Colorado Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Eating healthy helps us stay strong and independent as we get older. The Colorado Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), once known as Food Stamps, helps many older adults and families in Colorado buy nutritious food. If you're approved for SNAP benefits, you’ll receive a Quest electronic benefits card (EBT card). This card works just like a prepaid debit card. Your card can be used at most grocery stores, convenience stores, superstores, wholesale retailers, and even farmers markets in Colorado to buy SNAP-approved food items. You can also make SNAP purchases on Amazon. **It’s worth checking Colorado SNAP eligibility for yourself or someone you care for. The average older adult gets $188 each month to help with groceries.** Find out if you may be eligible for SNAP in Colorado by using the state's screening tool ([click here](https://peak.my.site.com/peak/s/get-help-finding-benefits?language=en_US&retURL=benefit-information)). It takes only a few minutes. ## Frequently asked questions - How does Colorado SNAP work? - What is the SNAP application process like in Colorado? - How do I know if I am eligible for SNAP? - How do I apply for SNAP in Colorado? - What happens after I apply for SNAP in Colorado? - How can I get help with my application? - Other important tips to know ## How does Colorado SNAP work? SNAP can help you stretch your grocery budget further every month. This is because the money you would have spent on food can now be spent on other basics like your utility bills, prescriptions, and health care. If you’re approved for SNAP, your benefits are added to an EBT card each month. It works like a debit card and can be used at most grocery stores and other stores that sell food in Colorado. SNAP is run by the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). County offices across the state help people apply for SNAP, manage their benefits, and get answers to questions. ## What is the SNAP application process like in Colorado? Applying for SNAP may be easier than you think. You don’t have to do it by yourself—a friend, family member, or CDHS case worker can help you. Generally, here are the steps to apply for Colorado SNAP: - **Check your eligibility**: [Use this free screening tool from the state](https://peak.my.site.com/peak/s/get-help-finding-benefits?language=en_US&retURL=benefit-information) to see if you can get SNAP benefits. - **Fill out an application**: You can apply for [Colorado SNAP online](https://peak.my.site.com/peak/s/afb-welcome?language=en_US), in person, or by mail or fax. You can also get help applying over the phone. Completing the application usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. Note: To apply online, you must first create a Colorado PEAK account. You do not need papers to start your application or set your benefit start date. - **Have an interview**: You may be asked to have a phone interview with a CDHS case worker once your local county office receives your application. - **Wait for a decision**: Most Colorado SNAP applications are reviewed within 30 days from the date on your application. If you need food right now, you may be able to have your application reviewed faster. - **Receive your EBT card**: If you’re approved for SNAP benefits, you will get your new EBT card in the mail with a guide on how to use it. ## How do I know if I'm eligible for SNAP in Colorado? When you apply for SNAP in Colorado, you can include everyone in your home who shops for and prepares meals with you. SNAP calls this group your “household.” To get SNAP, your household must meet the following basic rules: - All applicants must be a resident of Colorado. - All applicants must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully present non-citizen. - Most people must meet certain work requirements. - The household must meet certain income limits (and in some cases, an asset limit). - All applicants must have a Social Security number (or proof they have applied for one). You might also qualify for SNAP if you get other forms of public assistance like Colorado Works and [Supplemental Security Income (SSI)](https://benefitscheckup.org/article/supplemental-security-income-find-out-if-you-qualify). ## What are the SNAP work requirements in Colorado? As of Feb. 1, 2026, the federal government changed SNAP work rules for some people: - Under the new rules, adults age 55–64 who do not have dependents under 14 may now have to work, volunteer, or join a job training program for 80 hours each month to keep their benefits. The age limit for these work rules used to be 55. - Veterans must now follow these work rules, too. - These changes may affect how long you can get SNAP benefits, especially if you live in an area where jobs are hard to find. Some people, like caregivers, may not have to follow the new SNAP work rules. Talk to someone at your local CDHS office to find out how the rules apply to you. ## How much SNAP help can I get in Colorado? If you qualify, the amount you can get in SNAP benefits depends on: - How much you earn from your job or other income you receive, like Social Security - How many people live with you If you’re age 60+ or have a disability, you may be able to get more SNAP benefits by reporting monthly costs like medical bills (over $35), housing costs, and utility bills. In 2026, the average monthly SNAP benefit for a one-person household is $188. ## What are income limits? How do they affect my SNAP eligibility? There are income guidelines to qualify for SNAP. Most households in Colorado can apply if their gross (total, before taxes) income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. **There are special SNAP rules that give more flexibility to people who are age 60+ or have a disability.