DSS: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Overview

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Overview

 
New Information About SNAP (Food Stamp) Benefits
 
The Department of Social Services is implementing a federal requirement regarding the calculation of benefits in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps).  SNAP clients who are affected by this change are receiving notices in the mail. 
 
Please view the documents below for more information:
 
 
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, helps low-income individuals and families afford the cost of food at grocery stores and farmers’ markets. You can apply for these benefits by completing a state application form. This form can be mailed, faxed, or dropped off at a local DSS Regional Office. Once the form is complete, you will be assigned an eligibility worker who will interview you to complete the application process.
 
 

If you prefer, you can fill out the application for SNAP benefits at your local Department of Social Services office. You can also authorize someone else to do the application paperwork for you. If you are unable to get to a DSS office, and if there is no one who can go for you, ask DSS to do your application interview by mail and phone. 

 

 

The rules for getting SNAP benefits in Connecticut require that a person must be a resident of Connecticut whose income and assets are within set limits. 

 

 

Benefits are provided by Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card—a plastic swipe card that looks and is is used like a credit or debit card, and accepted at most grocery stores. If you qualify for SNAP, you can designate another person to do food shopping for you.  We call that person your authorized representative, and issue a separate EBT card to that person.

 
 

More on SNAP and Similar Programs

 
 
SNAP Publications
 
 

Nondiscrimination Statement

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs, or disability.

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

 
Are you a retailer that would like to accept SNAP benefits?
You can now apply online; it's fast, secure, easy to use,
and best of all, it's available when you are, 24/7.  By applying online, you can also check the
real-time status of your application online using your USDA account. 

Applying to accept SNAP benefits at your store is a simple three step process: get a USDA
account, fill out an application online, and mail us your supporting documentation to complete
your file.  

Follow this link to find out more

Content Last Modified on 12/27/2011 1:48:07 PM