Here’s What You Need to Know About SNAP
SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a federal program for low and no-income individuals. Formerly known as Food Stamps, the program provides individuals and households with a monthly stipend to cover the cost of food. However, the stipend is calculated by income and how many people are in the household. For example, if there are more dependents, such as children, then the family’s monthly SNAP benefit will increase. In this article, we’ll share important information on SNAP and how program eligibility may eliminate your phone bill.
Am I eligible for SNAP?
You can determine eligibility if you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Gross monthly income, which varies by state and the size of your household. You can learn more about this at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
- Citizenship. SNAP is available to qualifying U.S. citizens and non-citizens who have been in the U.S. for at least five years.
- Individuals working for low wages, working part-time, or if you’re unemployed. Note: if unemployed, you must prove that you’re applying for work, unless you fall under the exempt category.
- Elderly individuals (age 60 and over) and the disabled. If you are disabled, you may be eligible if you meet certain criteria. Examples include receiving federal disability or blindness payments under the Social Security Act, disability retirement benefits from a government agency, if you are a veteran who is completely disabled, etc. You can find more information on SNAP eligibility for the disabled here.
How Can I Apply for SNAP?
Because the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is available at the state, not federal, level, each state has its own instructions for applying. Most individuals receive notification 30 days after submitting their application, at which point, they may be required to go through an interview process. However, once your application goes through you will receive your benefits on an electronic transfer card (EBT). This card can be used much like a debit card to make purchases.
Your SNAP benefits will be added to your EBT card monthly, which you can then use at grocery stores, farmers markets, and all retailers that accept EBT.
What Can I Buy with SNAP?
Once you are eligible, you can purchase:
- Produce (plants, vegetables, seeds, grains, etc.)
- Meat, fish, and poultry
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- Snacks
Unfortunately, you are not allowed to buy non-food items, such as cleaning supplies and other household items. Additionally, pet food falls under this jurisdiction.
How SNAP Can Eliminate Your Phone Bill?
As the country faces additional financial struggles, it helps to know that government programs exist to provide relief. If you are eligible for SNAP, or currently use it, then you may also qualify for the Lifeline program. SNAP is just one of many government programs that qualify you to also enroll in Lifeline.
What is Lifeline?
Lifeline is an FCC program (Federal Communications Commission) that provides low-income individuals and households discounted and free phone services. The program, which began during the Reagan Administration, was designed to provide basic telecommunication services to low-income households, so they can have access to 911 emergency services and stay connected with friends and family.
This service is more important now than ever before, as more individuals rely on remote patient care, also known as telehealth. Furthermore, many individuals have transitioned from working in-office to working remotely. As a result, they require fast, reliable data, which can be accessed from their smartphone, to receive invaluable telehealth services and to fulfill their job responsibilities.
Get Lifeline with Q Link Wireless
Q Link Wireless is one of the leading providers of the Lifeline government benefit program. We provide eligible participants FREE cell phone service every month. This includes:
- FREE Data
- FREE Talk
- FREE & UNLIMITED Text
You may qualify if you are eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or if your total household income meets Federal Poverty Guidelines (gross household income at or below 135%).
Are you ready to get rid of one of your bills? Find out if you qualify for the Lifeline government program today! It only takes five minutes.
If you have additional questions about the Lifeline government program, feel free to contact us at 1-855-754-6543 . A Q Link Wireless representative will be happy to assist you!
