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Nutrition

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

(Formerly Food Stamps)

 

 

Sections:


 Patient Handouts from the CRC

 

Description:

SNAP is a nutrition program that serves all ages by assisting in the cost of purchasing food. This is an entitlement program- all who are eligible are guaranteed a benefit.

NOTE:  Emergency SNAP Benefits
If eligible for Emergency SNAP benefits, DTA must give benefits no later than seven days after they receive the application.

Emergency SNAP Eligibility:

  • your income is less than $150 a month and you do not have more than $100 of savings; or
  • your rent or mortgage plus utilities is higher than your monthly income and savings; or
  • you are a migrant worker

Emergency benefits are given for one month only. To continue to receive benefits, one must complete the application process for regular SNAP benefits. For more information, see mass.gov.

Benefits:

The amount of one’s SNAP benefit is calculated by subtracting the amount that the individual is expected to contribute to food from the maximum SNAPs benefit. The applicant’s SNAP benefit would be the difference.

  • Maximum SNAP benefit (see under "How much could I receive in SNAP benefits") – Individual/family contribution = Food stamps benefit. The maximum monthly benefit for an individual in 2023 is $281.
    • If a household is receiving less than the maximum benefit for their family size it may be worthwhile to see if they qualify for any income deductions to increase their benefits.
  • The Added Benefits of SNAP Benefits- Flyers from Mass Legal Services available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese and Haitian Creole.

Some expenses can be deducted from countable income to reach the eligibility threshold or increase the benefit level.

    Permitted DEDUCTIONS include:

    • Shelter costs: Rent, Mortgage (Principal, Interest, Taxes, & Insurance), Condo Fees, etc.
    • Utility Costs: Heating, Cooling, Electricity, Trash Collection, Water & Sewer, Phone (see more below)
    • Dependent Care Costs: childcare or adult dependent care costs- families can claim the cost of care for either minor children or a disabled adult member while the household member is working, attending education or training programs, or looking for work. For more information about claiming dependent care costs, see Question 79 in the SNAP Advocacy Guide.
    • DOR Child support payments: paying court-ordered child support
    • Local Senior and Veteran tax "work off" programs should not count as income. More information.
    • Medical expenses for those who are at least 60 years old or are “certified” disabled (meaning they receive SSI, SSDI as disabled, MassHealth as disabled or another disability-based benefit): Co-pays, Prescriptions, Over-the-Counter Medications, Health Insurance costs and more may be deducted from income.
      • If you have proof of medical expenses over $35/month but less than $155/month—including over-the-counter supplies such as Ensure, vitamins, etc. (a doctor's note shouldn't be required)— DTA will automatically allow a standard $155 deduction. As of 6/22 DTA has been approved to accept a self-declaration in writing or verbally with DTA of medical costs between $35 and $155 a month.
      • If a household claims costs over $190 ($35 threshold plus $155/mo), all medical costs will need to be verified. DTA will deduct the actual value of these expenses from your income, after the first $35. There is no cap on what you can claim if you can show proof of these expenses. (For more detail see SNAP Advocacy Guide - see question 76. Also see see MLRI Benchmarks chart)
      • DTA has determined that the rules for verifying medical expenses for public/subsidized housing are similar enough to the SNAP rules, so households in which every member of the household is elder (age 60+) or disabled, participants can now give DTA their “rent calculation worksheet” as proof of their medical expenses for SNAP. For more information, see Public/Subsidized Housing Documentation...- MGH Community News, July 2018
      • Not every elder/disabled household will benefit from claiming medical costs. MLRI has created a series of "At-A-Glance Charts" that help you figure out how much a household will get, including a special chart to help you understand when medical expenses make a difference for SNAP recipients whose rent is 30% of their unearned income. 
      • More medical expense deduction information: masslegalservices.org/content/snap-and-medical-expense-deduction.
      • DTA Cover sheet (to use when mailing or faxing documents)
      • DTA release- Authorization to Access DTA Client Case Information
    • Income Deductions - More Information

Utilities- "Heat & Eat" program (H-EAT)

    A SNAP household that has received a fuel assistance payment, or had a payment made on its behalf, of more than $20 in the current month or preceding 12 months may be eligible for the “heating/cooling standard utility allowance” (SUA) deduction from income that would automatically recalculate the SNAP benefits or potentially make one eligible. H-EAT provides an annual $21 fuel assistance payment to certain SNAP households that do not pay heating or cooling expenses and do not receive Low Income Energy Assistance Program payments (LIHEAP). This fuel assistance payment allows households to have SNAP benefits calculated using the Heating and Cooling Standard Utility Allowance (HCSUA) deduction from income, which means significantly higher SNAP benefits (the $21 is the trigger, not the main benefit of the program). The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) and the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) exchange data to determine which households are eligible for the H-EAT benefit. Learn more: Heat & Eat Moves to Twice Monthly Reporting, MGH Community News, April 2017

EBT Cards

Members are given an electronic account, and a plastic debit card called the Mass Electronic Benefits Transfer or EBT card. Monthly benefits are deposited into the account and then the member can use the EBT card at grocery stores, convenience stores, markets, and co-ops, as if using a bankcard. Note: those with SNAP benefits only should not be charged a fee for lost EBT cards. More EBT Card info.

SNAP benefits stay on the account for 365 days- or even longer. Each time you use your card you restart the 365-day clock.

Check EBT Card balance - instructions: DTA Assistance Line Flyers (English and Spanish) - note on Google drive, you may need to sign-in to Google.

Same day issuance - DTA has updated its guidance to the field to ensure EBT cards are issued the same day as when an individual applies for SNAP and is in person at a DTA office as long as the applicant has proof of identity. Applicants should not have to make a return trip to the office to obtain their EBT card. The EBT card will NOT have benefits on the card until DTA has processed the application. (Examples of proofs include a driver’s license or state issued I.D., passport, birth certificate or hospital birth record, court or other government documents, military service papers, employment papers, and wage stubs. This is not an exhaustive list, in fact, the rules clearly state that ”no requirement for a specific type of document may be imposed.”  106 CMR 361.610(G) (DTA Clarifies Same Day Issuance of EBT Cards Without Photo ID, MGH Community News, September 2019.)

Photo EBT cards- Massachusetts is one of the first states to require SNAP EBT cards to include photos of recipients. Please note that the recipient's family or household members CAN legally use the benefits. The  PIN is the key security feature and is like an electronic signature. If the proper PIN is used, the shopper should be able to use the card. This has, however, led to confusion as some store cashiers have turned away household members because they do not match the photos. Such practices violate federal rules, which require retailers to treat food stamp recipients like any other customer.  

Those under age 19 or over age 60, people with disabilities, domestic violence survivors and those with a religious objection to having a photo ID are exempt from the photo requirement and can contact their DTA worker to get a non-photo ID.

