What is SNAP?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the new name for the Food Stamps program in New York State. SNAP is a government program that can boost your monthly budget for purchasing groceries.
The SNAP program is a needs-based entitlement program. Anyone who applies and is eligible will receive the benefits they need.
SNAP benefits are now automatically deposited on an electronic benefits transfer card (EBT). It works just like a debit card and is private and discreet.
You can receive SNAP benefits and still receive WIC, Meals-On-Wheels, and other government benefits programs.
You can own a home, car, and other personal property and still be potentially eligible for SNAP benefits.
SNAP benefits are there for you in emergency situations. Most applications take 30 days to process, however, certain emergency situations may call for expedited SNAP benefits.
SNAP Lifelines
- Applying for SNAP
- Expedited SNAP
- Document Checklist
- How to use your EBT Card
- Medical Deductions
- Replacement Benefits
Resources
- COVID-19 Pandemic Information Regarding SNAP
- Eligibility Guidelines for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Apply for Benefits Online
- SNAP Forms including applications, instructions, change reports, etc. in English, Arabic, Chinese, Haitian-Creole, Italian, Korean, Russian, and Spanish:
- SNAP Application/Recertification: LDSS-4826 (Rev. 2/18) – English: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/4826.pdf (Instructions – English: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/4826A.pdf)
- SNAP Change Report Form(LDSS-3151) – English: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/3151.pdf
- Request for Replacement of Food Purchased with SNAP Benefits (LDSS-2291) – English/Spanish
- SNAP Authorized Representative Request Form (LDSS-4942) – English / https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/3151.pdf
- Find Your Local DSS Office
- Food Resources
