Last Updated on January 17, 2024 by Lori Pace
Iowa Food Assistance Program (used to be Food Stamps) provides nutritious food for low-income families with children, and vulnerable adults. Its primary purpose is to provide food assistance for low-income Iowa residents.
Benefits can be obtained through the state’s Electronic Benefit Transfer system (EBT), which can be used for groceries in supermarkets, grocery stores, and some Farmers Markets.
Federal rules determine eligibility and benefits. They consider household size, income, and household expenses. The maximum amount of benefits is available to households that have very little income or none.
What Is SNAP?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), formerly known under the Food Stamp Program, offers food benefits, access and education in food preparation and nutrition for low-income households. The benefits, which are a type of ATM card and electronic card, can be used to purchase eligible food at authorized retail food shops.
SNAP is the largest domestic hunger safety net program. Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), a state agency that works with nutrition educators and neighborhood and faith-based groups, ensures that all those who are eligible for nutrition assistance can make informed choices about how to apply and have access to benefits.
Eligibility Requirements For Iowa Food Stamps
To be eligible for SNAP you must meet these eligibility requirements:
- Iowa residents
- You can be a US Citizen, or a lawful permanent residence
- Show proof of identity
- Respect certain income guidelines
- You have less than $2,250 of resources
All SNAP recipients in Iowa must comply with the ABAWD or general SNAP work rules to be eligible. ABAWDs that aren’t exempted are restricted to three months eligibility each 36 months.
Income Limit For Food Stamps In Iowa
Families with a gross income of up to 160% of federal poverty level (about $2,900 per month for a family of three) are eligible for food assistance.
Application For Food Stamps In Iowa
OASIS is the online application form for assistance programs in Iowa. After your application has been received, an interview will be scheduled to determine your eligibility. To get assistance with your online application, please contact the nearest DHS Office .
Application Through Mail
You will need to download the application for Food Stamps in order to apply for SNAP via email. Once you have downloaded the application, complete it and then send it to DHS. Below are the download links to the application.
Application In Person
You can apply for Iowa Food Stamps (SNAP) in person. You will need to visit the Iowa DHS Office at 1900 Carpenter Ave. in Des Moines, Iowa to apply. Visit Department Of Human Services to find a DHS office close to you.
At the office, you will need to bring all necessary documents including ID and financial documentation. To ensure you get the best service, it is a good idea to arrive early. The DHS office treats everyone on a first-come, first served basis.
After enrollment, they will send your Electronic Benefits Transfer Card (EBT-Card) by mail. You must ensure that the correct address has been provided. To activate your card and set a password, call the number included with the card.
Application Approval Duration
If you receive an approval for SNAP benefits, you can access them within 30 days of the date that the office received your application. In certain cases of emergency, benefits may be available in as little as seven days.
