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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly referred to as food stamps, supports families in purchasing food and essential groceries. SNAP benefits, often issued urgently within a day or two under certain conditions, are accessed using the Lone Star Card.
This card functions similarly to a credit card and is accepted at numerous grocery stores, convenience stores, and farmers' markets. Purchases allowed with SNAP include food items and seeds for growing food.
At participating farmers' markets, items may be purchased at a discount of 50 percent using the Lone Star Card. However, SNAP funds cannot be used to buy alcoholic beverages, tobacco, non-food items, vitamins, medications, food that is consumed on the premises, or hot foods.
Who is eligible for Texas SNAP Benefits?
Eligibility for SNAP is primarily for individuals and families with low income and limited resources, including legal immigrant children under 18, individuals receiving disability benefits, and veterans and their dependents.
Households that include members who are not eligible for SNAP can still apply for those who qualify. The maximum resource limit for eligibility is $5,000, not counting the home and the first $15,000 of a vehicle's value. This includes cash and bank account balances. Able-bodied adults without dependents, working fewer than 20 hours per week and not participating in a work program, may receive SNAP for a three-month period every three years.
Non-citizens or those who aren't legal permanent residents must wait five years or earn 40 work credits to qualify for SNAP, though their children might be eligible without the parents needing to prove residency.
Prospective applicants can check their eligibility online at www.YourTexasBenefits.com or contact the HHSC at 888-834-7406 (TDD 888-425-6889). The application process generally includes a phone interview post-submission, and benefits typically need renewal every six months.
Most states have a standard 30-day period to approve applications, though expedited services can shorten this to about seven days for those in urgent need of food support.
How to get emergency food stamps in Texas?
Emergency SNAP benefits can be available within one to two days to provide prompt food assistance.
These benefits are accessed and utilized via the Lone Star Card.