Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) - The basics and how to apply

SNAP is a food assistance program designed to prevent hunger by helping families put healthy food on their tables every day. Formerly known as food stamps, SNAP is a Federal program administered in Oregon by the Department of Human Services. Oregonians can now apply online for SNAP.

SNAP benefits are meant to supplement a family's overall food budget, not cover it entirely. However, in many households with little or no income, it can be the main way a family meets its nutritional needs.

SNAP benefits can be used to purchase foods such as breads and cereals; fruits and vegetables; meats, fish and poultry, and dairy products. SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy non-food items like alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, vitamins or medicines, pet foods, soap, cosmetics, laundry products, paper goods, or other household products.

In June 2011, Oregon received national attention for excellence in SNAP administration. The USDA ranked Oregon fourth in the nation for Best Negative Error Rate. This means Oregon makes accurate payments to clients who need help putting food on the table and takes care to make sure that every taxpayer dollar in the program is spent properly.

To be eligible for SNAP benefits, families must earn less than 185 percent of the federal poverty level, along with other factors. For a family of four, the income limit is less than $3,400 per month. The maximum SNAP benefit for a household of four totals $668 per month. The overall average SNAP benefit per household is approximately $250 per month.

Approximately three-fourths of all SNAP households have some form of income, which results in the actual benefit level received being reduced from the maximum. Benefits are determined on a sliding scale, based on household income, and are distributed through the Oregon Trail Card that is used like a debit card to purchase food.

To find out if you qualify for SNAP or other services, visit your local DHS office. You may also visit OregonHelps online to see if you may be eligible for these and other programs.

To download applications for SNAP, go to: www.oregon.gov/DHS/assistance/. DHS also partners with SafeNet to help people find local resources such as local food pantries or other assistance. The number is 1-800-SAFENET (800-723-3638).