Food Support (Supplemental Nutrition Program - SNAP)

Program Overview

The SNAP program is for people and families with low incomes. 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, to see if you might qualify for the program, there are a few questions you can answer by completing the food support questionnaire.

How to Apply

You can apply for SNAP benefits by completing an on-line application at MNbenefits. You can complete a paper application called a Combined Application Form (CAF) and submit it by mail of fax to any of our four Washington County offices. You can also visit any of the four offices and pick one up in person. The SNAP program does require an interview. The interview can be scheduled to be done over the phone if you mail in or drop off your application or it can also be done in person at any of our four offices Monday through Friday from 8:00 - 11:00 a.m.

When You Apply

Completing page 1 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 however, until an interview has been completed by an Eligibility Specialist. If you meet certain criteria you may be eligible for Expedited SNAP however in order to receive 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.

How Do I Access My SNAP Benefits?

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 card can only be used for food purchases. It is always good practice to call and find out the balance of your benefits before going to the store. If you have any questions or problems with accessing your benefits call EBT at 1-888-997-2227.

You Have the Right to Appeal

If you were denied SNAP benefits or if your benefits closed you have the Right to Appeal.

Formal Complaints

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture 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: Complaint of Discrimination