EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Ohio, helping them access nutritious meals and improve their overall well-being.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Ohio
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Ohio 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
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
Household Size: Each additional person
Gross Monthly Income Limit: +$512
Maximum Benefit Amount: +$188
For the most current information, please visit the official Ohio SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Ohio
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Ohio, 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 Ohio.
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 Ohio SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Ohio
Applying for SNAP benefits in Ohio 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 an Ohio resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website
Go to the Ohio 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 application form with the necessary details about your household and income.
Submit required documents electronically
Upload any required documents, such as proof of income and residency, directly to the portal.
Review and submit your application
Double-check all the information and documents before submitting your application for review.
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 Ohio SNAP website or calling 1-866-244-0071.
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 income details.
Submit your application to a caseworker
Hand your completed application and documents to a caseworker for review and processing.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in Ohio by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form
Visit the Ohio SNAP website to download and print the application form.
Fill out the form completely
Provide all required details about your household and income 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 your completed application and photocopied documents to the address provided on the form.
Wait for confirmation or further instructions
After mailing, wait for a response from the SNAP office regarding your application status.
Special SNAP Services in Ohio
Ohio offers special SNAP services for residents in urgent need, including expedited benefits, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Visit the Ohio SNAP website to learn more and see if you qualify.
Expedited SNAP Services in Ohio
Residents of Ohio 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 a gross monthly income of less than $150 and resources not exceeding $100, or being a destitute migrant or seasonal farm worker with resources under $100.
Additionally, households with combined monthly income and liquid resources that are less than their monthly rent or mortgage, and utility expenses, may also qualify. The goal is to ensure that those in dire need receive assistance swiftly, typically within seven days of application. This rapid response helps alleviate immediate food insecurity for vulnerable individuals and families.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
Ohio residents affected by disasters such as fires or power outages can request replacement SNAP benefits to cover lost food. Those who qualify include current SNAP beneficiaries and individuals not already on SNAP but facing food loss due to the disaster.
To apply, current SNAP recipients should contact their local SNAP office and report the disaster within ten days. Non-SNAP recipients must complete a SNAP application and indicate the disaster-related food loss. Both groups need to provide proof of the disaster, such as a fire report or utility outage notice.
Required documents may include identification, proof of residence, and evidence of the disaster's impact. This ensures that those in need receive timely assistance to replace lost food and maintain their well-being.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Ohio provides tailored support for older adults (60+) and individuals with disabilities, recognizing their unique needs. These groups often have simplified application options, making the process more accessible and less burdensome.
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. This adjustment helps ensure that essential medical costs do not hinder access to necessary food assistance.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Ohio
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, EBT cards are swiped at checkout terminals in authorized stores to purchase eligible food items. The card deducts the purchase amount from the SNAP balance, ensuring a seamless and discreet transaction. This system simplifies the process of using SNAP benefits, making it as straightforward as using a regular bank card.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Recipients in Ohio 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
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 prepared for immediate consumption
Vitamins and supplements
Non-food products such as cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet foods
Cosmetics and hygiene items
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 Ohio 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 food assistance, avoid running out of funds, and maintain access to nutritious meals. Here's how to stay on top of your benefits:
EBT Deposit Schedule in Ohio
In Ohio, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the last digit of the case number. Here's a quick breakdown:
Case Number Ending in 0: Benefits deposited on the 2nd of the month
Case Number Ending in 1: Benefits deposited on the 4th of the month
Case Number Ending in 2: Benefits deposited on the 6th of the month
Case Number Ending in 3: Benefits deposited on the 8th of the month
Case Number Ending in 4: Benefits deposited on the 10th of the month
Case Number Ending in 5: Benefits deposited on the 12th of the month
Case Number Ending in 6: Benefits deposited on the 14th of the month
Case Number Ending in 7: Benefits deposited on the 16th of the month
Case Number Ending in 8: Benefits deposited on the 18th of the month
Case Number Ending in 9: Benefits deposited on the 20th 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 Ohio 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 Ohio. Here are the options:
Online Portal
Visit the ConnectEBT website and log in to check your balance and transactions.
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 "Balance Inquiry" to print your current balance.
For additional information on each method for checking your EBT balance, check our guide on EBT Balance Check in Ohio.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
Recipients in Ohio must renew or recertify their SNAP 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. The recertification process can be completed online, by mail, or in-person at a local SNAP office.
Timely recertification is important to ensure continuous access to benefits. Missing the deadline can lead to interruptions in assistance. For detailed instructions and deadlines, visit the Ohio SNAP website.
EBT Customer Support in Ohio
SNAP and EBT customer support in Ohio 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 Ohio to get the help you need.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Ohio
EBT Customer Service Phone Number
Call 1-866-386-3071 for assistance.
Hours of Operation
Customer service is 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
Assistance with EBT transactions and account issues
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 most accurate and up-to-date information.
Here are the steps to find your nearest office:
Online Locator Tools
Visit the Ohio SNAP website and use the office locator tool to find the nearest location.
Phone Lines
Call 1-866-244-0071 to speak with a representative who can provide office locations and additional assistance.
Appointment Booking
Some offices offer online appointment booking through their websites, allowing you to schedule a visit at your convenience.
Multi-Langual Support
SNAP application materials and assistance in Ohio are available in multiple languages to support non-English speakers. The most common languages in which assistance is available include:
Spanish
Somali
Chinese
Arabic
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Ohio 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about SNAP in Ohio
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Ohio?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Ohio, you must meet income limits based on household size, reside in Ohio, and be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Additionally, you must comply with work requirements unless exempt due to age, disability, or student status. For more details, visit the Ohio SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in Ohio 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 Ohio 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 to determine qualification. For detailed information, visit the Ohio SNAP website.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Ohio 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 interruptions in receiving benefits. Required documents usually include proof of income, residency, and any changes in household size or expenses.
