SNAP Can Help Put More Food on Your Table
Groceries are expensive, and sometimes a household’s budget simply doesn’t stretch far enough. SNAP can help individuals and families buy the food they need while freeing up money for other necessities.
Food banks and pantries help families make ends meet every day, but for every meal a food bank can provide in Arizona, SNAP provides six. SNAP is the most effective and efficient way to end hunger today. (source)
Whether you’re working, raising children, living on a fixed income, or simply going through a tough financial season, it may be worth finding out if you qualify.
SNAP is here to help. Check your eligibility.
What Is SNAP
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, helps eligible individuals and families buy groceries.
Benefits are provided through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that works much like a debit card at participating grocery stores, retailers, farmers markets, and other approved locations.
SNAP isn’t just for families with children. Depending on eligibility, SNAP may help:
- Working individuals and families
- Parents and caregivers
- Older adults
- People with disabilities
- College students who meet certain requirements
- People who are unemployed or experiencing a change in income
- Households experiencing temporary financial hardship
Not sure whether SNAP is for you? Start by checking your eligibility.
Could You Qualify for SNAP?
You may qualify for SNAP even if you are working
or may not have qualified in the past.
Eligibility depends on several factors, including your household size, income, expenses, age, and individual circumstances.
Who Is Part of Your SNAP Household?
Generally, your SNAP household includes the people you live with and regularly buy and prepare food with. Some questions to consider:
- How many people live in your household?
- Do you buy and prepare food together?
- Are there children in your household?
- Is anyone in your household age 60 or older?
- Does anyone have a disability?
- Are any household members college students?
SNAP eligibility rules can vary based on your circumstances, so don’t assume you won’t qualify.
APPLY FOR SNAP
Ready to Apply for SNAP?
Ready to Apply for SNAP
If you think you may qualify, the next step is to apply. When applying, you may be asked for information about your household, income, expenses, and other circumstances. Having this information available can help make the process easier.
Arizona residents can apply online through Health-e-Arizona Plus.
Already Applied?
You can use MyFamilyBenefits to check your application, review your information, report changes, and manage your benefits.
GET APPLICATION HELP
You Don't Have to Apply Alone
SNAP applications can sometimes feel confusing. Real people are available to help you — for free and in your community!
Community organizations throughout Arizona can help you:
- Understand SNAP eligibility
- Complete your application
- Gather the information you may need
- Navigate questions about the application process
Asking for help won’t affect your eligibility.
USE YOUR SNAP BENEFITS
Use SNAP Benefits to Purchase Food
Where Can I Use SNAP?
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase eligible food at thousands of participating retailers. Depending on the retailer, you may be able to use your EBT card at:
- Grocery stores
- Supermarkets
- Convenience stores
- Participating farmers markets
- Other authorized food retailers
Look for signs indicating that SNAP or EBT is accepted, or use the USDA retailer locator to find participating locations.
Can I Use SNAP Online?
Yes. Participating retailers allow SNAP customers to purchase eligible groceries online using their EBT benefits. Online shopping can be especially helpful for people with transportation challenges, rural households, caregivers, older adults, and people with disabilities.
USE YOUR SNAP BENEFITS
Get More Fruits and Vegetables with Double Up Food Bucks
Your SNAP benefits may go even further when you purchase fresh, locally grown foods.
Through Double Up Food Bucks Arizona, shoppers using SNAP can receive additional dollars for eligible fruits and vegetables at participating locations.
There is no separate application. If you have an active SNAP/EBT card, you can participate at qualifying Double Up Food Bucks locations.
FIND MORE FOOD RESOURCES
Need Food Now?
Whether or not you qualify for SNAP, help is available.
Food banks, food pantries, meal programs, and other community organizations throughout Arizona can help individuals and families access food.
You do not have to wait for a SNAP application or eligibility decision to look for additional food resources.
If you would like to speak with one of our staff during business hours, dial 602-528-3434 for AzFBN’s Hunger Hotline.
SNAP FAQs
Have Questions About SNAP?
You’re not alone. We’ve gathered answers to common questions about SNAP eligibility, applications, benefits, and using your EBT card.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ content is coming soon. Questions and answers will be added here.
Food Assistance Is Here When You Need It
Everyone deserves access to enough nutritious food.
SNAP is one of many resources available to help Arizona households make ends meet. Whether you need support for a few months or longer, taking the first step can be as simple as finding out what assistance may be available to you.
Check your eligibility today.