How To Apply For Hawaii Food Stamps
View the information below if you are interested in applying for food stamps in Hawaii. It is important that you have all the documentation and information needed so the application process is not delayed. If you still have questions or issues about applying for food stamps, known as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), then you can call the Hawaii SNAP hotline at 855-643-1643. The department that handles this program is called the Hawaii Department of Human Services.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and administered at the federal level through its Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). State agencies administer the program at the state and local levels, including determination of eligibility and monthly allotments. In Hawaii, this service is provided by the Department of Human Services (DHS) Benefit, Employment & Support Services Division (BESSD).
Who is eligible to receive Hawaii SNAP benefits?
Households must meet specific eligibility requirements and provide proof of their statements about household circumstances. US citizens and some aliens who are admitted for permanent residency may qualify. Federal poverty guidelines are established by the Office of Management and Budget, and are updated annually by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Hawaii residents seeking SNAP assistance must fill out a standard benefits application form, which is available for pick up from all State benefits offices, and for download from the Department of Human Services (DHS) website. After you have filled out your application and gathered all the required paperwork to verify your information, visit the benefits office closest to your residence. Click here for benefits office contact information statewide.
An intake worker will review your completed application package to determine if you qualify for Hawaii SNAP benefits. If you are eligible, the worker will assign you to one of three eligibility standards, based on your family’s unique situation. The federal poverty guidelines (FPL) listed below will help you to determine if your monthly income exceeds SNAP eligibility criteria. If your income exceed the criteria, you will not be eligible for SNAP assistance.
| Household Size | 200% Monthly Gross Income (BBCE) | 130% Monthly Gross Income | 100% Net Monthly Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,310 | $1,502 | $1,155 |
| 2 | $3,112 | $2,023 | $1,556 |
| 3 | $3,914 | $2,544 | $1,957 |
| 4 | $4,716 | $3,065 | $2,358 |
| 5 | $5,518 | $3,586 | $2,759 |
| 6 | $6,320 | $4,107 | $3,160 |
| 7 | $7,120 | $4,628 | $3,560 |
| 8 | $7,922 | $5,150 | $3,961 |
| Add on for each additional member | +$802 | +$522 | +$401 |
Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) expands SNAP benefits to low-income families with high expenses, and to families whose gross incomes are slightly higher than the 130% FPL normal gross income test. Under BBCE, the gross income limit is 200% FPL and there is an unlimited asset standard. Most households qualify for BBCE. However, if a household member has been disqualified under SNAP, it may not qualify for BBCE.
Other eligibility criteria include:
- Households where all members receive, or are authorized to receive TANF or SSI cash assistance, are categorically eligible for SNAP. There is no gross income limit, no net income limit and no asset limit
- Net monthly income must be 100 percent or less of the Federal poverty guidelines. Net income is figured by adding all of a household’s gross income, and then taking a number of approved deductions for child care, extra shelter costs and other expenses. Households with an elderly or disabled member are subject only to the net income test
- Most able-bodied adult applicants must meet certain work requirements
- All household members must provide a Social Security number or apply for one