Frequently Asked Questions
SNAP, or Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, is the new name for food stamps.
On this blog the words, SNAP, food stamps, food benefits, and EBT may be used interchangeably, but they all mean the same thing. Though generally, when people say EBT it’s usually in direct reference to the actual card.
2. Can I apply online? YES!
And it’s a little easier than going to the DHS office, not to mention less dehumanizing. Here is the link to the online application for SNAP benefits in Oregon.
If you don’t have a computer, consider using one at the public library or a college campus in your area. Either of these places will let folks use computers for free and [almost always] without needing to see any form of ID.
3. Do I qualify for SNAP if I’m a student? Yes, but…
If you’re a student and want/need food stamps, you must be working a minimum of 20 hours per week.
**UPDATE** I recently talked with one of my DHS caseworkers about this and they said for me to make sure that I’m working about 22 hours per week so that my total is over the mandatory 20 hours. Also, so I could make sure that my total hours doesn’t ever dip under 20, making me ineligible.
Here is a link for more information: Student Criteria for Food Stamps
4. When do my monthly benefits come in?
Your “Oregon Trail card,” or EBT card as it’s called, will be reloaded on the same day each month; the day corresponds with the last digit of your social security number. For example: if your social security number ends in 5, then your SNAP benefits will be loaded on to your card on the 5th of the month.
5. What can I buy with my SNAP benefits?
you can buy produce, packaged foods, some cold prepared deli foods (sometimes, depending on the sore). However, you are limited to only items that have a “Nutrition Facts” label on them.
Things that can’t be purchased with SNAP benefits are: toilet paper, cleaning products, tampons or pads, vitamins, other non-food household items, etc.
