How to Qualify For SNAP and What You Can Buy

Many older adults worry about having enough money to buy healthy foods. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), sometimes called “food stamps,” can help. SNAP helps people with lower incomes afford groceries, so they can eat more balanced meals and improve their health.

This easy-to-read guide will help you understand how to qualify for SNAP and what foods you can buy with your SNAP benefits.

How to Qualify for SNAP

What is SNAP?
SNAP is a government program that gives you money on a special card—called an EBT card—to use for food. If you qualify, you will receive a certain amount every month to spend at grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and some online stores.

Who Can Get SNAP?
You may be able to get SNAP if:

• You have a low or limited income.
• You live in the United States and are a U.S. citizen or a certain type of legal resident.
• Your savings and other resources are within certain limits.
• You meet other rules set by the program.

Income and Resource Limits
SNAP looks at two things:

1. Income: How much money comes into your household each month. This includes Social Security, pensions, and any other income.
2. Resources: How much money you have in bank accounts or other assets. Your home and certain savings, like retirement accounts, often do not count against you.

The exact income and resource limits depend on the number of people in your household. A household is usually the people who live together and buy or make meals together. For example, a husband and wife count as one household. If you have grandchildren or other relatives who live with you, they may or may not count as part of the household, depending on how you share meals.

Because limits can change, it’s a good idea to check the most current information. You can do this by contacting your local SNAP office or visiting the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) website. Local community organizations and senior centers can often help you find the latest income guidelines.

Special Rules for Seniors and People with Disabilities
If you are 60 or older or have a disability, you may get extra deductions that help you qualify. For example, you can often deduct some of your medical expenses or high housing costs from your income when applying. These special deductions may make it easier to qualify for SNAP or to receive a larger benefit amount.

Work Rules
Some SNAP rules require certain people to work or participate in a training program. However, if you are a senior, have a disability, or take care of young children, these rules may not apply to you.

How to Apply
Applying for SNAP is easier than you might think. Here’s how you can do it:

• Online: Most states let you apply online through their official websites. Just search for “SNAP application” and include your state’s name.
• By Phone or In-Person: You can call your local SNAP office and ask for help. They can mail you an application or tell you where the nearest office is. You can also pick up an application in person and talk to a worker who can help answer your questions.
• By Mail: You can fill out a paper application and mail it back. The SNAP office will contact you to schedule a phone or in-person interview once they receive it.

After you apply, you will have an interview—usually over the phone. They will ask you for proof of your income, expenses, and possibly other information. Once your application is approved, you will receive an EBT card that looks and works like a debit card. Your SNAP benefits will be added to the card each month.

Where to Get Help
If you need help understanding the rules or filling out the forms, consider:

• Calling your local senior center or Area Agency on Aging.
• Reaching out to a local nonprofit or community group. Many groups have staff who can help you apply.
• Visiting the USDA’s website or calling your state’s SNAP hotline.

What Can You Buy with SNAP?

Once you have SNAP benefits, you can use them to buy many kinds of foods. The goal of SNAP is to help you afford nutritious meals. Here are some examples of what you can and cannot buy:

Foods You Can Buy:

• Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh, frozen, or canned are all allowed.
• Meats, Poultry, and Fish: Fresh cuts, canned tuna, chicken, and more.
• Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, yogurt, and non-dairy substitutes.
• Breads, Cereals, and Grains: Whole-grain bread, pasta, rice, oatmeal, and cereal.
• Snack Foods and Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Nuts, crackers, seeds, soda, and juice. Even though these are allowed, remember it’s best to focus on healthier options.
• Seeds and Plants: You can buy seeds or seedlings to grow food in your garden, helping you have even more fresh produce at home.

Items You Cannot Buy with SNAP:

• Hot Prepared Foods: You usually cannot buy hot foods ready to eat from the store. (Some states have special programs letting seniors or people with disabilities use SNAP to buy prepared meals at approved restaurants, but this is limited and varies by state.)
• Alcohol and Tobacco: No beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or other tobacco products.
• Non-Food Items: SNAP is for food only, so you cannot buy soap, paper towels, pet food, vitamins, medicines, or cleaning supplies with SNAP.

Shopping Tips:

• Use your EBT card at the checkout, just like a debit card.
• Many grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and even some online retailers accept SNAP.
• Some farmers’ markets and programs may double your SNAP dollars for fruits and veggies, giving you more healthy food for less.

Final Thoughts

SNAP is here to help seniors and other people with lower incomes eat well. Even if you’re not sure you qualify, it’s worth checking. SNAP can ease the burden of food costs, help you maintain a healthier diet, and leave more room in your budget for other essentials.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. Local groups, state agencies, and online resources can guide you through the steps. With SNAP, you can enjoy more balanced meals, worry less about your grocery bill, and focus on living well.