Get SNAP EBT Benefits: Apply Online & Save on Food

SNAP provides monthly food benefits to eligible low-income households, delivered securely and electronically via EBT cards. Check your eligibility and apply today.

Apply for SNAP EBT Now

What is SNAP and EBT?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamps Program, is a federal program that helps low-income individuals and families purchase food to maintain a healthy diet. SNAP is available in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.

What is an EBT Card?

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is the system used to deliver SNAP benefits. Instead of paper food stamps, participants receive an EBT card, which functions like a prepaid debit card. Each month, SNAP benefits are automatically deposited onto the card, and participants can use it to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers.

                    Did you know? Any remaining balance rolls over to the next month, and multiple household members can use the card with a personal PIN.
                

How to Apply for SNAP EBT

To apply for SNAP, you must contact your state or local SNAP office. Applications can often be submitted online, in person, by mail, or by fax, and an interview may be required.

Step 1: Gather required documents (Proof of identity, income, housing expenses, and Social Security Number).
Step 2: Submit your snap ebt application through your state's portal or local office.
Step 3: Complete a brief eligibility interview (often available by phone).
Step 4: Receive your EBT card within 30 days (or within seven days for expedited assistance).

Check Your SNAP Eligibility Now

What Can You Buy with SNAP EBT?

Your EBT card makes it easy to buy groceries. View the table below to determine what you can and cannot buy using EBT:

SNAP eligible vs non-eligible food items infographic

Eligible Purchases	Not Eligible Purchases
Groceries, fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy	Alcohol, tobacco, hot or prepared meals at the store
Baby formula, diabetic and diet foods	Pet food, toiletries, cleaning supplies
Seeds and plants that grow food, water, ice, snacks	Medicines, vitamins, minerals, food containers

Additional Food Assistance Programs

Family utilizing food assistance programs

Pandemic EBT (P-EBT): Provides benefits to children who would have received free or reduced-price school meals during school closures.
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families): Cash benefits for basic needs like housing and utilities, often delivered on the same EBT card as a separate balance.
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): Nutrition support for pregnant people, new parents, and children under five, delivered via a separate eWIC card.

Find Help Near You

Looking for an ebt office near me or snap office near me? You can locate nearby SNAP-authorized retailers and state offices using the official USDA SNAP Retailer Locator or by calling the ebt customer service number on the back of your card.

Manage and Protect Your EBT Card

Modern EBT cards replaced paper food stamps to reduce stigma and increase security. To protect your benefits:

Never share your PIN with anyone.
Check your balance regularly via receipts, mobile apps (like ebtEdge or ConnectEBT), or your state SNAP office.
Report a lost or stolen card immediately to the ebt customer service number to deactivate it and request a replacement.
Beware of scams: SNAP agency workers will never call, text, or email you to ask for your EBT card number or PIN.

Get Started with Your SNAP Application