Nebraska Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

As we get older, eating a healthy diet helps us stay active and independent. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, once known as Food Stamps) helps older adults, people with disabilities, and families in Nebraska who need extra help putting nutritious food on their table.

If you're approved for SNAP benefits, you’ll get an electronic benefits card (EBT card). It works just like a prepaid debit card and can be used at most grocery stores, convenience stores, superstores, and wholesale retailers. Even some farmers markets in Nebraska accept EBT cards as a form of payment. You can also use your EBT card to buy food items on Amazon.

It’s worth checking Nebraska 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 Nebraska SNAP work?

• What is the SNAP application process like in Nebraska?

• How do I know if I am eligible for SNAP?

• How do I apply for SNAP in Nebraska?

• What happens after I apply for SNAP in Nebraska?

• How can I get help with my application?

• Other important tips to know

How does Nebraska SNAP work?

Nebraska SNAP allows older adults, people with disabilities, and others to stretch their grocery dollars further. This is because the money they would have spent on groceries can now be spent on other basic living costs.

SNAP is run by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). DHHS offices around the state help people who get SNAP and other public benefits. You can go there to get help and ask questions.

What is the SNAP application process like in Nebraska?

Applying for SNAP in Nebraska is faster and easier than you might think. You don’t have to do it alone. A friend, family member, or DHHS case worker can help.

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

• Fill out an application: You can apply for Nebraska SNAP online, in person, over the phone, by fax, or by email. This takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

• Have an interview: You must have an interview once DHHS receives your SNAP application. A face-to-face interview can be arranged if required.

• Wait for a decision: Most 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: If you’re approved for SNAP benefits, you’ll receive an EBT card pre-loaded with money for groceries in the mail.

How do I know if I'm eligible for SNAP in Nebraska?

SNAP was made for people with little or no income. You can apply for all the people living in your home who buy and fix meals with you (your “household”).

To be eligible for SNAP, your household must meet the following basic guidelines:

• You must be a Nebraska resident.

• You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen meeting other eligibility rules.

• You must have a Social Security number (or you’ve applied for one).

• Your household must 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.

• You and your adult household members must meet any work requirements.

Certain non-citizens may also be eligible. This includes some lawful permanent residents, refugees, and others. The SNAP program only requires citizenship or legal status information for those in the household who wish to receive benefits (participants).

What are the SNAP work requirements in Nebraska?

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. 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 DHHS office to find out what these new work rules mean for you.

How much SNAP can I get in Nebraska?

The amount of money you will get in 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 Nebraska SNAP income limits? How do they affect my eligibility?

There are income guidelines to qualify for SNAP. In Nebraska, most households can apply if their gross (total, before taxes) income is at or below 165% 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 DHHS 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 (165% FPL)

1 $ 2,152

2 $ 2,909

3 $ 3,665

4 $ 4,421

5 $ 5,177

For each additional person, add: +$ 757

Source: Nebraska DHHS - SNAP Guidelines (October 2025)

Some households may also have to meet a resource limit. Resources are things you own that can be turned into money, like cash, bank accounts, or property (not your home).

How do I apply for Nebraska SNAP?

1. Get important documents ready

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:

• Proof of identity, such as a driver's license or other government-issued I.D.

• If not a U.S. citizen, proof of legal non-citizen status

• Proof of your monthly earnings from the last 30 days, such as recent pay stubs

• Copy of check or benefit statement from Social Security, pensions, SSI, or other unearned income

• Medical bills of household members age 60 or older and those who have a disability (if these bills are not paid by insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare)

• Current bank statements or bankbook

• Receipts for child care or other dependent costs

• Utility bills (electric, gas, water, sewer, propane, garbage, telephone)

• Rent bills (or proof of mortgage and property tax payments, if you own your home)

• Proof of any assets you have, such as bank accounts, trust accounts, CDs, stocks, or bonds

If you want someone to help you, you can choose a friend or family member to speak for you. This person can help you get papers, fill out your Basic Food application, and go to your interview with you. This person is called your Authorized Representative.

2. Complete an application

The quickest and easiest way to apply for SNAP in Nebraska is online. All your personal information is kept 100% private and protected by special security technology.

Apply Online Now

• To get started, visit the iServe Nebraska Portal and click 'Apply for Benefits.’

• On the next screen, click ‘Apply with an account.’ You can apply without an account, but we suggest making one. This lets you save your application and finish it later. You can also check and manage your benefits online.

• If you have an account, log in with your username and password. If you do not have an account, click ‘Create your account.’ The system will help you set up a username and password.

• Once you have logged in, click ‘Start a new application.’

• On the next screen, check the box next to ‘Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)'. The system will walk you through the process of completing and submitting your SNAP application.

