Food & Nutrition

Utah Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

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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.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, helps many older adults, people with disabilities, and families in Utah pay for food.

If you're approved for SNAP benefits, the government will issue your funds through an electronic benefits card (or EBT card) called the Horizon Card. This 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 Horizon 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 Utah SNAP work?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), once known as Food Stamps, is run by the Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS). DWS offices across the state provide local support for people who receive SNAP and other types of assistance.

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 Utah?

While the idea of applying for Utah 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 DWS eligibility specialist can assist you.

Generally, here are the steps to apply for Utah SNAP:

Fill out an application: You can apply for Utah SNAP online, in person, or by mail or fax. Completing the application can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes. You can turn in an incomplete application with only your name, address, and signature. However, you'll need to complete your application before your SNAP eligibility is determined.
Have an interview: You must take part in an interview with an eligibility specialist once DWS receives your application.
Wait for a decision: Most Utah SNAP applications are processed within 14 days from the date on your application, but can take up to 30 days. 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 (called the Horizon Card) pre-loaded with money for groceries in the mail.

How do I know if I am eligible for SNAP?

To be eligible for Utah SNAP, your household (defined as people who live together and buy food and prepare meals together) must meet certain guidelines:

You must be a resident of Utah and a U.S. citizen.
Certain lawfully present non-citizens may qualify for SNAP. Even if you can’t get SNAP benefits, your family members born in this country can.
With some exceptions, those applying for or receiving SNAP must participate in the Employment and Training (E&T) Program to receive assistance.

The amount of money you will get in Utah 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 Utah SNAP income limits?

The following chart shows the maximum monthly income limits that most people or families can earn and still get Utah SNAP. Utah households must meet income tests unless all members are receiving Family Employment Program (FEP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or General Assistance. Most households must meet both the gross and net income tests. However, a household with a member age 60+ or a member who is receiving certain types of disability payments only has to meet the net income test.

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

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

To determine if you meet the income limit for SNAP, DWS will add together your household's countable income and then subtract certain deductions. These deductions can help you meet the income cap by lowering your countable income. Some examples of allowable income deductions are:

20% of your gross countable income
A portion of your shelter costs
Certain expenses you pay, such as child support

A DWS eligibility specialist can tell you which deductions your household qualifies for.

What are the Utah SNAP asset limits?

Assets (resources) include bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and real estate. For Utah SNAP, any household may have up to $2,750 worth of countable resources (in addition to income) and still qualify for SNAP. Households may have up to $4,250 worth of countable resources and still qualify for SNAP if at least one member is age 60 or older or has a disability.

How do I prepare to apply?

When applying for Utah 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 application.

How do I apply for SNAP in Utah?

There are several ways to apply for Utah SNAP. Read below to learn more about which option might be right for you.

APPLY ONLINE

The quickest and easiest way to apply for SNAP in Utah is online through the Utah Department of Workforce Services myCase portal. You’ll be glad to know that when you do, all your personal information is kept 100% confidential and protected by special security technology.

Apply on myCase portal

To get started, visit the myCase portal and read the information under ‘Rights and Responsibilities.’ Then, click ‘Next.’
On the next screen, check the box next to ‘Yes’ if you have a Social Security number, and then click ‘Next’ (if you do not have a Social Security number, check ‘No’). Then indicate whether you are applying for yourself or someone else.
On the next screen, if you do not have a UtahID account, click ‘Create Account/Forgot Password.’ You will be brought to the UtahID website.
On the UtahID home page, click ‘Create an account,’ enter your email address, and follow the prompts to set up your user ID and password.
Once you have a UtahID account, you will be able to log in to the myCase portal. There, the system will walk you through the process of applying for benefits online, including SNAP. The DWS online application allows you to apply for SNAP, financial assistance, child care, and medical assistance all on one form (you will have the option to choose which programs you want to apply to).

