Get Extra Money for Groceries with SNAP

With prices for everything from eggs and meat to bread and fruit going up across the nation, we want you to know how you may be able to get free grocery money. 

AARP Foundation has been helping people secure the essentials — like groceries — for more than 60 years. That’s why we’re sharing information about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, is a program that helps people — not just families with children — make ends meet by providing monthly benefits to purchase food.

The average SNAP recipient receives $142 a month in benefits they can use to put food on the table. Adults over 60 have different income requirements and additional allowable deductions, which may make it easier to qualify for SNAP, if needed. Nearly a third of these households receive the maximum monthly allotment of $281.

About 8.7 million households with adults 50 and older participate now, but many more are eligible. If you didn’t qualify before, now may be the time to apply again, especially if you are over age 60 or living with a disability.

Providing information about your monthly medical expenses, like insurance premiums and prescription drugs, may also potentially help you receive a higher benefit amount.

The Truth About SNAP

You may have heard rumors about who qualifies for SNAP, how much grocery money you’ll receive, and how the program works.

Here’s what you need to know about SNAP:

• It’s not just for families with children. Any adult, of any age, who meets the income requirements is eligible for SNAP.
• SNAP is designed to help millions of people — of all ages — afford a healthy, nutritious diet. Your participation in the program does not deny the benefit to someone else.
• No one can tell you’re using SNAP when making a purchase. Your EBT card looks just like a debit or credit card. 
• SNAP benefits are adjusted to keep up with rising food prices each year. Your monthly benefit amount is automatically adjusted each October.

How to Apply

To apply, you will need to:

1. Connect with your local SNAP office to get an application
2. Complete and submit your application 
3. Submit documents to verify your identity, address, income and expenses
4. Confirm information in an interview, if asked
5. Get approved by your state or county — may take up to 30 days

Step-by-Step Instructions for Applying for SNAP