If You're a College Student, You May Qualify For SNAP Benefits

As students, not only do you have to deal with increasing tuition rates, housing bills, and outrageous textbook prices; you also need to ensure that you are eating healthy. According to the Government Accountability Office, food insecurity is a growing concern in higher education, with 30% of students experiencing food insecurity . Yearly, the number of students reporting that they skip meals or don't have enough to eat is increasing at a staggering rate.

Fortunately, there are government programs that students may qualify for to help cover the cost of groceries. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food-purchasing assistance for low- and no-income people living in the United States. Below are indicators that could qualify you for assistance:

1. Age or disability status;

2. Parent or caregiver status;

3. Employment at at least 20 hours per week or receiving any work-study funds;

4. Receiving TANF benefits; or

5. Enrolled in certain programs aimed at employment.

** Students participating in a federal work-study program qualify---even if they are working fewer than 20 hours per week.

How do I apply?

• You can apply online. Click here to access a list of states that allow you to apply online.

• You can apply in person. Click here to locate your local SNAP office.

If I apply in person what should I bring with me?

• Driver's license or state identification card;

• Birth certificate;

• Pay stubs;

• Agency letter showing money received, like Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, child support, alimony, unemployment, retirement, etc.;

• Rental agreement or letter from your landlord or mortgage statement that shows your address; and

• Utility bills, such as electricity, gas, and water

Frequently Asked Questions

I have a meal plan at school, but it doesn’t cover all of my meals, would I be eligible for food benefits?

No, if you are receiving any kind of a meal plan from your school, whether you choose to use it or not, you are not eligible to receive SNAP benefits.

Is my financial aid considered income?

If financial aid is being used for personal expenses such as paying for food, rent and utilities, then it is considered income. If you are only using your financial aid for educational expenses such as tuition, textbooks and fees, then it is not considered income.

Do I need to report my parent's income?

If a student lives with his/her parents, is at least 22 years old, and buys and prepares at least half of his/her meals independently, he/she can apply as a separate household. HOWEVER;

young adults ages 18-21 who live with their parents can only apply as a part of their parents' household.

If you need food, call 2-1-1 or find a food bank here.