**Many older adults are surprised they qualify for SNAP and get more help than they expected. The best way to know for sure is to apply. The guidelines below apply from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. If you’re not sure if you qualify, your CDHS office can help. You can also check your eligibility right now—just scroll up and click the black “**See If You May Be Eligible**” button. Family size Maximum gross monthly income (200% FPL) 1 $2,610 2 $3,526 3 $4,442 4 $5,360 5 $6,276 For each additional person, add: +$918 Source: [Colorado CDHS](https://cdhs.colorado.gov/snap) Most Colorado SNAP households do not have an asset limit. But if someone in your home is age 60 or older, or has a disability, and your income is too high for the regular test, your assets must be $4,500 or less. Assets are things you own that could be turned into money, like cash, bank accounts, or property. ## How do I apply for Colorado SNAP? **1. Get important documents ready** When you do apply, you’ll be asked for important information to help determine if you qualify and the amount you can get each month. Before you start, gather some basic information to make your application process easier: - Household income from jobs, child support, and other income sources - Social Security numbers and birth dates of all household members - Housing (rent/mortgage) and utility (phone, electric, gas, water) costs - Child care or dependent care costs - Medical costs (if you are age 60+ or have a disability) Examples of documents you may need to verify (prove) the information above include: - Driver's license or other government-issued ID - Birth certificate - Bank statements - Pension statements - Social Security statements - Pay stubs - Tax returns - Social Security card - Proof of household expenses (such as utility and phone bills) - Marriage license or divorce decree - For those age 60+ or with a disability: billing statements, mileage or transportation costs to/from medical appointments, itemized receipts for medical expenses (prescription drugs, medical supplies, etc.) You don’t need to have everything ready right away. You can submit your SNAP application first and add more information later. Your benefits can start from the day you apply. You can also ask someone you trust—like a friend or family member—to help you. They can help gather papers, fill out the application, and join you for your interview. You can list them as your Authorized Representative on your application. **2. Complete an application** The quickest and easiest way to apply for Colorado SNAP is online at the state's [PEAK website](https://peak.my.site.com/peak/s/afb-welcome?language=en_US). You’ll be glad to know when you do, all your personal information is kept 100% confidential and protected by special security technology. [Apply through Colorado PEAK](https://peak.my.site.com/peak/s/user-login/create-new-account?language=en_US) To apply online: - Visit the [Colorado PEAK website](https://peak.my.site.com/peak/s/peak-landing-page?language=en_US). - If you already have an account, click ‘[Sign in](https://peak.my.site.com/peak/s/user-login?language=en_US).’ - If you do not have an account, click ‘[Create an account](https://peak.my.site.com/peak/s/user-login/create-new-account?language=en_US).’ and follow the prompts to set up your username and password. - Once you have successfully logged in to your account, click ‘Apply for Benefits.’ - On the next screen, click ‘I know what benefits I want to apply for.’ - On the next screen, check the box next to ‘SNAP’ and click ‘Apply for Benefits.’ - Follow the prompts to complete the SNAP application. It should take you about 20 to 30 minutes (but you can save your info and come back if you need to). - You can upload requested documents to your PEAK account. You can also drop them off at your county office, or mail them to your county office. **Tips for success:** - Fill in as much as you can. If you’re unsure, you may leave a question blank and come back later. You can save your application and finish it another time. - If your primary language is Spanish, click ‘Español’ at the top right of your screen. - Visit the Colorado PEAK [Frequently Asked Questions](https://peak.my.site.com/peak/s/FAQs?language=en_US) for additional guidance. **APPLY IN PERSON, BY MAIL, OR FAX** Download, print, and complete a paper SNAP application: - [SNAP Application (English)](https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BztoLK7fIWYlVXREYnZKSXhsQmNqSmhTMkdySXFpQTgyTmZn/view?resourcekey=0-LS_RN06c4AXdFaFzARYDVQ) - [SNAP Application (Spanish)](https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BztoLK7fIWYlVFVYeWN4VWwybVFYWmhEOHpyUFBXcUEycm1v/view?resourcekey=0-Er_2vU8AH3lgi8I1uKQEng) - [SNAP Application (Large Print)](https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9eaXW7_92zSUHM1cC1sd3l4RE0/view?resourcekey=0-Deo6TgCl8ofboDfZAubLvQ) Fill out the application and then mail, fax, or return it in person to your local CDHS office. [Find a location in your county](https://cdhs.colorado.gov/contact-your-county). ## What if I need food assistance right away? You may be able to get Colorado SNAP benefits sooner (within 7 calendar days from the date on your application) if you need food right now. You can receive expedited (faster) SNAP assistance if you meet at least one of the following conditions: **Need food today?