Stores must treat EBT card users the same as other customers. For example, a cashier cannot ask to see the EBT card unless all other customers paying by debit/credit card are also asked for a photo ID. MLRI has created informational flyers In English, and In Spanish.

Those who feel they have been discriminated against because they tried to pay with an EBT card, or were told they cannot use a household member’s photo EBT card, are encouraged to call MLRI at 617-350-5480 x222. (See newsletter article - 12/14.)

For more information see our EBT Cards page

Permitted and Prohibited Purchases

You can buy any food except alcohol, pet food, or heated foods. You can also buy seeds and plants to grow food, as long as you are buying them from a store that accepts food stamps (like a grocery store).

You cannot use your EBT card to buy soap, toothpaste, toilet paper, diapers, feminine hygiene products, tobacco, or anything else that is not food.

Special programs and places to use food stamp benefits:

There are a few places where you can use food stamp benefits to get prepared meals. One example is the Meals on Wheels Program for the elderly. If you are elderly, disabled, or homeless, and you are living in a place that serves meals, then you can use food stamps to get these meals. Farmers Markets may also take Food Stamps.

Online Purchasing -  Online EBT (using SNAP or P-EBT) purchasing is currently limited to ALDI, Amazon, BJs, Daily Table, Hannaford, McKinnon's, Price Chopper, Stop & Shop, Walmart and Wegmans.

  • DTA CASH assistance (TAFDC/EAEDC) cannot be used for online purchases (but clients can ask for cash benefits to be direct deposited to a bank account). 
  • SNAP EBT cannot be used for delivery fees/non-food items – such as paper goods, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene.  Customers need to have another form of electronic payment to pay for those items.
  • SNAP EBT cannot be used to pay for delivery fees.
  • Online purchasing is NOT limited to pandemic- but has expanded to additional merchants in response to the pandemic.
  • Shop via the Instacart online site and mobile app. Once an Instacart customer profile is created, customers can enter their EBT SNAP card information as a form of payment. Customers can enter their zip code to determine if they are near a participating retailer, and begin shopping for retailers’ EBT-eligible products. Once items are added to their cart, customers will be able to select how much of their benefits they would like to allocate to the order. Orders for delivery and pickup can be placed by customers for receipt in as fast as an hour or scheduled several days in advance.
  • For more information on EBT SNAP on Instacart, visit: https://www.instacart.com/ebt-snap.
  • For more information see SNAP & Online Purchases on the the MLRI Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) Food and Cash Benefits and COVID-19 document

SNAP Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)- When fully funded, HIP matches SNAP recipients’ purchases of local fruits and vegetables at farmers markets, farm stands, mobile markets and CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shares. Families receive a dollar-for-dollar match, up to a monthly cap based on household size, on those purchases so they can buy more food. HIP was scheduled to run for three years starting 4/1/17. HIP will be operating on a seasonal schedule to enable clients to use their benefits during the peak growing season. Current season ends February 28, 2019. HIP is planned to resume on May 25, 2019.  For the latest retailer information on the HIP program, see https://massnrc.org/farmlocator/map.aspx?Program=HIP. 

During periods when the match is suspended, SNAP can still be used to purchase fruits and vegetables at SNAP authorized farmers’ markets, farm stands, mobile markets and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs; however, the matching HIP incentive will not be available. (More info)

DTA has developed 15 "HIP Suspension" flyers - in English and 14 other languages (see left navigation bar). Flyers include tips for maximizing benefits by taking advantage of any applicable expense-related income deductions.

How HIP Works

Families need to spend SNAP dollars on local fruits and vegetables to earn HIP incentives.

  • Households of 1-2 people will be able to earn up to $40 in incentives each month; 3-5 person households, $60; and households with 6 or more people, $80. For context, the FY 2016 average per-person benefit in Massachusetts was $127.24 (Kaiser Family Foundation).
  • Incentive funds are immediately added to SNAP recipients’ EBT cards. The earned incentives can be used right away, or saved for a future purchase at any SNAP retailer on any SNAP eligible foods.
  • More Information.

Project Bread’s statewide FoodSource Hotline can help SNAP recipients understand how HIP works, and where they can earn HIP benefits. Let your clients know that they can call the Project Bread FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333 to learn how to take advantage of HIP!

For more information:

Online purchasing - Online EBT (using SNAP or P-EBT) purchasing is currently limited to Amazon, Walmart, ALDI, and Price Chopper

  • DTA CASH assistance (TAFDC/EAEDC) cannot be used for online purchases (but clients can ask for cash benefits to be direct deposited to a bank account). 
  • SNAP EBT cannot be used for delivery fees/non-food items – such as paper goods, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene.  Customers need to have another form of electronic payment to pay for those items.
  • SNAP EBT cannot be used to pay for delivery fees.
  • Online purchasing is NOT limited to pandemic- but has expanded to additional merchants in response to the pandemic.
  • For more information see SNAP & Online Purchases on the the MLRI Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) Food and Cash Benefits and COVID-19 document

Farmers Market Coupons - Boston Bounty Bucks -gives vouchers to double the value of food stamps at 14 farmers' markets in Boston.

Unused cards- Benefits Expiration/Expungement

When SNAP EBT accounts are idle for too many days without any SNAP purchases, DTA can take SNAP back or “expunge” the value of the old benefits.

The 2018 Farm Bill (federal legislation) shortened the expungement timeline from 365 days (12 months) to 274 days (9 months). This means if a household has not accessed their EBT account for 274 consecutive days (9 months), then DTA is required to permanently take away (expunge) the SNAP EBT benefits that are 274 days or older. Once expunged, there is no way to get them back. DTA will not take away any SNAP benefits issued more recently. This change was implemented in spring 2022.

SNAP and WIC

For those who receive both benefits, here are some tips to maximize your benefits:

WIC benefits expire at the end of the month; SNAP benefits stay on the account for 365 days- or even longer. Each time you use your card you restart the 365-day clock. So use your WIC benefits first! Use your SNAP card to purchase foods that you cannot purchase with WIC. A few examples include cooking oil, spices, baking ingredients, healthy snacks, meat, and frozen meals. When checking out, swipe your WIC card first, and THEN your SNAP card. See the flyer for more.

 

Replacement Benefits (Due to misfortune or disaster)

SNAP rules provide for replacement of food lost by individual SNAP recipients due to "household misfortune." Household misfortune includes fire, flood, loss of electricity (4 hours or more), equipment (refrigerator/freezer) failure, an individual utility shut off (even for non-payment of an electricity bill) or similar misfortune.

