North Carolina Food and Nutrition Services (FNS)

Eating healthy foods can help you stay well and live independently as you get older. North Carolina Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), once called Food Stamps, helps many older adults and people with disabilities afford nutritious groceries and make their money go further. This program is known federally as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). If you are eligible for FNS and get approved for benefits, you’ll get an electronic benefits card (or EBT card). It 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 North Carolina to buy food. You can also make FNS purchases on Amazon. **It’s worth checking North Carolina FNS/SNAP eligibility for yourself or someone you care for. The average older adult gets $188 each month to help with groceries.** ## Frequently asked questions - How does North Carolina FNS work? - What is the FNS application process like in North Carolina? - How do I know if I am eligible for FNS? - How do I apply for FNS in North Carolina? - What happens after I apply for FNS in North Carolina? - How can I get help with my application? - Other important tips to know ## How does North Carolina FNS work? FNS helps people with low income buy food. If you qualify, you get money each month to help pay for groceries like fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, nuts, and seeds to grow food. This can free up money for other needs like utility bills, medicines, and doctor visits. FNS is run by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) Division of Social Services. DHHS field offices across the state help people apply for FNS, manage their benefits, and get answers to questions. ## What is the FNS application process like in North Carolina? Applying for FNS can feel overwhelming, but it’s not as hard as you might think. You can get help from a friend, family member, or DHHS case worker. Generally, here are the steps to apply for North Carolina FNS: - **Fill out an application**: You can apply online, in person, or by mail. This can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes. You don’t need documents to apply, but you must submit your application to get a benefit start date. - **Have an interview**: While you wait for your application to be reviewed, you must have a phone, virtual, or in-person interview with a DHHS case worker. - **Wait for a decision**: Most North Carolina FNS applications are reviewed within 30 days from the date on your application. If you need food now, you may be able to have your application reviewed faster. - **Receive your EBT card**: If you’re approved for FNS benefits, you will receive your EBT card in the mail with a guide on how to use it. ## How do I know if I am eligible for FNS? When you apply for FNS, you can include everyone in your home who shops for and prepares meals with you. This group is called your “household.” To get FNS, your household must meet the following basic rules: - You must be a North Carolina resident and a U.S. citizen or have certain legal status. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible. - You must have a Social Security number (or have applied for one). - Most adults have to meet certain work requirements. - People convicted of certain drug-related felonies may not be eligible. **What are the FNS work requirements in North Carolina?** As of Feb. 1, 2026, federal SNAP (FNS) 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 previous age limit for this rule was 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. Talk to your local DHHS field office to find out what these new work rules mean for you and your household. **How much FNS can I get in North Carolina?** If you qualify, the amount of money you will get in FNS benefits depends on: - How much you earn from your job or other income you receive, like Social Security - How many people live with you **What are income limits? How do they affect my FNS/SNAP eligibility?** There are income limits to qualify for FNS. Most households can apply if their gross (total) 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, the income rules are more flexible. The FNS income limits below apply from **October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026**. If you’re not sure whether you qualify, your local county 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 $ 2,610 2 $ 3,526 3 $ 4,442 4 $ 5,360 5 $ 6,276 For each additional person, add: +$ 918 Source: [USDA.gov, SNAP Eligibility (October 2025)](https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/recipient/eligibility) If your household has a member who is age 60 or older or has a disability, and you did not meet the gross income test, you can qualify under federal SNAP rules. Under these rules, there is a resource limit of $4,500. Resources are things you own like bank accounts, investments, and real estate. ## How do I apply for FNS in North Carolina? - **Get important documents ready** When you apply, you’ll be asked for information to help determine if you qualify and the amount you can get each month. You will need the following for everyone in your household (try to gather as much of it as possible): - Identification for you or the head of the household (a driver's license, birth certificate, or other government-issued ID) - Social Security Numbers, birthdates, and citizenship status for each person in the household - How much money each household member has in cash, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, etc. - Your household's monthly bills, including childcare, child support, and disabled adult care - Medical bills for anyone over 60 or who has a disability - Proof of income for each person (pay stubs, etc.) - Paperwork or IDs from other benefits you receive, like Medicaid, SSI, or WFFA (also known as TANF) If you don’t have all of this information handy, don’t worry. You can always go back and provide it after you’ve submitted your application. Benefits start from the day you submit your FNS application. If you would like to have someone else (like a friend or family member) help you gather documents, complete your FNS 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 FNS is online through [ePASS](https://epass.nc.gov/). 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 ePASS](https://epass.nc.gov/) To apply online: - Go to the [ePASS](https://epass.nc.gov/) website or click the button above. - If you already have an NCID account, click ‘**Login**’ and enter your username and password. - If you do not have an NCID account, click ‘**Sign up**.’ and follow the prompts to set up your username and password. - Once you've logged in, you’ll see your account dashboard. The dashboard displays a variety of actions you can take while on the site, such as submitting documents or renewing your benefits. - Click the blue button that says, ‘**Apply for Benefits**.’ On the next screen, click the button that says, ‘**Apply.**’ - Follow the prompts to complete your FNS 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 link your account to the NC FAST database (by choosing the ‘Enhance your ePASS account’ option). You do not have to complete this step to apply for and receive benefits. **Tips for success:** - Fill out as much information as you can; it’s better to guess or leave some parts blank rather than wait. - If your primary language is Spanish, click ‘**Español**’ at the top of your screen within the ePASS portal. To receive free interpreter services, call [1-866-719-0141](tel:1-866-719-0141). - If you have a disability and need communication assistance, call [1-866-719-0141](tel:1-866-719-0141) or Relay Services by dialing 711. - Visit the [Frequently Asked Questions](https://epass.nc.gov/nf-FAQ) (FAQs) page for answers to common questions about using ePASS. - [Watch a YouTube tutorial](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsjgM6fy2Ho) on applying for benefits via ePASS. **APPLY IN PERSON OR BY MAIL** **Apply in Person** To apply in person, you will first need to download and print a paper application: - [North Carolina FNS Application](https://policies.ncdhhs.gov/wp-content/uploads/DSS-8207-FNS-App_10.2024.pdf) Then, visit your local DSS office or [find your nearest office](https://www.ncdhhs.gov/localDSS). Make sure to complete as much of the form ahead of time and bring your verification documents with you. **Apply by Mail** To apply by mail, download and print a paper FNS application provided above. Fill out the application and then mail it to [your nearest DSS office](https://www.ncdhhs.gov/localDSS). ## What if I need food assistance right away? You may be able to get North Carolina FNS benefits sooner (within 7 calendar days from the date on your application) if you need food now. Households that meet at least one of the following conditions can receive expedited (faster) FNS assistance: - Households with less than $150 in monthly gross income and the household’s liquid resources (i.e., cash on hand, checking or savings accounts, savings certificates, and lump-sum payments) do not exceed $100 in total value. - Households with combined monthly gross income and liquid resources less than the household’s rent or mortgage and utilities. This includes the entitlement to the standard utility allowance (SUA), if appropriate. - Households with one or more members who are migrant or seasonal farmworkers and liquid resources do not exceed $100 in total value. **Need food today?**Visit the [Feeding the Carolinas website](https://feedingthecarolinas.org/) to find local resources while you wait for your FNS application to be processed. ## How can I get help with my application? There are several ways to get help filling out your North Carolina FNS application. You can: - Call the NC EBT Call Center at [1-866-719-0141](tel:1-866-719-0141) or [send an online message](https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/dss/social-services-contact-form) to DSS. - [Contact your local DSS office](https://www.ncdhhs.gov/localDSS). - Contact More in My Basket at [1-855-240-1451](tel:1-855-240-1451) or [1-888-382-7105](tel:1-888-382-7105) (para ayuda en Español). You can also [fill out a form](https://dvi-my.sharepoint.com/personal/susan_landry_adtalem_com/Documents/•%09https:/www.morefood.org/using-snap/connect-with-snap) and a representative will contact you. - 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 FNS in North Carolina? ** It can take up to 30 days to review your FNS application (within 7 days if you’re requesting expedited benefits). If you’re approved, the date you submit your application is the earliest date your benefits can begin. After your application is received, a DHHS case worker will contact you in a few days for an interview. This interview can take place in person (if you’re dropping off your application), by telephone, or through a video call. They can interview you—or someone you choose to represent you. To make sure you don't miss a letter or call from the DHHS office, check your mail regularly and answer your phone. **What can I expect during my FNS interview?** Don’t worry—in your FNS/SNAP interview, you’ll just go over the information you shared. It’s not meant to confuse you. The case worker will answer your questions and can help if you’re missing any documents. During your FNS 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 trusted friend or family member. That way, you will feel less nervous and be able to respond with confidence. You will get a letter in the mail telling you if you were approved or denied for FNS benefits. If you are approved, the letter will tell you the amount of benefits approved and when benefits will start. If you are denied, the letter will tell you why. **What happens after I am approved for FNS?** If you are approved for North Carolina FNS, the letter you get will show your monthly benefits amount and how long you’ll get benefits for. For most households in North Carolina, that period is 6 months. You will get your EBT card in the mail and be able to start using it to buy food. ## ** Other important tips to know ** **What if my North Carolina FNS/SNAP application is denied? ** If you disagree with this decision or think your benefit amount is wrong, you have the right to appeal. The letter will explain how to do this. **How can I view my FNS benefits information? ** You can log in to [ePASS](https://epass.nc.gov/) to check the status of your FNS application, view your benefits, upload documents, report changes, and see important notices and reminders about your benefits. **How do I manage my North Carolina EBT card?** To create or change your EBT card PIN number, check the balance on your card, or report a lost or stolen card, have your card number ready and call [1-888-622-7328](tel:1-888-622-7328). You can also visit the [EBTEdge website](https://www.ebtedge.com/gov/portal/PortalHome.do) to manage your card. 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 FNS benefit amount. Your DHHS case worker will let you know what you need to report and when. **When should you renew your FNS benefits in North Carolina?** You must renew your North Carolina FNS to continue receiving benefits. You will receive a letter shortly before it’s time to renew. It will have information on how to renew your benefits, which can be done online or via mail.