Applying for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
There are several ways to file an application for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. You may file an application online at myMDTHINK. Additionally, local departments of social services will give or mail you an SNAP application on the same day you ask for one. You may ask for it in person, over the phone, by mail, or someone else may get one for you. You also have the option to download a SNAP application.
The office will accept a signed application form on the same day you turn it in even if they cannot interview you on that day.
Fill in your name, address, telephone number, and as much other information as you can on the form, and sign it. Give or send the form to the office as soon as possible. A case manager can help you fill out the rest of the form during your interview.
YOU MUST ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS COMPLETELY AND HONESTLY. IF YOU FAIL TO DO SO, YOU CAN BE REMOVED FROM THE PROGRAM, FINED, PUT IN PRISON, OR ALL THREE.
If you qualify for SNAP, you should be able to access your benefits no later than 30 days from the date the office got your application. SNAP benefits are issued electronically on a card like a bank ATM card.
Your application will be reviewed the same day to determine if you are eligible to receive SNAP within 7 days.
If you and everyone you live with are applying for or getting Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, you may apply for SNAP in your Social Security district office.
Households that are applying for public assistance or medical assistance can apply for SNAP at the same time.
If you are not interviewed the day you turn in your application, the local department will contact you to set up an interview to go over your application.
A case manager will explain the program rules and help you complete any parts of the application that you have not filled out. The worker will also ask you for proof of certain information you have given. Ask the worker to explain anything you don’t understand. It is important that you understand the rules.