The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps many Oklahoma families put food on the table when money gets tight. The program provides monthly benefits through an EBT card that participants can use to buy eligible food at authorized retailers.
This guide covers everything you need to know about SNAP in Oklahoma, including eligibility requirements, how to apply, and where and how to use your benefits.
What is SNAP?
SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, is a federal nutrition assistance program overseen by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It gives low-income individuals and families extra money each month specifically for buying groceries.
In Oklahoma, SNAP is administered by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS). Benefits are deposited monthly on an EBT card that works like a debit card at participating grocery stores.
SNAP aims to low income families help households increase their food purchasing power so they can buy nutritious food and can afford nutritious meals.
SNAP Eligibility in Oklahoma
To qualify for SNAP food benefits in Oklahoma, your household must meet certain income limits as well as other eligibility criteria. Requirements include:
U.S. citizenship or legal permanent resident status
- Oklahoma residency
- Income below certain limits based on household size
- Net monthly income under 100% of the federal poverty level
- Assets under $2,250 (or $3,500 if elderly/disabled member)
- Compliance with work requirements for able-bodied adults 18-50
Gross monthly income limits to get SNAP in Oklahoma are 130% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Note that elderly (over 60), disabled, and some other applicants only need to meet the net income test.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Oklahoma
You have two options to apply for SNAP food assistance in Oklahoma:
Online – You can submit a SNAP application electronically through the OKDHSLive portal. Create an account or log in to complete the online application.
In-Person at a Local Office – Print and fill out a Request for Benefits form (OKDHS Form 08MP001E). Submit it at your local OKDHS office.
When applying, be prepared to provide:
- Identification documents
- Proof of income
- Social Security number for all household members
- Documentation of expenses like shelter costs
You’ll also need to complete a phone or in-person interview. If approved, benefits can be issued within 7 days if you qualify for expedited SNAP.
Recertify every 12 months to continue receiving Oklahoma SNAP benefits.
Using Your Oklahoma SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer Card
When approved for SNAP, you’ll receive an electronic benefits transfer card (EBT card) loaded with your monthly food benefit amount. Here are some tips for using it:
- Activate your EBT card by calling the number or going online as instructed.
- Choose a 4-digit PIN to use when making SNAP purchases. Keep this secure.
- SNAP benefits are deposited monthly around the 5th-10th, based on your assigned date.
- Your EBT card acts as a debit card to redeem benefits at grocery stores.
- Select “EBT” and enter your PIN at checkout. Your purchase total is deducted from your SNAP balance.
- Save your receipt to track your remaining balance for the month.
- Call 800-328-6551 or check your balance online through Connect EBT.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits in Oklahoma?
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase a wide variety of nutritious foods, such as:
- Breads, cereals, pasta, and grains
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meats, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks
- Seeds and plants to grow food at home
Not Allowed – SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicines, hot foods, pet food, or non-food items.
Where to Use SNAP/ EBT Benefits in Oklahoma
Most major supermarkets and grocery stores accept SNAP payments in Oklahoma. Look for signs indicating EBT cards are accepted.
Some convenience stores and smaller retailers may be authorized SNAP retailers as well. You can use the SNAP Retailer Locator to find participating stores.
Here are some of the major chains and retailers that accept EBT SNAP cards in Oklahoma:
- Albertsons
- Aldi
- Braum’s
- Buy For Less
- Crest
- CVS Pharmacy
- Dollar General
- Homeland
- Reasor’s
- Sam’s Club
- Target
- United Supermarkets
- Walmart Supercenter
- Whole Foods
Many local farmers markets and farm stands in Oklahoma now accept SNAP benefits too, allowing you to purchase fresh, local produce with your Access Oklahoma card..
You can also shop for SNAP-eligible groceries online at participating retailers like Amazon, Walmart Grocery, ALDI, and others. Your EBT card just needs to be registered with their site to complete deliveries.
*Food benefit recipients may not use their EBT card to pay for the delivery fees associated with online orders.
