Maryland Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

The Maryland Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps many low-income older adults, people with disabilities, and families in Maryland buy groceries. It used to be known as “food stamps.”

If you’re approved, you’ll receive a Maryland Independence Card (EBT card). You use it like a debit card at grocery stores and farmers markets in Maryland that accept SNAP. Many older adults in Maryland get about $188 each month to help with groceries.

As we age, eating well is even more important for staying healthy, active, and independent. See if you're eligible for SNAP in Maryland by using the state's screener tool (click here).

Quick links

• Maryland SNAP website

• Maryland SNAP online application

• Maryland SNAP printable application

How do I know if I am eligible for SNAP in Maryland?

To get SNAP, your household must meet the following basic rules:

• All applicants must be a resident of Maryland.

• All applicants must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully present non-citizen.

• 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).

• Applicants may also have to meet certain work requirements.

Your Maryland SNAP “household” includes everyone in your home who shops for and prepares meals with you.

Maryland SNAP: Quick Facts

What is Maryland SNAP?

A program that helps low-income families, older adults, and people with disabilities in Maryland pay for food.

Who can get help?

Maryland residents who meet the program’s income and other rules. Special rules apply if someone in your household is age 60+ or has a disability.

How much can I get?

Your monthly amount depends on your household size, income, and certain expenses.

How do I use my benefits?

Benefits are added to an EBT card each month. You use it like a debit card.

How do I apply?

Apply through the Maryland Benefits website. You can also apply by phone, in person, or by mail.

What are the SNAP work requirements in Maryland?

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

• Under the new rules, adults age 55–64 who do not have dependents may need to work or join a SNAP job training program for 80 hours each month to keep their benefits. Volunteer activities may count toward the 80 hours.

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

• Veterans must now follow these work rules, too.

These changes may affect how long some people can get SNAP benefits in Maryland, especially in areas where jobs are hard to find.

How much SNAP help can I get in Maryland?

If you qualify, the amount of money you get in Maryland 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?

Income limits are the most money your household can receive each month and still get SNAP. Most households in Maryland can apply if their gross (total, before taxes) income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.

If someone in your household is age 60 or older or has a disability, SNAP uses special rules to decide if you qualify and how much of your income counts. Many older adults are surprised they qualify for SNAP. The best way to know is to apply.

What is the SNAP income limit in Maryland?

The income limits you see below apply from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027. If you’re not sure whether you qualify, your local SNAP office can review your situation and help explain your options. 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 $ 2,660

2 $ 3,608

3 $ 4,554

4 $ 5,500

5 $ 6,448

For each additional person, add: +$ 948

Source: USDA.gov, SNAP Eligibility (October 2026)

You can own a home or car and have savings and still qualify for Maryland SNAP. Most households do not have to meet an asset limit, so money in a checking or savings account generally won’t disqualify you. You must still meet income and other eligibility rules.

Can medical expenses help me qualify for SNAP?

Yes. If you’re 60 or older or meet SNAP’s disability rules, medical costs you pay yourself may help you qualify or get more benefits. These may include doctor visits, prescription medicines, health insurance premiums, and travel to medical appointments. Tell your SNAP office about these expenses and keep bills, receipts, or other proof.

How do I apply for SNAP in Maryland?

To apply for SNAP, follow these general steps:

1. Get your important documents ready. When you apply for SNAP, you'll be asked for important information to help determine if you qualify and the mount you can get each month.

Before you start, gather some basic information to make your application easier:

• Household income from jobs, child support, or 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.)

If you would like to have someone else (like a friend or family member) help you gather the necessary documents, complete your SNAP application, and even join you in your interview, you can name that person as your Authorized Representative in your application.

2. Complete an application. The quickest and easiest way to apply for SNAP is online through the Maryland Benefits website. 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 Maryland Benefits

How to apply online

• Visit the Maryland Benefits website.

• Click on ‘Apply Now’ and then choose ‘Food’ in the menu that pops up. Click ‘Next.’

• Choose ‘Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program’in the menu that pops up. Click ‘Next.’

• On the next screen, if you already have an account, enter your username and password.

• If you do not have an account, click ‘Create an account’and follow the prompts to create your username and password.

• Once you have successfully logged in, click on ‘Services’ and then ‘Food Assistance.’

• Follow the prompts to complete the SNAP application. It should take you about 20 to 30 minutes (but you can save your progress and come back if you need to).

Success tips when applying for Maryland SNAP online

• Fill out as much information as you can; it’s better to guess or leave some parts blank rather than wait to verify the information.

• If English is not your primary language, click ‘Español’ at the top right of the Maryland Benefits website (if you are already in the application, click on the circular ‘Translate’ button at the top right of your screen).

