North Carolina Food and Nutrition Services (FNS)

North Carolina Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), once called Food Stamps, helps many older adults, people with disabilities, and families pay for groceries. This program may also be called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

If you’re approved, you’ll get benefits every month on an electronic benefits card (or EBT card). You use it like a debit card to buy food at grocery stores and other stores in North Carolina that accept FNS.

Eating healthy foods can help you stay well and live independently as you get older. 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.

North Carolina FNS/SNAP: Quick Facts

What is FNS, or SNAP? A program that helps low-income families, older adults, and people with disabilities in North Carolina pay for food.

Who can get help?

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

How do I use my benefits?

If approved, your FNS benefits are added to an EBT card each month. You use it like a debit card to buy food at stores that accept FNS.

How do I apply?

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

How does North Carolina FNS work?

FNS helps people with low income buy food. If you qualify, you get benefits loaded onto an EBT card each month. You can use this card 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.

Many grocery stores, convenience stores, superstores, wholesale retailers, and even farmers markets in North Carolina accept FNS payments.

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?

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.

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.

Who qualifies for FNS/SNAP benefits?

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.

When you apply for FNS, your “household” should include everyone in your home who shops for and prepares meals with you.

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 / SNAP 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

As of 2026, the average older adult gets $188 each month in FNS / SNAP benefits to help with groceries. If you’re age 60+ or have a disability, you may be able to get more FNS benefits by reporting monthly costs like medical bills (over $35), housing costs, and utility bills.

What are income limits? How do they affect my FNS/SNAP eligibility?

Income limits are the most money your household can receive each month and still get FNS. The limits depend on how many people are in your household. Most households in North Carolina 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, FNS uses special rules to decide if you qualify and how much of your income counts. Many older adults are surprised they qualify for FNS. The best way to know is to apply.

The FNS income limits below apply fromOctober 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027.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 $ 2,660

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)

Most FNS households do not have an asset limit, so you can have savings, own a home or car, and still qualify. Asset limits may apply in some cases, so ask your local FNS office which rules apply to you.

Can medical expenses help me qualify for SNAP?

Yes. If you’re 60 or older or meet the FNS 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 FNS office about these expenses and keep bills, receipts, or other proof.

How do I apply for FNS in North Carolina?

To apply for FNS / SNAP in North Carolina, follow these general steps:

1. 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. 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

To apply online:

• Go to the ePASS 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.

• If you have a disability and need communication assistance, call 1-866-719-0141 or Relay Services by dialing 711.

• Visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page for answers to common questions about using ePASS.

• Watch a YouTube tutorial 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

Then, visit your local DSS office or find your nearest office. 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.

Can I get emergency food stamps?

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 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 or send an online message to DSS.

• Contact your local DSS office.

• Contact More in My Basket at 1-855-240-1451 or 1-888-382-7105 (para ayuda en Español). You can also fill out a form 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.

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.

How long does it take to get approved 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 can I do if my 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 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 check my EBT card balance?…