Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: How To Apply

NOTE: People who are so ill that they may need someone else to shop for them can register that person with the welfare office when they first apply or later.

Although the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is a National program, the application process may be different in each state. That's why it's always good to go to the office if your calculations are close or if there is any doubt about whether you qualify.

Documentation you will need when applying for supplemental nutrition assistance include:

• Proof of citizenship: You MUST have an acceptable form of ID when you apply in order to prove that you are a citizen of the United States. To prove citizenship, take your birth certificate, driver's license, work or school ID, or voter registration card.
• Legal Aliens: If you are a legal alien, you may be entitled to benefits. If so, you will need proof of your status.
• Proof of income and check stubs from earned AND unearned income: Take bank books, pay stubs, payroll check receipts, copies of checks or benefit statements from your Social Security, pension, SSI or any other earned or unearned income. NEVER LIE OR WITHHOLD INFORMATION FROM THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTITRITION ASSISTANCE OFFICE. The information you give is checked against other government records. You could lose your benefits for a long time if you give false information.
• Proof that you have a job (unless you are in a special category): Proof may consist of paycheck stubs, correspondence from your employer or other documents that show you are currently employed.
• Social Security numbers for everyone in your household: You will need Social Security numbers for every member of your household, including children, even if they are toddlers or infants. Since children probably do not have numbers, you can apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistnace anyhow and ask the office worker to help you get numbers.

Since enrollment procedures may vary slightly from state to state, when you call to make an appointment to apply, ask the local office what documentation you need to bring. In addition to the documentation listed above, some offices will also want to see rent or mortgage payment records, deeds and/or leases, utility bills, child- or elder- care bills, and proof of child support (court order and check stubs), marriage license and/or divorce papers.

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