How to Apply for Food Stamps in Polk County, Florida

In order to qualify for food stamps, you must meet certain guidelines. The eligibility guidelines for Polk County, Florida, include proof of residency, income, citizenship, and identity. You must also provide verification of your income and expenses, assets and Social Security number. Polk County offers two options for applying for food stamp benefits. You may complete an application online or apply at the local office.

Things You'll Need

• Birth certificate
• Income verification
• Social Security card
• Utility bills
• Driver's license

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Instructions

• 1

  Contact one of the two Polk County offices or go to the Florida Department of Children and Families ACCESS website, to obtain information about eligibility requirements.

• 2

  To qualify for foodstamps you will need proof of residency and identity.

  Gather required information and verification documentation for all family members. The documentation and information may include your driver's license, Social Security number, check stubs, bills to verify expenses and residency, birth certificate and bank statements.

• 3

  Application for food stamps can be filed online or in a local office.

  Decide if you will apply in person or on the ACCESS website. If you decide to go to one of the local offices, you may want to call to schedule an appointment. On the day of your appointment, take the required documentation for the interview and assessment. If you decide to apply online, place the information near the computer that you use for easy reference.

• 4

  File the information received from either the local office or the confirmation notice from the website. You should have information regarding eligibility and the amount of food stamps if you are approved. Be sure to find out when your benefits will start and how to access and use your benefits. If you are ineligible, find out why, because it may be that additional documentation is needed.