The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, formerly known as the food stamp program, subsidizes food purchases for low-income families. Each state must follow federal eligibility guidelines for SNAP benefits. Families must make less than the federal poverty guidelines after deducting certain expenses from their monthly income, and all adults living in a house who purchase and prepare food together qualify as members of the household. In South Carolina, you can apply for SNAP benefits through the Department of Social Services.
Fill Out Application
You may apply online for food stamps or print an application, fill it out and send it to your local Department of Social Services office. On your application, list the number of people in your household and the amount of income your household receives per month. Report all information as truthfully as possible; if you falsify any information, you can be denied food stamps and may be charged with food stamp fraud.
DSS Interview
After turning in your application, you must have an interview with a Department of Social Services representative. Bring proof of income, such as pay stubs or income tax forms, to your meeting. Your representative will ask you about your financial situation and living situation. Answer questions honestly so that he may determine whether you qualify for food stamps. Your representative will decide whether you are eligible within 30 days of your application.
Expedited SNAP Benefits
If you need food stamps right away, you may apply for expedited SNAP benefits. If your assets are less than the cost of your rent and utilities or you make less than $150 a month, you may qualify for expedited food stamp benefits. Apply for these benefits by filling out the section on the back off your application marked "expedited benefits." If your representative determines that you qualify for expedited benefits, you will receive them within seven days of your application.
Using Food Stamps
You get an electronic benefit transfer card when your application for food stamps is approved. Each month that you continue to qualify for food stamps, you receive your food stamps on your EBT card. You can then make food stamp purchases up to the amount of your food stamp balance using your card. You cannot use food stamps to purchase alcohol, tobacco or premade foods.
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