Don’t forget to create an account to save your answers!
Create Account
Print Page
Share
Copy Link 
Email 
Facebook 
X 
LinkedIn 
Pinterest You may be eligible to receive
$158/month
in SNAP benefits. Click to apply online below and get help paying for food.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, helps many older adults, people with disabilities, and families in New Hampshire pay for food.
If you're approved for New Hampshire SNAP benefits, the government will issue your funds through an electronic benefits card (or EBT card). An EBT 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 EBT card can be used at most grocery stores, convenience stores, superstores, wholesale retailers, and even farmers markets to buy SNAP-approved food items. You can also make SNAP purchases on Amazon.
Frequently asked questions
- How does New Hampshire SNAP work?
- What is the SNAP application process like in New Hampshire?
- How do I know if I am eligible for SNAP?
- How do I prepare to apply?
- How do I apply for SNAP in New Hampshire?
- What happens after I apply for SNAP in New Hampshire?
- How can I get help with my application?
- Other important tips to know
How does New Hampshire SNAP work?
The New Hampshire Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), once known as Food Stamps, is run by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). SNAP 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 SNAP-eligible, and then others that are not covered under your benefits.
What is the SNAP application process like in New Hampshire?
While the idea of applying for New Hampshire SNAP 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 DHHS Family Services Specialist (FSS) can assist you.
Generally, here are the steps to apply for New Hampshire SNAP:
- Fill out an application: You can apply for New Hampshire SNAP online, by mail, in person, or over the phone. Completing the application can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes.
- Have an interview: You will be called for an interview once DHHS receives your SNAP application. A face-to-face interview can be arranged if required.
- Wait for a decision: Most SNAP 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 SNAP benefits, you’ll receive an EBT card pre-loaded with money for groceries in the mail.
How do I know if I am eligible for SNAP?
To be eligible for SNAP in New Hampshire, your household must meet certain guidelines. A “household” is defined as people who live together and buy and prepare meals together. You may qualify if you own your home, have no home, live with someone else, or live alone. You can have a job and you do not have to have children as long as your household qualifies.
Generally, the SNAP guidelines are as follows:
- You must meet certain income and resource limits (with some exceptions).
- You must be a resident of New Hampshire.
- You must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully present non-citizen. The program only requires citizenship or legal status information for those in the household who wish to receive benefits (participants).
- SNAP recipients ages 16 to 59 must meet work requirements. Adults ages 18 to 52 without children in the home have special work requirements.
The amount of money you will get in New Hampshire SNAP 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 New Hampshire SNAP income limits?
The following chart shows the maximum monthly income limits that most people or families can earn and still be eligible for SNAP in New Hampshire. The maximum gross monthly income limit for most households is set at 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), and the net monthly income limit is set at 100% FPL. Households with all members who are older (60+) or who have a disability only need to meet the net income test.
- Households with a member who is older and/or who has a disability qualify under Households with Separate, Elderly, and Disabled Members and must meet a gross income limit of 165%.
- Households fall under Expanded Categorical Eligibility if all members qualify for public assistance through Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Financial Assistance to Needy Families, Old Age Assistance, Aid to the Permanently and Totally Disabled, or Aid to the Needy Blind. Otherwise, household income must be less than or equal to 200% FPL and the household must include a dependent child with a parent or other relative.
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 2024 (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 |
Some household expenses may be subtracted from your total monthly income to help you meet the New Hampshire SNAP income limit; these are called deductions. They include:
- Standard household deduction
- Shelter
- Child/dependent care
- Utilities
- Paid child support
- Self-employment expenses
- Medical for older adults (60+) and people with disabilities
A Family Services Specialist can tell you which specific deductions your household qualifies for.
What are the New Hampshire SNAP resource limits?
Resources (assets) include bank accounts, stocks, bonds, properties, and certain other limited assets. The home you live in, vehicles, tax-preferred educational and retirement accounts, and other resources are not counted toward the SNAP limit.
In New Hampshire, households must meet the following resource limits:
- Households with at least one member age 60+ or with a disability: $4,250
- All other households: $2,750
- Categorically eligible households: No resource limit
How do I prepare to apply?
When applying for New Hampshire SNAP, you’ll be asked for important information to help determine if you qualify and the amount you can get each month.
Before you start, gather the following information to make your application process easier:
- Household income from jobs, child support, and other income sources
- Social Security numbers and birth dates of all household members
- Housing (rent/mortgage) and utility (phone, electric, gas, water) costs
- Child care or adult day health care costs
Examples of documents you may need to verify (prove) the information above include:
- Driver's license or other government-issued ID
- Birth certificate
- Bank statements
- Pension statements
- Social Security statements
- Pay stubs
- Tax returns
- Social Security card
- Proof of household expenses (such as utility and phone bills)
- Marriage license or divorce decree
If you would like to have someone else (like a friend or family member) help you gather the necessary documents, complete your SNAP application, and even join you in your interview, you can name that person as your Authorized Representative in your SNAP application.
How do I apply for SNAP in New Hampshire?
The quickest and easiest way to apply for SNAP in New Hampshire is online through the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) benefit portal, NH EASY. You’ll be glad to know that when you apply on their website, all your personal information is kept 100% confidential and protected by special security technology.
Apply for Benefits On NH EASY- To get started, visit the NH EASY website.
- If you wish to, you can take a quick screening to see if you’re eligible for SNAP. Click ‘Do I Qualify?’ to answer a few questions and see your results. If you’re found to be eligible for SNAP, you’ll have the option to apply.
