This guide provides information on applying for and receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits in Kentucky‚ effective for the period of October 1‚ 2024‚ to September 30‚ 2025․
Table of contents
Eligibility Criteria
Kentucky follows USDA SNAP income standards and utilizes Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE)․ This impacts income screening:
- Gross Income: Generally‚ households must have a gross monthly income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)․
- Net Income: There’s also a net income test․
Example: A 4-person household may qualify with a gross monthly income of $5‚200 or less‚ or a net monthly income of $2‚600 or less․
How to Apply
To determine your eligibility and potential benefit amount‚ it’s best to apply․
Free Assistance
A network of food banks and non-profit organizations are available to advise Kentucky residents about SNAP and other food assistance programs at no cost․ A local SNAP advisor can guide you through the application process․
Income Limits (Maximum Monthly)
The following are maximum monthly income limits that most families can earn and still be eligible for SNAP in Kentucky․ Contact a local advisor for specific details․
Other Factors
Besides income‚ other factors can affect eligibility․ A household is defined as any person‚ family‚ or group of people․
Where to Apply
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Kentucky through the following methods:
- Online: Visit the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) website․ Look for the “Kynect” or “Benefits” section to find the online application portal․
- In Person: Visit your local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office․ You can find a list of locations on the CHFS website․
- By Mail: Download the SNAP application from the CHFS website‚ complete it‚ and mail it to your local DCBS office․
Required Documents
When applying‚ you will likely need to provide documentation to verify your eligibility․ Commonly requested documents include:
- Proof of Identity: Driver’s license‚ state-issued ID card‚ passport‚ etc․
- Proof of Residency: Utility bill‚ lease agreement‚ etc․
- Proof of Income: Pay stubs‚ unemployment statements‚ Social Security statements‚ etc․
- Proof of Expenses: Rent receipts‚ mortgage statements‚ utility bills‚ child care expenses‚ medical expenses (for elderly or disabled individuals)‚ etc․
- Social Security Numbers: For all household members․
- Bank Statements: To verify assets․
Important Note: The DCBS may request additional documentation as needed․
The Interview Process
After submitting your application‚ you will likely be scheduled for an interview with a DCBS caseworker․ This interview can be conducted in person or over the phone․ Be prepared to answer questions about your household’s income‚ expenses‚ and living situation․
EBT Card and Benefits
If approved‚ you will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card․ Your SNAP benefits will be loaded onto this card each month․ You can use the EBT card to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers‚ such as grocery stores and farmers markets․
Eligible Food Items
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase a wide variety of food items‚ including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat‚ poultry‚ and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants (to grow food)
Ineligible Items
SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Hot prepared foods (ready-to-eat meals)
- Non-food items (e․g․‚ household supplies‚ pet food)
Reporting Changes
It is important to report any changes in your household’s income‚ expenses‚ or living situation to the DCBS promptly․ Failure to do so could result in overpayments or termination of benefits․
Recertification
SNAP benefits are not permanent․ You will need to recertify your eligibility periodically․ The DCBS will send you a notice when it is time to recertify․
Appeals
If your application is denied or your benefits are reduced‚ you have the right to appeal the decision․ The DCBS will provide information on the appeals process․
Additional Resources
- Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS): Visit their website for more information about SNAP and other assistance programs․
- Feeding Kentucky: A statewide organization that supports food banks and pantries․
- United Way of Kentucky: Connects people with resources and services in their communities․
