Food & Nutrition

North Carolina Food and Nutrition Services (FNS)

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You may be eligible to receive

$158/month

in SNAP benefits. Click to apply online below and get help paying for food.

Food and Nutrition Services (FNS, once known as Food Stamps), helps many older adults, people with disabilities, and families in North Carolina pay for food.

If you're approved for FNS benefits, the government will issue your funds through an electronic benefits card (EBT card). This card looks and works just like a prepaid debit card, with a unique 16-digit account number and a magnetic strip on the back. Your card can be used at most grocery stores, convenience stores, superstores, wholesale retailers, and even farmers markets in North Carolina to buy FNS-approved food items. You can also make FNS purchases on Amazon.

Frequently asked questions

How does North Carolina FNS work?

Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) is run by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) Division of Social Services. DSS field offices across the state provide local support for people who receive FNS and other types of public assistance.

FNS can help you stretch your grocery dollars further every month. This is because the money you would have spent on groceries can now be spent on other basic living costs like your utility bills, prescriptions, and medical bills. There are many items that are FNS-eligible, and then others that are not covered under your benefits.

What is the FNS application process like in North Carolina?

While the idea of applying for FNS may seem overwhelming, it’s not as complicated as you might think. And, you don’t have to apply all by yourself. If you need help, a friend, family member, or DSS caseworker can assist you.

Generally, here are the steps to apply for North Carolina FNS:

Fill out an application: You can apply for North Carolina FNS online, in person, or by mail. Completing the application can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes. Note: No documentation is necessary to start the application process, but you must complete and submit your application before you can secure a benefit start date.
Have an interview: While you wait for your application to be processed, you must have a phone, virtual, or in-person interview with a DSS case worker.
Wait for a decision: Most North Carolina FNS applications are processed within 30 days from the date on your application. If you have an urgent need for food, you may be able to have your application processed faster.
Receive your EBT card: If you’re approved for FNS benefits, you will receive your EBT card in the mail with a guide on how to use it.

How do I know if I am eligible for FNS?

You can apply for all the people living in your home who buy and fix meals with you (defined as a “household”). To be eligible for FNS, your household must meet the following basic guidelines:

You must be a North Carolina resident and a U.S. citizen or have certain legal status. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible.
You must have a Social Security number (or have applied for one).
If you're an adult without kids and you're able to work, you might have to work or take part in a work program to continue getting FNS benefits.
People convicted of certain drug-related felonies may not be eligible.
College students are not eligible for FNS unless they meet certain work requirements or exceptions.

The amount of money you will get in North Carolina FNS benefits depends on:

How much you earn from your job or other income you receive, like Social Security
How many people live with you

What are the North Carolina FNS income limits?

The chart below shows the maximum monthly gross income households can earn and still get FNS benefits. In North Carolina, most households must meet a gross income limit of 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Some households must meet the standard gross income limit (130%); DSS will make this determination.

What do the terms “gross” and “net” mean?

Gross monthly income is the amount before taxes or other deductions are taken out.
Net monthly income is what is left of gross income after certain allowable expenses are subtracted.

These figures are effective for 2025 (Oct. 1, 2024 – Sept. 30, 2025). You can use the site you’re currently on to check your eligibility—just scroll up and click on the black button that says ‘See If You May Be Eligible.’

Family size	Maximum net monthly income (100% FPL)
1	$ 1,255
2	$ 1,704
3	$ 2,152
4	$ 2,600
5	$ 3,049
For each additional person, add:	+$ 449

Source: USDA.gov, SNAP Eligibility (October 2024)

You may qualify for deductions that reduce your countable income. This can help your household meet the FNS income limit. A caseworker can tell you which deductions your household qualifies for. Common deductions include:

20% earned income deduction
Standard deduction based on household size
Dependent care deduction
Medical expenses for older household members (60+) or members with a disability
Legally owed child support payments
Allowable deductions for utilities, rent, and mortgage/interest/property taxes

What are the North Carolina FNS asset limits?

