SNAP Food Stamp Benefits
Are you finding it hard to make ends meet? Are you worried about how to afford your next meal? If you live in Oregon, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as "food stamps," may be the helping hand you need.
This article will cover basic information about the SNAP benefits program, explain how to apply, and address other frequently asked questions.
It's ok to ask for help when you're struggling. Many people get help from the food stamp program each year. In 2022, about 1 in 6 Oregonians (or 718,000) got SNAP benefits (source).
What is SNAP?
SNAP is a public assistance program for individuals and families in Oregon who are struggling to make ends meet.
If you qualify for SNAP, the government will give you money each month so you can buy food. Your SNAP money gets deposited onto an "Electronic Benefit Card" (EBT). You can use this card like a regular debit card to pay for food at grocery stores, convenience stores, farmers' markets, and even online shops.
However, unlike a regular debit card, your EBT card can only be used to buy food. It can't be used to buy toiletries, clothing, alcohol, tobacco, or other non-food items.
If you're over 60, your SNAP benefits can also be directly deposited into your bank account. You can also give someone else permission to use your benefit card if you have trouble getting to the store.
Who can get SNAP benefits?
SNAP benefits are for individuals or families who don't make much money and don't have many things.
Income rules
One of the most important eligibility factors is your household income and size.
Your "household" refers to the number of people who live with you and with whom you share income and expenses. Your household may include your children, romantic partner, and even older relatives who live with you.
The more people in your household, the higher your total household income can be. For example:
- If you're single, you make up to $2,510 monthly and qualify for SNAP.
- If you're single and have two kids, you could make up to $4,304 monthly and still qualify for SNAP.
Resource limits
What you own (called "resources") also affects your eligibility for SNAP. You won't qualify for SNAP benefits if you have retirement accounts, extra vehicles, expensive jewelry, or other valuables.
Other rules
The SNAP program has other rules, too. For example, special rules exist for students, seniors, or single people without children. You can find more information about eligibility rules on the Oregon Department of Human Services website.
How much money can I get in food stamps?
The answer varies. Your monthly SNAP payment depends on your monthly income and household size. As of October 2024:
- A single person can get up to $291 per month in SNAP benefits
- A three-person family can get up to $766
These amounts are the most you can get from SNAP. Don't be surprised if your monthly benefit is less than these amounts.
Applying for SNAP benefits
Applying for SNAP in Oregon is a straightforward process:
- Gather information. You'll need documents that show your income and identity. You'll also need to provide a mailing address. If you are homeless, you can use the address of a trusted friend or relative.
- Complete your initial application: You can apply online, in person at your local DHS office, or by phone. Remember, you can apply for other government assistance programs, like cash assistance ("TANF") or Oregon Health Plan, at the same time. Learn more about applying on this government site.
- Attend an interview: After turning in your application, you'll need to have an interview with a case worker. The caseworker will gather more details about you and your situation to decide if you qualify for SNAP.
Need help in another language? Ask for an interpreter when you apply and you'll be provided with one for free. Asking for an interpreter is important so you can provide accurate information about yourself and your situation. If you have problems getting help in the language you speak, you can call Oregon's Public Benefits Hotline for help.
Additional programs for people who get SNAP benefits
The SNAP program also gives you access to other benefits, including:
- Free school meals: This program provides free meals for your kids at school. Talk to your child's school to sign-up.
- Double Up Food Bucks: This program provides extra money if you use your SNAP benefits card at participating farmers' markets. Visit the Double Up Food Bucks website to learn more.
- Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): This government program provides food benefits to infants and children under five and pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding women. Learn more on this site.
Tip: You can also stretch your SNAP benefits by visiting a local food pantry or meal site. These places provide free food no matter your income or immigration status. Use the Oregon Food Bank Food Finder to find your local food pantry or meal site.
Summary
SNAP benefits are here to make sure everyone can afford food, even when times are tough. If you think you qualify, go ahead and apply. The worst that will happen is you'll get told "no."
More FAQs about SNAP benefits
Yes, some categories of immigrants can get SNAP benefits. In general, if you have permission from the U.S. government to be in the U.S., you likely qualify for SNAP benefits.
Important! If you are an immigrant, getting SNAP benefits does not count as a "public charge." This means that getting SNAP benefits will not impact your ability to stay in the U.S., become a lawful resident, or keep your green card status.
Learn more about immigrant eligibility for public benefits here.
Most grocery stores, convenience stores, mini-marts, small businesses, and other places that sell food will let you use your SNAP benefits ("EBT card") to pay for food.
You can even use your benefits at some farmer's markets. If you use your benefits at a farmer's market, these purchases may qualify for the Double Up Food Bucks program, which gives you extra money when you buy food at farmer's markets.
You can use this government website to look up stores in your area that will accept your SNAP benefits.
Your application is supposed to be reviewed and approved within 30 days of the day you apply. (See OAR 461-115-0210.) However, this timeline may be extended if you don't complete your interview within 20 days of applying.
If you're in a desperate financial situation and can’t wait 30 days for SNAP benefits, you can ask for your application to be "expedited" when you apply. (See OAR 461-135-0575).
You can also visit a local food pantry or meal site to get free food while you wait for benefits. These sites provide food to everyone, regardless of age, income, immigration status, race, gender, or religion. Use the Oregon Food Bank Food Finder to find your local food pantry or meal site.
Contact your local Department of Human Services office. They can answer most of your questions about SNAP benefits.
If your local office can't or won't help you, call Oregon's Public Benefits Hotline. By calling this hotline, you can get quick advice from an attorney about your SNAP benefits and other government benefit programs.