• Allow yourself 20 to 30 minutes to complete your Nebraska SNAP application. Make sure to provide a current and accurate mailing address, phone number, and email address so that you don’t miss out on any important communication. Fill out as much information as you can, since that can speed up your approval process. Be ready to share details about the money you earn and the things you pay for/own. You will also be able to upload the requested documents online.

Language options: The iServe Nebraska Portal provides information and assistance in English and Spanish. You can switch to Spanish by clicking the black box in the top right corner of your screen and selecting 'Español’ from the drop-down menu.

APPLY BY PHONE

To complete a SNAP application over the phone, callDHHS toll-free at [1-800-383-4278](tel:1-800-383-4278).

You can also call theFood Bank for the Heartland SNAP Outreach hotline at [1-855-654-7627](tel:1-855-654-7627) or request someone to call you by completing a short form. The SNAP Outreach team can answer your questions about SNAP, check your eligibility, and help you complete an application. Outreach workers are available to speak with you in English or Spanish (they can set up interpretation services if you speak another language).

APPLY IN PERSON, BY MAIL, OR FAX

Apply in Person

Pick up a paper SNAP application and/or drop off a completed application at any Public Assistance Office location. Find one near you.

Apply by Mail

If you have a printer, you can download a copy of the SNAP application by visiting the DHHS website and clicking on ‘Application for Benefits.’ This will download a copy of the form to your computer that you can print out at home. You can then mail your completed application to:

DHHS ANDI Center

Economic Assistance

P.O. Box 2992

Omaha, NE 68103-2992

Apply by Fax or Email

​​Fax your completed application to 1-402-742-2351 or email it to DHHS.ANDICenter@nebraska.gov.

What if I need food assistance right away?

If you need food right away, you may be able to get Nebraska SNAP within 7 days from the date you apply. This is called expedited (faster) help.

You can get faster help if your household meets at least one of these rules:

• Your household monthly rent/mortgage and utilities are more than your household’s total monthly income before deductions and combined resources, such as cash or checking/savings accounts.

• Your total household income this month, before deductions, is less than $150, and your household resources, such as cash or checking/savings accounts, are $100 or less.

• You are a migrant or seasonal farm worker household, you are destitute and your resources are $100 or less.

Need food today? Visit the Food Bank for the Heartland website to find resources near you.

How can I get help with my application?

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

• Call DHHS toll-free at 1-800-383-4278 or call your nearest Public Assistance Office. Find one near you.

• Call the Food Bank for the Heartland SNAP Outreach hotline at 1-855-444-5556, or request someone to call you by completing a short form.

• 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.

What happens after I apply for SNAP in Nebraska?

It can take up to 30 days for DHHS to review your SNAP application. If you qualify for fast (expedited) help, you may get benefits within 7 days. If you are approved, your benefits can start as early as the day you applied.

After you apply, you must have an interview to get benefits. This interview can take place over the phone or in person at your local Public Assistance Office. DHHS can talk with you or with someone you choose to help you.

During your Nebraska 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?

Don’t worry—the interview is not meant to confuse you or deny you SNAP. It’s just to check the information you gave. That way, you will feel less nervous and be able to respond with confidence.

What happens after I am approved for SNAP?

If you are approved for SNAP, you will receive a letter that shows your monthly benefit amount and how long you’ll get benefits for. For most Nebraska households, that period is 6 months. Households with adults age 60+ or who have a disability typically can get SNAP benefits for 12 months.

Within 30 days, you’ll get your EBT card in the mail. Nebraska's card has an image of the State Capitol's Sower statue outlined against a blue sky.

Other Important tips to know

What if my Nebraska SNAP application is denied?

If you don’t agree with the reason your SNAP was denied, you can ask for a fair hearing. A DHHS hearing officer will review your case. You can speak for yourself, or you can ask someone you trust, like a family member, to help you.

Your SNAP denial notice should explain how to request a fair hearing. You can send a written request by email to DHHS.DDAppeals@nebraska.gov or by regular mail to:

DHHS - Division of Developmental Disabilities Appeal

301 Centennial Mall South

P.O. Box 95026

Lincoln, NE 68509-5026

You can also call Nebraska Appleseed’s Community Assistance Line at 1-402-438-8853 (extension 205). They can give you more information about how to appeal a decision about your SNAP or the amount you receive.

What are important things I should know?

• You can manage your SNAP benefits through your iServe Nebraska Portal account. Actions you can take include:

• Opting into paperless notices

• Reporting a change to your situation

• Uploading documents for your case

• Renewing your SNAP benefits

• Call EBT Customer Service at 1-877-247-6328 (or the number on the back of your card) to set up your PIN, check your benefits, or report a lost or stolen EBT card. You can also visit ebtEDGE (you must create an account first).

• You must renew your Nebraska SNAP before your time period ends to keep getting benefits. You will get a letter in the mail when it is time to renew. The letter will tell you what to do.