To qualify for Replacement SNAP Benefits under the “household misfortune” rules, the household must:

  • Steps to take:

    1. The SNAP household must report the loss of food verbally or within writing within 10 business days of the food loss. If they get cash benefits, the client should call their DTA case worker. If they only get SNAP, call DTA at 877-382-2363. The client can also mail, fax, or send through DTA Connect a written statement of food loss to DTA. Note - while services are down, we recommend faxing a report to DTA, or sending a secure email to the DTA Ombudsman office. 
    2. The household must then complete the DTA Request for Replacement SNAP form and submit it to DTA within 10 days of reporting the loss. If SNAP households submit the form within 10 days of the food loss, they do not need to make a separate report first. 
    3. DTA will confirm what happened by contacting a third party, using news reports or, in unusual cases,visiting the client's home.  
    4. DTA should issue replacement SNAP quickly - either within 10 days of getting the report of the food loss, or within 2 days of getting the completed form – whichever is later.

DTA should provide a replacement SNAP benefits in the amount of the loss, up to a maximum of one month's SNAP benefits.

More information and the form on MassLegalServices.org.

Discounts:

EBT Card Holders Now Eligible for Free or Reduced Admissions at 100+ Museums and Cultural Venues- MGH Community News, August 2017

Amazon Prime Discount for Those with Medicaid or EBT Cards- MGH Community News, March 2018

Communication:

    Customer Service- Online: My Account Page (MAP)

    This site allows clients access to information about their benefits without a call or visit to DTA. To use MAP, applicants and clients must be the head of the household and register for a Virtual Gateway Account. Clients can access MAP at: www.mass.gov/vg/selfservice. Or for more information see "DTA's My Account Page (MAP)"- MGH Community News, September 2010.

    Mass Law Reform Institute’s AmeriCorps volunteer Zack Ezor has now created two YouTube videos to help you and your clients understand how to create a MAP and what documents and information your clients can find on it. Knowing how to set up and use the MAPs can be an essential tool for you and your clients to find out what the status of the SNAP or cash benefits are, what documents DTA has received and processed (or not processed) and to download notices and forms sent, including recent recertification forms and interim reports. 

    Telephone Communication - DTA Assistance Line 1-877-382-2363

    DTA Communication tips (from LIFT worker 5/15)

    • If only receiving SNAP - Since there is no longer a specific DTA worker assigned to SNAP-only families, families will have to fax or mail the documents without speaking to anyone first (but if they are also receiving TAFDC or other cash assistance, they should contact their case worker and address the documents to them)
    • For the social worker to be able speak with DTA about the case, include the Authorization to Access DTA Client Case Information
    • Tips for calling the DTA: 1-877-382-2363
      • You may get disconnected if there are a lot of callers. If this happens, keep calling until you hear the music - the music means you are on hold and will speak to someone in about 15 minutes.
      • Call between 8:15 AM and 4:45 PM.
      • You DO NOT have to listen to the entire message before dialing the options - the messages can take a long time to listen to, and as long as you know which option to press you do not need to listen to it all!
      • If you do not choose “1” for interview, you may be asked to enter in a lot of information. You will need the following numbers with you: the head of household’s SSN, year of birth, zip code, and EBT card number.
      • If you do not have an EBT card number, it is best to choose the interview option.

    Strategies WHEN YOU CANNOT GET THROUGH TO the Assistance Line 1-877-382-2363 (from MLRI):

    - More information: SNAP Advocacy When Phones are Jammed..., MGH Community News, October 2016.

     

    SNAP Helping Agency vs. an Authorized Representative

    Advocates have reported confusion between a helping agency or individual vs. an Authorized Representative. Helping agencies/individuals help a SNAP household get information from DTA- this may be a social service agency, food pantry, legal services, or a trusted family member or friend. An authorized representative is someone a client chooses to act on their behalf and manage their benefits.

    They have created two handouts to assist:

    For more information, see SNAP Helping Agency...- MGH Community News, March 2018

    eNotification- Optional Alternative to Mailed Notices for TAFDC, EAEDC & SNAP

    Optional pilot program that will inform clients by email when DTA notices are available to view on the client’s My Account Page (MAP- see above). It is important for grantees to understand that if they sign up, they will no longer receive most notices by mail.  This program replaces most mailed notices – it is not an additional reminder.

    More information on our DTA page. (Source- Operations Memo 2013-62, December 12, 2013.)

    Voice-Mail System/Prompts

    In preparation for the major changes associated with the implementation of the DTA Connect mobile applications, new voicemail enhancements were activated on April 25, 2016. More information and to download the flyer. Updates and more information on our DTA page.

     

    DTA Connect - Portal

    DTA Connect portal

    • Includes an online application in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, and Vietnamese
    • Smartphone and tablet friendly
    • Includes case information going back further than the 3 months shown in the DTA Connect mobile app (see below)
    • MLRI has updated Masslegalservices.org/DTAConnect to include more information about the application and client portal, along with DTA Connect fliers from DTA. Also see the differences between the DTA Connect mobile app and the DTA Connect online portal- mobile app vs. online portal comparison chart

       

    DTA Connect - Mobile App

      DTA Connect is a free mobile app that can be downloaded for iPhones at the App store or for Androids on Google Play. DTA Connect can be used on a smartphone or tablet (such as an iPad). Once the app is downloaded, clients can log in with their Social Security Number and year of birth to see information about their case.

      DTA Connect includes a lot of case information, such as monthly EBT card balance and recertification due date, copies of notices sent in the previous 90 days and whether documents submitted in the previous 90 days have been processed. You can send DTA verifications or documents by taking a picture in the app. Documents will go directly to the client's case record. This means a DTA worker can review them much faster than if you fax or mail documents. Make sure that the photo of the document is well lit and not blurry so DTA can clearly read it! You can also use DTA Connect to update DTA with current contact information

      More information: Clients Can Now Use DTA Connect to Send Documents to DTA, MGH Community News, January 2017.

       

Eligibility:

      Food stamps eligibility is based on a complex formula that factors in family size, income and expenses. Project Bread provides an online Food Stamps calculator that can offer a guide for eligibility and a rough estimate of expected benefits.

      Eligibility/Benefits Calculator:  See www.gettingSNAP.org. Or call the FoodSource Hotline: 1-800-645-8333.

