When it comes to households handling groceries, it will look different depending on the situation! For example, a household of five people will likely spend more than a household of just one person. Regardless, people need to deal with this expense in one way or another. If people have a tough time keeping up, they may be able to benefit from available resources. There are a variety of food assistance options out there. However, one opportunity in particular is known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This program could be a game-changer to households struggling to keep up with the cost of groceries. That is why in this article we are going to touch on what this program is, and how it can help.
SNAP 101: What to Know
Like we said earlier, this program aims to help households with groceries. How is this possible? Well recipients will be able to get funds each month on their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. This card can be used to purchase eligible food items at retailers that accept this card as a form of payment.
It’s important to note that even though this is a program available at the federal level, the specifics of the program will vary by state. That’s because states divide federal funding to operate their own version.
Who Benefits From SNAP?
A variety of different people can benefit from SNAP! This includes senior citizens, folks that have a disability, families, etc. Even though a variety of people can qualify, most of the recipients are families that have children.
Handling the Application Process for SNAP
Since this program varies by state, that means the eligibility criteria will depend on which state it’s operating in! A good guide is that the requirements are pretty much standardized across the nation. However, the specifics will vary depending on where the program is operating. Your state agency will be the best place to start if you want to determine your eligibility. That’s because here is where they will have necessary information and people can apply. When submitting an application, there will be no cost that applicants deal with. If a person is determined to be eligible to receive benefits, they will get them back from the date that the application was submitted.
When it comes to getting in touch with your state agency to begin the application process, you can:
- Go to the agency in-person
- Call the agency’s phone number
- Check out the agency’s website online
Oftentimes, states allow people to file an application online! Regardless of how the application is submitted, typically people can find out whether or not they are eligible within a month (30 days). While waiting for the application to finish processing, applicants will need to provide proof of income as well as go through an interview. The exact interview process will depend on the state.
Are There Restrictions to be Mindful of?
When it comes to restrictions that come along with this program, there are definitely some that you want to be aware of. We know we may sound like a broken record, but the specific restrictions will depend on the operating state. States have the ability to place limitations on program guidelines, employment requirements, and more!
Maximum SNAP Benefits
There are maximums to be mindful of when it comes to your SNAP allotment (which is just a fancy way of saying SNAP benefits). The specific amount that a household will be able to get will vary depending on information like household size, income level, etc. However, there are maximums in place! For example, a seven person household can get a maximum of $1,480 per month. On the other hand, a two person household can get a maximum of $516 per month. Keep in mind that these maximums are only for households that are within the 48 contiguous states (as well as the District of Columbia). There will be different maximums for Alaska, Hawaii, etc. That is why you want to confirm the maximum limits with the state you want to apply in!
Eligible Food Items to Purchase with SNAP
There are foods that people can buy with SNAP benefits and there are foods that will not qualify. When it comes to foods that are not allowed to be purchased, recipients will not be able to get:
- Medicines, supplements, vitamins, etc.
- Animals that are alive (with exceptions)
- Drinks that contain alcohol
- Non-food items
- Products that contain tobacco
While the above foods are not able to be bought with SNAP benefits, there are still plenty of options for people to choose from. Some foods that qualify include the following:
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Grain products like bread and cereal
- Vegetables and fruit
- Snack foods
- Drinks that do not contain alcohol
- Products that contain dairy
Bottom Line
When it comes to handling groceries, there are loads of different resources out there. However, one resource in particular is known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Through this program, recipients can get funds each month on an EBT card. This card can be used at retailers that allow this as a form of payment, but only on qualifying food items. This includes meat, grain products, dairy products, and more.
If you want to apply for this program then your state agency will be a great place to start. That’s because the specifics of this program will vary at the state level. So the application process and eligibility requirements in one state may differ from another state. Regardless of how you handle submitting an application, you should generally expect to get a response in a month (30 days). How long you will be able to receive these benefits depends on the state as well!
After reading this article, you may have some more questions. Your state agency will also be a great place to go if you need some additional information. They can help you understand the program inside out for your state. This includes providing details on any SNAP restrictions, maximum benefits available, and more. Dealing with groceries is tough but there may be more support out there than you realize!
