The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly referred to as food stamps, provides support for low-income households to purchase food.
Changes to SNAP Benefits in Maryland
Recent federal changes will affect Marylanders and the federal benefits received. Temporary benefits (called "emergency allotments" or "max allotments") provided extra benefits during the pandemic. Starting March 1, 2023, the supplements will end, returning benefits to the normal amount, affecting Maryland families.
The Maryland Department of Human Services has resources to help Marylanders stretch their food budget and videos in English and Spanish to explain how this may impact your family.
Since this is a federal change, you can not appeal the reduction in emergency benefits. Notices with changes like this are posted in your myMDTHINK.maryland.gov portal. View your notice to find out how this may impact your family.
SNAP benefits are based on household size, income and specific circumstances. If you're having trouble buying food for your family due to the reduction in benefits, you can call 2-1-1 to find a food bank and other resources that may be able to help.
How To Apply For Maryland Food Stamps/SNAP
To get food stamps in Maryland, you must meet income guidelines and any other eligibility requirements, fill out a Maryland SNAP application and you may need to take part in an interview.
For more information and to apply for food stamps, contact your local Department of Social Services or apply online through the Maryland Department of Human Services myMDTHINK gateway to public health and human services.
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 Your Eligibility For Benefits
From time to time, you may need to recertify your eligibility for benefits. Select redetermination on the myMDTHINK dashboard and upload the necessary information.
Buying Online Groceries Or Fresh Produce With SNAP
You can use SNAP benefits to shop for fresh produce and groceries online. Participating stores include Amazon, ShopRite and Walmart. Learn how to use your SNAP benefits for online groceries.
If you have other questions or need help finding a local resource, call 2-1-1. You can also search for food related resources by county, to find food near you.
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.
How can I save money on food?
If the reduction in benefits, inflation or personal circumstances make it difficult to pay for groceries for your family, you can call 2-1-1 and talk to a caring and compassionate professional who can help you find other resources.
With the state's most comprehensive health and human services database in the state, 211 has over 7,500 resources and can help your family. Call 2-1-1 or start your search now.
In addition to food banks and food pantries, there are programs like SHARE Food Network. It offers savings of up to 50% on groceries for families. There's a specific menu each month and distribution points throughout the area.
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.
