EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in North Carolina, ensuring access to nutritious meals and alleviating food insecurity.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in North Carolina
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in North Carolina 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: $1,473
Maximum Benefit Amount: $281
Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,984
Maximum Benefit Amount: $516
Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,495
Maximum Benefit Amount: $740
Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,007
Maximum Benefit Amount: $939
Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,518
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,116
Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,029
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,339
Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,541
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,480
Household Size: 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,052
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,691
Household Size: Each additional person
Gross Monthly Income Limit: +$512
Maximum Benefit Amount: +$211
For the most current information, please visit the official North Carolina SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in North Carolina
To qualify for SNAP benefits in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina.
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, visit the North Carolina SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in North Carolina
Applying for SNAP benefits in North Carolina can be done online, in-person, or by mail, providing multiple convenient options for eligible residents to access essential food assistance.
Applying Online
To apply for SNAP benefits online as a North Carolina resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website
Go to the ePASS 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 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 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 and documents to a caseworker for review and processing.
For more information, contact your local DSS office or visit the North Carolina SNAP website.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in North Carolina by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form
Visit the North Carolina SNAP website to download and print the application form.
Fill out the form
Complete the application form with your household and financial details.
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 your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office.
Wait for confirmation
After mailing, wait for confirmation or further instructions from the DSS office.
Special SNAP Services in North Carolina
In North Carolina, residents may qualify for special SNAP services such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Learn more at the North Carolina SNAP website.
Expedited SNAP Services in North Carolina
Residents of North Carolina can receive expedited SNAP benefits in emergency situations by meeting specific criteria. These criteria 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 for expedited services.
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. Expedited benefits are designed to provide immediate relief, ensuring that those in dire need can access essential food assistance without delay.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
In North Carolina, individuals affected by disasters such as fires or power outages can request replacement SNAP benefits. Those who qualify include current SNAP recipients who have lost food due to these events. Additionally, individuals not already on SNAP but facing food loss from a disaster may also apply for assistance.
To apply, affected individuals should contact their local Department of Social Services (DSS) office. The application process involves filling out a form detailing the disaster's impact and the food loss experienced. Even those not currently receiving SNAP benefits can apply for disaster-related assistance.
Applicants may need to provide documents such as identification, proof of residence, and evidence of the disaster's impact, like photos or insurance claims. This ensures that the assistance reaches those genuinely in need.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in North Carolina 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. For instance, they are not subject to the same work requirements as other applicants.
Application options are simplified for these individuals, allowing them to apply online, in-person, or by mail with assistance from family members or caregivers. This flexibility ensures that accessing benefits is as straightforward as possible.
Common deductions for older adults and individuals with disabilities include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce their countable income. This adjustment helps ensure they receive the maximum possible benefit amount to support their nutritional needs.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in North Carolina
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 North Carolina can use their EBT card to purchase a variety of eligible food items, ensuring they have access to nutritious options. The following items can be bought with SNAP benefits:
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
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 North Carolina, EBT cards can be used at a variety of locations to purchase eligible food items. Recipients can shop at grocery stores, corner stores, and farmers' markets, ensuring access to fresh and nutritious options. Additionally, some online retailers like Amazon and Walmart accept EBT for eligible purchases, providing further convenience.
When using an EBT card, simply swipe it at the point of sale and enter your PIN to complete the transaction. This system ensures a seamless and discreet shopping experience for SNAP beneficiaries.
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits is crucial to ensure you maximize your food assistance, avoid running out of funds, and stay informed about your balance and deposit schedule.
EBT Deposit Schedule in North Carolina
In North Carolina, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the recipient's case number. The deposit schedule is as follows:
Case numbers ending in 1: Benefits deposited on the 3rd of the month
Case numbers ending in 2: Benefits deposited on the 5th of the month
Case numbers ending in 3: Benefits deposited on the 7th of the month
Case numbers ending in 4: Benefits deposited on the 9th of the month
Case numbers ending in 5: Benefits deposited on the 11th of the month
Case numbers ending in 6: Benefits deposited on the 13th of the month
Case numbers ending in 7: Benefits deposited on the 15th of the month
Case numbers ending in 8: Benefits deposited on the 17th of the month
Case numbers ending in 9: Benefits deposited on the 19th of the month
Case numbers ending in 0: Benefits deposited on the 21st of the month
Understanding the deposit schedule is crucial for managing your SNAP benefits effectively, ensuring you can plan your grocery shopping and avoid running out of funds.
For more details, check out our guide on EBT deposit schedule in North Carolina to learn about common reasons for delays and other helpful information.
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
There are several methods available for checking your EBT balance in North Carolina. Here are the options:
Online Portal
Visit the EBT Edge 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.
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 North Carolina.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In North Carolina, SNAP recipients typically need to renew or recertify their benefits every 6 to 12 months. Required documents include proof of income, residency, and household expenses. The recertification process can be completed online via the ePASS portal, in-person at a local DSS office, or by mail.
Timely recertification is important to ensure continuous access to benefits. Recipients should start the process well before their certification period ends to avoid any interruptions. For more details, visit the North Carolina SNAP website.
EBT Customer Support in North Carolina
SNAP and EBT customer support in North Carolina ensures recipients can access 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 North Carolina.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in North Carolina
EBT Customer Service Phone Number: Call 1-888-622-7328 for assistance.
Hours of Operation: Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Services Offered:
Report lost or stolen EBT cards
Reset PINs
Check EBT card balances
Inquire about transaction history
Get information on benefit deposits
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or Department of Human Services (DHS) office in North Carolina is straightforward with several available tools. You can use online locator tools, 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 nearest office by entering your zip code or city.
Phone Line
Call the North Carolina EBT Customer Service at 1-888-622-7328 for assistance in locating your nearest office.
Appointment Booking
Contact your local DSS office directly to schedule an appointment. Office contact information can be found using the online locator tool.
Multi-Langual Support
In North Carolina, 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
French
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in North Carolina 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 make the most of your SNAP benefits while earning extra savings. Learn more about Benny and start managing your benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions about SNAP in North Carolina
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in North Carolina?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in North Carolina, you must meet income limits based on household size, be a resident of 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 North Carolina SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in North Carolina 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 North Carolina 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. Specific criteria must be met to receive benefits. For detailed information, check the North Carolina SNAP website.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in North Carolina 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 complete the renewal process on time to avoid any interruption in benefits.
