SI DAL01801.010 The Food Stamp Application Process - Texas

A. Who may file a food stamp application at SSA

In addition to the requirement to inform Supplemental Security Income (SSI) applicants and recipients about the food stamp (FS) program, known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the law also requires us to take applications for SNAP food benefits from SSI applicants and recipients who meet the criteria in SI 01801.010A. Refer individuals who do not meet the criteria to file for SNAP benefits, or choose not to file a food stamp application to their nearest local food stamp office.

B. Completing the food stamp application

Follow the procedures in SI 01801.200 The Food Stamp Application Interview and SI 01801.300 Completing Food Stamp Application Forms to complete initial applications and recertifications for food stamps. Complete forms:

• SSA Transmittal for Food Stamp Applications, SSA-4233 - SI 01801.310, and

• Application for Benefits - Food Benefits (SNAP)

  http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/help/1010-eng.pdf (English version), or

  http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/help/1010-span.pdf (Spanish version).

C. Routing the food stamp application

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) processes all applications for SNAP food benefits at a centralized location. FAX all completed applications for Texas SNAP food benefits under the cover of the SSA 4233 within one Federal workday of receipt to 1-877-447-2839.

If you are unable to FAX the forms, you may mail them to the following address:

For cases meeting expedited service criteria in SI 01801.150B, write “Expedited Service” across the top of the SSA 4233 in red ink. FAX all expedited service applications for SNAP food benefits to 1-866-559-9628

D. Receiving SNAP food benefits

HHSC provides SNAP food benefit amounts through the Lone Star Card, a plastic card used like a debit or credit card to pay for purchases. Each month, HHSC adds the family’s approved monthly SNAP amount to the card.

E. References

GN 00203.090 The Food Stamp Program

GN DAL00203.002 Pre-Application Actions – Operating Policy (Texas)

SI DAL01801.040 Residents of Institutions for Food Stamp Purposes

SI 01801.150 Expedited Service

SI 01801.200 The Food Stamp Application Interview

SI 01801.250 Food Stamp Teleclaims

SI 01801.275 Food Stamp Application/Prerelease Process

SI 01801.300 Completing Food Stamp Application Forms

SI 01801.310 Completing the Social Security Administration Transmittal for Food Stamp Applications, SSA-4233