The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, helps older adults with low income afford healthy food. SNAP assistance is open to anyone who meets its eligibility requirements, from young families to older adults living on their own.
How do I apply for SNAP?
To find out if you qualify for SNAP, you must apply to the agency that manages the program in your state. There are often three options for sending in your SNAP application:
- By mail
- By phone
- By an online application
What information does a SNAP application ask for?
Depending on what state you live in, the SNAP application may ask about:
- The size of your household
- Your annual income
- Any assets you have (for example, cash or property)
Other details may be needed to help decide the amount of SNAP benefits you get. You may be worried about sharing your personal information. But you should know SNAP applications are protected by special security technology that keeps your information 100% private.
What happens after I send in my SNAP application?
It can take up to 30 days to process your SNAP application. Shortly after you send it, someone from your local SNAP agency should call you to make an appointment, or set up a “SNAP interview.” The interview is the last step in deciding if you qualify for food benefits.
How can NCOA's BenefitsCheckUp help me?
Our free, confidential tool can help you find out if you may qualify for SNAP. It can also help you find your state's SNAP website, online SNAP application, and contact information. Whether you’re interested in learning more about SNAP for yourself or a loved one, we invite you to take the next step. Start browsing benefits today or contact your local SNAP office to learn more.
