The Food Supplement Program 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, and can be used to withdraw cash or make purchases.
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
- Have less than $2,000 in resources
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.
What is P-EBT in Maine? #
__
The Maine Department of Education provides a Pandemic-EBT (P-EBT) benefit meant to replace the value of school breakfast and lunch while schools are closed.
Eligibility is based upon enrollment in the free or reduced lunch program. If you are currently on SNAP or TANF and have a child aged 5—18 in your household, you will receive a P-EBT benefit.
If your child or children did not receive free or reduced lunch, you can apply through your local school district or call 1-855-797-4357 to speak with an eligibility specialist.
What is the income limit for food stamps in Maine? #
__
Most families with gross income up to 130% of the federal poverty level, about $2,590 a month for a family of three, qualify for food assistance.
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 you use Maine EBT out of 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.