The Propel Guide To EBT In Indiana

SNAP, sometimes called food stamps or just EBT, can be an essential tool for low-income households in Indiana to help supplement their grocery budget every month.

SNAP is federally funded and operates under national rules, but each state manages its own program under those guidelines. That means application steps, benefit schedules, renewal processes, and customer service details can vary depending on where you live.

Here’s what to know about EBT and SNAP benefits in Indiana.

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How does SNAP work in Indiana?#how-does-snap-work-in-indiana

In Indiana, about 591,900 people receive SNAP benefits.

If you’re looking for help covering groceries, SNAP provides monthly support through the Hoosier Works EBT card. Your benefits are loaded onto the card each month and can be used at stores that accept food stamps.

After you apply, a caseworker from your local county office will typically contact you for a phone interview to verify details like your household size, income, and expenses. Once your case is approved, benefits continue as long as you remain eligible and complete any required renewals.

How to apply for food stamps in Indiana#how-to-apply-for-food-stamps-in-indiana

There are several ways to apply for food stamps in Indiana.

Apply for SNAP online

You can apply through the official state SNAP website below.

Apply for SNAP by phone or in person

If you need help applying or prefer speaking with someone, you can

• Call the Indiana SNAP hotline at 1-800-403-0864 for information and guidance on how to apply in your county (some counties may allow you to apply by phone)
• Apply in person at a county or local benefits office

SNAP application assistance is also available through your local food bank.

What you’ll need to apply for SNAP#what-youll-need-to-apply-for-snap

When you apply, you’ll usually be asked for:

• Proof of identity
• Information about everyone in your household, like birthdays and immigration status
• Income details, like pay stubs or benefit letters from SSI, SSDI, or Social Security Retirement
• Housing and utility costs

You do not need every document to start an application; you can submit missing information later.

Who is eligible for SNAP in Indiana?#who-is-eligible-for-snap-in-indiana

SNAP eligibility is mostly determined by your household size and income, but some applicants may have to meet additional requirements.

In general, you may qualify for SNAP if:

• Your household income is at or below state limits
• You meet work requirements (if it applies to you)
• You are a U.S. citizen, or you meet immigration requirements
• Your assets are at or below the limit

When are SNAP deposits issued in Indiana?#when-are-snap-deposits-issued-in-indiana

SNAP benefits are sent out once per month in Indiana, from the 5th to the 23rd. Your exact deposit date depends on the first letter of your last name. For example, if your last name’s first letter is A or B, benefits are available on the 5th of the month. If your last name’s first letter is E, F, or G, benefits are available on the 9th.

Need to find your case number? Check your SNAP approval letter sent by your county or log into your account in the FSSA Benefits Portal to find it under your case details.

If your SNAP deposit doesn't arrive when expected, review these common reasons why deposits are delayed.

How do I renew my food stamps in Indiana?#how-do-i-renew-my-food-stamps-in-indiana

SNAP benefits don’t last forever—you’ll need to renew your case (also called recertification) to keep getting them.

When to renew

Most households in Indiana must renew every 12 months. If you or someone in your household is age 60 or older or has a disability, you can renew every 36 months.

Your SNAP office should send you a letter in the mail 45 days before your certification expires. To be safe, you could also put a note in your calendar or wherever you keep important reminders.

When it’s time to recertify, you’ll need to complete an interview by the 15th of your last month of benefits.

In addition to an annual eligibility review, most households are required to submit a mid-certification review as well. This is a check-in during the sixth month of a certification period. If you don’t submit a mid-certification review, you could lose your benefits.

How to renew

You can usually renew:

• Online through the FSSA Benefits Portal
• By phone
• By mail or in person

To find out the easiest way to renew in your area, call your caseworker, local office, or the Indiana SNAP hotline: 1-800-403-0864

What can I buy with EBT in Indiana?#what-can-i-buy-with-ebt-in-indiana

Under federal SNAP rules, you can use your EBT card to buy most food items meant to be prepared and eaten at home.

While SNAP benefits are strictly for groceries and related food items, some people also receive TANF, which provides cash on an EBT card for household needs, including rent, bills, and other expenses.

SNAP‑eligible foods in Indiana include:

• Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, dried, or canned)
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products, like milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream
• Bread and cereals
• Snack foods, like granola bars, chips, and trail mix
• Seeds and plants that grow food
• Drinks like water, chocolate milk, and protein shakes
• Pantry staples like flour, olive oil, and spices
• Infant formula and baby food

What you can’t buy with SNAP in Indiana:

• Alcohol, tobacco, or vapes
• Vitamins, supplements, and medicine
• Hot food that is sold prepared and ready to eat, like rotisserie chicken or soup from a deli
• Pet food
• Cleaning supplies and household items
• Diapers and wipes
• Live animals (except certain seafood and animals slaughtered before pickup)
• Candy

Indiana has restrictions in place starting in 2026, which means there are certain things you can no longer buy with your SNAP benefits. This includes sugary drinks and candy, including fruit snacks, chocolate-covered pretzels, gum, pre-popped kettle corn, sports drinks, and bottled sweetened tea.

Where are EBT cards accepted in Indiana?#where-are-ebt-cards-accepted-in-indiana

You can use your EBT card at:

• Grocery stores
• Convenience stores
• Farmers markets
• Some online retailers

Download Propel to find nearby stores that take EBT, plus other Indiana SNAP resources

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What SNAP changes do I need to report?#what-snap-changes-do-i-need-to-report

You may be required to report changes to your SNAP case.

