How To Apply For Rhode Island Food Stamps

View the information below if you are interested in applying for food stamps in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island SNAP hotline at 401-462-5300. The department that handles this program is called the Rhode Island Department of Human Services.

The SNAP Program, formerly known as food stamps, helps individuals and families buy food. If you are struggling financially to buy food and provide nutritious meals, you may be eligible for SNAP. You do not need to be participating in other DHS programs to receive SNAP benefits. You can be unemployed or working, preparing for work, receiving a pension, or homeless.

Individuals and families qualify for SNAP benefits based on their income, resources, and the number of individuals in their household. Individuals, couples, and families may qualify if their income is less than 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

SNAP monthly gross income limits

Apply for Rhode Island food stamps

You can apply for the Rhode Island SNAP program online by clicking here. Or if you prefer, you can print out an application (English version - Spanish version), fill it out and submit pages 1 of 32 and 2 of 32 to allow the department to date stamp and start the application process. Please include your name, address, and signature. To determine ongoing benefit eligibility, you must sign and complete the remainder of the application and bring or mail the application to a local DHS Office. You will need to complete an application and provide proof of identity, income, assets/resources and expenses.

Remember: When printing the appropriate application and instructions (if needed), fill it out as completely as possible. Please mail the completed application to the RI Department of Human Services, P.O. Box 8709, Cranston, RI 02920-8787.

Documents you may need to apply for Rhode Island food stamps

The examples provided below are to help you get ready for your interview with your DHS worker. Please copy only the documents needed to complete your application or re-certification. For a telephone interview, you must send in copies of the required documents to your worker before the scheduled interview date. For an in-office interview, bring the required documents with you. If you need help obtaining or copying any of these documents, please call the worker listed on your appointment letter, or visit your local community action agency. See back page of application for locations and contact numbers.

Child support paid: A copy of the court order and proof of the amount paid, such as a canceled check or a written statement.

Dependent care expenses: Receipt showing your out-of-pocket child/adult care expenses.

Identification: An applicant and or authorized representative will need at least 1 form of identification such as:

• Passport or Certificate of Naturalization
• Driver's license
• Birth certificate
• Voter registration card
• Military or RI state ID card
• Work or school ID card
• Health benefit or a library card

A Social Security number for all household members applying for benefits is required. (Social Security cards are not required.)

Immigration status: If a non-citizen, proof of immigration status is required and sponsorship information may be needed.

Medical expenses: Individuals with a disability or age 6 or above: medical costs including medical bills NOT reimbursed, prescription costs, Medicare card showing "Part B" and "Part-D" coverage.

Residency: One document indicating current address (i.e. utility bill, bank statement, etc.).

Resources: In some cases resources may apply. They include verification of liquid resources, bank statements, stock and bond certificates, and proof of property ownership. Vehicle registration may be required.

Shelter costs: Rent receipt, mortgage payment statement, rent/lease agreement, statement from HUD, statement from person who shares shelter costs, utility bills, statement from utility company, statement from landlord

Student income: An applicant may be required to provide verification of educational (Loans/Grants/Scholarship) expenses including, but not limited to, tuition and fees.

Unearned income: Most recent copy of Social Security award letter; proof of unemployment; Worker's Compensation; pension; child support; alimony; TDI; rental income; dividends or any interest income; adoption subsidy; EITC; foster care income; out of state assistance, etc.

Once you have submitted an application for SNAP benefits

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has 30 days to determine your eligibility. If you have less than $100 in cash, and less than $150 in monthly earnings, or if your housing expenses exceed your monthly income, you may be eligible for expedited SNAP benefits. DHS is required to review your application for expedited benefits and make a decision within 7 days. What happens next?

• You must have an interview with DHS
• You will receive a notice in the mail informing you of the date and time of the interview
• If you requested a telephone interview, your worker will call you at the phone number you provided on the application
• If you requested an office interview, go to the appropriate office at the time of your interview
• If you cannot make the interview (phone or in-office) at the scheduled date and time, call the office immediately to reschedule
• You will need to gather documents verifying your situation. You may provide photocopies
• If you have a telephone interview, mail or fax your documents before the interview
• If you have an in-office interview, bring your documents with you to the office
• If you are asked to provide further documentation, you have 10 days to get it to DHS
• You will be given or mailed an EBT card and asked to select your personal identification number
• You have a right to appeal the decision. You can use this form to file an appeal