** [Visit the Feeding Colorado website](https://feedingcolorado.org/find-food/) to find local resources while you wait for your Colorado SNAP application to be reviewed. ## How can I get help with my application? There are several ways to get help filling out your Colorado SNAP application. You can: - Contact a Colorado [SNAP Application Assistance provider](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FvbYsBbeIcqKFUKXnsrIhZOZx9Ow5nlp/view). - Find and contact your [local CDHS office](https://cdhs.colorado.gov/contact-your-county). - Call Hunger Free Colorado at [1-855-855-4626](tel:1-855-855-4626) or [info@hungerfreecolorado.org](mailto:info@hungerfreecolorado.org). - Contact the Senior Resource Development Agency SRDA (SRDA) at [1-719-545-8900](tel:1-719-545-8900) or [alopez@srda.org](mailto:alopez@srda.org). - Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near where you live.[ See if there’s one in your area](https://benefitscheckup.org/article/how-to-find-a-benefits-enrollment-center-near-you). - **Call the NCOA HelpLine at [1-877-831-7018](tel:1-877-831-7018) anytime Monday–Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST to get free support.** ## What happens after I apply for SNAP in Colorado? It can take up to 30 days to review your SNAP application, or up to 7 days if you ask for faster help. If you are approved, benefits can start from the day you apply. After you submit your application, a CDHS case worker will contact you within 10 days for an interview. The interview may happen during that call or be scheduled for later. To avoid delays, check your mail often and answer your phone, even if the call says “unknown” or is blocked. ## What can I expect during my SNAP interview? Don’t worry—the SNAP interview is just a check-in. It’s not meant to trip you up. The worker simply reviews the information you already shared, answers your questions, and can help if you’re missing any documents or need assistance. During your SNAP interview, you may be asked questions such as: - What is your full name and birthday? - What is your Social Security number? - Where do you live? (You can still qualify if you are houseless.) - Are you a U.S. citizen? (You may still qualify if you are a noncitizen.) - What is your monthly income? - Do you pay utilities, such as an electric bill or cable TV bill? - What other regular bills do you have? Try practicing your answers ahead of time, either by yourself or with someone you trust. That way, you will feel less nervous and be able to respond with confidence. If CDHS needs more information, they will contact you. You should get a letter within 30 days telling you if you qualify for SNAP benefits. **You can check your SNAP application status by calling the SNAP support line at** [1-800-816-4451](tel:1-800-816-4451). ## What happens after I am approved for SNAP? After you are approved for SNAP, your case stays open for a set amount of time. Most households are approved for 6-12 months. Households with someone age 60 or older or with a disability may be approved for up to 36 months. You will get your Colorado Quest EBT card in the mail with instructions on how to use it. Your first SNAP benefits will be added when your application is approved. ## Other important tips to know **What if my Colorado SNAP application is denied?** Your SNAP letter will include instructions for filing an appeal if you do not agree with the decision, or if you think your benefit amount is wrong. **What are important things I should know?** Here are other things to keep in mind after you apply for SNAP: - **How can I see my SNAP benefits information?** You can use your Colorado PEAK account to report a change, upload documents, get reminders, and renew your SNAP benefits. - **How do I manage my Colorado Quest EBT card?** To create or change your EBT card PIN number, check the balance on your card, or report a lost or stolen card, call EBT Customer Service at [1-888-328-2656](tel:1-888-328-2656). You can also visit the [ebtEDGE](https://www.ebtedge.com/gov/portal/PortalHome.do) portal (you must create an account first). - **Do I need to report changes to my household situation? **You must report certain changes that can affect your SNAP benefit amount within 10 days of the change. These include: - A change in the number of people in your household - A change of address - A change in employment income - A change in child support legal obligations **When should you renew your SNAP benefits in Colorado?** You must renew your Colorado SNAP benefits before your certification period ends to keep receiving benefits. You’ll get a notice in the mail when it’s time to renew along with instructions on how to do so.