      To get SNAP food stamps in Massachusetts, your household:

      • Must buy food and prepare meals to eat at home. Exceptions include:
        • People living in subsidized elderly housing, drug and alcohol treatment centers, disabled/blind group homes, battered women's shelters, or homeless shelters can get SNAP food stamps even if these institutions serve meals. (DTA staff memo - homeless can get SNAP even if in shelter 10/16)
        • SSI recipients and seniors age 60 or older can get food stamps to pay for meals at approved nonprofit communal dining facilities.
        • Seniors age 60 or older and people unable to prepare their own food can get food stamps to pay for approved nonprofit home-delivered meal service.
        • For more details, see the SNAP Household Composition Reference Chart.
      • Must live in Massachusetts
      • Must meet FINANCIAL ELIGIBILITY requirements.
        • Also learn about income Deductions (see under Benefits) that may make one eligible and/or increase one's benefit level.
        • For Financial Eligibility details, see MassLegal Help (note: see next bullet as this site may not be updated) and the Financial Eligibility (note: see next bullet as this site may not be updated) section of the the SNAP Advocacy Guide
        • Important changes: as of Jan 4, 2016, DTA implemented a single gross income test at 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL). This eliminates the state's confusing bifurcated gross income tests where one group of SNAP households (families with children, elder or disabled) had a 200% FPL gross income test, and another group (e.g., able-bodied adults without children) was subject to a stricter 130% FPL test. If an elder or disabled household has gross income above the 200% gross income test, the household may still qualify if it meets the net income test (after deductions such as the shelter deduction and the medical expenses deduction) and asset test. All other households above 200% gross income are simply ineligible. (More at: SNAP Gross Income Test Now Used for All Households, MGH Community News, January 2016.)  See 2018 200% FPL gross income test amounts (effective January 2018).

      Household members who are applying for benefits:

      Some households are automatically eligible for SNAP food stamps.

      • Households where all members are receiving TAFDC or EAEDC are automatically eligible for SNAP food stamps and do not need to file separate applications.

      Who CANNOT get SNAP food stamps?

      Some people are not allowed to get SNAP food stamps because they do not meet certain program requirements or have not followed program rules.

      People are not eligible for SNAP food stamps if they:

      • are undocumented or illegal noncitizens, or noncitizens with undetermined status
      • are non-immigrants (visitors, international students, etc.)
      • are noncitizens who do not meet length of stay or other immigration status requirements (more) including those with Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
      • do not provide (or apply for) a Social Security number because of immigration status
      • have committed an Intentional Program Violation (IPV) of food stamp program rules or DTA cash assistance program rules
      • do not meet the Food Stamp Work Program requirements
      • have committed fraud to get multiple food stamp benefits
      • have been found guilty of trading food stamp benefits in violation of program rules
      • are convicted felons fleeing to avoid prosecution, custody, or confinement, or in violation of parole or probation

      For more detail for certain groups (students, disabled young adults living with parents, domestic violence survivors, parents in different states, staying in certain institutions including SUD Tx) see: Special Topics below.

      More On Noncitizen Eligibility

    • Note: STATE SNAP - Massachusetts hadtemporarily re-instated STATE-FUNDED SNAP benefits for certain LEGAL immigrants; HOWEVER funding is expected to run out in April 2024, unless additional funding is allocated. More information.

       

      Cash and Food Stamp/SNAP Eligibility Chart By Immigration Status (in MA) - MLRI, 10/23

      As noted above, the following noncitizens are not eligible for SNAP: the undocumented, illegal noncitizens, noncitizens with undetermined status and non-immigrants (visitors, international students, etc.), those with Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

      Qualified Aliens are eligible with no waiting period. This includes refugees, asylees, granted withholding of deportation, Amerasians from Vietnam, "Cuban/Haitian entrants" (a special status- not automatic to everyone from Cuba or Haiti), victims of severe forms of trafficking, American Indians born in Canada or Mexico, members of Hmong or Laotian tribes that assisted the U.S. during the Vietnam Era and certain family members, Iraqi and Afghan noncitizens with special immigrant status.

      Legal Permanent Residents (LPRs or "Green Card Holders") MAY be subject to a 5 year bar: some must wait for 5 years with legal status before qualifying for SNAP.

      Watch for these EXCEPTIONS to 5-year bar:

        • Ask what status the LPR had previous to LPR status. No 5-year bar for LPRs who previously had a "qualified" status- including Asylees, Refugees, certain Amerasians, immigrants who are Victims of Human Trafficking or who have been granted Withholding of Deportation, Conditional Entrants, Parolees and those with a special "Cuban/Haitian entrant" status (does not apply to everyone from Cuba or Haiti).
        • There is no 5-year wait for LPR adults who receive a disability-based benefit (like EAEDC, TAFDC, or MassHealth for disabled people).
        • No 5-year bar for LPR adults with 40 quarters of work history in the US or in one of 25 foreign countries- for a list of countries see the DTA Online Guide.
          • The 40 quarters can include work of a spouse if married, and work of a parent while LPR was under 18 (though LPR is now adult).
        • LPR Children under age 18- not subject to 5 year bar.

      If you are not eligible for SNAP food stamp benefits, you may still file a food stamp application for people who live with you who are eligible. For example, if you are not eligible because you are an undocumented noncitizen, but your children are U.S. citizens, or LPRs, you may apply for SNAP food stamps for your children.

      There is a financial penalty for the undocumented immigrant- the undocumented person(s) do not receive a benefit, but their income is counted. The USDA has clearly stated that if an applicant is unable or unwilling to provide citizenship verification or a social security number workers are not to further question on the matter and will not report to Homeland Security unless shown an order of deportation. See the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance brochure “What Noncitizens Need to Know” at http://www.gettingfoodstamps.org/non-citizenresourcesheetenglish.pdf.

      Does a sponsor's income count for eligiblity? If you receive financial support directly from the sponsor to pay for living expenses, that money treated as countable unearned income in calculating your benefits. Sponsor’s income you do not recieve does not count if you are “indigent” (very low-income) and you do not receive any payments from the sponsor. Source and more info about sponsor's income rules under SNAP. More information on sponsor's responsiblity and liability, protecting Immigrant Families, January 2020.

      Non-Citizen Reference and for more information:

      Archive/Related Article:

      • Elder (65 or over) non-citizens with disabilities currently receiving Emergency Aid to Elders, Disabled and Children (EAEDC) who are not eligible for Food Stamps because of the 5-year immigration waiting period, can now qualify for SNAP. (Food Stamps for Non-Citizen Elders Receiving EAEDC During 5-Year Bar - MGH Community News, June 2008)

    Special Topics:

    • Non-Citizen Eligibility (see above)

    • LGBTQIA+ Non-Discrimination- On May 5, 2022 the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a policy to improve equitable access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by including discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in the prohibition against sex discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has detailed specific steps state and local agencies and program operators must take in implementing the policy.

    • Disabled Young Adults Living with Parents
      Children under 22 are counted as being in the same household as their parents (if they live with their parents). As such, the income of the disabled young adult’s parents are taken into consideration and most likely disqualify the household as a whole from receiving SNAP benefits. Disabled individuals over 22 who are unable to purchase and prepare their own food may be eligible for SNAP benefits even if they live at home with their parents. This is the case as long as the majority of the food they consume is purchased with their income and prepared separately from the rest of the family, which can be burdensome for some families. More information: Benefits Review: SNAP Benefits for Disabled Young Adults Living at Home, MGH Community News, November 2016.

