How do I apply for food stamps?

Do I have the right to apply for Food Stamps?

You have the right to apply for Food Stamps. You should apply for them even if a caseworker tells you that you can not get them.  Caseworkers are sometimes wrong. 

In fact, the law says that the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) must "encourage households to apply the same day the household contacts the local office in person or by phone." DTA workers cannot send you away or screen you out.

If you ask for an application at the local DTA office, DTA must give it to you or mail it right away. They must let you file it the same day you first ask to apply.

Where can I apply for food stamps?

• You can apply online.
• You can apply at your local DTA office.  If you go to the wrong DTA office to file your application, that office must take your application and send it to the right DTA office that serves the area where you live. 
• You can apply by faxing your application. Download an application here.
• You can also apply by mail. Download an application here.
• If everyone in your household is applying for or gets SSI, you can also apply for food stamps through your local Social Security (SSA) office.

If I apply for welfare, do I need to apply separately for Food Stamps?

No. You automatically apply for food stamps when you:

• apply for welfare cash assistance (TAFDC),
• apply for Emergency Assistance for Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC).

If you apply for TAFDC or EAEDC, you do not have to file a separate Food Stamp application or have a separate interview. Also, DTA must process your Food Stamps if they have the proofs they need, even if it turns out that you can not get TAFDC or EAEDC.

I get SSI or I am applying for SSI. How do I apply for food stamps at the Social Security office? 

You can apply for food stamps at the Social Security (SSA) office if you get SSI or are applying for SSI and

• you live alone or
• you you live with other people but you buy and cook food separately or
•  you live with other people and everyone who would be part of your food stamp grant is getting or applying for SSI.

The SSI worker must send your completed food stamp application and any proofs you give them to the DTA office.

 If you need emergency food stamps, you may get benefits faster if you go to the local DTA office.

  

When should I turn in my application?

Turn in your application form right away!! 

You will get Food Stamps back to the date you turn in the signed application form. Even if you cannot fill in all of the blanks, at least:

• put down your name,
• put down your address,
• put down your phone number (if you have one),
• sign and date the form,
• turn it in.

You can give the rest of the information later. The DTA office cannot make you come back another day to file your application.

Can DTA help me to register to vote?

When you apply for food stamps or other DTA benefits, your DTA worker must also:

• tell you about your option to register to vote,
• help you fill out a voter registration form,
• send the form to the local city or town registrar.