Ms. C was dismayed to learn that New York State had terminated her SNAP benefits (food stamps). Why? Because she wasn’t sure how to recertify her eligibility and didn’t do it in time to keep them.

“I rely on SNAP to buy food every month because my income is very limited,” the 68-year-old Bronx resident explained. “And I thought that I would never get my benefits again.”

Fortunately, Ms. C called Neighborhood SHOPP, a statewide nonprofit whose mission empowers New Yorkers with the knowledge, support, and motivation they need to age well. With guidance from a professional case worker, Ms. C successfully re-applied for SNAP and now receives $200 in food assistance every month.

“I am so happy—I have no words to explain how happy,” Ms. C said. “Thank God the agency is here to help [us] seniors.”

If you or someone you know receives Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, it’s important to know how to recertify your eligibility before those benefits lapse. That way, you can avoid the stress and extra red tape that Ms. C faced.

“Generally speaking, it’s much easier to complete SNAP recertification than it is to start over from scratch,” said Jen Teague, NCOA Director for Health Coverage and Benefits.

Since you’ve already done it once, many of the documents you need may already be handy. Plus, many states have streamlined the process, such as eliminating the interview requirement for certain households where everyone is age 60 or older,” said Teague.

This guide can help you prepare.

Understanding SNAP recertification

When you apply and qualify for the first time, your state SNAP office will send you an official approval letter explaining how long your benefits will last: generally anywhere from one month to three years. Your letter may call this time period your “active” or “certification” period.

During your certification period, your SNAP benefits get deposited onto an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card at the same time every month. This is automatic; you don’t have to do anything. Approximately one month before your certification period ends, however, your state agency will send you an official Notice of Expiration.¹ This means it’s time to complete your SNAP recertification.

What is SNAP recertification?

SNAP recertification simply means that you still fulfill the eligibility requirements for receiving SNAP benefits, including meeting monthly income and asset limits.

Why do I need a recertification to receive SNAP benefits?

There are three reasons you need to recertify to receive SNAP benefits:

1. First, the federal government requires it. According to official regulations, your state agency cannot provide SNAP benefits beyond your active period unless you complete the recertification process.¹
2. Second, your income or the makeup of your household may have changed—both of which can affect your SNAP eligibility.
3. And third, program guidelines also may have changed. This can happen from time to time when Congress passes a new law that impacts SNAP, for instance, or when the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) goes up or down.

“Together, these three things answer one key question, which is: ‘Does a need still exist?’” Teague said. “The intent of recertification isn’t to trip you up. It’s truly to make sure you get the financial assistance you deserve, at the benefits level you qualify for.”

When will I receive a SNAP recertification packet?

As mentioned above, your state agency will send you an official Notice of Expiration about one month before your SNAP certification period ends (they may also call you, email you, or both). This letter includes important dates and details about when and how to complete your SNAP recertification.

While not required, many states also will include additional information with your Notice of Expiration to help make things easier for you. This packet may contain¹:

• A recertification application
• A recertification interview appointment letter
• A list of necessary verification documents

Remember: once you receive notification, be sure to complete your SNAP recertification right away; otherwise, your benefits may lapse or expire.

How do I recertify my SNAP eligibility?

You will need to follow these three steps to recertify your SNAP eligibility:

✅ Complete, sign, and return your recertification form
Some states only will ask you to note any changes to your original SNAP application; you won’t have to fill out another one. Others may provide a different, simpler application than the original. Regardless of the format it takes, you generally will need to re-verify some personal information on your SNAP recertification form.

For example, in New York State where Ms. C. lives, you will need to list²:

• Your household members
• Your sources of income, including any wages, Social Security benefits, pensions, disability insurance payments, and others
• The amounts you pay for shelter, dependent care, and medical expenses

Once you complete your form, you can submit it online, by mail, or in person depending on where you live.

✅ Complete a recertification interview
This interview is just like your original SNAP interview, with similar goals: to make sure the information you already provided on your recertification form is correct. And because every day matters when it comes to keeping your food assistance, your local SNAP office must schedule your recertification interview at least 11 days before your benefits are due to expire.¹ If you did not receive an appointment letter in your recertification packet, someone from your local SNAP office will call you to set up a time.

It's important that you keep your interview appointment; otherwise, you risk losing your SNAP benefits. And, while it’s natural to feel a little nervous beforehand, we have some useful tips to help you prepare.

Note: As of June 2024, 23 states have adopted a streamlined recertification process for households including older adults.³ What does this mean? If you and everyone you live with are age 60 or older, you most likely will not have to complete a recertification interview. To avoid disruptions in your SNAP benefits, be sure to return your recertification form and documents on time.

✅ Provide any requested follow-up documentation
Sometimes, your SNAP interviewer will need additional information to verify your eligibility. If so, they will clearly explain what you need to provide and by when. Be sure to complete this step right away to avoid any delays to your benefits.

Finally, remember that SNAP guidelines vary by state. If you have specific questions about how to recertify your SNAP benefits, it’s a good idea to contact the program administrator in your area. Use this state directory and click on yours to get contact information for your local SNAP office.

Can I recertify for food stamps online?

Many states allow you to recertify your SNAP benefits online. The best way to find out is to contact your local SNAP office and ask.

How long will SNAP recertification take?

Typically, your local SNAP agency will review your materials as quickly as possible—something the federal government strongly encourages. As long as you submit everything in a timely manner, you should have a decision within about two weeks.¹

If you disagree with it, you have the right to appeal your SNAP decision, too.

I don’t currently receive food assistance. Should I apply for SNAP?

If you think you might qualify for SNAP assistance, you should apply. Nationally, more than 31% of participating SNAP households includes adults over the age of 60⁴, which means you’re not alone.

The average SNAP benefit for households including older adults is $158 per month⁴—which you can use to purchase fresh, healthy foods and non-alcoholic beverages at supermarkets, convenience stores, and even some farmers’ markets. By making it easier to eat healthfully, SNAP can help you maintain your well-being and independence in many important ways.

Ready? Learn how to apply for SNAP here.

For further guidance on SNAP eligibility and applying for benefits, contact your local Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC). Experienced advisors can walk you through, free of charge.

Sources

1.   USDA. SNAP Recertification Toolkit, June 2018. Found on the internet at https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/media/file/SNAP%20Recertification%20Toolkit%20-%2006-2018.pdf

2.  New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Insurance. Form LDSS-5166: Application/Recertification for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits. Found on the internet at https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/5166.pdf

3.  USDA. SNAP State Options Report, 16th Edition. Found on the internet at https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/snap-16th-state-options-report-june24.pdf#page=1

4.  USDA. Characteristics of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Households: Fiscal Year 2022. Found on the internet at https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/ops-snap-fy22-characteristics.pdf