How-To: Get food assistance with SNAP

Inflation may be easing, but prices at the grocery store are still expected to rise in 2023. Take the price of eggs as an example–in December the price of a dozen large eggs hit $4.25, up from $1.79 just one year earlier. Fortunately, there are programs available to is help for those who meet certain requirements. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of families in need so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency.

SNAP takes into account a family’s overall financial status and provides individualized aid. Your benefits package is determined by household size, expenses, and income. Don’t be discouraged from applying if you’re employed, own your own home and car, and have money saved; you may still be eligible for benefits!

Those who receive a benefits package will be given an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to use at food stores that accept EBT. Most applications are processed within 30 days, however expedited processing is available and emergency benefits can be distributed within 5 days. Please don’t  wait if you are in need food assistance. To apply, click the button below to be directed to New York’s Access HRA account.