EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Indiana, helping them afford nutritious meals and improve their overall well-being.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Indiana
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Indiana 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 person
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,383
Maximum Benefit Amount: $250
Household Size: 2 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,868
Maximum Benefit Amount: $459
Household Size: 3 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,353
Maximum Benefit Amount: $658
Household Size: 4 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,839
Maximum Benefit Amount: $835
Household Size: 5 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,324
Maximum Benefit Amount: $992
Household Size: 6 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,809
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,190
Household Size: 7 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,295
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,316
Household Size: 8 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,780
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,504
Household Size: Each additional person
Gross Monthly Income Limit: +$486
Maximum Benefit Amount: +$188
For the most current information, please visit the official Indiana SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Indiana
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Indiana, 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 Indiana.
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 information, please visit the official Indiana SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Indiana
Applying for SNAP benefits in Indiana 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 an Indiana resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website: Go to the Indiana SNAP application portal.
Create an account or log in: Register 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.
Submit required documents electronically: Upload any required documents directly through the portal.
Review and submit your application: Double-check your information and submit the application for processing.
Applying In-Person
To apply for SNAP benefits in-person, follow these steps:
Locate your nearest SNAP office: Find the closest Division of Family Resources (DFR) office using the DFR office locator.
Gather necessary documents: Collect essential documents such as ID, proof of income, and residency.
Visit the office during business hours: Go to the DFR office during their operating hours, typically Monday to Friday.
Complete the application form: Fill out the application form provided at the office with the required details.
Submit your application to a caseworker: Hand your completed application to a caseworker for processing and further instructions.
For more information, you can contact the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration at 1-800-403-0864.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in Indiana by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form: Obtain the form from the Indiana SNAP website.
Fill out the form completely: Provide all required information on the application form.
Photocopy necessary documents: Make copies of essential documents like ID and proof of income.
Mail the application and documents: Send the completed form and photocopies to the address provided on the application.
Wait for confirmation: Await further instructions or confirmation from the SNAP office.
Special SNAP Services in Indiana
Indiana offers special SNAP services for residents in urgent need, including expedited benefits, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Learn more at the Indiana SNAP website.
Expedited SNAP Services in Indiana
Residents of Indiana facing emergency situations can receive expedited SNAP benefits to address urgent food needs. To qualify for expedited services, applicants must meet specific criteria, such as having extremely low income, limited resources, or an immediate need for food assistance. For instance, households with less than $150 in monthly gross income and less than $100 in liquid resources may be eligible.
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 qualify for expedited benefits. These services aim to provide critical support within seven days of application, ensuring that those in dire need receive timely assistance.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
If you are affected by disasters such as fires or power outages in Indiana, 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 Division of Family Resources (DFR) 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 a statement detailing the loss of food. Ensure you submit your application promptly to receive the necessary support during these challenging times.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Indiana 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 for 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, thereby increasing the benefit amount. This helps alleviate the financial strain of healthcare costs.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Indiana
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 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 for grocery shopping.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Recipients in Indiana can use their EBT card to purchase a variety of eligible food items, ensuring they have access to nutritious options. These items include:
Fruits and 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 Indiana 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 resources, avoid running out of funds, and maintain access to nutritious food. Here's how to check your EBT balance, understand deposit schedules, and renew benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Indiana
In Indiana, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the first letter of the recipient's last name. Here's a quick breakdown:
A - B: 5th of the month
C - D: 7th of the month
E - F: 9th of the month
G - H: 11th of the month
I - J: 13th of the month
K - L: 15th of the month
M - N: 17th of the month
O - P: 19th of the month
Q - R: 21st of the month
S - T: 23rd of the month
U - V: 25th of the month
W - X: 27th of the month
Y - Z: 29th of the month
Understanding the deposit schedule is crucial for managing your SNAP benefits effectively, ensuring you plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
For more details, check out our guide on EBT deposit schedule in Indiana 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 Indiana:
Online Portal: Visit the ConnectEBT website and log in to view your balance and transaction history.
Benny App: Download Benny, link your EBT card, and check your balance and transactions in real time.
Phone Number: Call the number on the back of your EBT card and follow the automated instructions to check your balance.
ATM Receipt: Insert your EBT card into an ATM, select "Balance Inquiry," 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 Indiana.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Indiana, SNAP recipients must renew or recertify their 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 involves completing a renewal form, either online, by mail, or in-person, and submitting the necessary documents.
Timely recertification is important to ensure continuous access to benefits. Missing the deadline can lead to interruptions in assistance. For detailed instructions, visit the Indiana SNAP website.
EBT Customer Support in Indiana
For SNAP and EBT customer support in Indiana, assistance is available to address any issues or questions you may have. For contact details and support options, check out our guide on EBT customer service in Indiana to learn more about common issues and how to fix them.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Indiana
Phone Number: 1-800-403-0864
Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Services Offered:
Reporting lost or stolen EBT cards
Resetting PINs
Checking EBT card balances
Assistance with EBT transactions
General inquiries about SNAP benefits
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or DHS office is straightforward with several available resources. You can use online locator tools, call dedicated phone lines, or book appointments directly. These methods ensure you get the assistance you need promptly and efficiently.
Here are the steps to find your nearest office:
Online Locator Tool: Visit the DFR office locator to find the closest office by entering your zip code or city.
Phone Line: Call the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration at 1-800-403-0864 for assistance in locating the nearest 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 Indiana, SNAP application materials and assistance are available in multiple languages to support non-English speakers. The most common languages in which assistance is available include:
Spanish
Chinese
Arabic
French
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Indiana 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 Indiana
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Indiana?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Indiana, you must meet income limits based on household size, be a resident of Indiana, and be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Additionally, you must comply with work requirements unless you are exempt due to age, disability, or other special conditions. For more details, visit the Indiana SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in Indiana if they meet certain conditions. They must be enrolled at least half-time, meet income limits, and either work 20 hours a week, participate in a work-study program, or be responsible for a dependent under 6 years old. For more details, visit the Indiana 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. For a detailed list of qualifying statuses, check the Indiana SNAP eligibility page.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Indiana typically need to renew their benefits every 6 to 12 months. The exact renewal period depends on individual circumstances and state rules. During the renewal process, recipients must provide updated information about their income, residency, and household expenses to continue receiving benefits without interruption.
