SNAP Program Food Stamps in Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, the second largest city in the nation, the SNAP food stamp program helps low-income households get more and better quality food than they are able to afford on their own. The process is regulated through the federal government, and the county of Los Angeles uses federal guidelines to run the program.
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Applying for SNAP Benefits
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Apply for the SNAP Program by filling out an application, which can received by calling the program's hot line at 877-847-3663. Applicants can request that the application be mailed, faxed or emailed. The form can also be downloaded from the Los Angeles Department of Social Services website, or picked up at one of their offices. If you need food stamps right away, it is wise to ask for "Expedited Service." If you are eligible, your food stamps benefits will begin within three days from the date you turn in your application.
Determining Eligibility
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In order to receive food stamps, you must meet with a county case worker who will determine your eligibility. Bring proof of rent expense or a mortgage statement, utility bills, property taxes or other housing costs with you. You must be a U.S. citizen or living in the country under approved alien status. You must show proof that you live in Los Angeles County, and have a valid Social Security number, which will be used to check your income and resources. Lastly, you must register for work and send in a report called the Monthly Eligibility Report to your case worker or your benefits could be stopped.
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Benefit Amounts
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A $2,000 limit is placed on the amount of property your household can have and still be eligible for food stamps. If anyone in your family is 60 or older, that number jumps to $3,000. You must report any and all income and proof of any changes to your housing costs. If your income goes up during any one month, your benefits can go down the next month. Federal law sets a limit on the amount of food stamps you are eligible for. If your household has income, it will be used to figure benefit amounts. The county can demand that you repay the food stamp benefits you have used if your income is too high during any given month.
Redeeming Your Benefits
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The SNAP program distributes an electronic debit card with your monthly allowance of benefits, which is refilled monthly, as long as you remain eligible. You purchase your food at a participating grocery store or restaurant, swipe your card like any debit card and enter your personal identification number. Keep a record of the available balance on our card. If your purchase goes over the amount of benefits you have on the card, your entire purchase is denied.
What You Can Purchase
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Only food can be purchased with the SNAP food stamp program card. Sales tax will not be applied to the price of any item you buy with the card. Alcohol, tobacco, pet food, and nonfood items such as soap or toilet paper are not eligible. The card cannot be sold for cash.
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