General Information about Food Stamps

WHO SHOULD APPLY FOR FOOD STAMPS (SNAP)?

If you struggle to buy enough food to last all month, you may be eligible for food stamps (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).  If your monthly income is less than $1265 for a household of one or $2584 for a household of four, you pass the first test for income eligibility.  If you or a member of your household is disabled or over age 65, you may get food stamps with higher income ($1605 for household of one or $2722 for household of four). Whether you actually qualify for food stamps will depend upon your expenses and other factors.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR FOOD STAMPS?

Contact the Division of Family Resources to apply for Food Stamps.  You can apply online at www.in.gov/fssa, you can get an application by calling 800-403-0864, or you can visit your county DFR office for help in applying.

WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE NEEDED TO GET FOOD STAMPS?

You need to turn in proof of all income and assets, your identity, and your U.S. citizenship (unless you qualify as an eligible alien).  You have to show how much they pay for housing (rent or mortgage).  If you pay a utility bill or other heating costs, you need to turn in bills.  You may get more food stamps if you turn in proof of child support or day care expenses you pay.  If you are elderly or disabled, you may get more food stamps if you pay more than $35.00 per month for medical expenses. After you apply for food stamps, FSSA will send you a list of items it needs to decide your case.  There is usually a ten day deadline for turning in items, so you need to watch for the list and respond quickly.

I AM AN ADULT WITHOUT CHILDREN.  HOW WILL THAT AFFECT MY FOOD STAMPS?

Starting in July 2015 able-bodied adults age 18 to 49 are limited to receiving food stamps for three months out of thirty-six months, UNLESS they work 20 hours per week or participate in an approved employment and training program for 20 hours per week.  You should receive a notice of IMPACT orientation.  Attend the meeting in order to learn how you can keep your food stamps.

I HAVE A DRUG FELONY.  HOW WILL THAT AFFECT MY FOOD STAMPS?

If you were found guilty of a felony for possession, use, or distribution of drugs or precursors, you are ineligible for food stamps.  If you have the felony expunged, you may get food stamps again.  You usually must wait at least eight years after your most recent conviction of any type (felony or misdemeanor) to seek the expungement of your drug felony.

Jun 15