In Indiana, most changes are reported during your regular SNAP recertification or renewal, but some changes must be reported sooner to help avoid delays or issues with your benefits.

If you are earning income through a job, you need to complete an interim report every six months. You may have to submit pay stubs for the last 30 days, registration for new vehicles, or your most recent bank statement.

Report these changes by the 10th of the next month:

• Income/job changes: Getting a new job, losing a job, or experiencing a change in your pay rate.
• Work hours drop: Fewer hours at work, especially if your hours drop below 20 hours per week and you or someone in your household has to meet work requirements
• Lottery or gambling winnings: If any member of your household receives a single winning of $4,500 or more.

How to report changes

To report a change, you can do one of the following:

• Use the FSSA Benefits Portal
• Call your local SNAP office
• Call your caseworker

If you’re unsure whether a change needs to be reported right away, contacting your SNAP office is the safest option.

How do I report a lost or stolen EBT card in Indiana?#how-do-i-report-a-lost-or-stolen-ebt-card-in-indiana

If your EBT card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you should report it as soon as possible so you can get a new one and protect yourself from EBT theft.

Here's what to do:

• Call the EBT customer service toll free number at 877-768-5098
• Follow the prompts to cancel your card or request a replacement

Frequently asked questions#frequently-asked-questions

Can I get any discounts with my EBT card?#can-i-get-any-discounts-with-my-ebt-card

Yes, your EBT card can get you more than just groceries. With an EBT card, you can get discounted or free admission to museums, theme parks, zoos, aquariums, and more.

Through Double Up Indiana, you can get up to $20 in credit for fresh fruits and vegetables or 50% off your produce when you pay with your EBT card. The program is available at select grocery stores and farmers markets across Indiana. Just let your cashier know you want to use Double Up Indiana before you pay.

You can even qualify for low–cost internet and discounted memberships to online retailers, like Amazon or Walmart.

Can I use my SNAP benefits at restaurants in Indiana?#can-i-use-my-snap-benefits-at-restaurants-in-indiana

No, in Indiana, you generally cannot use SNAP benefits to buy hot, prepared food or to eat at restaurants.

While some states have a " Restaurant Meals Program" for the elderly, disabled, or those experiencing homelessness, Indiana does not participate in this program.

You can only use your EBT card at authorized retailers (like grocery stores and farmers markets) for food items intended to be prepared and eaten at home.

Can I get more food stamps if I’m pregnant or a new parent?#can-i-get-more-food-stamps-if-im-pregnant-or-a-new-parent

Yes, once your child is born, you should report your new family member to your county. More household Can I use my Hoosier Works EBT card in another state?

Yes, your EBT card works in all 50 states, as well as most U.S. territories, at any store displaying the Quest® symbol or EBT/SNAP/food stamps accepted sign.

Keep in mind that while your card will work nationwide, some states, like Indiana, have restrictions that may prevent you from using SNAP benefits to buy items like soda or candy at local stores.

Using your card exclusively outside of Indiana for an extended period may trigger a residency review by your SNAP agency. If you move to another state permanently, you must close your Indiana case and reapply in your new state to keep receiving benefits.

Do food stamps roll over in Indiana?#do-food-stamps-roll-over-in-indiana

Yes, any SNAP benefits you don't spend in a given month carry over to the next and your next monthly deposit will still arrive on schedule. Just keep in mind that if you don't use your card or spend any benefits for nine months (274 days), your balance will expire.

How do I apply for emergency food stamps in Indiana?#how-do-i-apply-for-emergency-food-stamps-in-indiana

When you submit a SNAP application, it's automatically reviewed for expedited service. Make sure to fill out the expedited questions on the application so you can be considered. If you qualify, you'll be scheduled for an interview the same day or the next day, and benefits will arrive within seven days of applying.

To qualify, one of the following must be true:

• Your gross monthly income is under $150 and you have $100 or less in cash or savings
• Your monthly rent or mortgage and utilities are more than your total income and liquid resources

The only thing you need to verify right away is your identity. Other documents can be submitted within 30 days.

Can undocumented immigrants get food stamps in Indiana?#can-undocumented-immigrants-get-food-stamps-in-indiana

No, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for SNAP in Indiana. Indiana has added new steps to verify immigration status during the SNAP application process. If someone's status can't be confirmed, their information may be shared with federal authorities. Senate Bill 1 also requires applicants to share the immigration status of everyone in their household.

What other benefits are available to me in Indiana?#what-other-benefits-are-available-to-me-in-indiana

Indiana's Family and Social Services Administration runs several programs for low-income households, including:

• IMPACT: Employment resources and support for SNAP and TANF recipients
• Burial Assistance: Help with burial costs for those who eligible in specific categories of Medicaid
• Indiana Refugee Services: Support for Ukrainian immigrants, Cuban and Haitian entrants, and trafficking survivors
• Medicaid: Free or low-cost healthcare or discounts for private health plans in the Health Insurance Marketplace
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): Monthly cash assistance for pregnant women and families with dependent children to help pay for basics like housing, utilities, and clothing.
• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): Extra food assistance, breastfeeding support, and nutrition or health screenings for pregnant women, new moms, and children under age five.

The best way to find out what you qualify for is to apply through your state’s benefits portal or call a local benefits office.