Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) 

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) replaces Minnesota's food support program.  You can apply for SNAP (food support) in the county where you live. This program helps people with low income get the food they need for sound nutrition and well-balanced meals. The program issues benefits electronically on a card that is used to buy food at local stores.

Use the Combined Application Form to apply for SNAP (food support). You will need to fill out the form, provide proof of identity, income, assets and expenses and complete a phone or face-to-face interview.. MN.BridgeToBenefits.org has an Eligibility Screening Tool that you can use to see if you or someone else may be eligible for SNAP (food support) and other benefits.

SNAP (food support) can be used to buy food and plants or seeds to grow food to eat. SNAP (food support) benefits will not pay for non-food items, like paper products or personal hygiene products, alcoholic drinks, tobacco products, vitamins and drugs, pet foods, food eaten in the store, or ready to eat "deli" food.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training Program (SNAP E & T) helps able-bodied adults without dependents between the ages of 18 and 50, who do not receive other cash assistance, work toward employment and self-sufficiency through assessment, planning and training. The program is jointly administered by the Minnesota Departments of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and Human Services (DHS).  SNAP services are available at the Work and Employment Resource Center (WERC) located at Century Plaza, 330 South 12th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55404.

Mothers and babies

In addition to SNAP (food support), mothers, infants, and young children may receive vouchers for food items that provide supplemental nutrition from a federal program called WIC for Women, Infants & Children.

Local Food Shelf

Emergency Foodshelf Network is a web site that can help you find the local food shelf in your area.

Applying for SNAP

SNAP Contact

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  I need food right away, where can I get help now?

A: Call SNAP at 612-596-1300.  For more information on emergency food, see Emergency Programs.

Q:  I just need (SNAP) food support and health care coverage, do I have to come into the office?

A: No, the interview for SNAP (food support) alone can be done by phone and no interview is required to apply for health care coverage.

Q:  How can I learn more about applying for cash assistance?

A:  Look for Types of Cash Assistance

Q:  Do I have to have a face-to-face interview?

A:  No, for SNAP (food support) only, you have a choice of a face-to-face or a telephone interview.