What happens if I miss my SNAP renewal deadline?
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In many cases, if you miss your SNAP renewal or recertification deadline, you may still be able to keep your SNAP benefits, get your case reopened, or have your SNAP benefits reinstated without starting over.
Your options depend on how much time has passed since the renewal deadline and what rules your state follows.
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What happens if I miss my SNAP renewal deadline?#what-happens-if-i-miss-my-snap-renewal-deadline
If you do not complete your SNAP renewal (sometimes called recertification or redetermination) by the deadline, your state will usually stop your benefits at the end of your current certification period. A certification period is the amount of time that you are approved to keep receiving monthly SNAP benefits.
What typically happens is that around 30 days before your SNAP certification period ends, your state will send you a notice asking you to fill out a renewal form, provide required documentation, and in many cases, complete a SNAP interview. The exact timeline varies by state.
If you miss your SNAP renewal deadline or skip any of the requirements, you may no longer be eligible for SNAP and your benefits will stop.
But if you act quickly after your certification ends, you may be able to complete a late renewal or reinstate your benefits instead of reapplying for SNAP from the beginning again.
Can I still submit my SNAP renewal after the deadline?#can-i-still-submit-my-snap-renewal-after-the-deadline
Sometimes—many states allow households to submit late SNAP renewal paperwork for a short period after benefits close. Depending on your state's rules, if you provide the required information, your SNAP office may be able to reinstate your benefits without a gap.
SNAP reinstatement is often faster than filing a brand-new application because your state can continue using information from your existing SNAP case.
The sooner you take action, the more options you will have. Call your local benefits office or caseworker as soon as you realize you forgot to renew to get started.
Will I have to submit a new SNAP application?#will-i-have-to-submit-a-new-snap-application
If too much time has passed since your EBT benefits closed, your state may require you to submit a brand new application for SNAP instead of completing a late renewal or reinstatement.
State timelines vary, but generally speaking, the longer you wait after missing your SNAP renewal deadline, the more likely it is that you will need to apply again.
What if my SNAP benefits can’t be reinstated?#what-if-my-snap-benefits-cant-be-reinstated
If too much time has passed since your SNAP case closed, your state may require you to submit a new application instead of reinstating your benefits.
In most states, you can submit a new SNAP application right away if you still need help buying food. When you reapply for SNAP, you'll typically need to all the things you did when you first applied for food stamps, including:
- Complete a new SNAP application
- Submit any required documents
- Complete a SNAP interview
- Meet current SNAP eligibility rules
If your financial situation is urgent, ask your SNAP office whether you qualify for expedited SNAP benefits, which can provide food assistance within 7 days for eligible households.
What if I need food while I wait?#what-if-i-need-food-while-i-wait
If your SNAP benefits have stopped, there may be other sources of food assistance available while you work with your SNAP office.
Depending on your situation, you may qualify for:
- Food banks
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (usually shortened to WIC)
- Free or reduced price school meals ( NLSP)
- Community meal programs
