EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Minnesota, ensuring access to nutritious meals and alleviating food insecurity across the state.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Minnesota
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Minnesota are determined based on household size and gross monthly income. The gross monthly income limit is the maximum income a household can earn to qualify for SNAP benefits, while the maximum benefit amount is the highest amount of assistance a household can receive each month.
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
For households with more than eight members, add $512 to the gross monthly income limit and $188 to the maximum benefit amount for each additional person. For the most current information, please visit the official Minnesota SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Minnesota
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota.
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 available for seniors, disabled individuals, and students.
For detailed and up-to-date information, please visit the official Minnesota SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Minnesota
Applying for SNAP benefits in Minnesota 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 Minnesota resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website: Go to the Minnesota 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 form with your household and income details.
Submit required documents electronically: Upload necessary documents such as proof of income and residency.
Review and submit your application: Double-check all information and submit your application for processing.
Applying In-Person
To apply for SNAP benefits in-person, follow these steps:
Locate your nearest SNAP office: Find the closest county or tribal human services office using the Minnesota DHS directory.
Gather necessary documents: Collect essential documents such as identification, proof of income, and residency verification.
Visit the office during business hours: Go to the SNAP office during their operating hours, typically Monday through Friday.
Complete the application form: Fill out the application form provided at the office with your household and income details.
Submit your application to a caseworker: Hand your completed application and documents to a caseworker for processing.
For more information, contact your local office or visit the official Minnesota SNAP website.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in Minnesota by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form: Obtain the form from the Minnesota SNAP application page.
Fill out the form: Complete the application with your household and income details.
Photocopy necessary documents: Make copies of essential documents like identification and proof of income.
Mail the application and documents: Send your completed application and photocopies to your local county or tribal human services office.
Wait for confirmation: Await a response from the SNAP office regarding your application status.
Special SNAP Services in Minnesota
In Minnesota, residents may access special SNAP services such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Learn more at the official Minnesota SNAP website.
Expedited SNAP Services in Minnesota
Residents of Minnesota 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
If you are affected by disasters such as fires or power outages in Minnesota, 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, contact your local county or tribal human services office. Even if you are not currently receiving SNAP benefits, you can still apply for disaster assistance. Be prepared to provide details about the disaster and its impact on your food supply.
Required documents may include identification, proof of residence, and a statement describing the disaster's effect on your household. Ensure all information is accurate to expedite the processing of your request.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Minnesota provides tailored support for older adults (60+) and individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive the assistance they need. These groups often have simplified application options, making the process more accessible and less time-consuming.
Eligibility criteria for seniors and disabled individuals may differ slightly, often allowing for higher income limits and more lenient asset tests. This flexibility helps accommodate the unique financial situations of these populations.
Common deductions for these groups include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce their countable income, thereby increasing their SNAP benefits. This ensures that essential medical costs do not hinder access to nutritious food.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Minnesota
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 monthly benefit balance, ensuring a seamless and efficient transaction process.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Recipients in Minnesota 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
However, there are restrictions on what can be purchased with an EBT card. Ineligible items include:
Alcoholic beverages
Hot foods ready for immediate consumption
Vitamins and supplements
Non-food products such as cleaning supplies, paper goods, and pet food
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?
In Minnesota, EBT cards can be used at a variety of locations, including grocery stores, corner stores, and farmers' markets. These venues offer a wide range of eligible food items, ensuring recipients have access to nutritious options.
Additionally, EBT cards can be used for online purchases at approved retailers like Amazon and Walmart, providing a convenient shopping option for those who prefer or need to shop from home. This flexibility helps ensure that all recipients can access the food they need.
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Effectively managing your SNAP benefits ensures you maximize your monthly assistance, avoid running out of funds, and maintain access to nutritious food. Here's how to stay on top of your benefits:
EBT Deposit Schedule in Minnesota
In Minnesota, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the last digit of the recipient's case number. Here's a quick breakdown:
Case numbers ending in 0-3: Benefits are deposited on the 4th of the month.
Case numbers ending in 4-7: Benefits are deposited on the 5th of the month.
Case numbers ending in 8-9: Benefits are deposited on the 6th 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota:
Online Portal: Visit the EBT Edge 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 "Balance Inquiry," and your current 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 Minnesota.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Minnesota, 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 any changes in household size or expenses.
To complete the recertification, recipients can submit their documents online, by mail, or in-person at their local county or tribal human services office. Timely recertification is important to ensure continuous access to benefits. For detailed instructions, visit the official Minnesota SNAP website.
EBT Customer Support in Minnesota
SNAP and EBT customer support in Minnesota ensures recipients have access to assistance for managing their benefits and resolving issues. For contact details, support options, and common issues, check out our guide on EBT customer service in Minnesota.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Minnesota
EBT Customer Service Phone Number: Call 1-888-997-2227 for assistance.
Hours of Operation: Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Services Offered:
Reporting lost or stolen EBT cards
Resetting PINs
Checking EBT card balances
Addressing transaction issues
Providing general information about EBT accounts
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or DHS office in Minnesota 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 efficiently.
To locate your nearest office, follow these steps:
Online Locator Tool: Visit the Minnesota DHS directory to find the closest county or tribal human services office.
Phone Line: Call the Minnesota DHS customer service at 1-800-657-3739 for assistance in locating your nearest office.
Appointment Booking: Some offices offer online appointment booking through their websites or by calling directly, ensuring you can schedule a visit at your convenience.
Multi-Langual Support
In Minnesota, 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
Hmong
Somali
Vietnamese
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Minnesota 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 Minnesota
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Minnesota?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Minnesota, 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 and special conditions for seniors, disabled individuals, and students. For detailed criteria, visit the official Minnesota SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in Minnesota 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 official Minnesota 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 refugees, asylees, and those with certain humanitarian statuses. It's important to check specific eligibility criteria. For detailed information, visit the official Minnesota SNAP website.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Minnesota typically need to renew their benefits every 6 to 12 months. The exact renewal period depends on individual circumstances and state rules. During renewal, recipients must provide updated information about their income, household size, and expenses to continue receiving benefits.
