PROGRAM OVERVIEW
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

SNAP Resources

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or food stamps, provides food assistance for individuals and households in Missouri. This monthly benefit is loaded to an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Your monthly benefit amount depends on your income and household size. Learn more about SNAP, how to enroll, and how the COVID-19 pandemic impacts the program.

Program Overview

Eligibility

  • Must be a Missouri resident
  • Must have gross income under the limit by household size:
    • 1 in household = $16,752 gross annual income
    • 2 in household = $22,656 gross annual income
    • 3 in household = $28,548  gross annual income
    • 4 in household = $34,452 gross annual income
    • 5 in household = $40,356 gross annual income
    • 4 in household = $46,260 gross annual income
  • Household cannot own resources valued at more than $2,500, excluding the primary home, vehicles, life insurance, savings & pension plans, and others. If everyone in the household is age 60 or over, or disabled, the resource limit is $3,750. For details and exclusions, please visit the Department of Social Services website here.
  • The applicant must either have or agree to apply for Social Security numbers for all household members or that household member will not receive Food Stamp benefits for themselves.

Application Process

Anyone may apply for SNAP (Food Stamp) benefits, but the Family Support Division (FSD) is required to verify the information provided that determines eligibility and benefits. Complete these steps to apply for SNAP: 

1. Apply: 

2. Submit Application: 

  • Send your completed application by email, mail or fax to: 
    • Email: FSD.Documents@dss.mo.gov
    • Mail: Family Support Division, 615 E 13th St., Kansas City, MO 64106 
    • Fax: 573-526-9400 

3. Interview: 

  • If required, you will be contacted for an interview after your application is received.  
  • If you miss the interview call, call FSD back at 855-823-4908. (Due to high call volumes mornings are best) 
  • For more information on how to complete SNAP interviews, read the FAQ. 
    • If your application is rejected for not completing an interview, call Legal Services of Eastern Missouri (888-444-0514) for assistance.

Benefits

A household’s monthly SNAP benefit is loaded to a Missouri Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. The benefit amount is calculated based on income and household size.

Watch this short video to learn how to use your EBT card.

Where can SNAP be used?

SNAP benefits may be used to buy food or food products, such seeds and plants to grow food, at any local SNAP retailer.  To find a SNAP retailer near you, use the SNAP Retailer Locator.

Contact Information

Department of Social Services
Family Support Division
855-373-4636
mydss.mo.gov

SNAP Questions & Answers

How do I apply for SNAP/Food Stamps?

Anyone may apply for SNAP (Food Stamp) benefits, but the Family Support Division (FSD) is required to verify the information provided that determines eligibility and benefits.

1. Apply: 

2. Submit Application: 

  • Send your completed application by email, mail or fax to: 
    • Email: FSD.Documents@dss.mo.gov
    • Mail: Family Support Division, 615 E 13th St., Kansas City, MO 64106 
    • Fax: 573-526-9400 

3. Interview: 

  • If required, you will be contacted for an interview after your application is received.  
  • If you miss the interview call, call FSD back at 855-823-4908. (Due to high call volumes mornings are best) 
  • For more information on how to complete SNAP interviews, read the FAQ.

Please note Missouri’s resource centers have re-opened.

Are work requirements for SNAP suspended during this crisis?

Yes. Individuals, ages 18-49, who do not have a disability and are not caring for any dependents (occasionally referred to as “able-bodied adults without dependents”) are usually required to submit documentation of their work hours in order to receive SNAP benefits.  This rule has been waived during the federally declared COVID-19 emergency.

People who’ve been kicked off of SNAP because of the 3 month time limit may reapply to receive benefits again.

What do I do if I have questions about my application and benefits?

You can call the Family Support Division Information Line at 1-855-373-4636 for assistance. The hours of operation are:

  • Monday–Friday:  6:00AM – 6:30PM
  • Saturday:  8:00AM – 5:00PM
  • Sunday:  Closed
    • (Due to high call volumes, mornings are best)

Please note the department may be experiencing high call volume during this time.

To check the status of an application, you can call the automated information line at 1-800-392-1261 anytime. You will need your Social Security Number and date of birth when calling.

Do I have to complete an interview in order to receive SNAP?

Yes, all new SNAP applicants are required to complete an interview, as well as those who received a recertification letter in the mail. The Family Support Division will call the number listed on your application within a few days. You can opt to receive texts on the SNAP application to receive updates when your interview will be scheduled. If you miss or do not receive the call, call 855-823-4908 to complete your interview.

If your application is rejected for not completing an interview, call Legal Services of Eastern Missouri (888-444-0514) for assistance.

How long can I get SNAP?

You can get SNAP benefits for as long as you are eligible for help. You will be required to complete a mid-certification and a recertification each year you get SNAP to make sure your household is still eligible. If you do not return your information by the deadline on the form, you may lose your benefits.

  • Your mid-certification will happen halfway through your benefit period. You will get a form in the mail that you will need to complete and return to the Family Support Division.
  • Around the end of your SNAP benefit period, you will get a recertification form in the mail. You will need to complete this form, return it to the Family Support Division, and complete an interview to continue getting SNAP benefits.

NOTE: It is important that you report any changes to your contact information, including your address, so you will get these important letters in the mail. If you do not respond to mail from the FSD, you could lose your benefit.

I still have questions about SNAP/Food Stamps. Where can I find more information?

The Department of Social Services has information on their website about Food Stamps, including an FAQ specifically for Food Stamps during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Legal Services of Eastern Missouri can also help navigate the Food Stamps program. Contact LSEM at 800-444-0514.

Last Updated:  April 1, 2022