Alaska SNAP

Alaska Food Stamp Program (SNAP) is a 100% federally funded program that provides food assistance to very low income people and families in Alaska.

Eligible applicants must pass income and assets tests. The gross income test is based on 130% of the current Alaska’s poverty standard.

That’s about $3,496 per month for a single mother of two.

To receive SNAP benefits, most recipients ages 16—59 who aren’t disabled or pregnant must register for work, take part in the Employment & Training Program if offered, and accept offers of employment.

You might still qualify for SNAP if you’re working, or already get benefits from other programs like SSI, SSDI, Unemployment and Senior Benefits.

FAQ

How do I qualify food stamps in Alaska?

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

  1. Live in Alaska
  2. Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
  3. Show proof of identity
  4. Meet certain income guidelines
  5. Have less than $3,000 in resources or $4,500 if at least one member is elderly or disabled

What is the income limit for food stamps in Alaska?

The gross income limit is based on 130% of the current Alaska’s poverty standard. That’s about $3,496 per month for a family of three.

Family Size
Income Limit
1
$2,038
2
$2,767
3
$3,496
4
$4,225
5
$4,954
6
$5,683
7
$6,412
8
$7,141
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 do I get in food stamps in Alaska?

In Alaska, SNAP benefits are calculated based on the region in which a recipient resides. For recipients living in Alaska, the maximum is $991 for urban families of three, with higher rates for those living further from populated areas.

The table below shows the maximum monthly SNAP benefits you could receive in an urban area of Alaska:

Family Size
SNAP Benefits
1
$377
2
$692
3
$991
4
$1,258
5
$1,494
6
$1,793
7
$1,982
8
$2,265
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. Use our SNAP calculator to estimate the amount of benefits you can expect to receive.

How do I apply for food stamps in Alaska?

Alaska does not have an online application.

If you think you might be eligible for SNAP benefits and want to apply, download and submit the SNAP application form to your local Public Assistance office. If you need help finding your local office, call toll free at (844) 222-3119.

After your application is submitted, the next step in the process is the interview which can be done either in person or over the phone.

Once accepted into the program, you will receive an “Alaska Quest Card” which can be used instead of cash to purchase food items at grocery stores and supermarkets.

Can I use my Alaska EBT card in another state?

Yes. SNAP benefits are interoperable through the use of your EBT card which means you can use your Alaska EBT card wherever EBT is accepted anywhere in the United States including the District of Columbia, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

What can I buy with food stamps in Alaska?

SNAP benefits can be used to buy food, such as breads, cereals, fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, poultry and dairy products. Seeds and plants that can grow to produce food are also eligible under SNAP.

Families who live in certain approved communities with limited access to retail stores or rely substantially on hunting and fishing for subsistence may use their SNAP benefits to purchase hunting and fishing gears.

If determined to be eligible, a specialized SNAP Identification Card will be issued for use when purchasing those items.