Are you eligible for SNAP?

SNAP Eligibility is based on Citizenship Status and Income for everyone in your Household.

Q: What are the Income Limits?
A: There are two income criteria a household must meet: the gross income and the net income tests. The gross income test looks at the total amount of income before taxes. The limit is set at 130% of the Federal Poverty Level. The net income test looks at monthly income minus certain deductions such as living and medical expenses. That limit is set at 100% of the Federal Poverty Level. Seniors and individuals with disabilities only need to meet the net income test.

Q: What are the Citizenship Requirements?
A: US Citizens; Lawful Permanent Residents under 18 or LPR; Adults with status for 5 years or who are disabled; Refugees or asylum seekers with status; and Families with U.S. Citizen children under 18, regardless of parents’ citizenship status

Q: Who is in my household?
A: Everyone who lives together and purchases and prepares meals together is grouped together as one SNAP household. Some people who live together, such as spouses and most children under age 22, are included in the same SNAP household, even if they purchase and prepare meals separately. If a person is 60 years of age or older and unable to purchase and prepare meals separately because of a permanent disability, the person and the person’s spouse may be a separate SNAP household if the others they live with do not have very much income (no more than 165 percent of the poverty level).Normally you are not eligible for SNAP benefits if an institution gives you most of your meals. There are exceptions for elderly persons and disabled persons.

Work Requirements

Able-bodied Adults without dependents may receive SNAP benefits for 3 months in a three year period without working. After that, ABAWDs are required to spend at least 20 hours a week working, volunteering or participating in a job training program.

Are you an ABAWD?

An ABAWD is anyone aged 18–54, able to work, with no dependents. If you are able to answer yes to any of these questions, you may be exempt from the ABAWD requirements:

  • Are you unable to work due to a physical or mental limitation?
  • Are you pregnant?
  • Do you have someone under 18 in your SNAP household?
  • Are you a veteran?
  • Are you experiencing homelessness?
  • Are you age 24 or younger and were you in foster care on your 18th birthday?

 

 

How does it work: Your SNAP benefits will be placed on your EBT card on the same day of each month. Those amounts can be carried over month-to-month, but any funds that are not used within 8 month period may be removed from your card.

If you have lost your card, or have any issues with using it, Contact Connect EBT at 800.997.2222

Stolen Benefits: If you find that your SNAP benefits are missing from your Independence Card, you may have been the victim of theft or fraud. You should immediately call 800.997.2222 to cancel your card and request a new one.

You may be able to recover stolen benefits!

Click here for more information.

Retailers:  You can use your SNAP benefits at most grocery stores and convenience stores.

CLICK HERE to find SNAP-authorized retailers near you!  Enter your starting location and select a retailer or map point to get details and directions. 

Farmers Markets: Some Farmers Markets offer matching incentives when you use your SNAP dollars and WIC Benefits.

For a complete list of incentives offered at Montgomery County farmers markets, visit Maryland Market Money

Automatic Enrollment in Free School Meals and Maryland SUN Bucks

  • Children enrolled in SNAP are automatically enrolled in free breakfast and lunch at school
  • Children enrolled in SNAP are also automatically enrolled in Maryland SUN Bucks, helps families buy groceries during the summer break when school meals are unavailable.

Internet and Phone

  • Reduced cost Internet is available at low-cost from providers like Comcast, CenturyLink, AT&T and more for as little as $10 a month. Learn more
  • Free smartphones and free monthly cell phone service are available free for individuals and families who receive Maryland food stamps benefits. Find out who offers free phones and service in your area.
  • Amazon offers 50% off Amazon Prime memberships for customers who receive Maryland food stamps! With this discounted Amazon Prime membership, you’ll receive free two-day shipping on your Amazon orders and you’ll also enjoy access to free streaming services.

Discounted Metro Fare

  • Recipients of SNAP are eligible for 50% off Metrobus and Metrorail trips for DC, Maryland, and Virginia customers through Metro Lift. Enroll here

Recreation

  • YMCA organizations typically offer discounts for low income individuals and families. If you qualify for SNAP, then you may qualify for a discounted YMCA membership! View the YMCA website for more details.
  • Free bikeshare memberships are available for those who meet income eligibility requirements. Read more about the Capital Bikeshare for All here.
  • Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,500 museums throughout the United States simply by presenting their EBT card and a photo ID.

Upcoming Events

Jun 27

Learn from local food system experts at Foodie Fridays! June-September

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Jul 14

July Food Security Community Call

Join us for a discussion of best practices in finding the right space for your organization, and exploring opportunities for collaboration in our community.

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Jul 16

Crossroad’s Farmer’s Market

Join the Food Council for a visit to Crossroads Farmers Market on July 16! The Montgomery County Food Council will be hosting a table at Crossroads Farmers Market on Wednesday, July 16th, from 10:30 - 2:30, to celebrate gardening and spread the word that SNAP dollars can be used to purchase plants and seeds.

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Jul 30

Local Food Procurement Working Group

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Aug 20

Montgomery College Food Forest Tour

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