Nebraska, or print the application, fill it out, sign it and submit it by mail.
Apply online: http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/ACCESSNebraska.aspx
Download an application form: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/ACCESS-Nebraska-Printable-Applications.aspx#:~:text=Application%20for%20Benefits%3A%20(EA%2D117) (Scroll down to “Application for Benefits).
Nevada
To get food assistance, apply online or submit a paper application by mail.
Apply online: https://dwss.nv.gov/TANF/Access_Nevada/
New Hampshire
Complete an online application through the NH Easy platform, or print the application and send it by mail.
Apply online: https://nheasy.nh.gov/#/apply-benefits
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://nheasy.nh.gov/forms/E/800.pdf |
| Spanish | https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dfa/documents/bfa-800-sp.pdf |
New Jersey
To apply for food stamps, complete the online application or download a copy of the form, fill it out, sign it and send it by mail.
Apply online: https://mynjhelps.gov/home
New Mexico
Apply online through the YesNM platform, or fill out a paper application, sign it and submit it by mail or in person at the nearest field office.
Apply online: https://www.yes.state.nm.us/yesnm/home/index
New York
Apply for SNAP online, or submit your paper application in person at any SNAP center.
Apply online: https://mybenefits.ny.gov/mybenefits/begin
For NYC applicants:
If you live in NYC, apply online through the Access HRA platform and upload your documents through the NYC HRA Document upload app. Or, submit your form by fax (917-639-1111), by mail or in person at any SNAP center.
Apply online: https://access.nyc.gov/
Get printable application form: https://access-nyc-s3-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2017/03/SNAP_ApplandRecert_EN.pdf
North Carolina
Apply for food benefits online, or download the application form and mail it or bring it in person to a Department of Health and Human Services office.
Apply online: https://epass.nc.gov/CitizenPortal/application.do
North Dakota
Apply online or fill out a paper application and submit it by mail or in person to a local county social services office.
Apply online: https://www.applyforhelp.nd.gov/
Get printable application form: https://www.nd.gov/eforms/Doc/sfn00405.pdf
Ohio
Apply online for food assistance using the Ohio Benefits portal, or turn in your application form in person at a county agency.
Apply online: https://benefits.ohio.gov/
Oklahoma
Apply online through the OKDHSLive platform, or download a form, fill it out and submit it to a local county office.
Apply online: https://www.okdhslive.org/
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | http://www.okdhs.org/okdhs%20form%20library/08MP001E.pdf (requires Adobe to download) |
| Spanish | https://www.benefitscheckup.org/forms/ok_msp_mdcd_fs_application_spanish.pdf (requires Adobe to download) |
Oregon
Apply for food stamps online, or print the application form, fill it out and submit it by mail, by fax or in person at the nearest local self-sufficiency office.
Apply online: https://one.oregon.gov/
Apply by fax: 503-373-7032
Pennsylvania
Apply online via the Compass platform, or apply in person at the nearest county assistance office after you download your application form here and fill it out.
Apply online: https://www.compass.state.pa.us/compass.web/Public/CMPHome
Puerto Rico
To apply for SNAP (or PAN, in Spanish), residents can apply online, by phone or in person at any of the local agencies.
Apply online: www.adsef.gobierno.pr
Apply by phone: 787-289-7632 / 787-981-8056 (toll-free)
Rhode Island
Apply online or by mail/in person by completing a paper application and submitting it to the nearest local Department of Human Services office.
Apply online: https://healthyrhode.ri.gov/HIXWebI3/CreateGenericUserAccount?accountFlow=true
South Carolina
Apply online through the SCMAPP platform, or print the application form and submit it by mail, by fax, by email or in person at the nearest Department of Social Services office.
Apply online: https://benefitsportal.dss.sc.gov/#/login
Email address for applications: SNAPTANFInbox@dss.sc.gov
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://dss.sc.gov/media/1244/3800-2015-04.pdf |
| Spanish | https://dss.sc.gov/media/1724/dss-form-3800-april2018-spa.pdf |
Apply by fax: 803-734-2012
South Dakota
Apply online through the SD DSS Online System, or fill out a paper application and submit it to a local Social Services office in person or by mail.
Apply online: https://apps.sd.gov/SS36SNAP/Web/Portal/SystemCompatibility.aspx
Get printable application form: https://dss.sd.gov/formsandpubs/docs/gen/301application.pdf
If you speak another language and need an interpreter to fill out the form, call 1-877-999-5612 to get assistance.
Tennessee
Apply online through the state portal or print the form and submit it in person at the nearest Department of Human Services county office.
Apply online: https://onedhs.tn.gov/csp
| 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
Apply for SNAP online or by mail when you download and fill out a paper application.
