Ohio SNAP

Ohio’s Food Assistance Program (FAP) — known nationally as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), helps eligible low-income families in Ohio stretch their food budgets and buy healthy food.

Food assistance benefits are distributed electronically through the “Ohio Direction Card” that can be spent like cash in most food stores or some farmers markets wherever EBT is accepted.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) is a yet another nutrition assistance program that provides low-income, elderly individuals with a monthly box of food. CSFP is available in all of Ohio’s 88 counties.

FAQ #


Who is eligible for SNAP in Ohio? #

In order to qualify for Ohio FAP, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  1. Live in Ohio
  2. Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
  3. Show proof of identity
  4. Meet certain income guidelines

As a condition of eligibility, Ohio requires all work-eligible recipients to participate in an approved employment and training program, unless otherwise exempt.

ABAWDs who do not reside in a waived county must comply with special work rules or they will be subject to a three-month time limit on SNAP receipt.

What is the income limit for food stamps in Ohio? #

In Ohio, you may qualify for food stamps if your household’s gross monthly income is at or below 130% of the federal poverty guidelines.

That’s about $2,693 a month for a family of three with no income. There is no asset test for most households in Ohio.

Family Size 100% 130%
1 $1,215 $1,579
2 $1,643 $2,137
3 $2,072 $2,693
4 $2,500 $3,250
5 $2,928 $3,807
6 $3,357 $4,363
7 $3,785 $4,921
8 $4,213 $5,478

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 much are SNAP benefits in Ohio? #

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.

How do I apply for EBT in Ohio? #

Application for Ohio Food Assistance Program (FAP) can be made online at Ohio Benefits or in person at your local county agency.

If you are accepted into the program, your benefits are automatically deposited to your EBT account on the same day of each month you are eligible.

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