Maine SNAP
Maine SNAP aims to help low-income Maine residents buy an adequate supply of nutritious food. The program serves families with children, the elderly, the disabled, the homeless as well as those who are already on welfare.
Benefits are issued as electronic benefits and you will be given a plastic card called the “Pine Tree Card” to which benefits are issued and accessed electronically.
SNAP benefits can be used at Amazon, BJ's Wholesale Club, Hannaford to go, Shaw's, and Walmart. Amazon waives delivery fees on purchases of $35 or more.
FAQ #
Do I qualify for Maine food stamps? #
In order to qualify for food stamps in Maine, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a resident of Maine
- Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
- Show proof of identity
- Meet certain income guidelines
With certain exceptions, able-bodied adults ages 16—59 are required, as a condition of eligibility, to register for work, accept an offer of suitable work, and take part in an employment and training program to which they are referred to.
To register for work, you will have to sign up for a Maine JobLink account with the Maine Department of Labor.
How much are SNAP benefits in Maine? #
SNAP benefits may vary from family to family depending on a variety of factors, including the household size, income and allowable deductions.
For example, a family of three with no income may receive up to $740 in monthly benefits or $440 each month if the family has a net monthly income of $1,000.
- Family Size SNAP Benefits
- 1 $281
- 2 $516
- 3 $740
- 4 $939
- 5 $1,116
- 6 $1,339
- 7 $1,480
- 8 $1,691
The actual SNAP benefit amounts are based on a household's net income with a general rule that an increase of $100 in net income results in a reduction of $30 in benefits.
What is the income limit for SNAP in Maine? #
Most families in Maine with gross income up to 185% of the federal poverty level qualify for food assistance. There is no asset limit in Maine.
| Family Size | 100% | 185% |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,133 | $2,095 |
| 2 | $1,526 | $2,823 |
| 3 | $1,919 | $3,551 |
| 4 | $2,313 | $4,278 |
| 5 | $2,928 | $5,418 |
| 6 | $2,706 | $5,006 |
| 7 | $3,099 | $5,733 |
| 8 | $3,493 | $6,461 |
Gross income limit applies to most households, except those in which at least one person is 60 years of age or older, or receives disability income.
How do I apply for food stamps in Maine? #
To receive food stamps in Maine, go to My Maine Connection and submit your application online. Once your application is received, a DHHS caseworker will call you to review your eligibility.
If you need immediate food assistance, contact 211 for information on food pantries in your area.
Can I use my Maine EBT card in another state? #
Yes. SNAP benefits are interoperable through the use of your EBT card which means you can use your Maine EBT out of state wherever EBT is accepted anywhere in the United States including the District of Columbia, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands.