New Hampshire Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

The New Hampshire Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, helps many older adults, people with disabilities, and families in New Hampshire buy healthy food and free up money in their budget

If you're approved for New Hampshire 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, superstores, wholesale retailers, and even farmers markets to buy food items. You can also make SNAP purchases online on Amazon.

It’s worth checking New Hampshire 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 for SNAP in New Hampshire by using the state's benefits screener tool (click here). You can see your results instantly.

Frequently asked questions

• How does New Hampshire SNAP work?

• What is the SNAP application process like in New Hampshire?

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

• How do I apply for SNAP in New Hampshire?

• What happens after I apply for SNAP in New Hampshire?

• How can I get help with my application?

• Other important tips to know

How does New Hampshire SNAP work?

SNAP can help you stretch your budget further every month. This is because some of your grocery money can now be spent on other basic living costs like your utility bills, medications, and medical bills.

New Hampshire SNAP is run by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Local 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 New Hampshire?

Applying for New Hampshire SNAP is easier than you might think. A friend, family member, or DHHS Family Services Specialist (FSS) can help you.

Generally, here are the steps to apply for New Hampshire SNAP:

• Fill out an application: You can apply for New Hampshire SNAP online, by mail, in person, or over the phone. This takes about 20 to 45 minutes.

• Have an interview: You will be called for an interview once DHHS receives your SNAP application. A face-to-face interview can be arranged if needed.

• 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 am eligible for SNAP?

To get SNAP in New Hampshire, your household must meet certain guidelines. A “household” is defined as people who live together and buy and prepare meals together.

Generally, the SNAP guidelines are as follows:

• You must be a resident of New Hampshire.

• You must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully present non-citizen. The program only requires citizenship or legal status information for those in the household who wish to receive benefits (participants).

• 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 other adult applicants in your household may have to meet certain work requirements.

What are the SNAP work requirements in New Hampshire?

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 exactly what these new work rules mean for you.

How much SNAP can I get in New Hampshire?

The amount of money you will get in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire SNAP income limits?

There are income guidelines to qualify for SNAP. In New Hampshire, most households can apply if their gross (total, before taxes) income is at or below 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.

If you already get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or other types of public assistance benefits, income limits don’t 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 (200% FPL)

1 $ 2,609

2 $ 3,525

3 $ 4,442

4 $ 5,359

5 $ 6,275

For each additional person, add: +$ 917

Source: NH DHHS - SNAP Guidelines (October 2025)

Some SNAP 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). Your case worker will tell you if this limit applies to you.

How do I apply for SNAP in New Hampshire?

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:

• 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 adult day health 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 SNAP in New Hampshire is online through the DHHS benefit portal, NH EASY. All your personal information is kept 100% private and protected by special security technology.

Apply for Benefits On NH EASY

• To get started, visit the NH EASY website.

• If you wish to, you can take a quick screening to see if you’re eligible for SNAP. Click ‘Do I Qualify?’ to answer a few questions and see your results. If you’re found to be eligible for SNAP, you’ll have the option to apply.

• To start your application without taking the screening, scroll to the bottom of the page and click 'Apply Now.’

• On the next screen, read the note under ‘Important Information for Applicants,’ check the box at the bottom of the page, and click ‘Apply for Benefits.’ The website will guide you step by step to make an account.

When you have an account, you can save your application and come back later to finish it.

• You can also use your account to check and manage your benefits online.

• Once you have created your account and successfully logged in, click ‘Start Application.’

• Read the information under ‘Important Information for Applicants.’ Then, check the box at the bottom of the page and click ‘Next.’

• On the next screen, check the box next to ‘SNAP’. The system will walk you through the process of completing and submitting your application.

Tips For Success

• Allow yourself 20 to 45 minutes to complete your New Hampshire SNAP application.

• Give your current mailing address, phone number, and email. This helps you get all important notices and updates.

• Fill out as much information as you can to speed up your approval process. Be ready to share details about the money you earn and the things you pay for/own. You can upload the requested documents online.

• For questions or help completing your online application, call 1-844-275-3447 or visit the FAQ page.

APPLY OVER THE PHONE

Apply for SNAP over the phone by calling the DHHS Customer Service Center at 1-844-275-3447 and tell them you would like to apply for SNAP.

APPLY BY MAIL

You can pick up a paper copy of the SNAP application at your nearest DHHS District Office. If you have a printer, you can download the form from the DHHS website:

• SNAP Application (English)

• SNAP Application (Spanish)

When you’re done with your application, drop it off at a District Office or mail it to:

Centralized Scanning Unit (CSC)

P.O. Box 181

Concord, NH 03301

APPLY IN PERSON

To apply for SNAP in person, either download an application(above) or pick up a paper SNAP application at your nearest DHHS District Office. Once you have completed the application, drop it off/return it to your local DHHS office.

Is everyone in your household 60 or older?

The Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) makes it easier for older people to apply for and get SNAP in New Hampshire. The application is shorter and benefits can last 3 years. When it’s time to renew, you may not need an interview, and you have fewer changes to report.

You will be considered an ESAP household if everyone in your household is age 60 or older, no one is working, and all other SNAP rules are met.

What if I need food assistance right away?

You may be able to get New Hampshire SNAP benefits sooner (within 7 days from the date on your application) if you need food now. To qualify for expedited (faster) benefits, you must meet one of the following requirements:

• You have less than $150 in monthly gross income and no more than $100 in liquid resources.

• You have shelter costs that are higher than your gross income and liquid resources

• You are a migrant or seasonal farm worker who is destitute.

Need food today? Visit the New Hampshire Food Bank to find resources near you.

How can I get help with my application?

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

• Call the DHHS Customer Service Center at 1-844-275-3447.

• Call the NH Food Bank SNAP Outreach team at 1-603-669-9725 ext. 1147 or email snap@nhfoodbank.org.

• 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 New Hampshire?

It can take up to 30 days for DHHS to review your SNAP application (within 7 days if you’re requesting expedited benefits). If you’re approved, benefits are based on the date your application is received.

After you apply, you must have an interview with a Family Services Specialist.

What can I expect during my SNAP interview?

Don’t worry. The interview is not a test. Your Family Services Specialist is just checking 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 trusted friend or family member. That way, you will feel less nervous and be able to answer questions correctly.

After your interview, you will have to provide proof of your household situation, including income, resources, and expenses. Be prepared to provide things like paystubs, Social Security award letters, bank statements, rental lease or mortgage statements, and utility bills. Your Family Services Specialist will give you a specific list and a due date. It’s very important to provide all requested documents by the due date.

You should receive a notice about your SNAP eligibility within 30 days. This notice shows whether or not your household is eligible for food assistance benefits.

What happens after I am approved for SNAP?

If you are approved for New Hampshire SNAP, the notice you receive will explain your monthly benefits amount and how long you’ll get benefits for. For most households, that period can range up to 12 months.

Shortly after, you will receive your EBT card in the mail with instructions on how to activate and use it.

What if my New Hampshire SNAP application is denied?

If you do not agree with the reason for your SNAP denial, you can ask for an appeal. You must file an appeal within 90 days from the date on your Notice of Decision. Be sure to carefully read your notice for instructions.

Generally, an appeal request must be made in writing. Your request can be dropped off at or mailed to your local District Office or mailed or emailed directly to the DHHS Administrative Appeals Unit. If you cannot make a request in writing, you can start an appeal by telling a DHHS representative you want to file an appeal.

Other important tips to know

How do I get started using my SNAP Card?

Call the 24-hour EBT card customer service center at 1-888-997-9777 (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).

How can I manage my New Hampshire SNAP benefits online?

You can manage your SNAP benefits through your NH EASY account. Actions you can take on the website include:

• Apply for new benefits

• Complete redeterminations (benefit renewals)

• Read notices online

• Report changes to your case…