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1. How do I apply for SNAP?

You can apply in a number of ways:

In person at any of our four office locations, between the hours of 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Applications are available at all county offices, and workers are available during working hours to answer your questions about applying for SNAP benefits.

Online through ApplyMN

Print out and complete the Combined Application Form (CAF) and mail to: Washington County Community Services, PO Box 30, Stillwater, MN 55082 OR drop off at any of our four office locations. The CAF is the application required to apply for SNAP and/or cash assistance.

When your benefits begin depends on the date the county receives the first page of the Combined Application Form (CAF) or the online application via ApplyMN.

2. Are there other food and nutrition programs I might qualify for?

Other programs include:

• WIC (Women, Infants and Children) is a nutrition education program that provides free supplemental foods which promote food health
• The free or reduced price school lunch program is available for families meeting certain income qualifications. An application for this program can be obtained through your child's school.
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (SFP)
• Nutrition Program for Seniors

3. How long does it take after I apply to know if I qualify?

It depends on your situation. For some emergency situations, benefits can be issued within 5 days. In most situations, the county will notify you by mail of a decision within 30 days.

4. If I get SNAP, how much will I get each month?

It depends on income, expenses and the number of people in the household. The average amount is $99 for each person each month. The more people in the family, the more money they may get to buy food.

5. What foods are eligible for purchase through the SNAP?

SNAP benefits may be used for foods items such as bread and cereal, fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, and poultry, and dairy products; seeds and plants which produce food to eat.

SNAP benefits may not be used for any nonfood items, such as pet food, soap, paper products, and household supplies; beer, wine, cigarettes, or tobacco; vitamins and medicines; food that will be eaten in the store; hot foods.

6. How are SNAP benefits received?

SNAP benefits are distributed through a plastic card that looks like a credit or debit card. It is called an Electronic Benefits Transfer or EBT card. Every month, the card is filled up with the money to buy food at places that accept SNAP, such as grocery stores. The card is swiped and a code number entered (called a PIN or Personal Identification Number). The PIN helps keep benefits safe if the card is ever lost or stolen. The cost of food is subtracted from the amount of money on the card.

7. How do I use my electronic food support benefits card?

How to Use Your Minnesota EBT Card

8. Stores that accept Minnesota's Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Cards

Stores will display a poster or sign that says "We accept EBT". The card may be used at authorized sites for Meals on Wheels and Congregate Dining. Many farmers markets accept EBT as well.

9. What do I do if my SNAP benefits card is lost or stolen?

Call customer service (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) at 1-888-997-2227 to report your card lost or stolen. Replacement cards cannot be obtained directly at the county office and must be mailed. It can take up to 5 business days to receive your replacement card. A $2.00 card replacement fee will be deducted from either your food or cash benefits.

10. Do I have to use all my SNAP benefits up in the month I receive them?

No; however, if your benefits are not accessed for a long period of time they may be removed from your card. If this happens, call your food support worker for assistance.