How to Apply for Food Stamps

In today's difficult economy many people who have always had good jobs are finding themselves and their families struggling. The government's food stamp program can help ease this burden. Don't be afraid to apply for food stamps...it is painless and can help you and your family!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Proof of citizenship/legal residence
• A picture ID
• A Social Security Number
• Rent receipt
• Utility Bill
• (other documentation)

1. 
   The Online Application Is Quick and Easy

   It is quickest and easiest to complete the application online. Google your local social services website or call the office and ask them how to find the online application. Keep in mind that the appropriate office can be called by one of several different names: Department of Workforce Services, Department of Social Services, Department of Human Services are some of the most common.

2. 
   The Phone Interview Takes About 20-30 Minutes

   Once you complete and submit your application online, you can call the Social Service office to schedule your phone interview. Many offices will conduct the interview with you immediately when you call. They will ask you simple questions and most of the social workers are very nice and understanding.

3. 

   When your phone interview is complete, if you have shown the social worker that you have immediate need, you may be issued an expedited Benefit Card. This card will be mailed to you within 5-7 business days. Most states issue food stamp benefits on cards that look and work just like Visa debit cards, so no one at the grocery store needs to know that you are paying with food stamps. If you are approved for expedited benefits and you do not receive your card within 5-7 days, you can go to the social services office and they will issue you a card there.

4. 

   Once you have your card you will receive a letter in the mail asking you to provide all the necessary documentation that is required. This will usually include a copy of your birth certificate (and all those in your family), social security card, photo ID, rent receipt, utility bill, recent bank statement, and sometimes other documentation. You will usually have between 10 - 30 days from the time you receive the letter to provide this information.

5. 
   The Cashier Will Tell You How Much You Owe After Your Benefit Card is Used

   Shopping with Food Stamp Cards...When you go shopping with your benefit card, you will swipe it at the register just like you would a credit/debit card. Your benefit card will pay for all approved items and any other items will have to be paid separately. The cashier will tell you how much you owe after your card has been swiped. Items that are not covered by food stamps include: household products (ie: paper towels, shampoo, etc.), tobacco, alcohol, pre-made deli foods, and medicines.

Tips & Warnings

• Food Stamp fraud is a serious offense. Do not try to sell your extra benefit dollars or in any other way cheat the system.

[denisepapas]

on 4/30/2009 The notes on obtaining food stamps is all too useful in this economy. Thanks

[kristara]

on 4/29/2009 Great tips! Unfortunately many people are embarassed applying for food stamps and they really shouldn't be. In today's economy a lot of people NEED this type of help.

[presnick]

on 1/23/2009 Thanks for this. I just applied online and I'm nervous, but not nearly as nervous as I was before I read this.

[teishahall]

on 1/15/2009 I am a new stay at home mom and am a little bit afraid of applying for food stamps. Your easy to follow guide is really helpful. I didn't know you could do it online. That is much easier than dragging my kid to the office. Thank!!!

[TipsfromTammy]

on 11/27/2008 Thanks for the guidance.