Indiana Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

A healthy diet helps us feel good and stay independent as we get older. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, helps many older adults, people with disabilities, and families in Indiana buy nutritious food and eat better on a budget.

If you're approved for SNAP benefits, you will get a Hoosier Works electronic benefits card (or EBT card). This card works just like a prepaid debit card and can be used at most grocery stores, convenience stores, superstores, wholesale retailers, and even farmers markets in Indiana to buy food items. You can also make SNAP purchases on Amazon.

It’s worth checking Indiana SNAP eligibility for yourself or someone you care for. The average older adult gets $188 each month to help with groceries. Learn more and find out if you're eligible for SNAP in Indiana by using the state's screener tool (click here).

Frequently asked questions

• How does Indiana SNAP work?

• What is the SNAP application process like in Indiana?

• How do I know if I am eligible for SNAP?

• How do I apply for SNAP in Indiana?

• What happens after I apply for SNAP in Indiana?

• How can I get help with my application?

• Other important tips to know

How does Indiana SNAP work?

SNAP helps people with limited means afford food. If you’re eligible, it makes it easier to buy healthy groceries each month, like fruits and vegetables, meat, dairy, nuts, bread, and seeds to grow food. Indiana SNAP can help free up money for other needs, like utility bills, prescriptions, and medical care.

SNAP is run by the Division of Family Resources (DFR). DFR 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 Indiana?

Applying for SNAP is not as hard as you might think. You don’t have to do it by yourself—a friend, family member, or DFR case worker can assist you.

Generally, here are the steps to apply for Indiana SNAP:

• Check your eligibility: Before starting your application, answer a few questions on the FSSA Benefits Portal (website) to see if you or others in your household are likely to qualify for SNAP benefits.

• Fill out an application: You can apply for Indiana SNAP online, in person, by mail, or over the phone. This should take about 30 to 60 minutes.

• Have an interview: You must have an interview when applying for Indiana food assistance.

• Wait for a decision: Most applications are reviewed within 30 days. If you need food right now, you may be able to have your application reviewed faster.

• Receive your Hoosier Works EBT card: If you’re approved for SNAP benefits, you’ll receive an EBT card pre-loaded with money for groceries in the mail.

How do I know if I'm eligible for SNAP in Indiana?

When you apply for SNAP in Indiana, you can include everyone in your home who shops for and prepares meals with you. This group is called your “household.”

To qualify for SNAP in Indiana:

• You must be a U.S. citizen; non-citizens must meet certain requirements.

• You must be a resident of Indiana.

• Most households must meet certain income and asset (resource) limits.

• You must provide a Social Security number or proof you have applied for one.

• Most adult applicants must meet certain work requirements.

What are the SNAP work requirements in Indiana?

As of Feb. 1, 2026, federal SNAP work rules have changed for some people:

• Under the new rules, adults age 55–64 who do not have dependents may now need to work or join a SNAP job training program for 80 hours each month to keep their benefits. The age limit for these rules used to be 55.

• Volunteer work may count toward the 80 hours.

• Some caregivers may not have to follow these work rules. The details are still being worked out.

• Veterans must now follow these work rules, too.

These changes may affect how long you can get SNAP benefits, especially if you’re in an area where jobs are hard to find. Talk to your local DFR office to find out exactly what these new work rules mean for you.

How much SNAP can I get?

The amount of money you will 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 the Indiana SNAP income limits?

There are income guidelines for SNAP. In Indiana, most households can apply if they have a gross (total) income of up to 130% 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.

Note:If everyone in your household receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or TANF (cash assistance), income limits do not apply.

The SNAP guidelines below apply from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. If you’re not sure if you qualify, your local DFR office can help. You can also check your eligibility now—just scroll up and click the black “See If You May Be Eligible” button.

Family size Maximum gross monthly income (130% FPL)

1 $ 1,696

2 $ 2,292

3 $ 2,888

4 $ 3,483

5 $ 4,079

For each additional person, add: +$ 596

Source: Indiana FSSA - SNAP Guidelines (October 2025)

Some SNAP households may also have to meet a resource limit. Resources are things you own that can be turned into money, like cash, bank accounts, or property (not your home).

How do I apply for Indiana SNAP?

1. Get important documents ready

When applying for Indiana SNAP, you’ll be asked for information to help determine if you qualify and the amount you can get each month. Before you start, gather the following details to make things 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 adult day health care costs

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

If you want a friend or family member to help you gather documents, complete your SNAP application, and join you in your interview, you can name that person as your Authorized Representative.

2. Complete an application

The quickest and easiest way to apply for food stamps in Indiana is online. All your personal information is kept 100% private and protected by special security technology.

