Minnesota Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Good nutrition helps us stay active and 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 Minnesota buy healthy food and stretch their budget further. If you're approved for Minnesota SNAP benefits, you’ll get an electronic benefits card (or EBT card). It works just like a prepaid debit card and can be used at most grocery stores, convenience stores, superstores, wholesale retailers, and even farmers markets to buy food items. You can also make SNAP purchases on Amazon. **It’s worth checking Minnesota 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're eligible right now by answering a few questions on the state website ([click here](https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/public/DHS-3529-ENG)). ## Frequently asked questions - How does Minnesota SNAP work? - What is the application process like? - How do I know if I'm eligible? - How do I apply for SNAP in Minnesota? - What happens after I apply? - What if I need food assistance right away? - How can I get help with my application? - Other important tips to know ## How does SNAP in Minnesota 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. Minnesota SNAP can help free up money for other needs, like utility bills, prescriptions, and medical care. Minnesota SNAP is run by the state's Department of Human Services (DHS). County and Tribal Nation 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 Minnesota? 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 DHS case worker can help you. Generally, here are the steps to apply for Minnesota SNAP: - **Check your eligibility**: Minnesota offers a short [eligibility screening questionnaire](https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/public/DHS-3529-ENG). Answer the questions to see if you may qualify for SNAP benefits. - **Fill out an application**: You can apply for Minnesota SNAP online, in person, or by mail. This takes about 20 to 30 minutes. - **Have an interview**: You must have a phone or face-to-face interview with a county worker once DHS receives your application. - **Wait for a decision**: Most Minnesota SNAP applications are reviewed 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 reviewed faster. - **Receive your EBT card**: If you’re approved for SNAP benefits, you’ll receive your new EBT card in the mail with a guide on how to use it. ## How do I know if I'm eligible? To be eligible for Minnesota SNAP, your household (defined as people who live together and buy food and prepare meals together) must meet certain guidelines. All applicants must: - Be a resident of Minnesota and a U.S. citizen. - Meet certain income (and sometimes asset) guidelines. Special SNAP rules apply to households with older adults (60+) and people with disabilities. This can make it easier to qualify, even if their income looks too high. - Meet certain work requirements, with some exceptions. Certain lawfully present non-citizens may qualify for SNAP. Even if you can’t get SNAP benefits, your family members born in this country can. **What are the SNAP work requirements in Minnesota?** 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 Minnesota SNAP benefits, especially if you’re in an area where jobs are hard to find. Talk to your local DHS 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota SNAP income limits?** There are income guidelines for SNAP. In Minnesota, most households can apply if they have a gross (total) income of up to 200% of the federal poverty level. **But special SNAP rules 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 general SNAP guidelines below apply from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. Your local DHS office can tell you if you qualify. 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** $2,609 **2** $3,525 **3** $4,442 **4** $5,359 **5** $6,275 **For each additional person, add:** +$917 Source: [MN DHS - SNAP Guidelines (October 2025)](https://www.dhs.state.mn.us/main/idcplg?IdcService=GET_DYNAMIC_CONVERSION&RevisionSelectionMethod=LatestReleased&dDocName=cm_001906) ## How do I apply for Minnesota SNAP? - **Get important documents ready** When applying for Minnesota 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 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 Minnesota is online. All your personal information is kept 100% private and protected by special security technology. To get started: - Visit the [MNbenefits website](https://mnbenefits.mn.gov/) and click **‘Apply Now**.’ - On the next screen, select the county where you live from the drop-down menu. - On the next screen, read through information about the application process and then click '**Continue**.' - Choose your language preferences and then click '**Continue**.' - Choose '**Food (SNAP)**' from the menu and click '**Continue**.' - Follow the prompts to complete your application. It should take you about 20 minutes. Fill out as much information as you can. You can submit an incomplete application with only your name, address, and signature. But this may delay your SNAP review. - At the end of the application, you can add documents like pay stubs, rent receipts, or medical bills. You can use your phone to take photos of paper documents or select photos from your device. If you don’t have all the documents you need, you can always return to the MNbenefits homepage to add them later. [Apply for SNAP Online](https://mnbenefits.mn.gov/pages/identifyCountyBeforeApplying) **QUICK TIPS:** - You can switch from English to Spanish by using the drop-down menu at the top right of the MNbenefits website. - Browse the MNbenefits [Frequently Asked Questions ](https://dcyf.mn.gov/snap-frequently-asked-questions)section for more information. **APPLY IN PERSON OR BY MAIL** Download and print the [Combined Application Form](https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/Public/DHS-5223-ENG-pform) if all members of your household are under age 60. If you and/or your spouse are age 60 or older, use the [Senior SNAP Application](https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/Public/DHS-5223F-ENG-pform). Mail or bring the completed form to your local county or Tribal Nation office. [Find an office near you](https://mn.gov/dhs/general-public/about-dhs/contact-us/county-and-tribal-nation-offices/). ## What if I need food assistance right away? You may be able to get Minnesota SNAP benefits sooner (within 7 days from the date on your application) if you need food right now. Households that meet the following requirements may qualify for expedited (faster) benefits: - Households with monthly gross income less than $150 and liquid assets less than $100 - Migrant or seasonal farmworker households that have low income and $100 or less in liquid assets - Households in which the combined monthly gross income and liquid assets are less than their monthly housing costs and the applicable standard utility deduction, if applicable. **Need food today?** [Search for food banks in your area](https://www.hungersolutions.org/find-help/) to find resources while you wait for your Minnesota SNAP application to be processed. ## How can I get help with my application? There are multiple options available should you need help filling out your Minnesota SNAP application. You can: - [Connect with a SNAP specialist](https://communitysnapoutreachreferral.state.mn.us/), who can walk you through the process of completing and submitting your Minnesota application. - Contact your local DHS county or Tribal Nation office. [Find an office near you](https://mn.gov/dhs/general-public/about-dhs/contact-us/county-and-tribal-nation-offices/). - 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 [1-800-794-6559](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 Minnesota? It can take up to 30 days for DHS to decide your SNAP application. If you need food right away, you may get expedited SNAP within 7 days. If you are approved, your benefits can start from the day you applied. After you apply, you must complete an interview with a DHS county worker. Most interviews are done by phone, but you may also meet in person. Your county or Tribal Nation office will contact you to set up the appointment. Check your mail often and answer your phone, even if the number shows as unknown or blocked, so you do not miss their call. **What can I expect during my SNAP interview?** Don’t worry—the interview is not meant to disqualify you. The DHS case worker is just reviewing 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 friend or family member. That way, you will feel less nervous and be able to answer all questions correctly. You should get a letter about your Minnesota SNAP eligibility within 30 days. This notice will tell you if your household is eligible for food assistance. **What happens after I am approved for SNAP?** If you are approved for Minnesota SNAP, the letter you receive will show your monthly benefits amount and how long you’ll get benefits for. For most households in Minnesota, that period is 12 months. You will receive your Minnesota EBT card in the mail. The card will be loaded with your first month of benefits once they are approved. **What if my Minnesota SNAP application is denied? ** If your application for benefits is denied, and you disagree with the reasons for that decision, you have 90 days to appeal the decision and request a fair hearing. During the hearing, a judge will review your case. ## Other important tips and information when applying for SNAP in Minnesota **What are important things I should know?** To create or change your Minnesota EBT card PIN number, check the balance on your card, or report a lost or stolen card, visit [ebtEDGE](https://www.ebtedge.com/gov/portal/PortalHome.do) or call Customer Service at [1-888-997-2227](tel:1-888-997-2227) (or the number on the back of your card). If you get SNAP in Minnesota, you must tell DHS about certain changes that may affect your benefits. This can include a change in your address, job, income, who lives in your home, or your immigration status. Ask your DHS county worker which changes you need to report. **When should you renew your Food Assistance benefits in Minnesota?** You must renew your Minnesota SNAP when your time period is up to keep receiving benefits. You’ll get a notice in the mail when it’s time to renew.