How To Apply For New York Food Stamps

View the information below if you are interested in applying for food stamps in New York. It is important that you have all the documentation and information needed so the application process is not delayed. If you still have questions or issues about applying for food stamps, known as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), then you can call the New York SNAP hotline at 800-342-3009 or 718-557-1399. The department that handles this program is called the New York Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) issues electronic benefits that can be used like cash to purchase food. SNAP helps low-income working people, senior citizens, the disabled and others feed their families.

How much could I receive in SNAP benefits each month?

Maximum SNAP Benefit Allowances

Household Size Maximum Allotment
1 $192
2 $352
3 $504
4 $640
5 $760
6 $913
7 $1,009
8 $1,153
For each additional member +$144

Please note, a SNAP budget must be calculated for your household in order to determine SNAP eligibility and benefit amount.

New York SNAP eligibility requirements

If your gross income, based on family size, is at or below the amounts in the following charts, you may be eligible for SNAP benefits. But, the only way to determine if your household is eligible for SNAP benefits is to apply.

Income Guidelines for Households without Earned Income (no elderly or disabled member)

Family Size Monthly Gross Income Annual Gross Income
1 $1,307 $15,684
2 $1,760 $21,120
3 $2,213 $26,556
4 $2,665 $31,980
5 $3,118 $37,416
6 $3,571 $42,852
7 $4,024 $48,288
8 $4,477 $53,724
Each additional person +$453 +$5,436

Income Guidelines for Households with Earned Income (no elderly or disabled member)

Family Size Monthly Gross Income Annual Gross Income
1 $1,508 $18,096
2 $2,030 $24,360
3 $2,553 $30,636
4 $3,075 $36,900
5 $3,598 $43,176
6 $4,120 $49,440
7 $4,643 $55,716
8 $5,165 $61,980
Each additional person +$523 +$6,276

Income Guidelines for Households with an Elderly or Disabled Member and Households with Dependent Care Expenses

Family Size Monthly Gross Income Annual Gross Income
1 $2,010 $24,120
2 $2,707 $32,484
3 $3,403 $40,836
4 $4,100 $49,200
5 $4,797 $57,564
6 $5,493 $65,916
7 $6,190 $74,280
8 $6,887 $82,644
Each additional person +$697 +$8,364

What if I have savings?

Most households applying for SNAP no longer have to pass a savings/resource test in order to get SNAP benefits. This means that the household's assets (stocks, savings and retirement accounts, etc.) are not considered when determining eligibility.

What if I don't know what type of assistance I need?

Check your eligibility for a range of other benefits by answering a few simple questions at mybenefits.ny.gov. What do I do if I am no longer in need of SNAP benefits and want to close my SNAP case? If you would like to close your SNAP case, you must contact your local Department of Social Services. Please note at this time you cannot request your case closed online.

What do I do if my financial circumstances change?

Changes in household circumstances which occur during the SNAP certification period may need to be reported depending on the reporting rules that apply to your household. Please refer to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Change Report Form for information about the change reporting rules that apply to your household or contact your local Department of Social Services if you have further questions.

How to apply for New York food stamps

First, gather all the documents you will need to apply for New York SNAP benefits. Once you have that, the next step is to log into or request to create an account at mybenefits.ny.gov. Once you are logged in, the next step is to answer a series of questions about your household, then submit your application. Make sure you have with you:

  • Recent pay stubs
  • List of household resources
  • Current rent/mortgage statement
  • Current property tax bill
  • Current homeowner's insurance bill
  • Social Security card

You can apply online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Is it possible to get SNAP right away, or within a few days of applying. If you have little or no money and need help right away, you may qualify for "expedited" SNAP. If you do, you must receive your initial SNAP benefit within five days. You will still have to complete the eligibility process, and supply all the required documentation at a later date. If you still have issues or questions about the application process, you can call for assistance Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm at 800-342-3009. You may also contact your local department of social services or SNAP office. Local contact information can be found in the directory.