Apply Now on Indiana's Portal

• To get started, check your SNAP eligibility by using Indiana's screening tool. You’ll be asked a few basic questions. At the end of the screening, you’ll know if your household can get SNAP benefits.

• After you've checked your eligibility, start your SNAP application on Indiana's Benefits Portal. Make sure you select 'SNAP (Food Assistance)' before clicking 'Apply Online'.

• While you can start your application without creating a Benefits Portal account, it’s a good idea to create one. That way, you can save your application progress and return any time to complete it.

• Allow yourself 30 to 60 minutes to apply. Be ready to share details about the money you earn and the things you pay for/own. You will be able to upload requested documents online (see the Help Videos page for a tutorial on how to upload documents).

Tips for success:

• Fill out as much information as you can; it’s better to guess or leave some parts blank rather than wait. You can save your application in the system and return later to finish it, if necessary.

• If your primary language is not English, click the drop-down menu at the top right of your screen and select your language.

APPLY IN PERSON, BY MAIL, OR BY PHONE

• Applying in Person: You can print out a SNAP application from the Benefits Portal or request that one be mailed to you. You can also pick up a paper copy at your closest DFR office. Find an office near you.

• Apply by Mail: Use the printed application form (link above) and mail your completed SNAP application to your closest DFR office.

• Apply by Phone: Call the DFR hotline at 1-800-403-0864 and request to apply for SNAP benefits.

What if I need food assistance right away?

You may be able to get SNAP benefits sooner in Indiana (within 7 days) if you need food right away. To qualify for expedited (faster) benefits, you must:

• Have less than $150 in gross monthly income and liquid resources (cash, checking, or savings) of $100 or less in the month of the application

• Have monthly rent/mortgage and utilities that are more than your gross monthly income and liquid resources

If you qualify, you will have an interview appointment for the same day or the next day. The only information you need to provide for the first month is proof of identity (such as your driver’s license). After 30 days, you may be asked to provide more information about where you live, your household, and your income.

How can I get help with my application?

There are several ways to get help filling out your SNAP application. You can:

• Reach out to your nearest DFR office. Find an office near you.

• Call the DFR hotline at 1-800-403-0864.

• Contact Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana at 1-317-925-0191 or email them at lthompson@gleaners.org to get help applying for SNAP.

• Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near where you live. See if there’s one in your area.

• Call NCOA’s HelpLine at [1-800-794-6559](tel:1-800-794-6559) anytime Monday–Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST to get free support.

What happens after I apply for SNAP in Indiana?

It can take up to 30 days for DFR to review your SNAP application (within 7 days if you’re requesting expedited benefits).

What can I expect during my SNAP interview?

Don’t worry. The interview is not meant to trip you up or stop you from getting SNAP. Your case worker is just checking the information you already gave. They can also explain the program, answer your questions, and help you get any papers you are having trouble finding.

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?

Practice answering these questions before your interview, either in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or family member. That way, you will feel less nervous and be able to respond with confidence.

Once all your information is received, you will get a letter from DFR telling you if you were approved or denied for Indiana SNAP benefits. If you are approved, the notice will show your benefit amount and when benefits will start. If you are denied, the notice will tell you why.

What happens after I am approved for SNAP?

If you are approved for SNAP in Indiana, DFR will mail you a letter. The letter will tell you how much money you will get each month and how long you can receive benefits. Most households get benefits for 12 months.

Within 3 to 5 days, you will receive your Hoosier Works EBT card in the mail. It will be automatically reloaded with your benefit amount every month.

What if my Indiana SNAP application is denied?

If your application for Indiana SNAP is denied, and you disagree with the reason, you can ask for an appeal. A judge will review your case.

Other important tips and information when applying for SNAP in Indiana

How can I manage my SNAP benefits?

You can see your SNAP benefits, manage your personal information, and view your notices any time through your Benefits Portal account.

What are important things I should know?

• Do I need to report changes to my household situation? You must tell DFR if your household or money situation changes. You will do this once in the middle of your benefit period and again when it is time to renew your SNAP. You can update your name or address online through your Benefits Portal account.

• How do I manage my EBT card? You can call the 24-hour EBT toll-free number (1-877-768-5098) to set up your PIN, check your benefits, or report a lost or stolen EBT card. The Hoosier Works card will not expire, even if you are no longer eligible for SNAP benefits. It's a good idea to keep your card even when you are no longer receiving benefits. That way, if you qualify for SNAP again, you can use your original card.

When do I renew my Indiana SNAP benefits?

You must renew your Indiana SNAP benefits every so often to keep receiving benefits. You’ll get a notice in the mail when it’s time to renew.