- To start your application without taking the screening, scroll to the bottom of the page and click 'Apply Now.’
- On the next screen, read the note under ‘Important Information for Applicants,’ check the box at the bottom of the page, and click ‘Apply for Benefits.’ The system will walk you through the process of setting up an account. Creating an account will allow you to save your application progress and return any time to complete it. You’ll also be able to manage your benefits online later on.
- Once you have created your account and successfully logged in, click ‘Start Application.’
- Read the information under ‘Important Information for Applicants.’ Then, check the box at the bottom of the page and click ‘Next.’
- On the next screen, check the box next to ‘SNAP’. The system will walk you through the process of completing and submitting your application.
Tips For Success
- Allow yourself 20 to 45 minutes to complete your New Hampshire SNAP application.
- Make sure to provide a current and accurate mailing address, phone number, and email address so that you don’t miss out on any important communication.
- Fill out as much information as you can, since that can speed up your approval process. Be ready to share details about the money you earn and the things you pay for/own. You will also be able to upload the requested documents online.
- For questions or help completing your online application, call 1-844-ASK-DHHS (1-844-275-3447) or visit the FAQ page.
Apply for SNAP over the phone by calling the DHHS Customer Service Center at 1-844-ASK-DHHS (1-844-275-3447) and tell them you would like to apply for SNAP.
You can pick up a paper copy of the SNAP application at your nearest DHHS District Office. If you have a printer, you can download the form from the DHHS website:
- SNAP Application (English)
- SNAP Application (Spanish)
When you’re done with your application, drop it off at a District Office or mail it to:
Centralized Scanning Unit (CSC)
P.O. Box 181
Concord, NH 03301
To apply for SNAP in person, either download an application(above) or pick up a paper SNAP application at your nearest DHHS District Office. Once you have completed the application, drop it off/return it to your local DHHS office.
What if I need food assistance right away?
You may be able to get New Hampshire SNAP benefits sooner (within 7 days from the date on your application) if your food needs are urgent. To qualify for expedited (faster) benefits, you must meet one of the following requirements:
- You have less than $150 in monthly gross income and no more than $100 in liquid resources.
- You have shelter costs that are higher than your gross income and liquid resources
- You are a migrant or seasonal farm worker who is destitute.
Need food today? Visit the New Hampshire Food Bank to find resources near you.
How can I get help with my application?
There are several ways to get help filling out your New Hampshire SNAP application. You can:
- Call the DHHS Customer Service Center at 1-844-ASK-DHHS (1-844-275-3447).
- Call the NH Food Bank SNAP Outreach team at 603-669-9725 ext. 1147 or email snap@nhfoodbank.org.
- 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 SNAP in New Hampshire?
It can take up to 30 days for DHHS to process your SNAP application (within 7 days if you’re requesting expedited benefits). If you’re approved, benefits are based on the date your application is received.
After applying, you must have an eligibility interview with a Family Services Specialist.
What can I expect during my SNAP 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 Family Services Specialist can tell you more about the program, answer any questions you have, and even help you get any information or documents you’re having trouble providing.
During your SNAP 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 appointment, 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.
After your interview, you will have to provide proof of your household situation, including income, resources, and expenses. Be prepared to provide things like paystubs, Social Security award letters, bank statements, rental lease or mortgage statements, and utility bills. Your Family Services Specialist will give you a specific list and a due date. It’s very important to provide all requested documents by the due date.
You should receive a Notice of Decision regarding your SNAP eligibility within 30 days. This notice shows whether or not your household is eligible for food assistance benefits.
What happens after I am approved for SNAP?
If you are approved for New Hampshire SNAP, the Notice of Decision you receive will explain your monthly benefits amount and how long you’ll get benefits for (this is called your “certification period”). For most households, that period can range up to 12 months.
Shortly after, you will receive your EBT card in the mail with instructions on how to activate and use it.
If you do not agree with the explanation of the reason for your SNAP denial, you can request an appeal. You must file an appeal within 90 days from the date on your Notice of Decision. Be sure to carefully read your notice for specific rules and instructions.
Generally, an appeal request must be made in writing. Your request can be dropped off at or mailed to your local District Office or mailed or emailed directly to the DHHS Administrative Appeals Unit. If you cannot make a request in writing, you can start an appeal by telling a DHHS representative you want to file an appeal.
Other important tips to know
How do I get started using my SNAP Card?
To get started, call the 24-hour EBT card customer service center at 1-888-997-9777 (or the number on the back of your card) to set up your PIN, check your benefits, or report a lost or stolen EBT card. You can also visit ebtEDGE (you must create an account first).
How can I manage my New Hampshire SNAP benefits online?
You can manage your SNAP benefits through your NH EASY account. Actions you can take on the website include:
- Apply for new benefits
- Complete redeterminations (benefit renewals)
- Read notices online
- Report changes to your case
You must report any changes to your household situation within 10 days of the change. This includes changes to your address, who lives in your home, or if your expenses have gone up or down. This will help ensure you are receiving the right amount of SNAP benefits for your household size. The easiest way to report these changes is through your NH EASY account.
When should you renew your SNAP benefits in New Hampshire?
You must renew your New Hampshire SNAP benefits before your certification period ends to keep receiving benefits. You’ll get a notice in the mail when it’s time to renew along with instructions on how to do so.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure if you should apply?
BenefitsCheckUp helps assess whether you can get help from programs before you apply. Answer questions anonymously to find out if you may be eligible for key benefits assistance, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicare Savings Programs, Medicaid, Medicare Part D Low Income Subsidy (LIS) - Extra Help, among others.
