About 54 million Americans are struggling with food insecurity during the coronavirus pandemic, since so many people have lost their jobs. Food stamps, which are now referred to as SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), can help if you're one of them.

SNAP is a solution if you're facing financial hardship, even if you've never utilized government assistance before. You may qualify for SNAP without even knowing it—many people do. During the COVID-19 crisis, the government made SNAP much easier to access, but the simpler process will be expiring soon, so it's best to apply now. In this post, we will be breaking down everything you need to know about SNAP eligibility, what the benefits can be used for, and how to apply.

Who Qualifies For SNAP?

SNAP is a program for low-income U.S. citizens and permanent residents who need help getting groceries. The federal SNAP income cutoff is 130% of the federal poverty level, which means gross income (before taxes) needs to be less than $2600 per month for a family of four (the federal poverty level varies by household size).

However, states can choose to increase income eligibility to those who make less than 200% of the poverty line, and 40 do. 200% of the federal poverty level is an income of $4,3666 per month for a family of four. Unemployed Americans can also access SNAP. To find out individual income cutoffs in your state, check your state SNAP website.

How has SNAP Changed During the Pandemic?

During the coronavirus pandemic, the federal government made changes to SNAP to make it easier to access and provide more benefits. States were given emergency allotments to offer more benefits to families, and some of the application requirements for SNAP, like an interview, were waived. However, these new rules are set to expire in September, so it’s best to apply for SNAP now if you think you may qualify.

How Do People Apply for SNAP?

SNAP applications are managed by states. Generally, to apply for SNAP you will need to go to your state’s food assistance program website and fill in some basic information like the size of your household, your income, and your name and contact information. You will need to provide verification of your income (like paystubs) and fill in your social security number. If you apply after September, you may need to complete an interview to get SNAP benefits.

What Does SNAP Cover?

SNAP is a grocery assistance program. Rather than paper stamps, SNAP is now distributed via Electronic Benefit Transfer cards (EBT), which are essentially debit cards preloaded with the SNAP allotment for the month. There are restrictions on what people can spend their SNAP benefits on. Generally, SNAP can be used for nonperishables, like cereal, rice, and beans, and for perishable items like cheese, milk and produce.

SNAP cannot be used to buy vitamins, medicine, alcohol, or nonfood items like diapers or toothpaste, even though they are sold in grocery stores. SNAP also cannot be used to buy anything prepared or hot, such as the salads, sandwiches and pastas in the to go section of stores like Whole Foods. You can use SNAP benefits in the physical grocery store or, for select stores, online if you order for delivery or pick up.

Final Thoughts: Apply for SNAP now

If you have lost your job, had your hours cut or are otherwise struggling financially right now, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans are having a hard time feeding their families. SNAP can help, but the COVID-19 changes to the program may be expiring soon. Check your state’s SNAP website to apply, and if you think there’s a chance you could be eligible, fill out an application ASAP. If you have any questions about government services, you can always reach out to our team at Skip.

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