• Click on the ‘Help’ link at the top of your screen for additional guidance on using the Maryland Benefits website and completing a benefits application.

How to apply in person or by mail

To apply in person, by mail, or by fax, you will first need a paper application. Below, you will find the Maryland SNAP application that you can download and print out at home: SNAP Application (English)

Once you have completed the SNAP application, you can drop it off or mail it to a DHS office near you.

How can I get help with my Maryland SNAP application?

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

• Contact the DHS Customer Service Center at 1-800-332-6347 .

• Call Maryland Hunger Solutions at 1-866-821-5552 to schedule an appointment.

• Call the Maryland Food Bank SNAP Outreach Team at 1-888-808-7327 or email snapteam@mdfoodbank.org.

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

• Call our 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.

Can I get emergency food stamps?

You may be able to get Maryland SNAP benefits sooner (within 7 calendar days from the date on your application) if your food needs are urgent. You can receive expedited (faster) SNAP assistance if you meet at least one of the following conditions:

• Your household’s monthly rent or mortgage and utilities are more than your household’s income and resources.

• Your household’s gross monthly income is less than $150, and your resources, such as bank accounts, are $100 or less.

• Your household is a migrant or seasonal farm worker household.

Need food today? Visit the Maryland Hunger Solutions website to find food resources near you while you wait for your SNAP application to be processed.

How does Maryland SNAP work?

SNAP helps you afford groceries each month, which can free up money for other essentials like utility bills, prescriptions, and medical care. If you’re approved, your benefits are added to an EBT card called the Maryland Independence Card. It works like a debit card and can be used at most grocery stores, convenience stores, superstores, wholesale clubs, and farmers markets in Maryland. You can also use your SNAP benefits to buy food on Amazon.

What is the SNAP application process like in Maryland?

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

• Fill out an application: You can apply for Maryland SNAP online, by mail, or in person. You can also get help applying over the phone. Completing the application can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes. Note: No documentation is necessary to start the application process and secure a benefit start date.

• Have an interview: You must have a phone interview with a case manager once DHS receives your application.

• Wait for a decision: Most Maryland SNAP applications are processed within 30 days from the date on your application. If you have an urgent need for food, you may be able to have your application processed faster.

• Receive your EBT card: If you’re approved for SNAP benefits, you will receive your new Maryland Independence Card in the mail with a guide on how to use it.

Applying for SNAP might feel overwhelming at first, but many people find it easier than they expect. And you don’t have to do it alone — a friend, family member, or DHS case manager can help you through the process.

What can I expect during my SNAP interview?

During the interview, your DHS case manager can also explain how SNAP works, answer your questions, and help if you’re having trouble getting documents. Don’t worry—the interview isn’t there to trip you up. It’s just a quick check of the information you already gave.

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 can help to practice answering the interview questions ahead of time—either out loud to yourself or with a trusted friend or family member. A little practice can make you feel calmer and more confident.

After everything is reviewed, you’ll get a letter in the mail with the decision. If you’re approved, it will explain how much you’ll get, when benefits start, and how the decision was made. If you’re not approved, the letter will explain why.

How long does it take to get approved for SNAP in Maryland?

Most SNAP applications are processed within 30 days, or within 7 days if you qualify for expedited benefits. If approved, benefits can start from the day you applied. Check your mail and answer your phone regularly so you don’t miss messages from DHS.

You will also need to complete an interview with a DHS case manager after applying.

Other important SNAP application tips to know

What happens after I am approved for SNAP?

If you’re approved for Maryland SNAP, you’ll get a letter that tells you how much you’ll get each month and how long your benefits will last. Most households get SNAP for 12 months. If everyone in your household is age 60 or older or has a disability and no one is working, benefits may last up to 24 months. If you’re in the Maryland Senior Nutrition Assistance Program (MSNAP) or the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP), benefits usually last 36 months.

What can I do if my SNAP application is denied?

If you believe your SNAP application was denied by mistake or that your benefit amount is wrong, contact DHS right away. If DHS does not agree after reviewing your case, you have the right to ask for a fair hearing so an independent official can review the decision. Your decision notice will have instructions for requesting a hearing.

How can I view my SNAP benefits information?

You can sign into your Maryland Benefits account anytime to:

• Check on the status of your benefits application.

• Start a new application, or finish a saved application.

• View messages and notifications from Maryland DHS.

• Get detailed information about your saved, submitted, and active applications.

• Report any changes to your SNAP household.

How do I manage my Maryland Independence EBT card?

To create or change your Independence Card PIN number, check the balance on your card, or report a lost or stolen card, call the Customer Service hotline at 1-800-997-2222 (or the number on the back of your card). You can also manage your card by registering on the Connect EBT website.

Do I need to report changes to my household situation?…