Stop worrying about skipping meals—here’s how to apply for SNAP Food Stamps and check your balance!

Often, the household budget is tight, and it becomes difficult to manage the cost of rationing. In the meantime, SNAP Food Stamps (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), i.e., food stamps, have become a great support. In this article, we will know in detail what SNAP is, what the eligibility criteria are, how to apply, how the EBT card works, how to check the balance, and much useful information that will prove helpful for you.

What are SNAP Food Stamps, and its purpose?

Find your SNAP office to apply

SNAP is a federal assistance program that people commonly call “food stamps”. Its purpose is to help low-income, vulnerable, or insecure families buy nutritious food. SNAP beneficiaries receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card every month, on which the amount is credited. It can be used to buy food at stores like a debit card on the go.

History of SNAP

• The first “Food Stamp Pilot Program” was started in 1961.
• In 1974, it was permanently made the “Food Stamp Program”.
• After the 2008 reform, it got the name “SNAP”.
• Today, it benefits about 40 million people across the country.

Main benefits of SNAP

• Food security
  An assured amount to buy ration or prepared food items every month
• Healthy nutrition
  Can be spent on eating nutritious food like fruits, vegetables, cereals, pulses, milk, etc.
• Financial support
  Acts like cash aid and provides relief on other expenses
• Boosts the local economy
  Increases cash flow in shops and the vegetable market

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Tip: SNAP benefits can be used to buy rice as well as beans, lentils, milk, eggs, fish, egg-containing bread, cereals, fruits and vegetables, nuts, etc. This card is generally not valid for prepared fast food or hot food.

Eligibility Criteria for SNAP

There are some basic requirements to join SNAP, which may vary slightly from state to state:

1. Income Limits
   The household’s total annual income must be less than 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) set in the state.
   For example, if the FPL is $30,000 for a family of 4, 130% = $39,000; your total income must be less than this.
2. Asset Test
   Generally, the home and one vehicle are excluded from the asset list.
   The total value of other cash or savings, investments, and real estate is limited—about $2,250 (or $3,500 if there is a senior or disabled member).
3. Citizenship & Residency
   The beneficiary must be a US citizen, a green card holder, or a recognized refugee.
   The applicant must live permanently in the same state or territory where he is applying.
4. Work Requirements
   Eligible people aged 16–59 must do a certain number of hours of employment or training.
   Unemployment benefits recipients must continue to look for employment.
   The lifetime limit on SNAP benefits is 36 months (without working).
5. Other special circumstances
   Work requirements are relaxed for pregnant women, parenting mothers, or disabled beneficiaries.
   Other welfare programs, such as Energy Assistance or Child Care Subsidy, also affect SNAP eligibility.

How to apply for SNAP

There are four ways in most states—online, mail, fax, or in-person:

1. Apply online

• Go to your state’s official website (example: benefitscal.com for California, YourTexasBenefits.com for Texas).
• Click on the “Apply for SNAP” or “Food Stamps” link.
• Create a new account on portals like MyBenefits or ABE (Arizona Benefits).
• Fill out the application form—details of income, family, rent, electricity bill, etc.
• Upload documents (identity, residence, income, property proof).
• Submit and remember—you will receive a call for a selection interview.

2. Apply at an office

• Find a local SNAP office—enter “Find Your Local Office” on Benefits.gov.
• Get the required forms and fill them out at the counter.
• Carry identity, residence, and income-related documents.
• Get a date for an appointment or walk-in interview.

3. Apply by mail or fax

• Download the form from the state website or get it from the office.
• Fill the form and attach copies of documents.
• Mail it to the address provided or use the fax number.
• Schedule a call interview with the office later.

4. Telephone assistance

• Some states offer application interviews or assistance calls by telephone.
• The number is available on the SNAP Office website.

List of documents

• Identification card: Driver’s License, State ID, Passport
• Residence proof: Electricity bill, water bill, rent deed
• Income proof: Payroll slips, bank statements, income tax returns
• Property proof: Savings account statement, investment documents
• Others: Unemployment certificate, medical certificate (for disability)

Tip: Take photocopies of documents and also keep digital scans.

Interview and Processing

• After submitting the application, you will receive an interview notification within 30–45 days.
• In the interview, the officer will ask questions about your family, income-expenditure, property, and employment status.
• After verification, you will receive an approval letter containing your EBT card or direct deposit information.

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How does an EBT card work?

EBT card is just like a normal debit or credit card:

1. Card Activation
   Activate the EBT card you have received with the given number.
2. Set PIN
   Choose a 4-digit PIN so that no one can use it unauthorizedly.
3. Purchase in a shop
   – Swipe card at grocery store
   – Enter PIN
   – Your purchase will be completed after approval
4. Balance update
   The new balance will be printed on the receipt after each purchase.

How to check SNAP balance

1. Check on receipt

Balance is usually visible on purchase receipts.

2. Mobile app or portal

Many states offer a state EBT app for SNAP, such as “ConnectEBT”, “Fresh EBT”.
Log in to the app to check your balance, transaction history, and next credit date.

3. Phone call

Dial the customer service number on the back of the card.
Log in to the IVR system with your card number and PIN to check your balance.

4. Local office

If you have technical issues, visit a SNAP office directly.

SNAP Fraud and Complaints

If you think a fraudulent deposit is being made, or your card has been stolen:

• Notify the office immediately
• Hotline (OIG) – Report to 1-800-HHS-TIPS
• Online complaint – on the Office of Inspector General website
• Block a card by calling Customer Service

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

SNAP (Food Stamps), i.e., Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is an important support to fill your plate. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, required documents, and ways to check EBT card balance, you can take full advantage of this benefit. If you meet the rules related to income, employment, or property, contact your nearest SNAP office, apply, and strengthen the confidence of your family’s stomach.