EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Mississippi, ensuring access to nutritious meals and alleviating food insecurity across the state.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Mississippi
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Mississippi are determined based on 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: $1,383
Maximum Benefit Amount: $250
Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,868
Maximum Benefit Amount: $459
Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,353
Maximum Benefit Amount: $658
Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,839
Maximum Benefit Amount: $835
Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,324
Maximum Benefit Amount: $992
Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,809
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,190
Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,295
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,316
Household Size: 8
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 Mississippi SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Mississippi
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Mississippi, 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 Mississippi.
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, visit the Mississippi SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Mississippi
Applying for SNAP benefits in Mississippi is straightforward. You can apply online, in-person at local offices, or by mail, ensuring accessibility for all applicants.
Applying Online
To apply for SNAP benefits online as a Mississippi resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website
Go to the Access MS 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 required documents directly through the online portal.
Review and submit your application
Double-check your information and submit your completed application.
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 Mississippi Department of Human Services office locator.
Gather necessary documents
Collect essential documents like your ID, proof of income, and residency verification.
Visit the office during business hours
Go to the SNAP office during their operating 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.
For more information, you can contact the Mississippi Department of Human Services at (800) 948-3050.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in Mississippi by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form
Visit the Mississippi 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 your 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 Mississippi
In Mississippi, residents may receive special SNAP services such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Visit the Mississippi SNAP website to learn more and see if you qualify.
Expedited SNAP Services in Mississippi
Residents of Mississippi 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 gross income and liquid resources are less than their monthly rent or mortgage and utility expenses, they may also be eligible for expedited benefits. These services aim to provide immediate relief to those facing severe financial hardship, ensuring that no one goes hungry during critical times.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
If you are affected by disasters such as fires or power outages in Mississippi, 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, you need to contact your local SNAP office and report the loss within ten days of the disaster. Even if you are not currently receiving SNAP benefits, you can still apply for disaster assistance by completing a SNAP application and indicating your disaster-related needs.
Required documents may include proof of identity, residency, and details of the disaster's impact on your household. Ensure you provide accurate information to expedite the process and receive the necessary support promptly.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Mississippi 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 these individuals may face.
Common deductions for these groups include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce their countable income. This ensures that more of their essential needs are met, providing a crucial safety net for vulnerable populations.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Mississippi
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 Mississippi 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 prepared for immediate consumption
Vitamins and supplements
Non-food products such as cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet food
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Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
Recipients in Mississippi 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 resources, avoid running out of funds, and maintain food security. Here's how to check your EBT balance, understand deposit schedules, and renew benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Mississippi
In Mississippi, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the last two digits of the case number. Here’s a quick breakdown:
00-09: 4th of the month
10-19: 5th of the month
20-29: 6th of the month
30-39: 7th of the month
40-49: 8th of the month
50-59: 9th of the month
60-69: 10th of the month
70-79: 11th of the month
80-89: 12th of the month
90-99: 13th 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi:
Online Portal
Visit the Access MS website and log in to view your EBT 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 check your balance.
ATM Receipt
Insert your EBT card into an ATM and select the option to check your balance on the receipt.
For additional information on each method for checking your EBT balance, check our guide on EBT Balance Check in Mississippi.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
Recipients in Mississippi typically need to renew or recertify their SNAP benefits every 6 to 12 months. Required documents 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 avoid benefit interruptions. Ensure all information is accurate and submitted before the deadline. For more details, visit the Mississippi SNAP website.
EBT Customer Support in Mississippi
SNAP and EBT customer support in Mississippi ensures recipients have access to assistance for any issues or questions regarding their benefits. For contact details, support options, and common issues, check out our guide on EBT customer service in Mississippi to get the help you need.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Mississippi
EBT Customer Service Phone Number: Call (800) 948-3050 for assistance.
Hours of Operation: Available Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 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 in Mississippi is straightforward with several available resources. You can use online locator tools, phone lines, or book appointments to ensure you get the assistance you need.
Here are the steps to find your nearest office:
Online Locator Tool
Visit the Mississippi Department of Human Services office locator to find the nearest office by entering your zip code or city.
Phone Line
Call the Mississippi Department of Human Services at (800) 948-3050 for assistance in locating the nearest office.
Appointment Booking
Some offices may offer appointment booking options online or via phone to reduce wait times and ensure you receive timely assistance.
Multi-Langual Support
SNAP application materials and assistance in Mississippi 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
Arabic
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Mississippi 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.
Discover how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits more effectively. Learn more about Benny today.
Frequently Asked Questions about SNAP in Mississippi
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Mississippi?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Mississippi, 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 Mississippi SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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. It's important to check specific eligibility criteria. For detailed information, visit the Mississippi SNAP website.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Mississippi typically need to renew their benefits every 6 to 12 months. The exact renewal period depends on state rules and individual circumstances. It's important to complete the renewal process on time to avoid any interruptions in benefits. Make sure to provide all required documents and accurate information during the renewal.