Get Additional Food Benefits Through SNAP Matching Programs
Some grocery chains, markets, and nonprofits in Oklahoma offer SNAP matching programs that let you double your food budget.
For example, Double Up Oklahoma matches up to $20 per day in SNAP spending on fruits and vegetables.
Taking advantage of these types of programs really stretches your SNAP benefits further so you can buy even more healthy food!
Discover Healthy, Affordable Recipes Using SNAP Foods
One great way to get the most nutrition out of your SNAP budget is to find recipes that use ingredients you can purchase with your benefits.
Here are some tips and resources for locating delicious, EBT-eligible recipes:
- Browse the SNAP-Ed Connection Recipe Finder that pulls options featuring SNAP staple foods. You can filter by ingredients you have on hand.
- Check out the EBT-approved recipe guides from FoodHero.org, categorized by meal types like breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, etc.
- Visit ThriftBooks.com for cookbooks created specifically for cooking on a tight food stamps budget. Many SNAP recipes maximize inexpensive pantry basics.
- Follow blogs and social media accounts dedicated to cheap meal prep and nutrition education. Many recipes are SNAP-friendly.
- Use recipe sites to search recipes by ingredients. Enter the affordable foods you have in your kitchen to find great ideas.
- Try lesser-used cuts of meat, homemade beans, eggs, root vegetables, grains, and seasonal produce to stretch your budget.
- Ask for recipe ideas in SNAP/EBT community groups and forums. Fellow participants share their go-to meal staples.
Finding creative ways to cook nutritious and filling meals on a limited food budget takes dedication. But communities like SNAP are great for exchanging budget-friendly recipes and cooking advice.
Use the Providers EBT App to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
The Providers EBT app is a useful smartphone app created specifically for SNAP recipients. It allows you to securely view your SNAP account balance, track purchases, locate EBT-approved retailers, and receive alerts about your benefits.
The Providers EBT app connects to your SNAP EBT account. Key features include:
- Check your SNAP balance and view recent transactions
- Receive notifications when new benefits are deposited
- Search for SNAP-authorized grocery stores and farmers markets
- View your state’s WIC-approved foods list
- Scan barcodes to check EBT eligibility
- Access recipe ideas for SNAP budget meals
- Get budgeting tips and promotional offers
The app is free to download on iPhone and Android devices. Just ensure your device is protected with a password or fingerprint ID for account security.
Enjoy Museums at Discounted Rates with Museums4All
In addition to groceries, your SNAP EBT card may also help you access discounted admission at participating museums through a program called Museums4All.
Museums4All is an initiative that allows EBT cardholders to visit museums for a reduced entrance fee. Often this means getting in for just $3 per person, instead of full price. Sometimes these locations are even free!
Over 300 museums across the U.S. participate in Museums4All. To receive the discount, simply present your SNAP EBT card at the admissions desk.
Some of the Oklahoma museums participating in Museums4All include:
- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (Oklahoma City)
- Gilcrease Museum (Tulsa)
- Cherokee Heritage Center (Park Hill)
- Oklahoma City Zoo
- Sam Noble Museum of Natural History (Norman)
Check the full Museums4All directory to search for participating museums near you by state.
Lifeline & ACP Benefits for SNAP Recipients
If your household qualifies for SNAP food benefits in Oklahoma, you are also eligible for valuable Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program discounts on phone and internet service through federal assistance programs.
EASY Wireless provides access to the following completely FREE wireless plan to customers who qualify for Lifeline and ACP in Oklahoma:
- FREE Unlimited Data
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- FREE Smartphone
- FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
- Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
How to Apply for EASY Wireless Benefits:
To get started with EASY Wireless, apply online by clicking below:
Start Saving Today!
Or you can visit one of the EASY Wireless retail stores, where a customer service agent will assist you with applying for the benefits.
With the average cell phone bill costing $50 per month or nearly $600 per year, signing up for FREE cell phone service from EASY Wireless will put a lot of money back into your family’s monthly food budget.
