EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Colorado, helping them afford nutritious meals and improve their overall well-being.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Colorado
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Colorado are determined based on the household size and gross monthly income. These limits ensure that assistance is provided to those who need it most. Below is a detailed breakdown of the maximum monthly income limits and SNAP benefit amounts for different household sizes:
Household Size: 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,473
Maximum Benefit Amount: $250
Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,984
Maximum Benefit Amount: $459
Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,495
Maximum Benefit Amount: $658
Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,007
Maximum Benefit Amount: $835
Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,518
Maximum Benefit Amount: $992
Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,029
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,190
Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,541
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,316
Household Size: 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,052
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,504
Household Size: Each additional person
Gross Monthly Income Limit: +$512
Maximum Benefit Amount: +$188
For the most current information, please visit the official Colorado SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Colorado
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Colorado, applicants must meet several eligibility criteria:
Income Limits: Applicants must meet both gross and net income limits based on household size.
Residency Requirements: Applicants must reside in Colorado.
Citizenship Status: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens can qualify.
Work Requirements: Certain work-related conditions must be met.
Special Conditions: Special considerations are given to seniors, disabled individuals, and students.
For detailed and up-to-date information, visit the official Colorado SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Colorado
Applying for SNAP benefits in Colorado can be done online, in-person, or by mail, providing flexibility to applicants based on their preferences and convenience.
Applying Online
To apply for SNAP benefits online as a Colorado resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website
Go to the Colorado PEAK website to start your application.
Create an account or log in
Sign up for a new account or log in if you already have one.
Complete the application form
Fill out the online application form with the necessary details about your household.
Submit required documents electronically
Upload any necessary documents directly through the online portal.
Review and submit your application
Double-check your information and submit your completed application for processing.
Applying In-Person
To apply for SNAP benefits in-person, follow these steps:
Locate your nearest SNAP office
Find the closest SNAP office by visiting the official Colorado SNAP website or calling 1-800-536-5298.
Gather necessary documents
Collect essential documents like ID, proof of income, and residency verification before your visit.
Visit the office during business hours
Go to the SNAP office during their business hours, typically Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.
Complete the application form
Fill out the application form provided at the office with your household details.
Submit your application to a caseworker
Hand your completed application to a caseworker, who will review and process it.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in Colorado by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form
Visit the official Colorado SNAP website to download and print the application form.
Fill out the form
Complete the application form with your household details.
Photocopy necessary documents
Make copies of essential documents like ID and proof of income.
Mail the application and documents
Send your completed application and photocopied documents to the address provided on the form.
Wait for confirmation
Expect a confirmation or further instructions from the SNAP office.
Special SNAP Services in Colorado
In certain situations, Colorado residents may receive special SNAP services, such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Visit the official Colorado SNAP website to learn more and see if you qualify.
Expedited SNAP Services in Colorado
Residents of Colorado facing emergency situations can receive expedited SNAP benefits to address urgent food needs. To qualify for expedited services, applicants must meet specific criteria. These include having extremely low income, limited resources, or an urgent need for food assistance. For instance, households with less than $150 in monthly gross income and less than $100 in liquid resources may qualify.
Additionally, if a household's combined monthly income and liquid resources are less than their monthly rent or mortgage and utility costs, they may also be eligible for expedited benefits. The goal is to ensure that those in immediate need receive assistance as quickly as possible, typically within seven days of application.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
In Colorado, individuals affected by disasters such as fires or power outages can request replacement SNAP benefits to cover lost food. Those who qualify include current SNAP recipients and individuals who are not yet on SNAP but have experienced food loss due to the disaster.
To apply, current SNAP recipients should contact their local SNAP office and report the loss within ten days of the disaster. New applicants can also apply for disaster SNAP benefits by visiting their local SNAP office and completing the necessary forms.
Required documents may include proof of identity, residency, and details of the disaster's impact on their food supply. Providing these documents helps expedite the process and ensures timely assistance.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Colorado provides tailored support for older adults (60+) and individuals with disabilities, recognizing their unique needs. These groups often have simplified application options, such as shorter forms and assistance with the application process, making it easier to access benefits.
Eligibility criteria for seniors and disabled individuals may differ slightly, often allowing higher income limits and more lenient asset tests. This ensures that those with fixed incomes or additional financial burdens can still qualify for assistance.
Common deductions for these groups include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce countable income and increase benefit amounts. This helps alleviate the financial strain of healthcare costs.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Colorado
Once approved for SNAP benefits, it's important to understand how to use them effectively, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
EBT cards, or Electronic Benefit Transfer cards, are used by SNAP recipients to access their benefits. Similar to a credit or debit card, EBT cards are swiped at checkout to purchase eligible food items. The card is linked to the recipient's SNAP account, automatically deducting the purchase amount from their available balance. This system ensures a convenient and discreet way for individuals to use their benefits at authorized retailers.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Recipients in Colorado can use their EBT card to purchase a variety of eligible food items, ensuring they have access to nutritious options. These items include:
Fruits
Vegetables
Dairy products
Bread and cereals
Meat, poultry, and fish
Non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household
However, there are restrictions on what can be purchased with an EBT card. Ineligible items include:
Alcoholic beverages
Hot foods and foods meant to be eaten in the store
Vitamins and supplements
Non-food products such as cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet foods
Personal care items like soap and toothpaste
Download Benny for Free and Earn Cash Back on EBT
With Benny, you can earn cash back on groceries from stores like Target, Walmart, and Dollar Tree, as well as services such as Uber and Lyft. Download Benny for free. Connect your EBT card and earn cashback as you shop.