Tips for success:

Allow yourself 20 to 45 minutes to complete your Utah 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.
You can switch to a different language by clicking on the ‘Language’ drop-down menu in the lower-left corner of your screen. Interpreter services are available upon request.
People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities may contact DWS or the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) through the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339; or 1-800-845-6136 (Spanish).
If you need help using the myCase portal, you can:
- Watch a video tutorial or view an illustrated tutorial.
- Visit the Frequently Asked Questions.
- Click on the green 'Chat' button in the lower-left corner of your screen to speak with an agent who can help you navigate the portal.

APPLY IN PERSON, BY MAIL, OR FAX

To apply in person, by mail, or by fax, you will first need a paper application. Below, you will find the Utah benefits application that you can download and print out at home:

SNAP Application (English)
SNAP Application (Spanish)

Once you have printed out and completed your application, you can fax it to 1-877-313-4717.

To apply by mail, send your completed application to:

P.O. Box 143245
Salt Lake City, Utah 84114

You can also apply in person by dropping off the form at your nearest DWS office. Find a location near you.

What if I need food assistance right away?

You may be able to get Utah SNAP benefits sooner (within 7 days from the date on your application) if your food needs are urgent. Identity is the only verification you need if you are eligible for expedited (faster) benefits. The following households qualify:

Households whose combined monthly gross income and liquid resources are less than the household’s monthly utilities and rent or mortgage.
Households with less than $150 in monthly gross income and whose liquid resources (cash, savings, checking accounts, etc.) are no more than $100
Some migrant and seasonal farm worker households

Need food today? Visit the Utah Food Bank website to find resources near you while you wait for your SNAP application to be processed.

How can I get help with my application?

There are several ways to get help filling out your Utah SNAP application. You can:

Contact DWS Eligibility Services at 1-866-435-7414.
Visit the Utahns Against Hunger SNAP page and click on ‘Find application help.’
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 Utah?

It can take anywhere from 14 to 30 days for DWS 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 interview with a DWS eligibility specialist. These are usually done over the phone.

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 DWS eligibility 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 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.

All requested documents must be received by DWS before your SNAP case can be decided. You can check your myCase account to see a list of verifications they have already received, and what is still missing.

Once all requested information is received, you should receive a letter regarding your Utah SNAP eligibility within 14 to 30 days. This notice will explain whether or not your household is eligible for food assistance benefits.

What happens after I am approved for SNAP?

If you are approved for Utah SNAP, the letter 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 from 6 months for most households up to 12 months for households with older people (60+) or people with a disability.

Shortly after you are approved for SNAP, you will receive your Horizon Card (EBT card) in the mail with instructions on how to activate and use it. The card will be pre-loaded with your first month of benefits. After the initial month, your benefits will be automatically deposited into your EBT account based on the first letter of your last name:

A - G available on the 5th

H - O available on the 11th

P - Z available on the 15th

Other important tips to know

What if my Utah SNAP application is denied?

If you do not agree with the explanation of the reason for your SNAP denial, you have the right to request a Public Assistance Appeal. Be sure to carefully read your letter for specific rules and instructions on how to file a timely appeal.

How do I use my SNAP card?

To start using SNAP, you will first need to activate your SNAP EBT card. To do this, first call the EBT Customer Support line at 1-800-604-5099 (or the number on the back of your card) to set up your PIN, check your benefits, or report a lost or stolen card. You can also visit ebtEDGE (you must create an account first).

How can I manage my Utah SNAP benefits online?

You can manage your SNAP benefits through your myCase account. Actions you can take include:

Check application and case status
Complete review
Report changes
Make online payments
Get notices
Print forms
Print benefit history

For Utah SNAP, you must report changes in your income by the 10th day of the month following the change (if it exceeds the income limit). If you are an Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD), you must also report if you are no longer working 20 hours per week at your job. The easiest way to report these changes is through your myCase account.

When should you renew your SNAP benefits in Utah?

You must renew your Utah 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.

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