Eligibility

• The SNAP program guidelines stipulate that applicants to the program cannot have more than $2,000 in resources, as of January 2011. Applicants over the age of 60 may have resources up to $3,000. Homes and cars are not included in the calculation of resources. Income limits for households are set by the SNAP program annually. The program is open to all U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals or qualified aliens. The Social Security Administration's website contains a complete listing of qualified alien guidelines.
  
  

Applying for Food Stamps

• Individuals interested in receiving food stamps are encouraged to visit the SNAP website and complete the online qualification questionnaire to determine if they are eligible. Upon determining eligibility, an application must be completed. Food stamp applications are available at local SNAP offices in your state of residence. SSI applicants and recipients can apply for SNAP assistance at the local Social Security Office. Many states offer online applications for SNAP. (To find out if your state offers online applications, see "Resources.") After the application is complete, a benefits counselor reviews the application and schedules an interview with the applicant.
  
  

The Interview

• The SNAP office schedules an interview with the applicant to review the application and supporting documentation. The applicant receives an appointment letter that contains the necessary documentation. In most cases the documentation includes: identification of each household member, proof of income and Social Security number of each household member. An assigned case worker works with the applicant to determine the level of assistance the individual qualifies for.
  
  

What Happens After the Interview?

• Once the applicant is approved for benefits, the state will set up an electronic benefits account for the recipient. The state sends EBT cards that individuals will use at select retail stores to purchase approved food items. The time frame for approval is usually 30 days. Benefits are prorated based on when the application is received at the local SNAP office. The benefit amount that a household receives is dependent on the household's current net income. Households with no income will receive the maximum approved amount. In 2010, the maximum amount for a household of four with no income was $668 a month.