    • Students

      New! SNAP for College Students: Unwinding the Public Health Emergency - MLRI and DTA Presentation 5/23

      • Outreach flyer 5/23
      • Outreach flyer + Eligible Categories 5/23
      • Outreach flyer + Ben Franklin and Voc-Tech 5/23
      • To learn more and download outreach materials, Know Your Rights fliers, and a document summarizing proof documents for college students, visit MassLegalServices.org/Food4Students
      • SNAP if the student receives any amount of federal work study, receives MASSGrant financial aid, is working 20 hours a week, is caring for a child under age 12, is disabled, or meets other "exemptions" under the SNAP student rules.
      • As of September 1, 2022, DTA no longer counts ANY financial aid received by a student for SNAP or DTA cash programs. This includes loans, grants, scholarships, work study, assistantships, and fellowships. Up until now, only federal financial aid was non-countable, but DTA treated state and private financial aid as countable, depending on how it was used.
        • DTA has elected a federal option to ignore ALL financial aid – including state, local and privately funded financial aid. This also means that students no longer need to document their non-federal financial aid or which portion is for educational vs living expenses. The "EDUC-1" form is eliminated.
        • Work study income is NOT countable income for SNAP. Students need to report whether they receive work study (which also helps qualify a student for SNAP, including in 4 year state and private colleges), but the work study does NOT count as income. If you have a student who was denied or lost his or her SNAP benefits because DTA wants verification of wages from "the Commonwealth of Massachusetts"  OR if the student is getting less SNAP because DTA has been counting the work study, please let MLRI know. More on incorrect or misleading wage matches and work study. 
      • Federal and state SNAP rules do not allow DTA to deny SNAP benefits if information about income cannot be secured due to non-cooperation of a third party -  such as a financial aid office or an employer. 
        • Self-Declaration: Students have the right to provide a self-declaration of the financial aid information requested as the "best evidence available", along with a copy of the financial aid award letter they received. Sample self-declaration statement. Students can also handwrite a statement that says the same and include it with a print-out of their financial aid award letter.
      • Student Status - Self-declaration of student status, less verification required! (New as of 9/1/22)
        • Students attending a community college self-declare the name of the community college they attend, they no longer need to get a statement from the college nor verify their course of study. This eliminates the CCE-1 form (Community College Enrollment form) that students had to take to their colleges to fill out!
        • Students who attend Ben Franklin Institute of Technology, Quincy College or one of the MA Vocational or Technical programs that provide post-secondary degrees are also SNAP eligible!  Students can self-declare their attendance. (In the past, only the 14 Community Colleges and Quincy Colleges met this special rule, but DTA has officially expanded the list of eligible career and technical ed programs to both BFCIT and the state Voc/Tech programs that enroll adults in post-secondary certificate or degree programs.
        • Students who receive a MassGrant (financial aid from the Commonwealth of MA) and/or a Pell Grant can self-declare their MassGrant or Pell Grant.  Note: Currently students are SNAP eligible if receiving a full Pell Grant rule or have an “expected family contribution” (EFC) of $0 are two temporary COVID provisions, (receipt of MassGrant has been a long time SNAP eligibility option for students).  
        • Students awarded federal work study can self-declare their award. Students do not need to prove a work study job.  They are SNAP eligible as long as they have not refused a job.
        • How does self-declaration work for SNAP?
          • SNAP applicants can self-declare their student status a) verbally during their SNAP application phone interview with a DTA worker, b) including it in their SNAP application, or c) writing it on a separate piece of paper that is signed and dated and sent to DTA. Students are not required to give DTA proof unless information they provide is “questionable,” (e.g. the student status information does not add up with other information provided by the student or known to DTA). If DTA thinks information is questionable, DTA will advise the student the proofs needed.
      • It is important to remember that students under age 22 who live with parents must be part of the parent's SNAP household and cannot get their own SNAP benefits. Students, age 18 or older, who live with others who are not parents (nor a spouse), may qualify if they meet the normal "purchase and prepare" rules (must purchase and prepare more than half of his/her food separate from others). 
      • Student eligibility continues during school breaks, including the summer months. 
      • Reference materials:
        • MLRI-produced client materials and DTA SNAP policy on the options to qualify low income students for SNAP: http://www.masslegalservices.org/food4students (6/18) 
        • Find the DTA form community colleges need to sign to qualify a student for SNAP based on the course of study OR if likely to lead to employment:  http://www.masslegalservices.org/node/35333  And please track inappropriate or excessive verification demands that prevent students or their families from getting and keeping their SNAP! 
      • Outreach/Marketing materials
      • More information:

     

    • Domestic Violence Survivors
      Are you a victim of domestic violence? Know your rights under the Food Stamp program!
      Fact Sheet from the National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty

    • Special Case: Parents with Shared Custody in Different States

    • Veterans- Veteran’s SNAP Advocacy Tips- Brochures and More- MGH Community News, April 2019

    • Persons with Disabilities Who Can't Make/Buy Their Own Food- MGH Community News, May 2019

    • SNAP Path to Work program - Employment and Training (SNAP ET)
      • Learn more or where to enroll: visit SNAPPathtoWork.org. 
      • As of June 2022- parents who participate in a “SNAP Path to Work” program can now get a child care referral for eligible kids under age 13. The referral allows the family to connect to free child care via a voucher. The voucher lasts for 12 months - even if the family begins working during that time. At the end of the 12 months these families can transition to income-eligible child care vouchers without a waitlist.
      • To learn more about child care for parents enrolled in a program, Contact a DTA employment and training specialist at (888) 483-0255 to find out more, or see DTA’s overview and more detailed policy information.

    • SNAP and Head Start - as of June 2022 SNAP recipients are now categorically eligible for Head Start programs- meaning they qualify without having to meet separate criteria. More about Head Start (on our Child Care page).

    • Residents of Institutions, Including for SUD Treatment - Typically residents of institutions that provide more than 50% of three meals daily are ineligible for SNAP benefits. BUT exceptions include (the following are eligible):
      • residents of a drug or alcohol treatment center,
      • residents of shelters for battered persons,
      • residents of homeless shelters
      • More information: see DTA Online Guide > SNAP> Eligibility Requirements > Residents of Institutions
      • Note: this is different than Acute Hospital Stays - see below

    • Ride-Share and Delivery Drivers or other Gig Workers - most gig workers are considered “independent contractors,” not employees. Independent contractors are considered self-employed for public benefits like SNAP. This flyer explains and gives special application instructions and explains work expense deduction instructions that enable many to qualify. See the MLRI Flyer.

