The food stamp program was developed to help low-income households buy food. Restrictions on the types of food that could be purchased with food stamps ensure the purchase of foods with high nutritional value. Even though it is a federal program, the applications, interviews and decisions for eligibility are handled at state or local levels. Eligibility requirements specify income levels a household must be below and, in most cases, applicants between the ages of 18 and 60 must either be working or registered for work.
Instructions
1. Gather the following information for all household members: Social Security numbers, date of birth, income information such as pay check stubs, asset information such as checking and/or savings accounts and housing expenses such as rent and utility bills.
2. Apply for food stamp benefits at the Florida Department of Children and Family Services Access Florida website. Click on "Apply for Benefits." Read the information on the first page, click "Continue" and, on the second page select "Apply for Benefits."
3. Write down your Access Online Number. Prepare a six to eight character password that will be easy for you to remember. You are only required to enter your name and address and sign the application to submit it. However, the more information you can provide will help process your application faster.
4. Visit a Customer Service Center or community partner if you do not want to process the application online. The Tampa Customer Service Center is located at 1313 N. Tampa St., 1st Floor, Tampa, FL 33602-3392. Two community partners are: Metropolitan Ministries located at 2301 N. Tampa St. and Tampa Family Health Centers - Florida Avenue located at 1514 N. Florida Ave., Suite 300.
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