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Food Support (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, often known as SNAP, helps residents with low incomes get the food they need. The program provides support to help stretch your household food budget. It is not intended to meet all of your household's food needs. It is a supplement. Households must meet certain requirements and provide information/verification about their income.
To learn if you may be eligible for SNAP, please see the information below, or check out the SNAP official website through the Department of Human Services.
Get connected to a SNAP specialist via the Minnesota Food Helper website.
There are multiple ways to apply for SNAP:
Online
- Complete the Online Application at MNbenefits.
On Paper
- Complete a paper application called a Combined Application Form (CAF) (PDF) for families and people under age 60. Individuals and couples who are 60 or older should use the one-page Senior SNAP Application (PDF). Mail or fax the completed application to our Washington County office.
In-Person
- Visit in-person to pick up an application at any of the four Washington County Service Centers (Cottage Grove, Forest Lake, Stillwater or Woodbury).
The SNAP does require an interview. The interview can be scheduled to be done over the phone or in person, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.
- Completing page one of the CAF and submitting it to one of the offices sets the date of the application. This is important because the SNAP benefits are prorated in the month that you apply.
- An application is not complete until an interview has been completed by an Eligibility Specialist.
- If you meet certain criteria you may be eligible for Expedited SNAP (PDF). In order to receive expedited benefits you still must complete an interview and provide proof of identity.
- You may be required to provide other proofs such as income and residency.
- Your Eligibility Specialist will provide you a list of things you need to verify at your interview.
Once your benefits have been approved, you will be issued an electronic benefit card (EBT). The card will be mailed to you. You can access your benefits at any store that accepts EBT cards. The benefits can only be used for food purchases. It is good practice to call and check the balance of your benefits before going to the store.
Questions or Problems with accessing your benefits?
- Read about How to Use Your Minnesota EBT Card (PDF).
- Call the customer service at 1-888-997-2227.
If you were denied SNAP benefits or if your benefits closed, you have the Right to Appeal (PDF).
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy, Washington County is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs, or disability. You have the right to file a complaint if you believe you were treated in a discriminatory way by our agency.