    • Acute Hospital Stays
      While someone is inpatient, their EBT card stays active and their SNAP benefits are accessible. The account will automatically close if it is not used for 365 days. Generally, you do NOT have to report hospitalization to DTA to maintain your SNAP benefits, but if you are receiving other assistance from DTA (like EAEDC), they may have more strict reporting rules that would require that you do report in order to keep your benefits. If you do not use your benefits for one year, you must reapply.

    • Asset Test
      Effective June 9, 2008, DTA issued guidance to expand the use of the "categorical eligibility rule" to ELIMINATE the Food Stamp ASSET test for most Food Stamp households with income below 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL). The new policy directs DTA workers to NOT ask questions about assets or ask for verification of assets for any households with an elder (age 60+) or person with disabilities, if the household income is below 200% of the FPL. There is also NO asset test for non-disabled individuals ages 18 - 60 below 130% FPL. (Asset Test Eliminated for Most Under 200% FPL/FPG - MGH Community News, June 2008)

    • SNAP Overpayments- information for advocates in response to reports of an increase in low-income households who are told they owe DTA money for an overpayment of SNAP or cash assistance benefits- MGH Community News, May 2018
      • As of November 2018, DTA made some positive changes to how it handles Agency Error overpayments (overpayments that are DTA's fault):
        • For active cases where all household members are 67 or older: Waive 100% of the AE
        • For active cases where household members are below 67: Waive 50% of the AE (decrease by half)
      • For more information, see Positive Changes to SNAP Overpayment Collections- MGH Community News, November 2018

    • Wage Match Settlement (10/16) (See Source/More Information)

      Some SNAP cases were closed erroneously due to electronic wage matching with Department of Revenue data. As of January 2017, groups of affected households are receiving retroactive benefits. But some may need to apply. For details see: SNAP Wage Match Lawsuit Settlement - First Round of Retro SNAP, MGH Community News, January 2017.

      Background

      In 2014 and 2015, Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA)​ sent hundreds of thousands of notices to SNAP households based on a match with Department of Revenue ​(DOR) ​wage data and "​new hire"​ data – and then it closed thousands of cases. Advocates from MLRI, Metro West Legal Services and private counsel filed a lawsuit challenging DTA’s wage match procedures. In March 2015, DTA stopped using the wage match information to decide current eligibility.

      The lawsuit is now settled. DTA is now​ sending a Settlement Notice to about 28,000 SNAP or cash ​households whose cases closed during this time period​.

      See The DTA notice (in English and Spanish).

      Households who get the Settlement Notice are not required to do anything. They can contact MLRI for more information. wagematch-info@masslegalhelp.org

      What will happen after the Settlement Notices go out? 

      • About 17,000 households will get additional SNAP benefits deposited directly to their EBT accounts (they should check their EBT card or call the IVR line for an update).
      • Another 7,000 households can re-apply for TAFDC and if approved will get additional SNAP. 
      • Households covered by the notice have a right to object to the Settlement. 
      • DTA will not re-start use of wage matches for current eligibility unless it has tested the results for accuracy and relevancy and reported to us on the test results. 

      Here are the groups:

      Group 1 – Automatically get 3 months of back SNAP benefits
      You are in Group 1 if DTA closed your household’s SNAP case and did not reopen it by December 17, 2015, and –

      • The wage match was for a child under 18, or
      • he difference between DOR’s wage information and DTA’s wage information was less than $300.

      Group 2 – May get 2 months of back SNAP benefits IF YOU REAPPLY for SNAP benefits and GET APPROVED
      You are in Group 2 if DTA closed your household’s SNAP case and did not reopen it by December 17, 2015 and you are not in Group 1.

      Group 3 – Automatically get 2 months of back SNAP benefits
      You are in Group 3 if you are getting SNAP benefits now and DTA closed your household’s SNAP case but:
      DTA did not reopen your SNAP case or pay you back any SNAP benefits you missed while your case was closed, and

      • Your case was closed for less than 4 months, or
      • DTA had not processed a document in the case when DTA closed the case.

       

    • Work Requirement/Time-Limit (for Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents - ABAWDs)


      COVID Specific Content

      Work requirements were suspended during the pandemic but will be resuming. Details and timeline not available at this writing (2/24)

      Staff Meeting Presentation (2/16)

      Able Bodied Adults (18-50) Without Dependents (ABAWDs) must meet a work requirement unless exempt. If they fail to meet work requirement, they will be subject to a SNAP time limit of 3 months within a 36 month period.

