How Do I Use SNAP?
NOTE: Glossary words are highlighted. Click on any glossary word to see its definition.
How do I collect my monthly benefits?
Once you are approved for SNAP, your local ISD office will send you an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. Your EBT card is a debit card that you can use at food store checkouts to pay for your food.
The ISD will deposit your monthly benefits into your EBT account automatically each month. You do not have to go anywhere to collect your "food stamps".
What identification do I need to use my EBT card?
You must enter a secret 4-digit code called a PIN (Personal Identification Number) whenever you use your EBT card. This prevents other people from using your card without your permission.
When the ISD sends you your EBT card, they will also send you a PIN. You can change your PIN at any time by going in person to your ISD office. The PIN you choose should be easy for you to remember without writing it down, but not something easy to guess. (Do not use your telephone number or birth date.)
How do I use my EBT card?
To pay for food at the food store checkout, slide your EBT card through the card reader or hand your card to the cashier. Then enter your four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) on the keypad. This automatically subtracts the cost of your food from your food stamps EBT account. (If the food store you go to does not have a card reader, the cashier can give you a form to fill out.)
Whenever you buy food with your card, your receipt will show the amount of money left in your account. You can also call EBT Customer Service at 1-800-283-4465 during business hours, or after business hours at 1-800-843-8303, to find out how much is left in your account. You should have your 16-digit card number ready when you call.
If you have a problem with your EBT card, you should call EBT Customer Service at 1-800-283-4465 during business hours, or after business hours at 1-800-843-8303. You can get help in English or in Spanish.
Which stores accept the EBT card?
Most grocery stores and other retail food stores (including farmers' markets) accept EBT cards.
What can I buy with food assistance?
-
You can buy any food item except for food that is sold ready-to-eat, prepared like restaurant food.
-
You can buy seeds or plants that you will grow to produce food for your household.
-
You cannot buy things like liquor, cigarettes, vitamins or medicines, pet foods, soap, cosmetics, laundry products, or paper goods.
-
If you are elderly or disabled, you can use your food stamps to pay for approved home-delivered meals such as Meals on Wheels, or for meals at senior housing, lunch sites, or other group meals.
-
People in drug/alcohol treatment programs, homeless shelters, shelters for battered women, and certain other group living situations can use food stamps to pay for their meals.
Can I use my EBT card in a different city?
You can use your food EBT card anywhere in New Mexico. You should also be able to use it in other states. If you have trouble using your card in another state, call EBT Customer Service at 1-800-283-4465 during business hours, or after business hours at 1-800-843-8303. The customer service representative will help you find a store that will accept your card.
Can someone else use my EBT card?
You can give someone else permission to use your EBT card as long as you tell the ISD who it is. You must sign a form giving the person permission to use your card as your "authorized representative." The ISD will add that person’s name to your EBT card.
If someone uses your card without your permission, the ISD will not replace your benefits. You should only give your card and your PIN to someone you trust.
What should I do if my EBT card is lost or stolen?
You should call EBT Customer Service at 1-800-283-4465 during business hours, or after business hours at 1-800-843-8303 right away to report the loss or theft. If someone else uses your lost or stolen EBT card before you report it, you will not be paid back for that amount. You should be very careful with your EBT card and your PIN.
You must go to the ISD office to get a replacement card. Be sure to take photo identification such as a driver's license with you.
|
