Households whose gross monthly income is within 130% of the federal poverty level, whose monthly income after all allowable expenses(net adjusted income) is within 100% of the poverty level may qualify for benefits. Income limits do not apply if everyone in the household receives income from Supplemental Security Income(SSI) or Ohio Works First(OWF)

Allowable expenses are: medical expenses for individuals 60 years of age or older or who are considered disabled; dependent care costs; legally obligated child support; shelter costs(rent, mortgage, property taxes, gas, electric).

At the time of application some items such as income and expenses will require verification. If the household has little or no income, the household may be eligible to receive benefits the day they complete their interview. Normal processing requires that benefits be issued or the application denied within 30 days after the date the application is filed.

Depending on your household’s situation, you will have a review(recertification) of your eligibility for SNAP benefits at least once every 12 months.

In addition, Interim Reports are required.  A form will be sent in the middle of the certification period, which is required to be filled out and returned for SNAP benefits to continue.  This is to report any changes regarding household size, income, address, child support, and/or lottery or gambling winnings.  The form will also need completed and returned stating there are no changes.  

SNAP benefits can be used to buy food or food products intended for human consumption except alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and hot food and or hot food products prepared to be eaten immediately. You can not: sell or trade food assistance program benefits; buy non-food items; use food assistance program benefits to buy food for someone who is not a member of the household.

• Alcoholic beverages, tobacco and cigarettes, vitamins and medicines.
• Pet foods.
• Paper products.
• Household supplies.
• Any other non-food items.