How to check the status of your food stamp application

After you apply for food stamps (officially called SNAP) and complete your interview, your application will be reviewed by a caseworker or eligibility worker through your state or county SNAP agency.

It typically takes up to 30 days to find out if your application was approved or denied. However, if you qualify for emergency SNAP benefits, you may hear back within seven days.

In the meantime, you can check your SNAP application status by visiting your state’s online benefits portal, calling your local SNAP office, or getting updates by mail or email.

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Checking your SNAP application status#checking-your-snap-application-status

You may have multiple options for tracking your SNAP application while you wait for a decision. Here’s how to stay up to date on your progress and find out if any further action is needed from you.

Online#online

You can check your SNAP application status online through your state’s benefits portal. Here are the steps you’ll need to take:

1. Find your state portal (for example, BenefitsCal.com for many California counties) and log in to your account.
2. Some portals will ask you to “link a case;” if yours does, select that option and follow the instructions on the screen.
3. After your case is linked and visible, you can click on “View Case Details" to review your SNAP case status (your portal might use slightly different wording).

Over the phone#over-the-phone

Call your local SNAP office and ask a caseworker about the status of your application. If you don't have the number, you can also dial the general SNAP hotline at 1-800-221-5689 to be connected to the right office.

You may be asked to provide the following information:

• Name
• Date of birth
• Address
• Last four digits of your Social Security Number
• Application or case number (if you have one)

Mail or email#mail-or-email

Look for official notices from your SNAP office through regular mail or email. In addition to sending you updates on your application, these communications may include:

• SNAP interview appointment letters
• Requests for documents
• Approval/denial notices

To contact your SNAP office using mail or email, you can reply to an email or send a letter to the address on your notice. Include key information of your case (e.g., name, Social Security Number, case number).

In person#in-person

If you prefer face-to-face communication, you may be able to go in person to your local SNAP office and ask a worker to look up your application using your ID. But keep in mind that not all offices offer walk-in services.

Some SNAP offices require appointments or handle applications exclusively online or by phone. Review your local office’s hours and policies before visiting.

State benefit portals and phone numbers#state-benefit-portals-and-phone-numbers

For quick access, here’s a list of all the state benefits portals and phone numbers, including the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This is where you can go to get updates on your SNAP application.

What to do after you’re approved for SNAP#what-to-do-after-youre-approved-for-snap

Once your SNAP application is approved and you’ve gotten your EBT card in the mail, you can follow these steps to help make the most of your benefits.

1. Track your benefits: Download the Propel app to easily manage and check your SNAP balance, see the latest SNAP news, and secure your EBT card.
2. Know what’s SNAP eligible: Learn more about which groceries qualify for SNAP and which don’t.
3. Plan your shopping: Make a weekly or monthly budget to help stretch your benefits further.
4. Look for discounts and savings: The Propel app can help you discover personalized deals on groceries and other essentials, like discounted internet.
5. Stay up to date: Keep your account details current and stay informed on SNAP policy changes that could affect you.