Maine SNAP
Maine SNAP helps low-income Maine residents afford a nutritionally adequate diet. The program serves families with children, older adults, people with disabilities, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those receiving other forms of public assistance.
As condition of eligibility, most adult recipients who aren’t disabled or exempt are required to register for work or take part in an employment and training program. 1
Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) ages 18—64 must comply with special work rules or be subject to a three-month limit on SNAP benefits within a 36-month period. 2
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 income limits and other financial eligibility rules
How much are SNAP benefits in Maine?
For the period through September 30, 2026, a family of three may receive up to $785 per month with no income or about $485 per month if the family has a net monthly income of $1,000.
| Household Size | SNAP Benefits |
|---|---|
| 1 | $298 |
| 2 | $546 |
| 3 | $785 |
| 4 | $994 |
| 5 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $1,421 |
| 7 | $1,571 |
| 8 | $1,789 |
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. 3
What is the income limit for SNAP in Maine?
Most families in Maine with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level qualify for food assistance. There is no asset limit in Maine.
| Household Size | 100% | 200% |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,304 | $2,608 |
| 2 | $1,763 | $3,525 |
| 3 | $2,221 | $4,442 |
| 4 | $2,679 | $5,358 |
| 5 | $3,138 | $6,275 |
| 6 | $3,596 | $7,192 |
| 7 | $4,054 | $8,108 |
| 8 | $4,513 | $9,025 |
How do I apply for food stamps in Maine?
To apply for food stamps in Maine, you can choose any of the following methods:
- Online through My Maine Connection for faster processing
- In person at a regional DHHS Office 4
- By phone by calling (855) 797-4357 to schedule an appointment
Once your application is received, a DHHS caseworker will call you to review your eligibility. All applicants are required to complete an interview, which can be done in person or over the phone.
Maine Department of Health and Human Services
Office for Family Independence
(855) 797-4357
If you need immediate food assistance, contact 2-1-1 or (866) 811-5695 in Maine for information on food pantries in your area.
What documents do I need to apply for SNAP in Maine?
When you apply for SNAP, you may be asked to provide the following documents:
- A valid photo ID
- A valid Social Security Number
- Proof of residency (where you live)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
- Proof of earned and unearned income
- Any additional documents needed to verify your household’s situation
Can I use my Maine EBT card in another state?
Yes. SNAP benefits are interoperable through the EBT system, meaning your Maine EBT card can be used wherever EBT is accepted nationwide.
How do Maine Harvest Bucks work?
For every dollar of SNAP benefits a customer spends, they receive $1 back in “Harvest Bucks” which are special coupons that can be used for the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables from participating vendors.
Maine Harvest Bucks is a program that helps SNAP recipients in Maine get more fresh fruits and vegetables by matching their spending at participating farmers’ markets.
Footnotes
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To register for work, you will have to sign up for a Maine JobLink account with the Maine Department of Labor. ↩
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There are some territories, towns, and cities in Maine where ABAWD rule does not apply to anyone through September 30, 2024. ↩
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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. ↩
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Use this link to find your local DHHS office for an in-person application. ↩