After you apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, the next steps will include a SNAP interview. The purpose of the SNAP interview is not to trip you up or to try to disqualify you from the program. It is simply to double-check the information you already provided on your SNAP application.

What will they ask during my SNAP interview?

The goal of the SNAP interview is to make sure your application is complete, correct, and ready for approval. You can expect to answer questions like:

  • What is your full name and birthday?
  • What is your Social Security number?
  • Where do you live? (You can still qualify if you are houseless.)
  • Are you a U.S. citizen? (You may still qualify if you are a noncitizen.)
  • What is your monthly income?
  • Do you pay utilities, such as an electric bill or cable TV bill?
  • What other regular bills do you have?

What should I take to my SNAP interview?

Now that you have an idea of what your interviewer might ask, you can gather the documents you will need to answer the questions easily and correctly. This can include:

  • Your Social Security card if you do not have your number memorized
  • A letter from a shelter representative if you are houseless and staying there
  • Proof of identity

Acceptable ways to prove your identity include:

  • Birth certificate
  • Driver’s license
  • U.S. passport
  • Work visa
  • Resident alien card
  • Proof of income

Make sure to have the following items ready if any of them apply to you:

  • Pay stubs
  • Benefit letters (like those from Social Security or Veterans Administration, for example)
  • Pension statements
  • Proof of deductions

Keep handy any bills or payment records for qualified deductions, such as:

  • Dependent-care costs (for a disabled household member, for example)
  • Rent or mortgage
  • Utilities (heat, water, electric, cable, telephone, etc.)
  • Medical expenses

How can I get ready for my SNAP interview?

Use the list of SNAP interview questions above and picture yourself responding to them. Imagine how it feels to answer with confidence. Practice makes perfect! If you live with someone else, have them ask you these questions. If you live alone, you could sit in front of a mirror.

There is no right or wrong way to practice for your SNAP interview. Practice of any kind can help you feel prepared and help your interview go smoothly.