Massachusetts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

A healthy diet helps us feel good and stay independent as we get older. The Massachusetts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, helps many older adults, people with disabilities, and families in Massachusetts buy nutritious food and eat better on a budget. If you're approved for SNAP benefits, you will get an electronic benefits card (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 Massachusetts to buy food items. You can also make SNAP purchases on Amazon. **It’s worth checking Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts by using the state's screener tool ([click here](https://dtaconnect.eohhs.mass.gov/screening)). It takes only a few minutes. ## Frequently asked questions - How does Massachusetts SNAP work? - What is the SNAP application process like in Massachusetts? - How do I know if I am eligible for SNAP? - How do I apply for SNAP in Massachusetts? - What happens after I apply for SNAP in Massachusetts? - How can I get help with my application? - Other important tips to know ## How does Massachusetts 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. Massachusetts SNAP can help you free up money for other needs, like utility bills, prescriptions, and medical care. Massachusetts SNAP is run by the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA). DTA 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 Massachusetts? 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 DTA worker can assist you. Generally, here are the steps to apply for Massachusetts SNAP: - **Check if you qualify**: [Take a quick online screening ](https://dtaconnect.eohhs.mass.gov/screening)to see if you may be eligible. - **Fill out an application**: You can apply for Massachusetts SNAP online, by mail or fax, or in person. You can also get help applying over the phone. This will take about 20 minutes. You don’t need documents to start an application and get a benefit start date. - **Have an interview**: You must have a phone interview with a DTA worker once the agency receives your application. - **Wait for a decision**: Most Massachusetts 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**: Within 10 days of applying for SNAP, you will get your new Massachusetts EBT card in the mail. ## How do I know if I am eligible for SNAP? When you apply for SNAP in Massachusetts, you can include everyone in your home who shops for and prepares meals with you. This group is called your “household.” You may be able to get SNAP if you meet these guidelines: - All applicants must be a resident of Massachusetts. - All applicants must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully present non-citizen. - Most adult applicants must register for work and accept suitable employment. - The household must meet certain income (and in some cases, asset) limits. - All applicants must have a Social Security number (or proof they have applied for one). ** What are the SNAP work requirements in Massachusetts?** 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 DTA office to find out exactly what these new work rules mean for you. **How much SNAP can I get in Massachusetts?** The amount of money you will get in Massachusetts 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 In 2026, the average monthly SNAP benefit for a one-person household is $188. **What are the Massachusetts SNAP income limits? How do they affect my eligibility?** There are income guidelines to qualify for SNAP. In Massachusetts, most households can apply if their gross (total) 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 SNAP guidelines below apply from **October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026**. If you’re not sure if you qualify, your local DTA 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 (200% FPL) 1 $ 2,608 2 $ 3,525 3 $ 4,442 4 $ 5,358 5 $ 6,275 For each additional person, add: +$ 917 Source: [Mass.gov SNAP Eligibility - October 2025](https://www.mass.gov/how-to/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap-formerly-known-as-food-stamps) Some SNAP households may also have to meet an asset limit. Assets are things you own that can be turned into money, like cash, bank accounts, or property (not your home). ## How do I apply for SNAP in Massachusetts? First, [take a quick online screening](https://dtaconnect.eohhs.mass.gov/screening) to see if you may be eligible for SNAP. If you are, continue with the steps below. - **Get important documents ready** When you apply for 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 dependent care costs - Medical costs (if you are age 60+ or have a disability) Documents you may need to verify (prove) the information above include: - Identity for Head of Household (driver's license, birth certificate, passport) - Proof of MA residence (bill, lease agreement, bank statement, mail) - Social Security cards for all household members applying - Proof of income for the previous four weeks (pay stubs from last month, pension, child support, etc). - Immigration status for non-citizens (proof of legal non-citizen status if you or a household member is applying for SNAP but is not a U.S. citizen) - Proof of child and adult care expenses - Proof of housing costs (rent or mortgage and utilities) - Proof of out-of-pocket medical expenses (for those age 60+ or w/ a disability) - Proof of child support payments being made to a child living outside of the household If you want someone else (like 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. You and your Authorized Representative will need to fill out [a separate form](https://www.mass.gov/doc/request-to-choose-someone-to-be-my-authorized-representative-image-10-0/download) and upload it to DTA Connect. **2. Complete an application** The quickest and easiest way to apply for SNAP is online through the DTA Connect website. All your personal information is kept 100% private and protected by special security technology. [Apply through DTA Connect](https://dtaconnect.eohhs.mass.gov/) To apply online: - Visit the [DTA Connect](https://dtaconnect.eohhs.mass.gov/) website. - Click on ‘**Apply SNAP!**’ and then ‘**Get Started**.’ - Follow the prompts to complete the SNAP application. It should take you about 20 minutes. You do not have to create an account or have an email address to apply. But having an account can make it easier to manage your benefits. To create one, click on ‘**Create Your Online Account**’ from the DTA Connect Home page. **Tips for success:** - Fill out as much information as you can; it’s better to guess or leave some parts blank. - DTA Connect is available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Haitian Creole. You can change the language using the dropdown list at the top of the Home page. - [Browse the DTA Connect User Guide](https://www.mass.gov/doc/english-your-guide-to-using-dta-connect-brochure/download) for additional help using the website, or [visit the Mass.gov website](https://www.mass.gov/info-details/help-using-dta-connect). **APPLY IN PERSON OR BY MAIL, PHONE, OR FAX** - To apply **in person**, you can [visit your local DTA office](https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-transitional-assistance/locations?_page=1) and complete the SNAP application there or [download the SNAP benefits application](https://www.mass.gov/resource/dta-documents-forms) in your first language and return it to the DTA office once completed. - To apply** by mail**, [download the SNAP benefits application](https://www.mass.gov/resource/dta-documents-forms) and mail the completed application to: DTA Document Processing Center P.O. Box 4406 Taunton, MA 02780 - To apply **over fax**, [download the DTA cover sheet](https://www.mass.gov/doc/dta-mailfax-cover-sheet/download) and the SNAP application and fax both to [1-617-887-8765](tel:1-617-887-8765). - To apply **over the phone**, call the DTA Assistance Line at [1-877-382-2363](tel:1-877-382-2363) (press 7 to apply for SNAP). Interpreters are available in more than 100 languages. **Is everyone in your household 60 or older?** Elderly Disabled Simplified Reporting (EDSAP) makes it easier for older people to apply for and get SNAP in Massachusetts. The application is shorter, benefits can last 3 years, and you do not have a mid-period check-in with DTA. When it’s time to renew, you may not need an interview, and you have fewer changes to report. You may qualify for EDSAP if everyone in your household is age 60 or older and no one has wages or self-employment income. [Download the SNAP Application for Seniors](https://www.mass.gov/lists/snap-application-for-seniors) in your first language at Mass.gov or request one from your [local DTA office](https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-transitional-assistance/locations?_page=1). **What if I need food assistance right away?** You may be able to get Massachusetts SNAP benefits sooner (within 7 calendar days from the date on your application) if you need food quickly. You can receive expedited (faster) SNAP assistance if you meet at least one of the following conditions: - You have $150 or less in monthly gross income and $100 or less in liquid assets (cash and money in the bank). - Your shelter costs are higher than your combined gross monthly income and cash and savings (DTA adds the value of the standard utility allowance to your rent or homeownership costs). - You are a migrant household with $100 or less in cash and savings. **Need food today? **Visit the [Mass.gov website](https://www.mass.gov/how-to/find-a-local-food-bank) to find food resources near you while you wait for your SNAP application to be processed. ## How can I get help with my application? There are several ways to get help filling out your Massachusetts SNAP application. You can: - Call the DTA Assistance Line at [1-877-382-2363](tel:1-877-382-2363) and press 7. - Call Project Bread's FoodSource Hotline at [1-800-645-8333](tel:1-800-645-8333) to talk to a benefits counselor. - [Reach out to another ](tel:1-800-645-8333)[SNAP community outreach partner](https://www.mass.gov/info-details/snap-outreach-partners). - 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 NCOA’s HelpLine at [1-855-534-1245](tel:+18555341245) anytime Monday–Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST to get free support.** ** ** ## ** What happens after I apply for SNAP in Massachusetts? ** DTA may take up to 30 days to review your Massachusetts SNAP application. If you need help right away (expedited benefits), it may take about 7 days. If you are approved, your benefits can start as early as the day you applied. After you apply, you must have a phone interview with a DTA case worker. Check your mail and answer your phone, even if the number is unknown. If you gave a cell phone number or email, DTA may also send you texts or emails about your application. **What can I expect during my SNAP interview?** Don’t worry. The interview is not a test. The worker is just checking the information you already gave. Your DTA worker 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? It’s a good idea to practice answering these questions before your interview, either in front of a mirror or with a 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 telling you if you were approved or denied for Massachusetts 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?** The letter you get will explain your monthly benefits amount and how long you’ll get benefits for. Most households can get SNAP for 12 months without renewing. If your household is in the EDSAP category, you can get benefits for 3 years before renewing. **When will I receive my EBT card?** Within 10 days of applying for SNAP, you will receive your EBT card in the mail with instructions on how to activate and use it. The card will not be loaded with benefits until/if you are approved for SNAP. Going forward, your benefits will be deposited into your account between the 1st and the 14th (on the same day each month) based on the last digit of your Social Security number. ## ** Other important tips to know ** **What if my Massachusetts SNAP application is denied? ** If your SNAP application was denied and you disagree with DTA's decision, you have the right to appeal and have a hearing. Hearings are usually held in your local DTA office. **How can I view my SNAP benefits information? ** [Download the DTA Connect app](https://www.mass.gov/how-to/download-the-dta-connect-mobile-app) or visit the website and sign into your account to: - Check your case status - Submit your Interim Report/Recertification - Submit verification documents and more **How do I manage my Massachusetts EBT card?**…