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Food Stamps

Austin Food Stamp Program

The SNAP plan for Texas was previously simply known as the food stamp program. It is responsible for ensuring that low income families are able to have access to healthy food throughout the month without having to sacrifice paying bills or their rent to make ends meet. In this state, SNAP benefits are awarded to people individually or family, depending on the situation. The main focus is the ratio of the income amount to the household size. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission ensures that the SNAP plan is being used correctly and sends out renewal notices to families using SNAP before the benefit period ends. The benefit periods last for around six months but can also be shorter, such as one month. It can also be longer, such as a period of three years. It all depends on the situation of the individual. The amount of benefits that you receive can depend on additional factors such as if you are single, if you are participating in a job training program, if you are a family of four, or if you are a family with a parent that is unemployed. More information can be learned about this program by visiting the HHSC website.

Everyone is recommended to use a screening tool to determine if they are going to truly be eligible for aid before they apply. The tool will help to explain the application process to you and will give you more solid answers about your household size and circumstances. You can apply for SNAP by using the YourTexasBenefits site. Clicking on “Apply for Benefits” will start the initial process. After you have completed the basic information, you can send it electronically. When the application has been processed, you will attend an interview for more information about whether or not you will be approved.

In order to receive benefits, individuals have to be considered to be eligible. There is a pre-screening tool which can be used to help people determine if they meet the general requirements. Generally, only people who are in truly low financial situations are going to be able to get aid through the program. However, the websites clearly outline what requirements must be met in order to be eligible and the determination varies depending on your own personal situation. If you have a family of 8, you may be able to receive up to $1202 in benefits on a monthly basis. When you are approved, you will be able to receive your benefits on an EBT card. In most cases, you will be able to use this card at any of the stores that supports SNAP within your area. There are some limitations to what you can purchase, however. In example, hot meals that are for immediate consumption are prohibited.

For more information about accessing SNAP benefits in Austin, Texas you can use the following contact information.

Helpful Links and Phone Numbers

HHSC Webpage – http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/help/food/foodstamps/index.html Benefits Estimator – http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/programs/FoodStamps/estimator/index.html Your Texas Benefits – https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/ssp/SSPHome/ssphome.jsp Food Stamp Program Website – http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/help/food/foodstamps/index.html Screening Tool – http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/programs/FoodStamps/estimator/index.html