The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, is a federally funded program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families. In Maryland, SNAP benefits can help you put food on the table and improve your overall health.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for SNAP benefits online, by mail, or in person.
This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about how to claim SNAP benefits in Maryland, including eligibility requirements, application process, benefit levels, and more. We will also provide you with a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about SNAP benefits.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Maryland, individuals must meet specific criteria related to income, assets, and work requirements. These requirements ensure that assistance is provided to those who are truly in need.
The eligibility criteria include:
Income Limits
Income limits are based on the household’s size and monthly gross income. Households with incomes below certain limits are eligible for SNAP benefits. The income limits are adjusted annually based on the federal poverty guidelines.
- For a household of one person, the gross income limit is $1,592 per month.
- For a household of two people, the gross income limit is $2,147 per month.
- For a household of three people, the gross income limit is $2,636 per month.
Asset Limits
Asset limits refer to the total value of countable assets that a household can own and still be eligible for SNAP benefits. Countable assets include cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and real estate. The asset limits are also based on the household’s size.
- For a household of one person, the asset limit is $2,250.
- For a household of two people, the asset limit is $3,500.
- For a household of three people, the asset limit is $4,750.
Work Requirements
Able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 59 who are not disabled or caring for a child under the age of 6 must meet work requirements to receive SNAP benefits. These requirements include working at least 20 hours per week, participating in a workfare program, or being enrolled in a job training program.
Individuals who meet these eligibility requirements may be eligible to receive SNAP benefits, which can help them purchase food and improve their overall well-being.
Application Process
Applying for SNAP benefits in Maryland involves completing an application form and providing supporting documentation. The application process can be completed online, by mail, or in person at a local Department of Social Services (DSS) office.
Completing the Application Form
The SNAP application form can be obtained from a local DSS office or downloaded from the Maryland Department of Human Services website. The form requires information such as household income, expenses, and assets. It is important to complete the form accurately and provide all necessary information.
Submitting the Application
Once the application form is completed, it should be submitted to a local DSS office. The application can be submitted in person, by mail, or online. If submitting by mail, the application should be sent to the address listed on the form.
If applying online, the application can be submitted through the Maryland Department of Human Services website.
Required Documentation
Along with the application form, applicants must provide supporting documentation to verify their identity, income, and expenses. Some of the required documentation may include:
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, state ID card)
- Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns)
- Proof of expenses (e.g., rent or mortgage payments, utility bills)
- Proof of assets (e.g., bank statements, investment accounts)
Benefit Levels
The amount of SNAP benefits you receive in Maryland is determined by your household size, income, and expenses.
The maximum benefit amount for a household of one person is $281 per month. The maximum benefit amount for a household of two people is $459 per month. The maximum benefit amount for a household of three people is $636 per month.
The maximum benefit amount for a household of four people is $812 per month.
Household Size
- 1 person: $281 per month
- 2 people: $459 per month
- 3 people: $636 per month
- 4 people: $812 per month
Income
Your income will affect the amount of SNAP benefits you receive. The higher your income, the lower your SNAP benefits will be.
Expenses
Your expenses will also affect the amount of SNAP benefits you receive. The higher your expenses, the higher your SNAP benefits will be.
Using SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase a variety of food items in Maryland, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Bread and cereal
- Snacks and beverages
SNAP benefits can be used at most grocery stores and farmers markets in Maryland. Some restrictions apply, such as:
- SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase alcohol or tobacco products.
- SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase prepared foods that are intended to be eaten immediately.
- SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase non-food items, such as clothing or household supplies.
Renewal and Re-Certification
SNAP benefits in Maryland are renewed every six months. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your benefits expire. This notice will tell you what you need to do to renew your benefits, such as providing proof of income and household size.If
you do not receive a renewal notice, you can call your local social services office or visit their website to request one. You can also renew your benefits online through the Maryland Department of Human Services website.It is important to renew your SNAP benefits on time.
If you do not renew your benefits, they will expire and you will not be able to receive them until you re-apply.You will need to re-certify your SNAP benefits every 12 months. This means that you will need to provide proof of income and household size again.
You can re-certify your benefits online, by mail, or by phone.If you have any changes in your income or household circumstances, you should report them to your local social services office or the Maryland Department of Human Services. This will ensure that you receive the correct amount of SNAP benefits.
Resources and Support
Individuals receiving SNAP benefits in Maryland have access to a range of resources and support services designed to enhance their food security and overall well-being.
These resources include:
Food Banks and Pantries
- Maryland Food Bank: The largest food bank in the state, providing food to over 500 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters.
- Capital Area Food Bank: Serves the greater Washington, D.C. area, providing food to over 400 partner agencies.
- Maryland Hunger Solutions: A network of food banks and pantries across the state, providing food and other resources to individuals in need.
Nutrition Education and Cooking Classes
- SNAP-Ed Maryland: A statewide nutrition education program that offers classes on healthy eating, meal planning, and cooking on a budget.
- Maryland Cooperative Extension: Provides nutrition education and cooking classes through its network of county offices.
- Community Health Centers: Many community health centers offer nutrition counseling and cooking classes as part of their services.
Last Recap
SNAP benefits can make a real difference in the lives of low-income individuals and families. If you meet the eligibility requirements, we encourage you to apply for SNAP benefits today. Applying for SNAP benefits is easy and confidential, and you can receive benefits within a few weeks.
Don’t let hunger be a barrier to a healthy life. Apply for SNAP benefits today!
Helpful Answers
Who is eligible for SNAP benefits in Maryland?
To be eligible for SNAP benefits in Maryland, you must meet the following requirements: – Be a resident of Maryland – Meet the income and asset limits – Be a U.S. citizen or a qualified immigrant – Not be disqualified due to a drug-related felony conviction
How do I apply for SNAP benefits in Maryland?
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Maryland online, by mail, or in person. To apply online, visit the Maryland Department of Human Services website. To apply by mail, download the SNAP application form from the Maryland Department of Human Services website and mail it to the address provided on the form.
To apply in person, visit your local Department of Social Services office.
How much will I receive in SNAP benefits?
The amount of SNAP benefits you receive will depend on your household size and income. The maximum monthly SNAP benefit amount for a household of one person is $281. The maximum monthly SNAP benefit amount for a household of four people is $835.
Where can I use my SNAP benefits?
You can use your SNAP benefits to purchase food at authorized retail food stores. You can find a list of authorized retail food stores on the Maryland Department of Human Services website.
How long will I receive SNAP benefits?
You will receive SNAP benefits for as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. You will need to re-certify your eligibility for SNAP benefits every six months.