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
Recipients in Colorado can use their EBT card at a variety of locations, including grocery stores, corner stores, and farmers' markets. These venues offer a wide range of eligible food items, ensuring access to nutritious options.
Additionally, EBT cards can be used for online purchases at approved retailers like Amazon and Walmart, providing further convenience. This flexibility allows recipients to shop for groceries in a way that best suits their needs and lifestyle.
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Effectively managing your SNAP benefits ensures you maximize your food assistance, avoid running out of funds, and maintain eligibility. Here's how to check your EBT balance, understand deposit schedules, and renew benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Colorado
In Colorado, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the last digit of the recipient's Social Security Number (SSN). This system helps ensure a smooth and organized distribution of benefits. Here’s a quick breakdown:
SSN ending in 0-1: Benefits deposited on the 1st of the month
SSN ending in 2-3: Benefits deposited on the 2nd of the month
SSN ending in 4-5: Benefits deposited on the 3rd of the month
SSN ending in 6-7: Benefits deposited on the 4th of the month
SSN ending in 8-9: Benefits deposited on the 5th of the month
Understanding the deposit schedule is crucial for managing your SNAP benefits effectively, ensuring you can plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
For more details, check out our guide on EBT deposit schedule in Colorado to learn about common reasons for delays and other helpful tips.
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
There are several methods available for checking your EBT balance in Colorado:
Online Portal: Visit the ConnectEBT website and log in to view your balance and transaction history.
Benny App: Benny is a mobile app that allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions in real time by linking your EBT card to the app. Download Benny for free.
Phone Number: Call the customer service number on the back of your EBT card and follow the prompts to check your balance.
ATM Receipt: Insert your EBT card into an ATM, select the balance inquiry option, and your balance will be printed on the receipt.
For additional information on each method for checking your EBT balance, check our guide on EBT Balance Check in Colorado.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
Recipients in Colorado typically need to renew or recertify their SNAP benefits every 6 to 12 months, depending on their specific circumstances. Required documents include proof of income, residency, and any changes in household size or expenses.
To complete the recertification, recipients must fill out the renewal form, submit the necessary documents, and possibly attend an interview. Timely recertification is important to ensure continuous access to benefits. For more details, visit the official Colorado SNAP website.
EBT Customer Support in Colorado
SNAP and EBT customer support in Colorado ensures recipients have access to assistance for managing their benefits, resolving issues, and answering questions. For more information, check out our guide on EBT customer service in Colorado to find contact details, support options, and solutions to common issues.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Colorado
Phone Number: Call 1-888-328-2656 for EBT customer service in Colorado.
Hours of Operation: Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Services Offered:
Report lost or stolen EBT cards
Reset or change your PIN
Check your EBT card balance
Get transaction history
Address any issues or questions related to your EBT account
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or DHS office in Colorado is straightforward with several available resources. You can use online locator tools, call dedicated phone lines, or book appointments directly. These options ensure you can access the assistance you need conveniently.
Here are the steps to find your nearest office:
Online Locator Tool: Visit the official Colorado SNAP website and use the office locator tool to find the nearest location.
Phone Line: Call 1-800-536-5298 to speak with a representative who can help you find the closest office.
Appointment Booking: Some offices offer online appointment booking through their websites, allowing you to schedule a visit at your convenience.
Multi-Langual Support
In Colorado, SNAP application materials and assistance are available in multiple languages to support non-English speakers. This ensures that all residents can access the benefits they need. The most common languages in which assistance is available include:
Spanish
Vietnamese
Chinese
Russian
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Colorado is easier with Benny. This app lets you check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, ensuring you stay on top of your benefits. Plus, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
With Benny, you can make the most of your SNAP benefits while saving money on everyday purchases. Learn more about Benny and start managing your benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions about SNAP in Colorado
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Colorado?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Colorado, you must meet income limits based on household size, reside in Colorado, and be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Additionally, you must comply with work requirements unless you are a senior, disabled, or a student with special conditions. For more details, visit the official Colorado SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in Colorado if they meet certain conditions. These include working at least 20 hours per week, participating in a state or federally funded work-study program, caring for a dependent under 6, or being enrolled in specific programs aimed at employment. For more details, visit the official Colorado SNAP website.
Can I get SNAP benefits if I’m an immigrant?
Some immigrants may qualify for SNAP benefits depending on their immigration status. Eligible non-citizens include those with legal permanent residency, refugees, and asylees. Specific criteria must be met to receive benefits. Check the official Colorado SNAP website for detailed eligibility information.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Colorado typically need to renew their benefits every 6 to 12 months. The exact renewal period depends on individual circumstances, such as income and household size. Recipients must complete a renewal form, submit required documents, and may need to attend an interview to continue receiving benefits.