Assets refer to the resources and property your household owns that can be converted into cash (e.g., cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, real estate). For North Carolina FNS, the asset limit for households with a member who is age 60+ or has a disability is $4,500. The asset limit for all other households is $3,000.

There is no asset limit for household members who receive Work First benefits or SSI, and certain households whose income is below 200% FPL.

How do I prepare to apply?

When you apply, you’ll be asked for important information to help determine if you qualify and the amount you can get each month. To apply for North Carolina FNS, you will need the following for everyone in your household (try to gather as much of it as possible):

Identification for you or the head of the household (a driver's license, birth certificate, or other government-issued ID)
Social Security Numbers, birthdates, and citizenship status for each person in the household
How much money each household member has in cash, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, etc.
Your household's monthly bills, including childcare, child support, and disabled adult care
Medical bills for anyone over 60 or who has a disability
Proof of income for each person (pay stubs, etc.)
Paperwork or IDs from other benefits you receive, like Medicaid, SSI, or WFFA (also known as TANF)

If you don’t have all of this information handy, don’t worry. You can always go back and provide additional information after you’ve submitted your application. Benefits start from the day you submit your FNS application.

If you would like to have someone else (like a friend or family member) help you gather the necessary documents, complete your FNS application, and even join you in your interview, you can name that person as your Authorized Representative in your application.

How do I apply for FNS in North Carolina?

There are several ways to apply for North Carolina FNS. Read below to learn more about which option might be right for you.

APPLY ONLINE

The quickest and easiest way to apply for FNS is online through ePASS. You’ll be glad to know when you do, all your personal information is kept 100% confidential and protected by special security technology.

Apply through ePASS

To apply online:

Go to the ePASS website or click the button above.
- If you already have an NCID account, click ‘Login’ and enter your username and password.
- If you do not have an NCID account, click ‘Sign up.’ and follow the prompts to set up your username and password.
Once you've logged in, you’ll see your account dashboard. The dashboard displays a variety of actions you can take while on the site, such as submitting documents or renewing your benefits.
Click the blue button that says, ‘Apply for Benefits.’ On the next screen, click the button that says, ‘Apply.’
Follow the prompts to complete your FNS application. It should take you about 20 to 30 minutes (but you can save your progress and come back if you need to; all you need to do is log back in with the username and password you set up earlier).
During the application process, you'll have the opportunity to link your account to the NC FAST database (by choosing the ‘Enhance your ePASS account’ option). You do not have to complete this step to apply for and receive benefits. However, it's recommended, since you'll gain access to convenient benefit management tools.

Tips for success:

Fill out as much information as you can; it’s better to guess or leave some parts blank rather than wait to verify the information. You can save your application progress in the system and return later to finish it, if necessary.
If your primary language is Spanish, click ‘Español’ at the top of your screen within the ePASS portal. To receive free interpreter services, call 1-866-719-0141.
If you have a disability and need communication assistance, call 1-866-719-0141 or Relay Services by dialing 711.
Visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page for answers to common questions about using ePASS.
Watch a YouTube tutorial on applying for benefits via ePASS.

APPLY IN PERSON OR BY MAIL

Apply in Person

To apply in person, you will first need to download and print a paper application:

North Carolina FNS Application

Then, visit your local DSS office or find your nearest office. Make sure to complete as much of the form ahead of time and bring your verification documents with you.

Apply by Mail

To apply by mail, download and print a paper FNS application provided above. Fill out the application and then mail it to your nearest DSS office.

What if I need food assistance right away?

