How To Apply For Food Stamps In Rhode Island

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

Rhode Island SNAP Eligibility
Individuals and families qualify for SNAP benefits based on their income, resources, and the number of individuals in their household. Individuals, couples, and families may qualify if their income is less than 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). See FPL income guidelines below for the SNAP Monthly Gross Income Limits from October 1, 2015 through September 30, 2016.

Documents You May Need to Apply
The examples provided below are to help you get ready for your interview with your DHS worker. Please COPY only the documents needed to complete your application or re-certification. For a TELEPHONE INTERVIEW, you must send in copies of the required documents to your worker BEFORE the scheduled interview date. For an IN-OFFICE INTERVIEW, bring the required documents with you. If you need help obtaining or copying any of these documents, please call the worker listed on your appointment letter, or visit your local community action agency. See back page of application for locations and contact numbers.

CHILD SUPPORT PAID
A copy of the court order and proof of the amount paid, such as a canceled check or a written statement.

DEPENDENT CARE EXPENSES
Receipt showing your out-of-pocket child/adult care expenses.

IDENTIFICATION
An applicant and/or authorized representative will need at least ONE form of identification such as: Passport or Certificate of Naturalization; driver's license; birth certificate; voter registration card; military or RI state ID card; work or school ID card; health benefit or a library card. A Social Security number for all household members applying for benefits is required. (Social Security cards are not required.)

IMMIGRATION STATUS
If a non-citizen, proof of immigration status is required and sponsorship information may be needed.

MEDICAL EXPENSES
Individuals with a disability or age 6 or above: medical costs including medical bills NOT REIMBURSED, prescription costs, Medicare card showing "Part B" and "Part-D" coverage.

RESIDENCY
One document indicating current address (i.e. utility bill, bank statement, etc.)

RESOURCES
In SOME CASES resources may apply. They include verification of liquid resources, bank statements, stock and bond certificates, and proof of property ownership. Vehicle registration may be required.

SHELTER COSTS
Rent receipt, mortgage payment statement, rent/lease agreement, statement from HUD, statement from person who shares shelter costs, utility bills, statement from utility company, statement from landlord

STUDENT INCOME
An applicant may be required to provide verification of educational (Loans/Grants/Scholarship) expenses including, but not limited to, tuition and fees.

UNEARNED INCOME
Most recent copy of Social Security award letter; proof of unemployment; Worker's Compensation; pension; child support; alimony; TDI; rental income; dividends or any interest income; adoption subsidy; EITC; foster care income; out of state assistance, etc.

Rhode Island SNAP - What happens next?
Once you have submitted an application for SNAP benefits. The Department of Human Services (DHS) has 30 days to determine your eligibility. If you have less than $100 in cash, and less than $150 in monthly earnings, or if your housing expenses exceed your monthly income, you may be eligible for expedited SNAP benefits. DHS is required to review your application for expedited benefits and make a decision within 7 days.

What happens next?

• You must have an interview with DHS.
• You will receive a notice in the mail informing you of the date and time of the interview.
  • If you requested a telephone interview, your worker will call you at the phone number you provided on the application.
  • If you requested an office interview, go to the appropriate office at the time of your interview.
  • If you cannot make the interview (phone or in-office) at the scheduled date and time, call the office immediately to reschedule.
• You will need to gather documents verifying your situation. You may provide photocopies.
  • If you have a telephone interview, mail or fax your documents before the interview.
  • If you have an in-office interview, bring your documents with you to the office.
  • If you are asked to provide further documentation, you have 10 days to get it to DHS.
• You will be given or mailed an EBT card and asked to select your personal identification number.
• You have a right to appeal the decision. You can use this form to file an appeal.

How to Apply for Rhode Island SNAP Benefits

• You can apply online by clicking here.
• Or you can download the food stamp application. English - Spanish

For help completing the application, call your local Community Action Program, DHS Office, or URI Food Stamp Outreach Project at 1-866-306-0270. Remember: print your appropriate application and instructions (if needed), fill it out as completely as possible, and mail/bring it to your nearest DHS office.