Step 1 (optional): Before you apply for SNAP, click here to find out if you are eligible to receive food stamps in Alaska.
Step 2: Apply by printing out an application here.
Step 3: Send your completed application to your Public Assistance office. To find a location near you, click here.
Applying For Alaska Food Stamps
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was made to provide assistance to families who don’t have the funds to spend on their groceries each month. SNAP provided aid to over 40 million Americans in 2010.
Anyone inside of the United States can apply for food stamps, regardless of their background, race, sex, or faith. The average individual received $101/month from the SNAP program in 2008, making it possible for them to pay for bread, milk products, meat, produce, fresh fruits and even garden seeds.
Alaska Benefit Requirements
Of course, if you want to receive benefits from SNAP, there’s a list of requirements that a person must satisfy. During the application process, and interview, you will need to have certain documents on hand.
For most folks under the age of 60, you cannot possess greater than $2,000 in assets. However, if you or some other person in your home is 60 or over, that limit increases to $3,000. Assistance from TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program), or SSI (Supplemental Security Income), do not be counted as assets when applying for food stamps. Resources that will count towards your total assets include cash, money saved in a bank account and in some cases a vehicle.
There is also an income limit, that depends on the number of people dwelling in your home at the time that you apply for food stamps.
The total of your expenses will also be factored in. The amount you spend for child or elderly care, rent or mortgage and utilities will all be considered. Some medical related expenses will also be considered under certain circumstances.
Alaska Work Regulations
If you are able to work, you may be required to actively find and accept jobs. There may be some exemptions to this rule. For more information, speak with your local Public Assistance office.
The Alaska Quest Card
An EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card is given to those which are found eligible and pass the application and interview process. An EBT card is very similar to a debit card and may be used at most grocery stores, and even a number of qualifying convenience stores or farmers markets.
With the Alaska Quest EBT card, you can buy most food or drinks found in grocery stores. Things that are not allowed include hot food such as corn dogs that are ready to eat. Drinks must have a nutritional label and not be considered a supplement. No alcohol is permitted or tobacco.
Check Your Alaska EBT Balance
It is important for cardholders to stay up to date on how many food stamps they have remaining. This is important because many families rely solely on SNAP to cover their grocery bill knowing your balance can keep you from running out before the month is over. Keeping your budget in mind can also help you figure out what foods you should buy each week. To find out your Alaska Quest EBT balance, click here.