      • Background: Work rules were suspended during the 2008 recession. Work rules again in effect as of January 1, 2016 for most parts of MA. Resumption varies depending on the job outlook, so will vary by state and locality.
      • Exemptions and client action steps: ABAWD Time Limit Checklist (worksheet, NOT official DTA form)
      • DTA ABAWD phone line: DTA has set up a special phone line for clients and advocates to speak with a DTA SNAP ABAWD specialist: 1-888-483-0255. Written Consent to Access DTA Client Case Information (Release of information- needed to speak to DTA on behalf of client; if client is with you it may be sufficient for client to give verbal consent on phone.)
      • Who is subject to the rule? An ABAWD is an able-bodied adult between 18 and 50 years old who is not disabled, pregnant, or living in a household with minor children. Persons under age 18 or age 50 or older are not subject to this rule. Two page factsheet including exempted towns.
      • Exemptions: (See also SNAP ABAWD Time Limit Checklist for a list of exemptions and client action steps)
        • Exemption Request Form: DTA Form: Client Request for ABAWD Work Program Exemption (DTA Screening form). (Spanish version)
        • Working 20 hours or more per week, including self-employment or in-kind work
        • Receiving a disability-based benefit (SSI, VA pension, EAEDC, Worker Comp)
        • Certified as physically or mentally "unfit" for employment by a health professional
          • An individual can be exempt from the 3-month time limit if he or she has “a mental or physical illness or disability, temporary or permanent, which reduces their ability to financially support themselves.” The ABAWD medical exemption is a much lower incapacity standard than SSI or Social Security and of shorter duration than for EAEDC. Demonstrating existence of disability does not require a specific diagnosis or submission of medical testing results.
          • DTA has a simple, one-page Medical Report Form that can be signed by a wide range of health professionals including psychologists, nurse practitioners, LICSWs and LCSWs: DTA ABAWD Medical Report Form (list of acceptable signers at bottom of form).
          • Disability examples include:
            • A patient with difficulty maintaining focus and concentration for two hours at a time, or difficulty consistently remembering and carrying out tasks.
            • A patient diagnosed with “mild” or “moderate” anxiety, depression, or maladaptive personality that reduces their ability to work. The symptoms need not be “marked” or “severe.”
            • A patient whose physical condition limits them to light or sedentary work, including a patient who cannot stand or walk for extended periods of time, or engage in physical labor on a sustained basis.
            • A patient who would typically miss 2 or more days of work each month due to a medical condition or treatment for the condition.
            • A temporary illness that restricts a patient’s ability to work for a few weeks or longer.
          • Disability fact sheets:
        • Has been HOMELESS for a period of time and meets other DTA criteria - contact DTA; either submit form - ABAWD homeless exemption form OR the client can call the DTA Assistance Line (1-877-382-2363) to be screened.  If at least two of the barriers below are present, they may be exempt:
          • Do you have a stable night time residence?
          • Do you have a high school diploma or GED?
          • Have you been employed or a full time student for less than 6 months (total) in the last 3 years?
          • Do you have regular access to health care that you need, such as dental care, psychiatric care, and treatment for ongoing illness?
          • Have you been hospitalized during the last 6 months?
          • (Note: homeless people are eligible for SNAP if otherwise eligible, even if staying in a shelter that provides meals. See DTA memo, 10/16)
        • Receiving - or has applied for - Unemployment Insurance (UI)
        • Participating in a drug or alcohol treatment program or a mental health treatment program
        • Is a student enrolled at least 1/2 time in a high school or college (special rules apply)
        • Lives in a household with any child under 18 - does not need to be child of the ABAWD
        • Is pregnant - at any stage of pregnancy
        • Is providing care for an incapacitated person or a child under age 6 (do not need to live in same household) OR
        • Geographic exemptions- residents of certain high unemployment areas of the state are exempt from the work requirement/time limit. See the 2019 flyer for a map and list of exempt city/towns.
        • Exemption Request Form: DTA Form: Client Request for ABAWD Work Program Exemption (DTA Screening form).(Spanish version)
      • Meeting the Work Requirement
        • If not exempt, there are three ways an ABAWD may be able to meet the SNAP work requirements including:
          1. Working for pay at least 80 hours/month - roughly 20 hours/week
          2. Participating in an eligible work training program for at least 20 hours/week, OR
          3. Volunteering with a non-profit organization a few hours a week to "work for benefits" - more on Community Service - qualifying information and form.
        • More work requirement information at:
      • DTA ABAWD phone line: DTA has set up a special phone line for clients and advocates to speak with a DTA SNAP ABAWD specialist: 1-888-483-0255. Written Consent to Access DTA Client Case Information (Release of information- needed to speak to DTA on behalf of client; if client is with you it may be sufficient for client to give verbal consent on phone.)
      • Appeal rights: any applicant or recipient has the right to ask for a fair hearing to challenge any DTA decision. This includes denial or termination for alleged failure to meet an ABAWD exemption or work/volunteer requirement. Contact the local Legal Services office: Find Legal Aid (MA).
      • Sources and More Information: www.masslegalservices.org/ABAWD and www.mass.gov
      • Resuming Benefits After Cut-Off- after reaching the 3 month time-limit if one begins work you may qualify again for SNAP.
        • If it is LESS than 30 days from date, case was closed- one just needs to document the hours of work and income (if still qualify based on income).
          • NOTE: for how to show "just cause" for not working and when/how to request retroactive exemptions/reinstatement, see: Additional Advocacy tips
        • If it is MORE than 30 days from date case was closed, one needs to reapply.

    • Recertifications and Interim Reports
      • Interim reports have resumed post-pandemic.
        • Interim Reports are reporting forms that some SNAP households must complete about 6 months after they apply to keep their SNAP benefits going.
        • Most households do not have to do an Interim Report. The only SNAP households who have to do an Interim Report are “Simplified Reporting” households who meet certain rules (namely, who have no income and are NOT homeless and those with income within $200 of the gross income test). To understand who is on Simplified Reporting, see DTA’s overview of the certification/reporting categories. For the details of this policy change and who is subject to it, see DTA’s overview here. 
        • If the SNAP household does not complete the Interim Report, DTA must send a termination notice before their SNAP is cut-off with information on how they can fix the problem. Please let MLRI know if you see any issues with Interim Report or other issues where DTA incorrectly handles a SNAP case.
          • From [FoodSNAPcoalition] End of SNAP Extra Benefits, Upcoming P-EBT Benefits & DTA Interim Reports, Victoria Negus, MLRI, June 12, 2023.
      • DTA has updated the recertification form to make it more comprehensive and easy to use. DTA now has an option for households to complete the paperwork online! SNAP households can fill out this paperwork entirely online by creating a DTAConnect.com online account. For more information, see Positive DTA changes to SNAP Interim Reports and Recertifications- MGH Community News, April 2019.

      • Sending a Late Recertification or Interim Report

      Every 6 or 12 months, DTA sends SNAP households an Interim Report or Recertification that they must complete to keep their SNAP. If a household sent DTA their Recertification or Interim Report late, after their SNAP has stopped:

      • If DTA got the form less than 30 days after the SNAP ended, DTA should review and take the next steps to determine if the household is still SNAP eligible.

      • If DTA got the form more than 30 days after SNAP ended, DTA policy says the household must do a new application. However, on the same day that DTA gets the late form, DTA must mail a SNAP application to the household. Advocates have reported that DTA does not always do this.

      For more information, see SNAP Advocacy...- MGH Community News, July 2018

      • To complete the Recertification or Interim Report, use DTA Connect.

    • SNAP Case managers- switch to "first available worker" model 10/27/14. SNAP only households will not have a designated SNAP case manager. More info.

Application

Key application tip: in late 2023 Mass Law Reform Institute analyzed most common DENIED applications and advises applying on the phone or in-person (request meeting with staff, don't just drop-off application.) In addition to the application, applicants must complete an interview. When one applies on the phone or in-person, the interview is completed at the same time. When you apply online or through other methods without direct DTA staff assistance, DTA will cold-call you for the interview and if you don't answer will schedule an interview. You can contact them to change the time, but MLRI data show many don't complete the interview- this is a common step for the process to stop and a denial to be issued.

 

Step 1 - Submit Application:

Over the phone: call DTA at (877) 382-2363 and ask to be connected to a SNAP worker. Recommended - see Key Application tip above.

Or call Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333 to start an application over the phone, or have an application sent to you through the mail.

By mail or fax: find links to fill-able PDFs and Word documents to download and complete on the DTA website. Completed applications can be mailed to: DTA, PO BOX 4406, Taunton, MA, 02780-9975 or faxed to 617-887-8765.

Apply online: www.DTAConnect.com * Online app available in in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese and Vietnamese. (The Mass.gov Virtual Gateway online application is no longer used for SNAP applications).

In person: visit your local DTA office. Recommended - see Key Application tip above.

Application Assistance available from

Step 2 - You will then be contacted for an INTERVIEW - you will receive a cold-call from DTA to set up an appointment. If you miss the call they will schedule an appointment. You may reschedule the appointment, but an interview is required to get SNAP unless you originally applied on the phone with DTA staff or had an in-person meeting with DTA staff (they should have conducted the interview as part of that process.)

