The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can help you buy food if you struggle to afford groceries. SNAP used to be known as food stamps. In New York City, SNAP is run by the Human Resources Administration (HRA).
Apply now on ACCESS HRA.
How It Works
SNAP benefits are cash added to an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. EBT cards work like a debit card you can use to buy food. Many food retail stores, farmers markets, and websites accept them.
Once a month, SNAP benefits are deposited into your account. The amount you receive depends on income, expenses, and the size of your household.
Eligibility
SNAP is for low- or no-income people. Eligibility is mostly based on your household size, income, and expenses. You’re not required to screen for SNAP before you apply, but you can do a quick check using the eligibility tool on the SNAP guide.
See full eligibility guidelines.
You should know:
- Receiving other public benefits doesn’t disqualify you from receiving SNAP.
- Immigration status information is not required for household members who are not applying for SNAP.
- College students may be eligible if they meet certain requirements.
- Fingerprinting is not required.
- To keep getting benefits, you may need to meet work requirements.
Steps to Apply
- Fill out an application. Answer questions about your household, income, and expenses. The fastest, easiest way to apply is on the ACCESS HRA website.
- Complete an interview by phone or in person. No appointment is needed. A SNAP eligibility worker will review your application with you to ensure that it’s complete, correct, and ready for processing. They will also help you figure out which documents you need to provide.
- Submit required documents. You’ll find out during your interview which ones you need.
- Wait for a decision. This can take up to 30 days, but if you’re eligible for expedited processing, you can get benefits within seven days. While you wait, check your application status on ACCESS HRA. If approved, you’ll get an EBT card by mail within five days. Same-day, card pick-up is also available at SNAP centers.
For a detailed step-by-step of the SNAP application process, go to the SNAP guide.
