Emergency SNAP within 7 days, and what happens after

The usual timeline

In most cases, your state sends a notice saying whether you qualify within 30 days of the day you applied. The notice also says how much you'll get and how long your approval lasts.

Emergency SNAP

Some households can get benefits within 7 days. This is called expedited SNAP. You may qualify if either of these is true:

• Your household has less than $150 in gross income this month and $100 or less in cash and bank accounts
• Your household's gross income plus cash and bank money for the month is less than what you pay each month for rent or mortgage plus utilities

Migrant and seasonal farmworker households with very little money can also qualify. States screen every application for this, but tell the office right away if you have little or no money for food, and ask about it at your interview. With expedited SNAP, you can usually send some of your proof after the first benefits arrive.

Your EBT card

If you're approved, your state mails your EBT card or has you pick it up, with instructions for setting a PIN. Your benefits are added on the same day each month. Many states also have an app or website to check your balance, and your balance prints on your store receipt.

Your certification period

Your approval notice says how long your approval lasts, called your certification period. It's usually up to 12 months, and up to 24 months for households where every adult is 60 or older or disabled. Before it ends, you'll need to renew. Lesson 13 covers renewals and the changes you have to report in between.

If you're denied

The notice has to say why. You can ask for a fair hearing within 90 days, and you can always reapply. Lesson 14 explains both.

Sources: SNAP eligibility, USDA; SNAP state directory of resources, USDA.