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How to Get Food Stamps in Rhode Island (SNAP)

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program of Rhode Island aims to help low-income households buy nutritious food. The SNAP program can help those in need if they qualify. Using the state's screening tool should determine an applicant's eligibility instantly. Applicants may fill out an application on the web and print a copy of the application or visit their local Rhode Island Department of Human Services office to pick up a paper copy. A food stamp electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card will be awarded to qualifying applicants. The EBT card may be used at any store displaying the Quest logo.

Things You'll Need

  • Valid identification
  • Income documents
  • Utility bills
  • Housing statements/rent receipts
  • Last 4 paycheck stubs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine your eligibility. Each household must be at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty level, which in August 2010 stood at $18,310 for a family of three. To assess your income eligibility, visit the Rhode Island Department of Human Services official website, www.dhs.ri.gov. Click on the "Families with Children'' heading, then the "Food Assistance" link to access the pre-screening tool.

    • 2

      Apply online. Set up a new user account under the Rhode Island Department of Human Services. Once you've entered a secure user name and password, you can proceed with the application. Have birth dates, social security numbers, income and employment information for all residents of your home. Review the application before submitting.

    • 3

      Download and print out an application from the Rhode Island Department of Human Services official website. Click on "Families with Children" heading and then under the "Food Assistance" link. Click on the SNAP application link under the "How to Apply" heading. Fill out the SNAP application form by visiting the Department of Human Services in your county.

    • 4

      Report income of all household members on the paper application. Include current housing and utility expenses.

    • 5

      Expect a letter from the Rhode Island Department of Human Services outlining your interview date and time. Food stamp applications generally take 2 to 3 weeks to review. Contact the office assigned to you if you must request a phone interview or reschedule.

    • 6

      Try to arrive 10 minutes early to your interview. Bring documents listed in your interview packet: valid identification, immigration documents if applicable, Social Security card(s), last four paycheck stubs, unemployment or proof of disability, and current housing and utility receipts. Photocopies are acceptable.

    • 7

      Await an acceptance letter from the Rhode Island Department of Human Services, approving your monthly benefit amount. Activate the EBT card by dialing the number provided in the letter. Set up a secure EBT password.

    • 8

      File an appeal if you are denied benefits by contacting your local Human Services department.

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