Step 3 - Submit any additional VERIFICATIONS - you have 30 days to submit the required verifications. If you miss this deadline, but can submit verifications within the following 30 days, the application can be reopened without needing to submit another form.

(Above from: www.gettingfoodstamps.org/howdoiapplyforsnap.html)

SNAP App "Next Steps" Flyer (4/17) - What Happens After the Initial App - MLRI and Project Bread to give to households that you are helping with SNAP Applications. This describes the "Next Steps" they should expect after filing a SNAP application, including: 

DTA will schedule an interview and what to expect, but the applicant can call any time 

DTA will send a verification checklist of needed proofs

DTA should send an EBT card (and PIN) within 10 days (unless applicant picks one up or already has one), even before benefits are approved

How to check the status of an application through the DTA Assistance Line or DTA Connect ​

​MLRI will also be translating the flyer into other languages. <

Verification Requirements- Policy Blurbs- DTA has been reminding workers about verification requirements via training and issuing short policy "blurbs" that are emailed daily to the field. Here's a link to the DTA Blurbs on verifications:  www.masslegalservices.org/content/dta-policy-blurbs-verifications  

The Verification "Blurbs" remind DTA staff that:

permanent verifications do not need to be verified more than once. 

certain information should be confirmed via data bases (such as Social Security, SSI, DOR Child Support and Unemployment). Clients do NOT need to produce any statements from SSA! 

DTA has an obligation under the SNAP rules to assist clients in getting verifications (sometimes called "collateral contact.") 

One document may serve as proof of several different eligibility factors (for example, pay checks with current address can prove earnings, residency and identity).

For more information about verification requirements, see Question 12 in the SNAP Advocacy Guide.

For more information, see SNAP: Verifications 101 from MLRI (9/18)

See also:  What Advocates Should Know about Applying for Food Stamps (MGH Community News, January 2008)

Highlighted Advocacy Tips (more in article above):

Applicants with disabilities must receive reasonable accommodations if requested. Some examples might, depending on the nature of a disability, include communicating by mail or telephone only, or ensuring that DTA communicates with the applicant or recipient via the preferred communication method before taking adverse action in their case. Or if the applicant needs help gathering verifications the DTA must assist. This is rarely offered, but those who need this assistance can request it or it can be the basis of an appeal. (More on application rights on our TAFDC/EAEDC page)

Applicants with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) are entitled to interpreter services. Applicants who need interpreters must not be turned away or told to return with their own interpreter. DTA cannot compel LEP applicants to utilize their children, adult relatives, or friends as interpreters. DTA must tell the applicant that he or she has the option of DTA providing an interpreter free of charge. (More on application rights on our TAFDC/EAEDC page)

Benefits will begin retroactive to the date of application. Apply as soon as possible and “protect the date” by submitting a “Request for Assistance” which secures the application date. It can be submitted by fax or in person and only needs to include the applicant’s name, address (if any), signature, and date. After submitting the Request for Assistance, the applicant has 30 days to complete the application.

All applicants are entitled to apply for benefits regardless of whether a DTA worker thinks the applicant is eligible.

DTA must accept the best available verification. For instance, if there is no documentation of income, such as when one has been working “under the table” and the employer refuses to provide verification, DTA must accept an applicant’s written statement as verification. DTA must help the applicant gather the verifications if the applicant cannot do it alone.

Short Application for Elders:

DTA has issued a revised two-page Food Stamps application form for seniors. The Food Stamps application is designed for applicants age 60 or over who live alone, live with a spouse, or live with others but who purchase and prepare a majority of their food separately (meaning more than 11 meals a week). Please note that DTA must accept this application if someone who does not fit this category mistakenly uses this form, as long as it includes the applicant’s name, address (if any) and signature. Those using this form still must be interviewed (either in person or on the phone) and submit required verifications. The form is simplified, but the omitted questions will still be asked during the interview.

The form is also available in other languages. See the DTA memo (2008). See the Application.

Elderly and Disabled Simplified Application Project (EDSAP)

In order to be part of EDSAP, every adult (age 18+) who is part of the SNAP household must be:

Age 60 or older, OR

Receiving a disability-based benefit - such as SSI, Social Security Disability, or MassHealth as disabled.


No adult in the household can have earnings from a job to participate in EDSAP. EDSAP households do not need to do any Interim Reporting paperwork to keep SNAP for 3 years. Ineligible households need to complete interim reports every 6 months.

EDSAP households only have to tell DTA about these two changes:

If someone joins or leaves the household (e.g., an adult child moves in or a spouse leaves)

If anyone in the household starts to get earnings (regular job or self-employed)

This information needs to be reported to DTA by the 10th day of the month following the month of the change.

For more information, see Certain Elderly and Disabled SNAP Households No Longer Need to Complete Interim Reports Every 6 Months- MGH Community News, December 2018.

Useful Links/Advocacy:

 

Archive/Related Articles:

SNAP and Government Shutdown Flyers: English and Spanish (Rev 2-6-19)

March SNAP Going Out a Few Days Early to the Majority of Households - MGH Community News, February 2019

Impact of the Government Shutdown on SNAP - Long Interval Between Payments Causes Hardship- MGH Community News, January 2019

 

SNAP Cost of Living Adjustments- Good and Bad News, MGH Community News, September 2017.

 

DTA Calls Going to Incorrect Client Phone Numbers for SNAP Application Interviews, MGH Community News, January 2017.

 

SNAP Wage-Match Errors- Recipients Start to Get Back Benefits or Can Reapply (1/17) - see article for details OR below - Wage Match Settlement

 

Oct 1, 2016 cost of living changes will have mixed effect- some will see benefit increases, others decreases. More: SNAP Cost of Living Changes Effective October 1st -  Mixed Impact Expected, MGH Community News, September 2016.

 

Resumption of Work Requirement for Able Bodied Adults without Dependents (children) - Resumed January 2016 (had been suspended since 2008 recession). ABAWDs who do not meet the work requirement and are not exempt are subject to a benefit time- limit: 3 months within a 36 month period. The disability exemption is generous- many if not most of our patients would qualify, and SWs can fill out the form. More under Special Topics - Work Requirement/Time Limit.

 

SNAP benefit amounts were reduced as of November 1, 2013. SNAP benefits had been increased as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. This extra payment expired on November 1, 2013 for all SNAP recipients. More information (MGH Community News, September 2013)

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Food Stamps Program was renamed the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. Additional changes included small increases in the household minimum standard deduction, removed the cap on the dependent care deduction, raised the minimum monthly benefits for certain households, and included new eligibility disqualifications. For more information: The Farm Bill and Food Stamp Changes - MGH Community News, June 2008

 
  partial rev 7/22