How To Apply For Food Stamps In Minnesota

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federally funded program that offers nutrition assistance to millions of eligible, low-income individuals and families. The program is run by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). If you live in this state and need to apply for a Minnesota EBT Card, then the information below shows you how to apply for food stamps in Minnesota. If you have additional questions or concerns about the Minnesota SNAP program or the EBT application process, please contact the Minnesota Department of Human Services for assistance.

Minnesota Food Stamp Eligibility

Income and assets
SNAP eligibility depends on your household's income. Most types of income are counted. There are many deductions from income that are allowed under SNAP. A county worker can give you more information on income limits and deductions.

Households with an income at or below 165 percent of the federal poverty guideline that have also received the Domestic Violence Information Brochure will not have an asset limit for determining benefits. You can print the brochure from the link provided or ask for it at your county or tribal office. Then, just tell your county worker that you have received the brochure.

Self-screening tool
This screening tool asks a few questions to help you find out if you may qualify for SNAP. The screening tool only estimates your eligibility. The only way to know for sure if you qualify is to complete the application process.

Emergency Minnesota SNAP
You may receive food benefits quickly if your household meets one of the following criteria, even if you had SNAP in another state during the month of application: Households with monthly gross income less than $150 and liquid assets less than $100 Migrant or seasonal farm worker households that have low income and $100 or less in liquid assets Households in which the combined monthly gross income and liquid assets are less than their monthly housing costs and the applicable standard utility deduction, if applicable.

Benefits
The amount of benefits you get is based on your income, expenses and the number of people in your household. If approved for the program, you will get an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. It is like a debit card. Each month, your benefits will be credited to your EBT account.

During the month, you use your card to purchase food at stores that display a poster or sign that reads: "We Accept EBT." Grocery stores and convenience stores must sell a variety of foods to be approved to accept EBT. The card also may be used at authorized sites for Meals on Wheels and congregate dining. Many farmers markets also accept EBT. You can apply:

• Online at ApplyMN.dhs.mn.gov.
• On paper using the Combined Application Form for families and people under age 60; individuals and couples who are 60 or older should use the one-page Senior SNAP Application. Mail or bring the completed form to your local county or tribal office.

When your benefits begin depends on the date the county receives your application through ApplyMN or the first page of the paper application. The county cannot decide if you will get benefits until you complete the entire application and provide required verifications. You will also need to complete an interview with a county worker. For some emergency situations, you could get benefits within five working days of your application.