To determine eligibility for food stamps in North Carolina, specific criteria must be met regarding income and household size. Households must meet the gross and net income limits set by the federal government. Additionally, asset limits apply, varying based on household size. Individuals who are elderly, disabled, or homeless may be eligible for Simplified Application Project (SAP) benefits, which have less stringent requirements. Proof of identity, residency, and income are generally required during the application process. Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at local Department of Social Services offices. Once approved, Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards are issued to access benefits from authorized retailers. Eligibility is reviewed periodically to ensure continued compliance with program guidelines.
Income Limits for Food Stamps in North Carolina
To qualify for food stamps in North Carolina, your household’s income must meet certain requirements. The income limit is based on the federal poverty level and varies depending on the number of people in your household. The following table shows the income limits for food stamps in North Carolina for fiscal year 2023:
| Household Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,494 |
| 2 people | $2,009 |
| 3 people | $2,524 |
| 4 people | $3,039 |
| 5 people | $3,554 |
| 6 people | $4,069 |
| 7 people | $4,584 |
| 8 people | $5,099 |
| Each additional person | $515 |
- Your gross income is counted before any deductions are taken out, such as taxes, Social Security, or child support.
- If you receive Social Security, SSI, or other government benefits, these count as income for food stamp purposes.
- Income from work, self-employment, or child support payments also counts as income.
In addition to income, there are other factors that can affect your eligibility for food stamps, such as:
- Resources, such as savings, stocks, bonds, or other assets
- Age
- Disability
- Student status
If you think you may be eligible for food stamps, you can apply online or at your local Department of Social Services office. You will need to provide proof of your income, resources, and other information. For more information, visit the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services website or call the Food and Nutrition Services hotline at 1-877-366-3487.
Asset Limits for Food Stamps in North Carolina
Asset limits vary depending on household size and your circumstances. The 2023 asset limits are as follows:
- Households with one or two members: $2,750
- Households with three or four members: $4,000
- Households with five or six members: $5,250
- Households with seven or eight members: $6,500
- Households with nine or ten members: $7,750
For each additional member over ten, you can add $1,000 to the limit.
| Assets Included | Assets Excluded |
|---|---|
| Checking and savings accounts | Homes and lots used as a residence |
| Stocks and bonds | One vehicle per household member |
| Retirement accounts | Burial plots |
| Cash | Life insurance policies |
| Real estate not used as a residence | Household goods and personal belongings |
| Any other property that can be turned into cash | Up to $12,250 in retirement savings |
How to Apply for Food Stamps in North Carolina
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, is a federal program that helps low-income individuals and families purchase the food they need for good health. To qualify for SNAP in North Carolina, you must meet certain eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
- Income: Your household’s income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level. The income limit varies depending on the number of people in your household.
- Assets: Your household’s assets must be at or below certain limits. Assets include things like cash, bank accounts, stocks, and bonds.
- Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 49 without dependents are required to work or participate in a work program to receive SNAP benefits.
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen to receive SNAP benefits.
How to Apply
You can apply for SNAP benefits online, by mail, or in person at your local county Department of Social Services (DSS) office.
Online: You can apply for SNAP benefits online at the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website. You will need to create an account and provide information about your household, income, and assets.
By Mail: You can download a SNAP application form from the DHHS website or pick one up at your local DSS office. Once you have completed the application, mail it to your local DSS office.
In Person: You can apply for SNAP benefits in person at your local DSS office. You will need to bring proof of identity, income, and assets.
Once you have submitted your application, it will be processed by the DSS. You will be notified of the decision within 30 days.
Benefits
The amount of SNAP benefits you receive will depend on your household’s size and income. The maximum monthly benefit for a household of four is $835.
You can use your SNAP benefits to purchase food at authorized retailers. You can find a list of authorized retailers on the DHHS website.
Contact Information
For more information about SNAP benefits in North Carolina, you can contact the DHHS at 1-888-622-3300.
| Household Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,340 |
| 2 | $1,816 |
| 3 | $2,292 |
| 4 | $2,768 |
| 5 | $3,244 |
| 6 | $3,719 |
| 7 | $4,195 |
| 8 | $4,671 |
Well peeps, that’s about all there is to know about how to qualify for food stamps in North Carolina. As you can see, the process is simple and straightforward. So, if you’re in need of assistance, don’t hesitate to apply. Remember, everyone deserves to have access to healthy and nutritious food.
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