How do I get SNAP?

This article is for people who are new to SNAP. If you already have SNAP, read about the new work requirements to keep your benefits. For SNAP updates, visit the New York State government website. If it is an emergency, find out if you qualify for expedited SNAP.

What is SNAP?

SNAP is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. A lot of people call it food stamps. SNAP helps you buy food at approved stores. Benefits are added to an Electronic Benefit Card (EBT card) each month.

Who can get SNAP?

To get SNAP in New York, you must live in New York State and have a low income. You may already qualify if you get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Check the income guidelines to see if your income is low enough to qualify.

Most people will also have to work or prove they are looking for work to qualify for SNAP. In general, this applies to:

• Adults ages 18 to 64 (in the past, it was 18 to 54).
• Adults in households with children age 13 or older. (Before, having any child in the home was an exemption.)

The government calls these groups “Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents”, or ABAWDs.

Some people can get an exemption to the new work rules. If you get an exemption, you do not have to work. You may be exempt if you are:

• Under 18 or over 64
• Pregnant
• Physically or mentally unable to work
• Caring for a child under 13, or for a household member who has a disability
• Already working at least 80 hours per month
• Participating in a drug or alcohol treatment program
• A full-time student

To find out if you qualify for SNAP or an exemption to the work rules, you have to apply.

Can I get SNAP if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Some immigrants with legal status may qualify for SNAP. Undocumented immigrants can apply for their children who are U.S. citizens or have other legal status.

For more help, call the New York State Immigration Hotline at 212-419-3737. Visit keepyourbenefits.org for a free guide on immigrants and benefits. NYC residents can visit NYC’s Department of Social Services.

Can I get SNAP if I am a college student?

Yes, in some cases. You may qualify if you meet the income limits and at least one of these applies to you:

• You work at least 20 hours per week.
• You are in a work-study program.
• You care for a child under 6 years old.
• You are a single parent with a child under 12.
• You receive unemployment benefits.
• You are in a qualified career or technical education program full-time.

How do I apply?

You can apply online, by mail, by fax, or in person. Make a copy of your application for your records.

• Online: Go to mybenefits.ny.gov. If you live in NYC, go to access.nyc.gov. Click Apply for SNAP.
• By mail or fax: Download and fill out an application. Mail or fax it to your local Social Services office. Call 1-800-342-3009 or use the Social Services website to find your local office.
• In person: Visit your nearest Social Services office.

Applications are available in several languages.

What documents do I need?

You may need to prove that you qualify. Try to gather these documents before you apply:

• Photo ID
• Social Security number
• Bank statements
• Utility bills
• Rent or mortgage receipts
• Medical bills or childcare expenses (if you have them)

List and prove all your expenses. If you have a lot of proof, you are more likely to get the right amount of SNAP benefit. 

What happens after I apply for SNAP?

Your local Social Services office will set up an interview. The interview is usually in person at the office. Sometimes it is by phone or home visit. If going in person is too hard, call and ask for a hardship waiver. You may be able to skip the in-person interview if everyone in your household is elderly or disabled.

Social Services has 30 days to decide if you qualify.

• If you are approved, benefits are added to your EBT card within 30 days. Choose a PIN to protect your card.
• If you are denied, you have 60 days to ask for a Fair Hearing. Do not wait until the last day. To request a  fair hearing call or visit your local Social Services office, or go to mybenefits.ny.gov. Learn more about Fair Hearings. 

Do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?

Yes, you need to renew your SNAP benefits. Every 6 to 12 months, you must "recertify" (prove again) that you still qualify. About two months before your benefits end, you will get a packet in the mail with a new “recertification” application and an interview appointment. You need to send in your application and go to your interview. 

Make sure to save the interview date. If you miss the interview, your benefits will not be renewed. If you need to reschedule your interview, reschedule it before your recertification period ends.

Important things to remember

Always give honest information on your application. Report changes in your income, household size, or expenses right away. This makes sure you get the right amount.

Are there new work rules for SNAP in 2026?

Yes. The law changed on March 1, 2026. Now more people must work or look for work. If you already have SNAP, read SNAP Changes: How to Keep Your Benefits.

Need help?

Find a local food bank for immediate food help.

You can also call:

• OTDA Hotline: 1-800-342-3009 (Monday to Friday)
• Legal Services NYC: 917-661-4500 (Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4pm)