You may be able to get North Carolina FNS benefits sooner (within 7 calendar days from the date on your application) if your food needs are urgent. Households that meet at least one of the following conditions can receive expedited (faster) FNS assistance:

Households with less than $150 in monthly gross income and the household’s liquid resources (i.e., cash on hand, checking or savings accounts, savings certificates, and lump-sum payments) do not exceed $100 in total value.
Households with combined monthly gross income and liquid resources less than the household’s rent or mortgage and utilities. This includes the entitlement to the standard utility allowance (SUA), if appropriate.
Households with one or more members who are migrant or seasonal farmworkers and liquid resources do not exceed $100 in total value.

Need food today? Visit the Feeding the Carolinas website to find local resources while you wait for your FNS application to be processed.

How can I get help with my application?

There are several ways to get help filling out your North Carolina FNS application. You can:

Call the NC EBT Call Center at 1-866-719-0141 or send an online message to DSS.
Contact your local DSS office.
Contact More in My Basket at 1-855-240-1451 or 1-888-382-7105 (para ayuda en Español). You can also fill out a form and a representative will contact you.
Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near where you live. See if there’s one in your area.

NCOA also has a HelpLine you can call to get free support. To get started today, call 1-855-534-1245.

What happens after I apply for FNS in North Carolina?

It can take up to 30 days to process your FNS application (within 7 days if you’re requesting expedited benefits). If you’re approved, the date you submit your application is the earliest date your benefits can begin.

After your application is received, a DSS case worker will contact you in a few days for an interview. This interview can take place in person (if you’re dropping off your application), by telephone, or through a video conference. They can interview you—or someone you choose to represent you.

To make sure you don't miss a letter or call from the agency, it's important to check your mail regularly and pick up the phone (even for calls from “unknown” or blocked numbers).

What can I expect during my FNS interview?

Don’t worry—the purpose of the interview is not to try to disqualify you for benefits. It is simply to double-check the information you already provided. In addition, your DSS case worker can tell you more about the program, answer any questions, and help you get any information or documents you’re having trouble providing.

During your FNS interview, you may be asked questions such as:

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?

It’s a good idea to practice answering these questions before your interview, either in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or family member. That way, you will feel less nervous and be able to respond with confidence.

Once all requested information is received, you will receive a letter in the mail telling you if you were approved or denied for FNS benefits. If you are approved, the notice will tell you the amount of benefits approved, when benefits will start, and the amount of income and deductions used to make the decision. If you are denied, the notice will tell you the reason why.

What happens after I am approved for FNS?

If you are approved for North Carolina FNS, the letter you get will explain your monthly benefits amount and how long you’ll get benefits for (this is called your “certification period”). For most households in North Carolina, that period is 6 months.

Shortly after you are approved for FNS, you will receive your EBT card in the mail with instructions on how to activate and use it. Your first month of benefits will be deposited into your account when your application is approved. Going forward, FNS benefits will be deposited between the 3rd and the 21st of the month, depending on the last digit of your Social Security number.

Other important tips to know

What if my North Carolina FNS application is denied?

Your FNS decision notice will include instructions for requesting a Fair Hearing if you do not agree with the decision. You must make this request within 90 days of receiving the decision.

How can I view my FNS benefits information?

You can log in to ePASS to check the status of your FNS application, view your benefits, upload documents, report changes, and see important notices and reminders about your benefits.

How do I manage my North Carolina EBT card?

To create or change your EBT card PIN number, check the balance on your card, or report a lost or stolen card, have your card number ready and call 1-888-622-7328. You can also visit the EBTEdge website to manage your card. You must create an account first.

Do I need to report changes to my household situation?

You must report certain changes that can impact your FNS benefit amount within 10 days of the change. Your DSS case worker will let you know what you need to report and when.

Reportable changes may include:

An increase in household income
Reduced work hours for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs)
Lottery or gambling winnings over $4,250

When should you renew your FNS benefits in North Carolina?

North Carolina FNS households must complete the recertification process at the end of their certification period in order to continue receiving benefits. Toward the end of your certification period, you will receive a renewal package. It will contain information on how to renew your benefits, which can be done online or via mail.

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