Florida's SNAP program provides food assistance to families in need.
Florida's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps low-income families buy the food they need to stay healthy and active. The state Department of Children and Families (DCF) works with applicants who meet income standards and other requirements. Families can apply online through DCF's ACCESS system or by visiting a DCF office. Eligible applicants receive an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card, which allocates a monthly benefit amount to families according to their net income and family size. Beneficiaries can use the EBT card at stores displaying the Quest logo.
Instructions
1. Determine your eligibility. Applicants to the SNAP program should be legal residents of Florida and have income at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty line. For a family of three, the net monthly income limit is $1,526, as of October 2010. To figure the limits for a larger household, add $312 per additional household member.
2. Apply for benefits online by visiting the DCS website. Register as a new user through ACCESS (see Resources). After registration, choose "Apply for Benefits." Have all Social Security numbers, birth dates and household income available to complete the application. Review all information for accuracy before submitting.
3. Apply in person by visiting your county DCS office. List current housing, medical and utility expenses on the paper application for benefits. Some offices require a copy of your state ID or driver's license.
4. Expect a letter from DCS scheduling an in-house interview. SNAP applications are generally reviewed within 30 days after they are received. Contact the DCS office to request a phone interview or to reschedule if you need to.
5. Attend the interview on time. Bring required documents listed in your interview packet: valid identification, proof of legal citizen status or green card, Social Security card and Social Security numbers of all household members, your last two paycheck stubs, unemployment or Social Security statements, and housing and utility receipts.
6. Await an acceptance letter from DCF approving your benefit amount. Activate your EBT card immediately by dialing the number provided in the letter or on the back of the card. Set up a secure password.
7. File an appeal, if you are denied SNAP benefits, by contacting your local DCF office.
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