Apply online: https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home#login
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/GeneratePDF/StaticPdfs/en_US/H1010_Nov_2019.pdf |
| Spanish | https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/GeneratePDF/StaticPdfs/es_ES/H1010_Nov_2019.pdf |
U.S. Virgin Islands
Apply for SNAP by completing a printable application form, which you can download online, request by phone or pick up at a local office. Once you fill out the form and sign it, submit it in person, by fax, by email or by mail to one the addresses listed on the form.
Specific application forms or links are not available at this time. For more information, please visit the U.S. Virgin Islands’ SNAP page on the USDA’s website here: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap-directory-entry/virgin-islands
Utah
Apply for food stamps online, or download a printable application and submit it by mail, by fax or in person at a local office.
Apply online: https://jobs.utah.gov/mycase/
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://jobs.utah.gov/forms/61app.pdf |
| Spanish | https://jobs.utah.gov/forms/61appsp.pdf |
Apply by fax: 877-313-4717
Vermont
Apply for 3SquaresVT online, or fill out and submit your application form by mail or in person at the local district office.
Apply online: https://mybenefits.ahs.state.vt.us/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=/selfservice/Default.aspx
Call 1-800-479-6151 to get a paper application.
Virginia
Apply for food stamps online, or fill out a form to apply in person at the nearest local agency.
Washington
Residents can apply online for SNAP benefits or print a copy of the form, fill it out, sign it and either mail it, fax it or deliver it in person to any local Department of Social and Health Services office.
Apply online: https://www.washingtonconnection.org/home/
Apply by fax: 1-888-338-7410
West Virginia
Apply for food assistance online, or print a form and mail it to your local office.
Apply online: https://www.wvpath.wv.gov/
Get printable application form: https://dhhr.wv.gov/bcf/Services/familyassistance/Documents/DFA_SNAP_1%20%2007_11_19%20–%20approved.pdf
Wisconsin
To get FoodShare in Wisconsin, apply online or download the application form and submit it by mail, by fax or in person at a local agency.
Apply online: https://access.wisconsin.gov/
| 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 |
Apply by fax: 888-409-1979 (Milwaukee county) / 855-293-1822 (outside Milwaukee county)
Wyoming
Apply for SNAP benefits by mail, by fax or in person at a local DFS office. Download the application form, fill it out and send in whichever way you prefer.
| PRINTABLE APPLICATION FORMS | |
| English | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1r9Supds1XkerGakMvZVUjK5hCyhfM-co/view |
| Spanish | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VsvlJfjAM7EVvyrC6HD8RcetDQTXCYnE/view |
General Steps in the Application Process
Filling out the SNAP application accurately and completely is crucial. Here’s a better look at the usual process:
Filling Out the Application
- Personal Information: Provide your name, address, phone number, and other contact details.
- Household Details: Include information about all household members, including their names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers.
- Income and Expenses: Report all sources of income for your household, such as wages, unemployment benefits, and child support. Also, include details about your household expenses, like rent, utilities, and medical costs.
Submitting the Application
After completing the application, submit it through your chosen method (online, in-person, mail, or fax). Ensure all required documents are attached or uploaded.
Tips for Filling Out the Food Stamps Application
Filling out the SNAP application correctly is essential to avoid delays and ensure you receive the benefits you qualify for. Here are some tips you can use when you are applying for the program.
Accuracy and Completeness
Double-check all information for accuracy. Ensure that every section is filled out and that no required fields are left blank. Providing complete and accurate information helps avoid delays in processing your application.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid common mistakes such as omitting required documents, providing incorrect income information, or missing deadlines. Carefully review the application guidelines and follow them closely.
Helpful Resources
Utilize pre-screening tools available online to check your potential eligibility before applying. Local assistance programs, community centers, and SNAP offices can also provide help with the application process.
After Applying: Checking the Status of Your Application
Once you have submitted your application, it’s important to keep track of its status and respond to any additional requests for information promptly.
Most states offer online portals where you can check the status of your application. Alternatively, you can contact your local SNAP office for updates.
Follow-Up Steps
If additional information is required, it’s important to respond quickly to requests from the SNAP office. You may also need to schedule and prepare for an interview, which may be part of the verification process.
Receiving and Using Food Stamps Benefits
If your application is approved, you should receive an approval letter detailing your benefit amount and duration. Understanding how to use your benefits effectively is crucial.
Your approval letter will generally outline the amount of benefits you can receive and how long they will last. Keep this letter for your records and refer to it if you have any questions about your benefits.
Using the EBT Card
Your benefits will be loaded onto an EBT card, which stands for electronic benefit transfer card. This functions like a debit card. You can use it at authorized retailers to purchase eligible food items. Be sure to activate your card and familiarize yourself with its use.
Additional Support
For more information or assistance, contact your local SNAP office. Many states also have online resources and hotlines to help with the application process.
