How To Apply For West Virginia Food Stamps

View the information below if you are interested in applying for food stamps in West Virginia. 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 West Virginia SNAP hotline at 800-642-8589. The department that handles this program is called the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federally funded program that offers nutrition assistance to millions of eligible, low-income individuals and families. The program is run by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Apply for West Virginia food stamps

SNAP is administered by the WV DHHR and governed by federal law and regulations of the US Department of Agriculture, Food Nutrition Services. SNAP provides monthly benefits to help eligible households buy food. Eligibility to receive benefits is based on household size, income, assets and some household expenses as determined by the federal government. The asset limit is $2,250 for households. Most households will not be subject to the asset limit but if at least one person is at least age 60 or disabled, the asset limit is $3,250.

Most people must pass a gross income test and then a net income test. Before total income is compared to the federal net income limits, certain deductions are applied to the income, such as: 20% earned income disregard, child care costs, excess shelter/utility costs, court-ordered child support paid out, etc.

The amount of West Viriginia SNAP benefits issued to eligible persons is based on household size and countable income, after all deductions are applied. Households with an elderly or disabled person are given special consideration. In addition to the higher asset limit, there is no gross income test and more excess shelter/utility costs can be deducted, and medical expenses over $35 per month. SNAP benefits may only be used to purchase food for human consumption and seeds/plants to grow food at home. Food stamp benefits cannot be used for:

• Household items
• Grooming products
• Tobacco
• Alcohol products
• Pet food, etc

To see what benefits you qualify for or apply for West Virginia food stamps online, use their WVInRoads website. You can use the same site to report changes to your address, income or household circumstances. Or if you prefer, you can download an application and submit it in person at your local Family Resource Networks (FRN) office. You can also call them at 877-716-1212.

*For households with more than eight people, add $5,408 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.