Program Description
Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the New York State Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the new name for the food stamp program, issues monthly electronic benefits that can be used like cash at authorized retail food stores. Eligibility and benefit levels are based on household size, income, assets and other factors.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the state of New York. If your income (based on your family size) is less than or equal to the amounts in the charts below, you may be eligible for SNAP benefits.
| Household Size* |
Maximum Income Level (Per Year) |
| 1 |
$21,780 |
| 2 |
$29,424 |
| 3 |
$37,056 |
| 4 |
$44,700 |
| 5 |
$52,344 |
| 6 |
$59,988 |
| 7 |
$67,632 |
| 8 |
$75,276 |
If your household's gross income is below these amounts, it does not ensure that you will be eligible for a benefit. A SNAP budget must be calculated for your household in order to determine eligibility and benefit amount. The only way to determine if your household is eligible for SNAP benefits is to apply. To find out if you are eligible for SNAP benefits and other benefit programs, visit www.myBenefits.ny.gov to use the pre-screening tool and apply online for SNAP.
Your Next Steps
The following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
Apply Online - You may apply for SNAP using the internet if you live in New York State by going to https://mybenefits.ny.gov/. After your application is filed, the local Department of Social Services or SNAP office will review your information, conduct an interview, and determine your household's eligibility for SNAP.
Apply by mail, fax or in person - You may apply by filing an application by mail, fax, or in person at your local Department of Social Services or SNAP office. The current SNAP application form is available to print in English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Haitian-Creole, Korean and Russian at:
http://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/
To find out the location of your nearest SNAP office, contact your local Department of Social Services:
http://otda.ny.gov/workingfamilies/dss.asp
Program Contact Information
For further information about Food Stamps, you may call the Office of Temporary and Disability Services toll-free hotline at:
1-800-429-3009
