Last Updated on January 22, 2024 by Lori Pace
Hawaii SNAP (aka food stamps) helps to make healthy food affordable for Hawaii’s low income residents. It provides monthly cash benefits. Single parents, elderly people, and persons with disabilities are given priority. The state will allow people earning up to 200% of federal poverty to receive SNAP benefits.
SNAP benefits in Hawaii are available through an Electronic Benefit Transfer card (EBT), which can be used in any grocery store or for meals-on-wheels services.
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
To be eligible for SNAP you must meet these eligibility requirements:
- Hawaii Legal Resident
- 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 able-bodied SNAP recipients in Hawaii must comply with the ABAWD work requirements or the general SNAP rules to be eligible. ABAWD recipients who don’t work or are exempt are only eligible for three months each 36 months.
Income Limit For Food Stamps In Hawaii
Hawaii’s food stamp program is available to most families with a gross income of at least 200% of the federal poverty line, which amounts to approximately $4,200 per month for a family. Individuals with less than $150 in monthly income and less than $100 in cash could be eligible for Emergency SNAP. They will receive their first benefits in 7 days.
Application For Food Stamps In Hawaii
Hawaii residents who are eligible for SNAP assistance should complete a standard benefit application form, and send it to the nearest benefits office. For contact information about the state’s benefits office, visit State of Hawaii Processing Centers list.
After they receive your application, an intake worker will review it and determine whether you are eligible for SNAP benefits.
How Long You Can Receive SNAP Benefits In Hawaii?
This period applies to most Hawaii households that don’t have elderly (60+), or disabled residents. It is 12 months for those without elderly (60+), or 24 months for those with elderly (60+), or disabled households.
Using The Hawaii EBT (SNAP Benefits) Out Of State
SNAP benefits are interoperable. This means that you can use your Hawaii EBT anywhere in the USA that accepts EBT (including Guam, the District of Columbia, and the U.S Virgin Islands).
