To apply for food stamps (SNAP benefits) in Texas, you can do so online, by mail, or in person.
Online:
Go to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) website.
Click on the “Apply for Benefits” tab.
Select “Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)” from the list of benefits.
Follow the instructions on the website to complete your application.
By mail:
Download the SNAP application from the HHSC website.
Complete the application and mail it to your local HHSC office.
Be sure to include all of the required documentation with your application.
In person:
Go to your local HHSC office.
Ask for an application for SNAP benefits.
Complete the application and submit it to the office staff.
Be sure to bring all of the required documentation with you.
Required documentation:
Proof of identity (driver’s license, state ID card, passport, etc.)
Proof of citizenship or legal residency (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, etc.)
Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, child support payments, etc.)
Proof of expenses (rent, mortgage payments, utility bills, etc.)
Proof of household size (birth certificates, marriage licenses, etc.)
Processing time:
The processing time for SNAP benefits applications varies from state to state. In Texas, it typically takes 30-60 days to process an application.
Benefits:
The amount of SNAP benefits you receive will depend on your household size and income. In Texas, the maximum monthly benefit for a family of four is $821.
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers. They cannot be used to purchase alcohol, tobacco, or non-food items.
For more information:
You can find more information about SNAP benefits on the HHSC website. You can also call the HHSC SNAP hotline at 1-877-541-7905.