SNAP Information

SNAP Information

Overview, Application Information & Resources

SNAP Time Limits for Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents (ABAWDs): What you should know

Important Message about SNAP: SNAP recipients in Connecticut must report when their household’s total monthly gross income goes above 130% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Please click here to learn more about income reporting requirements.

Mensaje Importante sobre SNAP: Beneficiarios de SNAP en Connecticut tienen que reportar cuando el total del ingreso bruto mensual de su hogar exceda el 130% del nivel federal de pobreza (FPL). Oprime aquí para obtener más información.


The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, helps eligible individuals and families afford the cost of food at supermarkets, grocery stores and farmers’ markets. You can apply for these benefits by completing a state application form. This form can be done online, or 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 – or you can apply online.

For application information, please click here, or see information below:

To apply online, please click here.

You may also use the DSS ConneCT pre-screening tool, found on our home page (click on ConneCT icon) or at connect.ct.gov called “Am I Eligible,” which also pre-screens for cash and medical benefits.

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

Please note: to make sure you get the correct SNAP benefit, please be sure to give us all the information about your household's income, resources and household costs. Some household costs are called "deductions." Please click here for information on SNAP deductions. (Versión en Español)

Beneficiaries who would like more information may call 2-1-1 (toll-free).

Resources:

More on SNAP and Similar Programs:

More information can also be found on the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website.

SNAP Publications

Are you a retailer who 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 your supporting documentation to complete your file.

Please click here to learn more about applying to become an FNS authorized retailer.