EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Wisconsin, helping them access nutritious meals and alleviate food insecurity.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Wisconsin
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Wisconsin 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: $1,383
Maximum Benefit Amount: $281
Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,868
Maximum Benefit Amount: $516
Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,353
Maximum Benefit Amount: $740
Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,839
Maximum Benefit Amount: $939
Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,324
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,116
Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,809
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,339
Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,295
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,480
Household Size: 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,780
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,691
For households with more than 8 members, add $486 to the gross monthly income limit and $211 to the maximum benefit amount for each additional person. For the most current information, please visit the official Wisconsin SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Wisconsin
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin.
Citizenship Status: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens can qualify.
Work Requirements: Certain work-related conditions must be met.
Special Conditions: There are specific considerations for seniors, disabled individuals, and students.
For detailed and up-to-date information, please visit the official Wisconsin SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Wisconsin
Applying for SNAP benefits in Wisconsin can be done online, in-person, or by mail, providing flexibility to meet the needs of all applicants.
Applying Online
To apply for SNAP benefits online as a Wisconsin resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website: Go to the ACCESS Wisconsin 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 application form with the necessary details about your household.
Submit required documents electronically: Upload any required documents directly through the portal.
Review and submit your application: Double-check your 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 Wisconsin Department of Health Services office using their online directory.
Gather necessary documents: Collect essential documents such as ID, 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 details.
Submit your application to a caseworker: Hand your completed application to a caseworker for processing and further instructions.
For more information, you can contact the Wisconsin Department of Health Services at (608) 266-1865.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in Wisconsin by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form: Obtain the form from the official Wisconsin SNAP website.
Fill out the form: Complete the application with your household details.
Photocopy necessary documents: Include copies of essential documents like ID and proof of income.
Mail the application and documents: Send everything to the address provided on the form.
Wait for confirmation: Look out for a response with further instructions or confirmation.
Special SNAP Services in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, residents may receive special SNAP services such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Visit the Wisconsin SNAP Services to learn more and see if you qualify.
Expedited SNAP Services in Wisconsin
Residents of Wisconsin 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 income and liquid resources are less than their monthly rent or mortgage and utility expenses, they may also be eligible for expedited benefits. The goal is to ensure that those facing immediate hardship can access essential food assistance quickly, providing a safety net during critical times.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
If you are affected by disasters such as fires or power outages in Wisconsin, 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 urgent need.
Required documents may include proof of identity, residency, and details of the disaster's impact on your food supply. Providing these documents helps expedite the process, ensuring you receive the necessary support promptly.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Wisconsin 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 time-consuming.
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 essential food assistance.
Common deductions for these groups include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce countable income. This adjustment helps ensure that more of their limited resources can be directed towards maintaining a nutritious diet.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Wisconsin
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 Wisconsin 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?
In Wisconsin, EBT cards can be used at a variety of locations, including grocery stores, corner stores, and farmers' markets. These venues allow recipients to purchase eligible food items, ensuring access to nutritious options.
Additionally, some online retailers like Amazon and Walmart accept EBT for grocery purchases, providing further convenience. This flexibility helps recipients manage their food needs efficiently, whether shopping in-person or online.
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing SNAP benefits ensures recipients maximize their food assistance, avoid running out of funds, and maintain a balanced diet. Effective management includes checking balances, understanding deposit schedules, and renewing benefits on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the eighth digit of the recipient's Social Security Number (SSN). This system helps ensure a smooth and organized distribution of benefits. Here’s how it works:
SSN Ending in 0-1: Benefits deposited on the 2nd of the month
SSN Ending in 2-3: Benefits deposited on the 3rd of the month
SSN Ending in 4-5: Benefits deposited on the 4th of the month
SSN Ending in 6-7: Benefits deposited on the 5th of the month
SSN Ending in 8-9: Benefits deposited on the 6th of the month
Understanding the deposit schedule is crucial for managing SNAP benefits effectively, ensuring recipients can plan their grocery shopping and avoid running out of funds.
For more details, check out our guide on EBT deposit schedule in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin:
Online Portal: Visit the ACCESS Wisconsin portal and log in to view your balance.
Benny App: Download Benny, link your EBT card, and check your balance and transactions in real time.
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, select "Balance Inquiry," and your 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 Wisconsin.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Wisconsin, 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 ACCESS Wisconsin portal, by mail, or in-person at a local SNAP office.
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 Wisconsin SNAP website.
EBT Customer Support in Wisconsin
SNAP and EBT customer support in Wisconsin ensures recipients have access to assistance for managing their benefits effectively. For contact details, support options, and common issues, check out our guide on EBT customer service in Wisconsin.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Wisconsin
EBT Customer Service Phone Number: Call 1-877-415-5164 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 issues with transactions
Providing general information about EBT benefits
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or DHS office in Wisconsin is straightforward with several available resources. You can use the 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 Wisconsin DHS office locator and enter your zip code or city to find the closest office.
Phone Line: Call the Wisconsin Department of Health Services at (608) 266-1865 for assistance in locating your nearest office.
Appointment Booking: Some offices offer online appointment booking through their websites or by calling ahead to schedule a visit.
Multi-Langual Support
In Wisconsin, 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
Chinese
Russian
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Wisconsin?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Wisconsin, you must meet income limits based on household size, be a resident of Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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. For a complete list of qualifying statuses, check the official Wisconsin SNAP website.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Wisconsin 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 complete the renewal process on time to avoid any interruptions in receiving benefits.
