SNAP Benefits FAQ

SNAP Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I am eligible for Florida Food Assistance (SNAP: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)?
Click here for eligibility requirements.

Can I apply for SNAP benefits if I am not a U.S. citizen?
If you have a green card, you are a Legal Permanent Resident. You will have to be considered low income, and need to wait 5 years after getting your green card before you can apply for SNAP. Children who were born in the U.S. may also qualify for SNAP.

Will getting government benefits hurt my chances of getting a green card or becoming a US citizen?
As long as you received public benefits lawfully (without using fraud, for example), it will not hurt or affect your eligibility for naturalization. Applying for or getting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) benefits does not make you a public charge, nor does it hurt your chances to become a citizen or get a visa or green card in the future. For more information about Public Charge, visit: https://www.floridapolicy.org/posts/food-assistance-participants-do-not-have-to-worry-about-public-charge

If I receive benefits in another state, can I transfer them?
No, benefits cannot be transferred from state to state. You need to cancel your benefits in other state, and then apply in the state where you are living. Benefits cannot overlap.

Is there any way that My ACCESS Account can verify my assistance benefits from other states?
No. You will need to contact the state where you are receiving benefits.

If I submit an application on my own, can the Benefits Connection team help me?
The Benefits Connection team can only provide assistance and status updates on SNAP applications submitted though the Benefits Connection program. If an application is completed without the assistance of Benefits Connection Specialist, through the MyACCESS system, the applicant will have to follow up with DCF directly regarding status of application.

How long does the process take?
It can take up to 30 days to process your application (longer if you need a disability determination).

Who do I contact after I complete an application with the Benefits Connection team?
The Benefits Connection Specialist who completes your application will provide information about next steps, as well as contact information for status updates and extra support while your application is processing.

When should I complete my renewal application?
You should complete your renewal application before the 15th day of the month in which your benefit period ends; but no earlier than 45 days before benefits are due to end. If you have completed your application with a Benefits Connection Specialist, make sure to contact them to set up an appointment if you need assistance with the renewal process.

Where can I get answers for EBT Card Questions?
If you are in need of a new EBT card, please call the EBT Customer Service at 1-888-356-3281, or visit the ACCESS EBT information site at: https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/public-assistance/electronic-benefits-transfer-card.

Where can I find Information on ACCESS Programs and Food Assistance?
General program information can be found at https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/public-assistance

Where can I find the closest Career Source Florida Center and its phone number?
Go to https://lcd.floridajobs.org/

Instruction Videos

For DCF Instruction videos, visit : https://www.youtube.com/@MyFLFamilies

For more information about SNAP, visit:
https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/public-assistance/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap

For more information or to receive help, please contact:
Erica Astacio, Benefits Connection Manager at EAstacio@feedhopenow.org

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida prohibits discrimination in all of its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex (including gender identity and expression), marital status, religion, sexual orientation, reprisal, political beliefs or because all or part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program.

Persons who require alternate means of communication of program information should contact SHFB at (407) 295-2777.  When applicable, these alternate means of communications are provided free of charge. 
 

For more information on Civil Rights Laws and Regulations click on the following links:

Interpreter services for the Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing (poster size 11x17)
DCF Non-discrimination poster (poster size 11x17)
Limited English proficient poster (poster size 11x17)

For the full USDA-HHS Non-Discrimination Statement, click here.
2019 USDA Non-Discrimination Poster