The motto may be the “Show Me State,” but hunger is an invisible struggle for too many Missouri families. Nearly 650,000 residents rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help feed their households each month.
But how exactly do you apply for and use SNAP food stamp benefits in Missouri?
Today you’ll learn the eligibility rules, the application process, and how to use your EBT card for groceries. We’ll also discuss additional benefits to your SNAP EBT card and additional resources to ensure you and your family have enough food to eat.
Read on to learn how EBT in Missouri can assist you during tough times.
Apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits in Missouri
SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps) provides monthly grocery benefits loaded onto an EBT card. Eligibility is based on your household size, income, resources, and expenses. Here are the key criteria:
- Household Size – Income limits rise as your household grows. A 1-person home can make up to $1,473/month. A 4-person home can make up to $3,007/month.
- Gross Monthly Income – Must be under the threshold for your family size. Some exceptions exist.
- Missouri Residency – You must live in the state to qualify for Missouri SNAP.
The fastest way to apply is through the myDSS online portal. You can also print and submit an application to your local Family Support Division (FSD) office. Have ready:
- Household details like identity, income, resources
- Phone interview
- Proof documents as requested
Once approved, your SNAP amount depends on your specific circumstances. But the average recipient in Missouri receives around $120 per month in food assistance. This can help stretch your grocery dollars!
Use Your EBT Card at Grocery Stores and Markets in Missouri
Your SNAP benefits will be loaded onto a Missouri EBT card monthly. You can swipe your EBT card at checkout to buy eligible foods at:
- Grocery stores, supermarkets, local markets – Look for the SNAP/ EBT logo
- Farmer’s markets across Missouri when purchasing produce
- Select online grocers that accept EBT for order pickup
SNAP covers staple foods like bread, fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, cereal and more. It cannot be used for prepared meals, alcohol, tobacco, medicine, paper products, or pet food. Check your receipt to ensure that only approved purchases are charged to your EBT card.
Manage Your Missouri SNAP EBT Account
To get the most out of your benefits, stay on top of your EBT account tasks:
- Check your balance – Call or log in to check your remaining funds each month.
- Report changes – Inform FSD if your household, income, or address changes, as this could impact eligibility.
- Complete renewals – Respond to all SNAP renewal requests on time to avoid benefits lapsing.
- Replace lost cards – Contact the EBT vendor to report lost or stolen cards and request a free replacement.
- Set up direct deposit – Have your monthly deposit sent right to your bank account for easier access.
- Access job training – Missouri offers free SkillUP employment training to SNAP recipients.
Proper EBT account management ensures uninterrupted grocery assistance.
Additional Federal Government Assistance Programs That Provide Cash Assistance
Along with SNAP benefits, some Missouri residents may qualify for federal government programs that provide monthly cash assistance that can also be used for food:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Provides cash assistance for older adults or people with disabilities with limited income/resources. Recipients can use this money to purchase groceries.
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Cash assistance program for very low-income families with children under 18. Funds can be used to buy food and other essentials.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) – For people with disabilities who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Income can be allocated towards food costs.
- Medicare – Some Medicare Advantage plans offer benefits that help recipients purchase food or cover rent and utilities. These plans are available to seniors 65+ and those on their 25th month of SSDI.
- Veterans Pension Benefits – Tax-free monetary benefits paid to low-income veterans who are older or have disabilities.
- Federal Housing Assistance – Subsidized housing programs like Section 8 which lower monthly rents, freeing up more funds for groceries.
If you qualify for SNAP already, be sure to explore eligibility for these supplemental programs that provide monthly income you can use for your grocery budget. Every bit helps when trying to avoid hunger. Reach out to local social services agencies for assistance applying.
Use SNAP Benefits to Qualify for Lifeline & ACP for Low-Income Missourians
Do you get SNAP benefits in Missouri? If so, you may also qualify for Lifeline, which offers discounted wireless service for low-income residents. At EASY Wireless, bundling SNAP and Lifeline together unlocks even more savings. Just mention your SNAP when enrolling to access:
- FREE Smartphone*
- FREE Unlimited Talk, Text & Data
- Reliable nationwide coverage
- FREE SIM Car Kits
- Hundreds in Annual Cell Phone Bill Savings!
*Free smartphone available to those who apply at one of our retail stores or tent locations.
With free cell service from EASY, you can devote more of your monthly budget to groceries and essentials. Contact us today to learn more and apply!
Start Saving Today!
Start Saving Today!
EASY Wireless Rewards Program
Want to get an additional $95 in credit to use for an upgraded phone or accessories?
EASY Wireless offers an exclusive rewards program when you enroll in Lifeline and ACP with us. Here’s how it works:
- 30 Days – Get a $10 account credit
- 90 Days – Receive another $10 account credit
- 180 Days – Earn a $25 account credit
- 1 Year – Qualify for a $50 account credit
That’s up to $95 in EASY rewards you can use towards:
- Smartphone upgrades
- Headphones, speakers, earbuds
- Cases, chargers, cables
The more months you’re enrolled with EASY Wireless, the more rewards you earn.
Non-Governmental Food Assistance in Missouri
With the summer pandemic EBT benefits being cut by many states, finding alternatives is critical for SNAP participants.
In addition to SNAP and other government programs, there are nonprofit and community resources that provide food assistance across Missouri:
- Food pantries – Hundreds of local food pantries operate throughout the state, providing free meals and groceries to those in need. Search online to find pantries near you.
- Local food banks – Major food banks like the St. Louis Area Foodbank and Harvesters collect donations and distribute food to local pantries and soup kitchens. Call to find partners near you.
- School meal programs – Many schools provide free breakfast and lunch for low-income students, as well as backpacks with food to take home. Check with your local district. Many schools will provide subsidized school lunches. Some may also offer summer food benefits for eligible students.
- Angel food ministries – Faith-based groups organize community meals, food parcels, and grocery deliveries. Find these programs through churches.
- Meals on Wheels – Non-profit meal delivery for seniors and people with disabilities. Receive healthy meals delivered to your home.
- Community fridges/pantries – Neighborhood-run programs that stock free fresh foods, bread, and groceries in public refrigerators.
Turn to these non-profits for additional support so you and your family don’t go hungry. They can help fill the gaps when the government’s extra benefits run low each month.
Use SNAP and the Additional Resources to Avoid Hunger in Missouri
No one wants to face food insecurity, but SNAP exists to help Missouri families and individuals make ends meet during difficult times. I encourage you to:
- Apply for SNAP EBT if you qualify
- Spend benefits responsibly at grocery stores
- Bundle Lifeline and ACP benefits for maximum cell phone service and data savings
Adequate nutrition is key for health. Let SNAP lend a hand so you can afford balanced meals. Reach out to the Department of Social Services today to take the first step!
