Food is one of the most basic necessities of life, but not everyone can afford to put nutritious meals on their tables. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, is a federal program that provides assistance to low-income families to help them buy food. SNAP benefits can go a long way in improving the nutritional intake of families and alleviating food insecurity. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the benefits of SNAP for families in New Hampshire and provide guidance on how to have eligible individuals apply for this program.
Benefits of SNAP for Families in New Hampshire
Improved Nutrition
SNAP benefits can help families buy healthy food options, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy. These foods are often expensive, making it difficult for low-income families to access them. With the SNAP program, families can increase their intake of nutrient-dense foods, leading to improved health outcomes and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Reduced Food Insecurity
Food insecurity is a prevalent issue in the United States, with many families struggling to put enough food on the table. SNAP benefits can help alleviate food insecurity by providing families with a monthly allowance to purchase food. This program of nutrition benefits can be especially helpful during times of financial hardship, such as job loss or medical emergencies.
Stimulating Local Economies
SNAP benefits are issued on Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards that work like debit cards. These benefits can be used to purchase food at approved retailers, including grocery stores, farmers markets, and small food stores. By using their benefits at local businesses, SNAP participants can help stimulate the local economy and support small businesses in their community.
Boosting Children’s Health and Academic Performance
Children from low-income families often experience food insecurity and inadequate nutrition, which can negatively impact their health and academic performance. SNAP benefits can help ensure that children have access to nutritious food, improving their overall health and well-being. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that children who receive SNAP benefits have better academic performance than those who do not receive benefits.
How to Apply for SNAP in New Hampshire
Applying for SNAP benefits in New Hampshire is a straightforward process. Here’s what you need to do:
Check Your Eligibility
To qualify for SNAP benefits, your household must meet certain income and asset requirements. In New Hampshire, households with gross monthly incomes at or below 185% of the federal poverty level may be eligible for benefits. You can check your eligibility and estimate your benefit amount using the online pre-screening tool available on the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website.
Gather Required Documentation
Before applying for a SNAP benefit, you’ll need to gather the required documentation. This may include proof of identity, income, and expenses. You may also need to provide documentation of your citizenship or immigration status.
Submit Your Application
You can submit your SNAP application online, by mail, fax, or in person. To apply online, visit the NH EASY website and create an account. You’ll need to provide personal information, income, and expenses, as well as answer questions about your household size gross income, assets and insurance status.
Complete an Interview
After submitting your application, you’ll be contacted by a DHHS representative to schedule an interview. The interview can be conducted over the phone or in person. During the interview, you’ll be asked questions about your income, expenses, and household composition. You may also be asked to provide additional documentation.
Receive a Decision
After completing the interview and providing all required documentation, you’ll receive a decision on your application within 30 days. If approved, you’ll begin receiving benefits on your EBT card. If denied, you’ll receive a notice explaining the reason for the denial and information on how to appeal the decision.
Renew Your Benefits
SNAP benefits are not permanent and must be renewed periodically. In New Hampshire, SNAP benefits are recertified every 6 months. You’ll receive a notice in the mail when it’s time to recertify food stamp benefits, and you’ll need to provide updated information about your income, expenses, and household composition. Failure to recertify on time can result in a loss of benefits.
Get Even More FREE Benefits with Your SNAP EBT Card
Once you have your SNAP EBT card there are additional savings you are entitled.
Museums for All Program
The Museums for All program is a national initiative designed to offer access to museums and other cultural institutions for individuals and families receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Your SNAP card gets you and your family free or reduced admission at many locations throughout New Hampshire such as:
- SEE Science Center in Manchester
- Children’s Museum of New Hampshire in Dover
- Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in Holderness
- and many more.
A complete list is available on the Museums for All website.
Free Cell Phone and Internet Service
SNAP EBT beneficiaries can get more than just food and free museum visits.
You are also eligible with SNSP to receive free cell phone and data service through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) with select wireless carriers like EASY Wireless.
When you enroll and qualify for ACP with EASY Wireless you’ll receive:
EASY Wireless Free Unlimited Plan
- FREE UNLIMITED Data
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
- FREE SIM Card Kit & Activation
All SIM Card Kits are drop shipped to your door free of charge
Start saving hundreds of dollars a year with FREE cell phone and data service through your SNAP EBT benefits. Signing up and take only a few minutes for ACP service with EASY Wireless. Just enter your email and zip code in the box below and click “Enroll Now” to get started.
Start Saving Today!
Start Saving Today!
SNAP benefits can make a significant difference in the lives of low-income families in New Hampshire. With improved access to healthy food options, reduced food insecurity, and the ability to stimulate local economies, SNAP benefits can help families improve their overall health and well-being. Applying for SNAP benefits online is a simple process, and the program is designed to be a temporary form of assistance for families in need. If you or someone you know is struggling to put food on the table, consider applying for SNAP benefits to help alleviate some of the financial and emotion burdens faced each day.
