EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Connecticut, ensuring access to nutritious meals and alleviating food insecurity.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Connecticut
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Connecticut 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:
Household Size: 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,265
Maximum Benefit Amount: $281
Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,052
Maximum Benefit Amount: $516
Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,839
Maximum Benefit Amount: $740
Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,625
Maximum Benefit Amount: $939
Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,412
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,116
Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,199
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,339
Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,985
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,480
Household Size: 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,772
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,691
For households with more than 8 members, add $787 for each additional person to the gross monthly income limit and $211 to the maximum benefit amount. For the most current information, please visit the official Connecticut SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Connecticut
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Connecticut, 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 Connecticut.
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, please visit the official Connecticut SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
Applying for SNAP benefits in Connecticut can be done online, in-person, or by mail, providing multiple convenient options for individuals and families seeking assistance.
Applying Online
To apply for SNAP benefits online as a Connecticut resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website
Go to the Connecticut SNAP portal 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 review.
Applying In-Person
To apply for SNAP benefits in-person, follow these steps:
Locate your nearest SNAP office
Find the closest Department of Social Services (DSS) office using the DSS office locator.
Gather necessary documents
Collect essential documents such as ID, proof of income, and residency verification.
Visit the office during business hours
Go to the DSS office during their operating hours, typically Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 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 and documents to a caseworker for review and processing.
For more information, you can contact the Connecticut DSS at 1-855-626-6632 or visit their official website.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in Connecticut by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form
Visit the Connecticut SNAP portal to download and print the application form.
Fill out the form completely
Provide all required details about your household on the application form.
Photocopy necessary documents
Make copies of essential documents like ID, proof of income, and residency verification.
Mail the application and documents
Send your completed application and photocopied documents to the address provided on the form.
Wait for confirmation or further instructions
After mailing, await confirmation or additional instructions from the Department of Social Services.
Special SNAP Services in Connecticut
In Connecticut, residents may receive special SNAP services such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and help for homeless individuals. Visit the Connecticut SNAP portal to learn more and see if you qualify.
Expedited SNAP Services in Connecticut
Residents of Connecticut can receive expedited SNAP benefits in emergency situations 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 facing immediate food insecurity receive assistance as quickly as possible, typically within seven days of application.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
If you are affected by disasters such as fires or power outages in Connecticut, you may qualify for replacement SNAP benefits. This assistance is available to current SNAP recipients who have lost food due to these emergencies.
To apply for replacement benefits, you need to contact your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office. Even if you are not currently receiving SNAP benefits, you can still apply for disaster assistance by providing proof of the disaster's impact on your household.
Required documents may include identification, proof of residence, and evidence of the disaster, such as photos or insurance claims. Ensure you submit your application promptly to receive the necessary support.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Connecticut provides tailored support for older adults (60+) and individuals with disabilities, recognizing their unique needs. These groups often face fewer eligibility restrictions, making it easier to qualify for benefits.
Application options are simplified for seniors and disabled individuals, allowing them to apply online, in-person, or by mail with assistance available if needed. This ensures that the application process is accessible and straightforward.
Common deductions for these groups include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce their countable income, thereby increasing their SNAP benefit amounts. This helps alleviate the financial burden of healthcare costs.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
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, an EBT card is swiped at the point of sale in authorized stores 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 to use SNAP benefits.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Recipients in Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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
Managing your SNAP benefits effectively 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 Connecticut
In Connecticut, 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 0-3: Benefits deposited on the 1st of the month
SSN ending in 4-6: Benefits deposited on the 2nd of the month
SSN ending in 7-9: Benefits deposited on the 3rd of the month
Understanding the deposit schedule is crucial for managing your SNAP benefits effectively, helping you plan your grocery shopping and avoid running out of funds.
For more details, check out our guide on EBT deposit schedule in Connecticut 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 Connecticut:
Online Portal
Visit the Connecticut SNAP portal and log in to check your balance.
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 number on the back of your EBT card and follow the prompts to hear your balance.
ATM Receipt
Insert your EBT card into an ATM and select "Balance Inquiry" to print a receipt with your balance.
For additional information on each method for checking your EBT balance, check our guide on EBT Balance Check in Connecticut.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
Recipients in Connecticut must renew or recertify their SNAP benefits every 6 to 12 months, depending on their specific case. Required documents typically include proof of income, residency, and household expenses. The recertification process can be completed online, by mail, or in-person.
Timely recertification is important to avoid benefit interruptions. Ensure all documents are submitted accurately and promptly. For more details, visit the Connecticut SNAP portal.
EBT Customer Support in Connecticut
SNAP and EBT customer support in Connecticut provides essential assistance for managing benefits, addressing issues, and ensuring smooth access to food assistance programs. For more details, check out our guide on EBT customer service in Connecticut to find contact details, support options, and solutions to common issues.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Connecticut
EBT Customer Service Phone Number: 1-888-328-2666
Hours of Operation: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Services Offered:
Reporting lost or stolen EBT cards
Resetting PINs
Checking EBT card balances
Assistance with EBT transactions
General inquiries about EBT benefits
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or Department of Human Services (DHS) office in Connecticut is straightforward with several available resources. You can use online locator tools, call dedicated phone lines, or book appointments directly.
Here are the steps to find your nearest office:
Online Locator Tool: Visit the DSS office locator to find the closest office by entering your zip code or city.
Phone Line: Call the Connecticut DSS at 1-855-626-6632 for assistance in locating your nearest office.
Appointment Booking: Some offices offer online appointment booking through their websites, ensuring you can schedule a visit at your convenience.
Multi-Langual Support
In Connecticut, 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
Portuguese
Chinese
Polish
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Connecticut is easier with Benny. This app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, ensuring you stay on top of your benefits. Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
With Benny, you can maximize your SNAP benefits and make your shopping more rewarding. Learn more about Benny and start managing your benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions about SNAP in Connecticut
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Connecticut?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Connecticut, you must meet income limits based on household size, reside in the state, 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. For more details, visit the Connecticut SNAP portal.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in Connecticut if they meet certain conditions. These include working at least 20 hours per week, participating in a state or federally funded work-study program, or caring for a dependent under 6 years old. For more details, visit the Connecticut SNAP portal.
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 lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees. It's important to check specific eligibility criteria based on your status. For detailed information, visit the Connecticut SNAP portal.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Connecticut typically need to renew their benefits every 6 to 12 months. The exact renewal period depends on individual circumstances and state rules. It's important to submit all required documents on time to avoid any interruptions in benefits.
