How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Alabama

You can apply for Alabama SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires submitting the same information to the Department of Human Resources.

Online Application

This is often the quickest method. You can complete the form and upload documents from your computer or mobile device at any time, which can speed up the review process.

To apply online, visit the Alabama DHR website. You will need to create an account to start your application, save your progress, and submit the final form electronically.

In-Person Application

If you prefer direct assistance, you can apply at your local county DHR office. Staff are available to answer questions and help you complete the application form on-site.

You can pick up a paper application at the office or fill one out there. Be sure to bring any required documents, like proof of identity and income, to avoid delays.

Mail-In Application

Applying by mail is another option. This method allows you to fill out a paper form at your own pace before sending it to the DHR for processing.

You can download and print the application from the Alabama DHR website. Once completed, mail the form to your county DHR office. It is a good idea to keep a copy for your records.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Alabama

For help with your application or questions about eligibility, you can contact the Food Assistance Program hotline. They can assist with the following:

• Phone Number: 833-822-2202

• Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. CT

• Application Help: Get answers to your benefit eligibility and application questions.

See Alabama EBT Customer Service Contacts

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Alabama

Once your SNAP application is approved, you will want to know how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where you can shop.

What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?

An Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is how you receive and spend your SNAP benefits. It works very much like a debit card. Your monthly food assistance funds are loaded directly onto the card, which you can then use to purchase eligible food items.

Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance, just like with a debit card transaction.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your EBT card is for buying groceries to feed your household. You can purchase most staple food items that you would find in a grocery store to prepare meals at home. Eligible items include:

• Fruits and vegetables

• Meat, poultry, and fish

• Dairy products

• Breads and cereals

• Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages

• Seeds and plants that produce food

It is also helpful to know what you cannot buy with SNAP benefits. The program has specific restrictions on non-food items, alcohol, and prepared hot meals. Ineligible items include:

• Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, and tobacco

• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements

• Hot foods that are ready-to-eat

• Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics

How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits

Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget for groceries and avoid any interruptions in your food assistance.

How to Check Your EBT Balance

You can check your Alabama EBT card balance in several ways. Your last grocery receipt will usually show your remaining balance. You can also call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card.

For a real-time balance check on your phone, you can use the Benny app. It shows your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances and offers cashback on eligible purchases at certain stores.

Another option is to view your balance online. You can log in to the Alabama EBT cardholder portal to see your transaction history and current funds.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Alabama

Your SNAP benefits are deposited onto your EBT card on the same day each month. The specific date depends on the last two digits of your case number.

Payments in Alabama are sent out between the 4th and the 23rd of every month. If you are unsure of your deposit date, you can check your approval letter or contact your local DHR office.

Renewing Your SNAP Benefits

To continue receiving food assistance, you must renew your SNAP benefits periodically. This process is also known as recertification. The DHR will send you a notice in the mail when it is time to renew.

You must complete and return your renewal forms by the deadline to avoid losing your benefits. The process is similar to your initial application and may require an interview to confirm your household's information is still correct.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Alabama

Your SNAP benefits are deposited between the 4th and 23rd of each month. The exact date depends on the last two digits of your case number, which helps you plan your monthly grocery budget.

Check our Alabama deposit schedule to find your specific payment date.

See Alabama EBT deposit schedule for 2025

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

You can check your balance by calling the number on your card, using the online portal, or looking at your last store receipt. The Benny app also shows your balance and offers cashback on eligible purchases.

Our guide covers each method for checking your EBT balance.

Check Your Alabama EBT Balance

Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time. You can also get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and others.

To get started, just link your EBT card to the app. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on your SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.