Massachusetts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Food stamps, now called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), began in the United States in the late 1930's to help people buy and eat nutritious food, be stronger, and make up a more productive society. In 1971, the Food Stamp Progra...
What is Massachusetts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)?
Food stamps, now called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), began in the United States in the late 1930's to help people buy and eat nutritious food, be stronger, and make up a more productive society. In 1971, the Food Stamp Program became a nationwide entitlement program. That means that as long as you meet the rules for SNAP, you have a legal right to get them. Eligibility for SNAP benefits depends on the number of people in your household and how much income you have. To get SNAP benefits, households must meet certain tests, including resource (assets) and income tests.
Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the state of Massachusetts and fall into one of two groups: (1) those with a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $2,001, or (2) those with a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $3,001 who share their household with a person or persons age 60 and over, or with a person with a disability (a child, your spouse, a parent, or yourself).
In order to qualify, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:
| Household Size* | Maximum Income Level (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $23,760 |
| 2 | $32,040 |
| 3 | $40,320 |
| 4 | $48,600 |
| 5 | $56,880 |
| 6 | $65,160 |
| 7 | $73,460 |
| 8 | $81,780 |
Application Details
What is the application process for Massachusetts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)?
To apply for this program, you may apply online at:
https://service.hhs.state.ma.us/ierhome/LandingPage.do?method=displayConsumerHomePage&pageSwitch=HOME
Or, you may apply by mail or fax; visit http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dta/food-assistance.html and scroll to the heading that says "Apply by Mail or Fax" for the application and detailed instructions.
You may also request an application be mailed to you by calling 1-800-249-2007.
Contact Info
1-877-382-2363