Health & Benefits

You can apply for emergency or expedited SNAP benefits by:

• Filling out an Application for SNAP benefits, Cash, or Medical Assistance online.
• Completing a paper application and submitting it by U.S. mail, fax, or hand delivery to your local Family Community Resource Center (FCRC) office. 
• Filling out an application at your local DHS office (also known as your local FCRC office). 

If you do not know where your FCRC is or if you are unable to go there, you can call the helpline 24 hours a day at (800) 843-6154 or (866) 324-5553 (TTY). You may speak to a representative between 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, except on holidays. An automated response is available outside of those hours.

Be sure to sign your application.

Learn more about Getting emergency or expedited SNAP benefits. 

Once you've turned in a completed application, DHS must interview you either that day, or the next workday. If your interview is over the phone, the number may be blocked or not easily identified as a call from the local FCRC or DHS. Be sure to answer your phone if you are expecting an interview call.  

After your interview with a caseworker, DHS will make a decision on your application. Be sure to attend your scheduled interview.

You should try to submit all of the information which shows your household's income, expenses, and resources to DHS within five days after you turn in the application.

If this is not possible, your SNAP benefits may still be approved as long as your identity is verified by DHS. Be sure to bring a form of identification, like a driver's license or state ID.

If you are approved for expedited SNAP benefits, DHS should give you the SNAP benefits within 5 days from when you apply. Usually, you will be given a Link card which will have the SNAP benefits on it.

If you disagree with DHS and think your application should not have been denied, then you can file an appeal.