Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement

MCNCE’s AmeriCorps Guide to SNAP

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – What Is It?

SNAP, previously called food stamps, offers assistance for the purchase of eligible food. SNAP benefits are loaded onto an easy to use, discrete card known as an EBT card.

The average benefits are $177 per month per individual in a SNAP household, with a set minimum of $23 per month. The amount of benefits varies by household size. Benefits rollover each month, meaning unused balances from previous months can be utilized in future months.

Eligibility

Income, expenses, and other factors determine SNAP eligibility. While the details below give guidance, the only way to determine eligibility definitively is to complete the SNAP application process.

Each member of a household applying for SNAP must:

  • Be U.S. citizens or legal aliens.
  • Meet the income, expense, and other eligibility rules.

Some applications are expedited due to extenuating circumstances. Identified circumstances include:

  • Income < $150 and Savings/Cash is ≤ $100.
  • Income + Resources < Rent + Mortgage + Utilities
  • Destitute Migrant/seasonal worker with liquid resources < $100

The Application Process

Apply for SNAP here

The best way to apply to SNAP is online. The SNAP application is available online, can be picked up at the Office of Public Assistance, or can be completed over the phone. It takes around 30-60 minutes to complete.

  • When you apply, make sure to attach your SNAP Proof of Service Letter. Your SNAP Proof of Service Letter was shared at you via email at the start of your service. If you need a new copy please request from your program manager!
  • This letter serves as your proof of service and proof of stipend information. The office needs this document to properly exclude your stipend from being counted as income.
  • AmeriCorps Specific Tip: “Household” refers to those who you live with, purchase food with, and prepare meals with. If you do not share food resources with a roommate, they do not count as a household member within the SNAP application. 

The application includes questions on a variety of topics, including:

  • Fiscal information about the household.
  • Monthly income and sources.
  • Household assets.
  • Rent and utilities expenses per month.
  • Household employment history.

Interview Process

  • Once the application is submitted, the applicant must have an interview with the Office of Public Assistance (OPA). OPA will call the applicant from this number: 1-888-706-1535, or the applicant can call the OPA at that number to request the interview. The applicant will likely need to submit documents to verify income, expenses, or other aspects of their applications. If the applicant is determined to meet all requirements, they will then receive their benefits. Eligible households should receive benefits within 30 days if application. However, it may take longer depending on individual circumstances. 
  • If the OPA call goes unanswered, you must contact the OPA to reschedule the phone interview within 30 days of your original application. If the 30-day window closes and you did not make your phone interview, you must reapply.
    • Getting through to the OPA can be challenging. There has been success calling first thing in the morning to be first in the queue, although hold times can often last hours. 
    • If you prefer to conduct your SNAP interview in-person, you can also visit your local Office of Public Assistance (find your local OPA office here), and request an in-person SNAP interview.
    • During the application process the OPA is the primary point of contact when applying for SNAP. After approval, The Department of Health and Human Services administers your benefits.
  • SNAP participants periodically have to recertify to confirm their eligibility. Reporting requirements vary and are explained in the phone interview and approval letter.
  • Important: When your interview begins, clearly state that you have uploaded a letter explaining you are an AmeriCorps State and National member/ AmeriCorps VISTA Member and that your stipend does not count as income.

Important Note

This process does not guarantee approval for benefits.

Your benefits are backdated from the date you applied, not the date
you complete the whole process.

  • The letter you attach ensures your stipend is not counted as
    income, but other factors still affect eligibility.
    • For example, if you have a large savings balance or an
      account in your name with a substantial amount of
      money, you may not qualify.
    • If you have a second job you need to report, that income
      is counted and could decrease your total approved
      benefits.

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