Get Farmers Market Vouchers for Free Fruits and Veggies

Stretching your grocery money? Every bit — or bite — counts.

You may qualify to get extra cash to buy fresh fruits and vegetables to round out your meals through the Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP).

AARP Foundation has been helping people find ways to save money for more than 60 years. Here’s what you need to know.

Do I Qualify?

You must be age 60 and earning a limited income, usually under $2,906 a month if you live alone. Rules may change each year — the best way to know if you qualify is to call and ask.

If you already get free grocery money as part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or monthly food packages from the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), you may qualify automatically.

How Does It Work?

The program, which supports farmers and helps prevent food waste, runs from May through September. Once enrolled, you’ll receive coupons or checks you can use to buy locally grown foods, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even honey at:

• Farmers Markets
• Roadside Stands
• Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs

The coupon or check you receive will be worth at least $20 and up to $50. You may get more than $50 to spend, depending on which state you live in.

How Do I Apply?

Nearly every state offers this money-saving benefit. More than 800,000 seniors across the country participate — but many more are eligible. You can apply through the local agency managing the program where you live.

Apply in your state