Food Stamps
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, provides financial assistance to low-income households so they can buy food.
For most households, SNAP benefits only cover some of their food costs.
Learn about the program.
Who is eligible for food stamps?
You may be eligible for food stamps (SNAP) if you:
- work for low wages
- are unemployed
- work part time
- receive Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) or other public assistance
- are elderly or disabled and live on a small income
- are homeless
There are income and eligibility requirements to qualify for food stamps or SNAP benefits in Maryland. An interview may also be needed.
H.R. 1 eligibility changes for noncitizens
With federal changes under H.R. 1, a beneficiary may also need to meet work requirements. Also, refugees, asylees, and other lawful immigrants need a Green Card to receive SNAP.
Answer a few quick questions to find out if you are eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and other benefit programs.
How much money do I get?
SNAP benefits are based on:
- household size
- income
- specific circumstances
The benefits are based on a federal formula that determines how much it costs to buy food to make nutritious, low-cost meals for your household.
The benefits change yearly.
211 is always available to help you understand SNAP benefits and find food for your family.
How To Apply For SNAP
There are three ways to apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Choose the one that works best.
Applications are reviewed the same day they are received. Some individuals qualify for an expedited benefit within 7 days of the application.
Most people who qualify can receive SNAP benefits within 30 days of submitting their application.
Popular Food Resources
Search the 211 Community Resource Database for nearby organizations that can help with food. These are common searches to get started. Click the button below that fits the need, and then on the results page enter a ZIP code to find nearby locations.
What can I buy?
With food stamps or SNAP benefits, individuals can buy healthy foods like:
- fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables
- milk
- meat
- eggs
- vegetable and herb seedling plants to grow your own food
Groceries can be purchased at the grocery store, online, or the farmer's market.
Shopping Online
You can use SNAP benefits to shop for fresh produce and groceries online at retailers and online marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and ShopRite. Participating stores include Amazon, ShopRite, and Walmart.
The SNAP benefits will cover eligible food only, and not delivery or other fees.
On Amazon, the food will have a label "SNAP EBT eligible." However, you will only see this after you add your SNAP EBT card to your Amazon account.
The Department of Human Services, which oversees SNAP benefits in Maryland, explains how to use your SNAP benefits with online grocery stores.
Distribution Of Food Stamps
Benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card and distributed monthly. The funds are distributed on a specific day each month, depending on the first three letters of your last name. Check to see which day of the month you will receive benefits.
To check your balance on your EBT card, call the Maryland EBT Customer Call Center at 1-800-997-2222 or visit Maryland EBT.
Recertify Benefit Eligibility
From time to time, you may need to recertify your eligibility for benefits. Select redetermination on the Maryland Benefits dashboard and upload the necessary information.
Can I roll over benefits?
Yes. You can roll over unused SNAP benefits from one month to the next. Unused benefits remain on EBT cards for up to nine months.
New H.R. 1 work requirements
More SNAP recipients will be subject to work requirements. In Maryland, the new rules require these people to work, volunteer, or participate in a job-training program for at least 80 hours a month:
- Adults between the ages of 55 and 64
- Adults who have children age 14-17 living at home
- Veterans
- Young adults who aged out of out-of-home care under age 24
- Unhoused people
Exemptions
You may be exempt from the SNAP work requirements if you are:
- Under 18 or over 64 years old
- Medically certified and documented as physically or mentally unable to work
- Parent or caregiver of a dependent child under age 14
- Receiving Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA)
- Receive disability benefits
- Receive or applied for unemployment insurance (UI) payments
- Enrolled in an alcohol or drug treatment program
- Caregiving for an incapacitated individual
If you are required to meet the SNAP work requirements and do not meet them or qualify for an exemption, you can generally receive SNAP benefits for up to three months during a three-year period.
If you need help, contact your local Department of Social Services, call the Customer Service hotline at 1-800-332-6347, or view the latest information from the Maryland Department of Human Services.
How can I save money on food?
SNAP benefits are only one part of your food budget. Make them go further by doubling your money, up to $10, at farmers' markets or shopping sales.
Maryland Market Money
Maryland Market Money is a farmers market program that matches SNAP spending dollar-for-dollar, up to $10.
For example, if you spend $5 to buy fresh vegetables and fruits, you'll get another $5 to spend.
Look for a "Market Info" tent at your farmer's market. Search for participating locations in Maryland.
SHARE Food Network
The SHARE Food Network offers savings of up to 50% on groceries for families. There's a specific menu each month and distribution points throughout the area.
Other benefit programs
You may also qualify for other benefit programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, also known as WIC. Nutritious foods, as well as additional support, may be available through WIC if you qualify. It's a program for income-eligible pregnant women, new moms (up to six months), breastfeeding moms (up to 1 year), infants and children under age 5.
Food Pantries
Also, food banks and food pantries can fill any gaps temporarily.
Dial 211
Talk to a caring and compassionate person 24/7. They can also connect you to resources.
Related Information
Marylands Guide to Free Food
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How Maryland WIC Helps Women, Infants and Children with Food
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Find Food in Baltimore City
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Maryland Responds: Help for H.R. 1 Changes
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