EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Montana, ensuring access to nutritious meals and alleviating food insecurity across the state.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Montana
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Montana 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 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
For households with more than 8 people, add $486 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 Montana SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Montana
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Montana, 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 Montana.
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 Montana SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Montana
Applying for SNAP benefits in Montana 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 Montana resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website
Go to the Montana SNAP application 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 form with your household and financial 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 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 Montana Office of Public Assistance website or calling 1-888-706-1535.
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 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 and financial 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 Montana by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form
Visit the Montana SNAP website to download and print the application form.
Fill out the form completely
Provide all required household and financial details on the application form.
Photocopy necessary documents
Make copies of essential documents like your ID, proof of income, and residency verification.
Mail the application and documents
Send the completed application and photocopied documents to the address provided on the form.
Wait for confirmation or further instructions
After mailing, wait for a response with confirmation or additional steps.
Special SNAP Services in Montana
In Montana, residents may access special SNAP services such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Visit the Montana SNAP website to learn more.
Expedited SNAP Services in Montana
Residents of Montana 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 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. The goal is to ensure that those in dire situations receive the necessary support promptly, alleviating immediate food insecurity.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
If you are affected by disasters such as fires or power outages in Montana, you may qualify for replacement SNAP benefits. This assistance is available to current SNAP beneficiaries 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 emergency 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 food supply. Ensure you provide accurate information to expedite the processing of your request.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Montana provides tailored support for older adults (60+) and individuals with disabilities, recognizing their unique needs. These groups often benefit from simplified application processes, making it easier to access essential food assistance.
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 benefits.
Common deductions for these applicants include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce countable income. This adjustment helps ensure that medical costs do not hinder access to necessary food support.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Montana
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 Montana 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 products, 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 Montana, EBT cards can be used at a variety of locations, including grocery stores, corner stores, and farmers' markets. This ensures that recipients have access to fresh and nutritious food options. Additionally, some online retailers like Amazon and Walmart accept EBT for eligible food purchases, providing further convenience.
When shopping, simply swipe your EBT card at the point of sale to pay for approved items. This flexibility allows recipients to choose from a wide range of shopping venues to meet their dietary needs.
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 Montana
In Montana, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the last digit of the recipient's case number. This system helps manage the distribution efficiently. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Case Number Ending in 0-1: Benefits deposited on the 2nd of the month
Case Number Ending in 2-3: Benefits deposited on the 3rd of the month
Case Number Ending in 4-5: Benefits deposited on the 4th of the month
Case Number Ending in 6-7: Benefits deposited on the 5th of the month
Case Number Ending in 8-9: Benefits 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 Montana 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 Montana:
Online Portal: Visit the Montana SNAP application 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 the option to check your balance.
For additional information on each method for checking your EBT balance, check our guide on EBT Balance Check in Montana.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Montana, SNAP recipients typically need to renew or recertify their benefits every 6 to 12 months. Required documents include proof of income, residency, and any changes in household size or expenses. The recertification process can be completed online, by mail, or in-person at a local SNAP office.
Timely recertification is important to avoid benefit interruptions. Ensure all documents are accurate and submitted before the deadline. For more details, visit the Montana SNAP website.
EBT Customer Support in Montana
For Montana residents, SNAP and EBT customer support is essential for resolving issues and ensuring seamless access to benefits. Check out our guide on EBT customer service in Montana to find contact details, support options, and solutions to common issues.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Montana
EBT Customer Service Phone Number: Call 1-888-997-1117 for assistance.
Hours of Operation: Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Services Offered:
Reporting lost or stolen EBT cards
Resetting your EBT card PIN
Checking your EBT card balance
Addressing issues with transactions or card usage
Providing general information about your EBT account
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or DHS office in Montana 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 Montana Office of Public Assistance website and use their office locator tool to find the nearest location.
Phone Line: Call 1-888-706-1535 to speak with a representative who can provide the address and contact information for the closest office.
Appointment Booking: Some offices offer online appointment booking through their website, ensuring you can schedule a visit at your convenience.
Multi-Langual Support
In Montana, 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
Chinese
Vietnamese
Russian
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Montana 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 Montana
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Montana?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Montana, you must meet income limits based on household size, be a Montana resident, 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 Montana SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in Montana if they meet certain conditions. They must work at least 20 hours per week, participate in a state or federally funded work-study program, or care for a dependent under 6 years old. For more details, visit the Montana 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 Montana SNAP website.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Montana typically need to renew their benefits every 6 to 12 months. The exact renewal period depends on specific state rules and individual circumstances. It's important to submit all required documents on time to avoid any interruptions in benefits.
