The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), popularly known as food stamps, provides individuals and families in need with money to buy fresh, nutritious food to promote their well-being and overall health. Those who qualify for the benefits, will not get the cash, but they’ll be entitled to an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card.
This payment method, recipients can purchase a wide range of food items, including fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products, and protein sources. They can even buy all they need to grow food in their own homes, which could actually multiply their money. If you live in the great state of Illinois, you can too request the SNAP benefits, and here’s how to do it.
How to apply for SNAP benefits in Illinois
You can get help from this program if you have limited income and resources. Certain resources, such as your home, car, will be taken into account, and certain retirement accounts may not be counted. This means that even if you own these assets, they may not be considered when evaluating whether you meet the program guidelines.
In some cases, you may be able to participate in this program without having to take any additional steps. If you or members of your household already receive cash benefits from other programs like Public or General Assistance, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you will automatically be enrolled in this program or enjoy more generous rules. This streamlined process aims to provide immediate assistance to those who are already receiving aid.
Furthermore, there are other program rules worth taking in account. For example, the migrant status. If you are a U.S. citizen and meet the other program guidelines, you are eligible to receive help from this program.
Even if you are not a U.S. citizen but live in the United States, you may still be eligible for this program if you and/or members of your household meet specific guidelines for legal immigrants. These guidelines include:
- Lived Legally for 5 Years or More: If you have lived legally in the United States for at least five years or more, you are eligible to apply for assistance through this program.
- Disability Related Assistance or Benefits: Regardless of when you entered the United States, if you receive disability-related assistance or benefits, you are eligible to apply for help.
- Children Under the Age of 18: If you have children under the age of 18, regardless of when they entered the United States, you and your household may qualify for assistance.
If you think you could qualify, and you actually need the help of SNAP benefits, go to this official website and start your process right now.
Can I buy online with my SNAP EBT card in Illinois?
Recognizing the importance of accessibility, digital giants like Amazon, Walmart, and Target (among others) have stepped up to accept when utilizing online EBT grocery delivery and pickup services, there may be additional fees that you might be responsible for. This means that you can shop for your groceries from the comfort of your own home, with the assurance that your EBT card will be accepted.
This is particularly useful for those that have problems to travel to the actual stores, due to mobility impairments, age, or distance. But, there’s a catch: when utilizing online EBT grocery delivery and pickup services, there may be additional fees that you might be charged for.