LOOKING FOR ASSISTANCE

The Human Services Department mission is: To transform lives. Working with our partners, we design and deliver innovative, high quality health and human services that improve the security and promote independence for New Mexicans in their communities.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

To Apply, click the YesNM icon on this page.

What is the purpose of this service?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, provides financial assistance to eligible New Mexicans with low income and limited resources to purchase food products. SNAP benefits are simple to use to purchase qualifying food products at participating grocery stores.

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Who can receive SNAP food assistance?

The federal government sets the guidelines for SNAP Benefits and determines the amount of SNAP Benefits an individual may receive each month. Using these guidelines, HSD will help determine if a person qualifies for SNAP. Financial information, such as income and what you own, are considered when determining if you can receive benefits.

Basic SNAP Rules

There are some basic rules that apply to any person who may be eligible to receive SNAP benefits.

  • You must be a U.S. Citizen or a qualified lawful resident
  • You must have proper identification
  • You must list who lives and eats at the household
  • You must provide information about:
    • How much money your household receives each month. Food and Cash Assistance Guidelines can be found below.

Income Eligibility Guidelines for SNAP and Financial Assistance ( October 1,2023-September 30, 2024)

Guía Para La Elegibilidad De Ingreso Para SNAP y Asistencia Económica (1 de Octubre de 2023 al 30 de Septiembre de 2024)

    • What your household owns (property, bank accounts)
    • What your household pays for, including things like rent, utilities, and child care
  • Work program participation is required for some SNAP recipients
  • The house you live in does not count for SNAP eligibility
  • There are special rules for the cars and trucks you may own

What happens once I return my application?

You will be asked to come in for an interview in about ten days. Your assigned worker will give you a list of things you need to provide. This information will tell your worker about you and your household so he or she can determine if you qualify for SNAP benefits. Bring as much of the requested information as you can to the interview. This will help us to help you faster.

If, after your interview, you need to provide more information, your worker will make a list of things you need to do. Your worker will explain how much time you have to gather the information. If you need more time, or you can’t get the information required, tell your worker as soon as possible.

When will I know if I can get SNAP assistance?

You will be notified by letter within 30 days as to whether or not your SNAP assistance was approved. If you do not agree with the decision, you can ask for a Fair Hearing. Remember, our job is to serve you. It is our policy to ensure that everyone who applies for and qualifies for SNAP assistance receives those benefits in a timely manner and in accordance with the law.

How will I receive my monthly allotment?

Each month your SNAP assistance allotment will be deposited into an Electronic Benefits Card. You can use the EBT card to purchase food items your family needs. For information about the EBT card click HERE.

SNAP Nutrition Education

SNAP-Ed is a nutrition education program that can help you stretch your SNAP dollars. You can also learn tasty and nutritious new recipes. Free classes for adults and youth are taught at sites throughout New Mexico. To find out more, call (505) 841-2652/1-800-648-7167 or click HERE.

More Information and Resources

  • Note: The majority of people who qualify for SNAP may qualify for other services provided by HSD
  • Use the Field Office Locator to find your local Family Community Resource Center or contact the Help Line at (800) 432-6217
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