How to Apply for Food Stamps

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, helps low income individuals and families afford groceries. Although SNAP is a federal program, each state runs its own version—so eligibility rules, benefit amounts, and application processes may vary slightly depending on where you live.

SNAP benefits are loaded onto an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card once a month. This card can be used to buy groceries and, in some areas, even meals at participating restaurants.

Who Can Get Food Stamps in 2025?

Eligibility is based on your income, household size, and financial resources. The guidelines include:

• Income Limits: Most households must earn no more than 130% of the federal poverty level before taxes. Some deductions (like 20% of earned income and some housing, medical, or child care costs) are allowed.
• Asset Limits: Most households must have $3,000 or less in countable resources. If someone in your household is elderly or disabled, the limit is $4,500. Your home and retirement accounts usually don’t count.
• Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) generally must meet work requirements to receive SNAP. These rules are expanding in 2025 to include some adults up to age 54, depending on your state.

When in doubt, apply. Many people who qualify don’t realize they’re eligible.

Why Apply for SNAP?

SNAP helps you stretch your grocery budget. Benefits are issued monthly on an EBT card, which can be used at grocery stores and farmers markets.

Some states also offer restaurant meals for certain participants (such as the elderly, disabled, or homeless) through the Restaurant Meals Program.

Beyond food, your EBT card may unlock other benefits, including:

• Free or discounted admission to local attractions
• Internet discounts
• Reduced-cost Amazon Prime
• And more, depending on your state

We have an extensive directory of all the deals and discounts you can get with EBT.

When Do I Get My Benefits?

Each state sets its own SNAP deposit schedule. Some send all benefits on the same day each month, while others stagger benefits based on your case number or last name. You’ll need to check with your state for guidance on when your benefits will arrive.

Where can I apply for food stamps? 

You must apply through your state’s SNAP office. Most states allow you to apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. We’ve compiled the application links for every state here.

Scammers often target people who are applying for assistance programs like SNAP. To protect yourself:

• Always apply through your state’s official SNAP website. You can find verified links on our website here. Never trust a site that asks for money to help you apply.
• Avoid anyone who guarantees approval. No one can promise you’ll get benefits. Eligibility is determined by your state’s SNAP office.
• Don’t share personal information with strangers. Only provide your Social Security number, financial details, and other personal information through official government channels.
• Watch out for fake texts, emails, or calls. SNAP offices will not ask for sensitive information through text or social media.

If something feels off, it probably is. When in doubt, contact your local SNAP office directly using the contact information listed on your state’s official website.

Relief Recap

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is one of the most effective tools we have to fight hunger in the United States. It helps low income individuals and families put food on the table, especially during tough times.

More than 40 million people rely on SNAP each year—including children, seniors, and people with disabilities. By reducing food insecurity, this program also improves health outcomes, supports children’s growth, and boosts local economies through grocery spending.