To qualify for SNAP in New York State, individuals must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or a qualified immigrant
• Have a Social Security number
• Meet income guidelines, which vary depending on household composition and disability status
• Be disabled, which includes receiving benefits from programs such as SSI, SSDI, or other state/federal disability programs

Households with a disabled member benefit from expanded income limits:

• Gross income limit: 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
  • Example: For a 1-person household, the limit is $2,510/month.
• Net income limit: 100% of the FPL (after deductions).
  • Example: For a 1-person household, the limit is $1,255/month.
• Resource test: Resources do not impact SNAP eligibility in NYS

CCO Members may deduct:

• Out-of-pocket medical expenses over $35/month.
• Shelter costs (rent, utilities) exceeding 50% of income after other deductions.
• Standard deduction (varies by household size). These deductions help reduce net income, increasing the likelihood of eligibility and benefit amount.

SNAP eligibility and budgeting depend heavily on who lives together and who purchases and prepares meals together:

• People under age 22 living with their parents must be included in the parents’ SNAP household, regardless of disability status.
• Once an individual turns 22, they may apply separately, even if they are still living at home, because they are no longer considered a mandatory household member under SNAP rules.
• This is a critical milestone for our members seeking financial independence.

When budgeting for SNAP:

• Disability income (e.g., SSI, SSDI) is counted as unearned income
• Resources are excluded
• Authorized Representatives (ARs) can assist with applications and benefit management for individuals unable to do so themselves
• SNAP Authorized Rep Form

How to Apply

• Applications can be submitted through the local Department of Social Services (DSS)
• Forms:
  • LDSS-4826 SNAP Application or Recertification
  • LDSS-4826A: Application Instructions
• Online resources and tutorials are available via OTDA’s SNAP page

Recertification

• Typically required annually.
• May be extended to 24 months for disabled individuals with no earned income.
• Telephone interviews are standard for recertification.

Important Age-Related Rule: Applying at Age 22

One of the most important aspects for our members is the age 22 rule:

• Before age 22: If living with parents, the individual must be included in the parents’ SNAP household.
• At age 22: The individual may apply independently, even if still living at home.
  • This means parental income is no longer counted, which can significantly increase eligibility and benefit amount.

Household vs. Individual SNAP Cases in Certified Residences

SNAP benefits are typically determined based on household composition, which includes individuals who:

• Live together
• Purchase and prepare meals together

However, in OPWDD-certified group homes:

• Residents do not usually purchase and prepare meals together in the traditional sense.
• Therefore, each resident is generally considered a separate SNAP household, even though they live in the same physical residence.

This means:

• Each individual applies separately for SNAP.
• They are assessed based on their own income and eligibility.
• They may have an Authorized Representative (AR)—often the agency or a designated staff member—who manages the SNAP benefits on their behalf using an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card.

• Certification periods are typically 12 months, but may be extended to 24 months for people with disabilities with no earned income.
• Changes in income, address, or resources must be reported within 10 days after the end of the month in which the change occurred.

• SNAP benefits are issued through the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system.
• The EBT card (also called a Common Benefit Identification Card or CBIC) is used for Medicaid, SNAP, and Cash Assistance.
• Once approved for SNAP, benefits are automatically loaded onto the card monthly.

Using the EBT Card Like a Debit Card

• The card works just like a debit card at grocery stores, supermarkets, farmers’ markets, and some online retailers (e.g., Amazon, Walmart).
• At checkout:
  1. Swipe the card.
  2. Enter your PIN.
  3. The amount is deducted from your SNAP balance.
• You can split payments between SNAP and other methods if needed.

Creating and Managing Your PIN

• You must activate your card by calling 1-888-328-6399 and selecting a 4-digit PIN.
• Your PIN is your electronic signature—keep it confidential.
• You can change your PIN anytime via phone or at most local social services offices.
• If entered incorrectly four times, the card locks until the next day.

1. Alcoholic beverages
   • Beer, wine, liquor
2. Tobacco products
   • Cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco
3. Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
   • Anything with a Supplement Facts label
4. Hot or prepared foods
   • Foods meant for immediate consumption (e.g., hot deli meals)
5. Non-food items, including:
   • Pet food
   • Cleaning supplies
   • Paper products (toilet paper, paper towels)
   • Hygiene items (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant)
   • Cosmetics
   • Diapers and baby wipes