How To Apply For Food Stamps In New Mexico

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 New Mexico Fiesta Card, then the information below shows you how to apply for food stamps in New Mexico. If you have additional questions or concerns about the New Mexico SNAP program or the EBT application process, please contact the New Mexico Human Services Department for assistance.

Who can receive New Mexico SNAP food assistance?
The federal government sets the rules for who qualifies for SNAP Benefits and determines the amount of SNAP Benefits for which one may receive each month. HSD will help determine if a person qualifies for SNAP. This normally depends on how much money a person earns each month, and it also depends on what a person may own.

Basic New Mexico SNAP Rules
When applying for SNAP benefits, there are some basic rules that apply to any person who may potentially receive benefits. They are:

• You must be a U.S. Citizen or a qualified lawful resident
• You must have proper identification
• You must list who lives and eats at the household
• You must provide information about:
  • How much money your household receives each month.
    
    • Income Eligibility Guidelines
    • Guia Para la Elegibilidad de Ingreso Para SNAP y Asistencia Economica
  • What your household owns (property, bank accounts)
  • What your household pays for including things like rent, utilities, and child care
• Work program participation is required for some SNAP recipients
• The house you live in does not count for SNAP eligibility
• There are special rules for the cars and trucks you may own

What happens once I return my food stamps application?
You will be asked to come in for an interview with an eligibility worker in about ten days. Your assigned worker will give you a list of things you need to provide. This information will tell your worker about you and your household so he or she can determine if you qualify for SNAP assistance. Bring as much of the requested information as you can to the interview. This will help them to help you faster.

If, after your interview, you need to provide more information, your worker will make a list of things you need to do. Your worker will explain the time allowed and ask you to gather the information as soon as you can. If later, you still need more time, or you can't get the information required, let your worker know as soon as possible.

When will I know if I can get SNAP assistance?
You will be notified by letter within 45 days as to whether or not your SNAP assistance was approved. If you do not agree with the letter, you can ask for a Fair Hearing on the decision. Remember, their job is to serve you. It is their policy to ensure that everyone who applies for and qualifies for SNAP assistance receives these benefits in a timely manner and in accordance with the law.

Apply For Benefits
You may apply for public assistance using their online system. Once you have successfully submitted an application you will be contacted by the Human Services Department regarding the next steps to take.