Applying for food stamps in New Mexico is a simple and straightforward process. You can apply online or by phone. If applying online, you’ll need to create an account with the New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD). You’ll also need to provide information about your income, expenses, and household members. If applying by phone, you’ll need to call the HSD at 1-800-283-4465. You’ll need to provide the same information as you would if applying online. Once you’ve applied, your application will be processed and you’ll be notified of the status of your application. If you’re approved, you’ll receive a New Mexico Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that you can use to purchase food at authorized retailers.
Eligibility Requirements for Food Stamps in New Mexico
To qualify for food stamps in New Mexico, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements include:
- Income: Your household’s gross income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level. For a household of one person, this is $1,836 per month. For a household of two people, this is $2,461 per month. For a household of three people, this is $3,086 per month. And so on.
- Assets: Your household’s assets must be at or below certain limits. For most households, this limit is $2,500. For households with elderly or disabled members, this limit is $3,750.
- Work requirements: Able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 49 must work at least 20 hours per week, be enrolled in a work training program, or be physically or mentally unable to work.
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen.
- Residency: You must be a resident of New Mexico.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,836 |
| 2 | $2,461 |
| 3 | $3,086 |
| 4 | $3,711 |
| 5 | $4,336 |
| 6 | $4,961 |
| 7 | $5,587 |
| 8 | $6,212 |
Required Documents for Food Stamp Application in New Mexico
To apply for food stamps in New Mexico, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or passport.
- Proof of Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or a W-2 form.
- Proof of income, such as pay stubs, self-employment tax returns, or Social Security award letters.
- Proof of expenses, such as rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, and child care costs.
- Proof of assets, such as bank statements, stock certificates, or bonds.
- Proof of citizenship or legal residency, such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card.
- Proof of disability, if applicable, such as a doctor’s statement or a Social Security Disability Determination Services (DDS) award letter.
| Applicant Category | Additional Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Pregnant women | Proof of pregnancy |
| Children under 5 years old | Proof of child’s age and income |
| Students | Proof of student status |
| Seniors (60 years or older) | Proof of age and income |
| Disabled individuals | Proof of disability |
What to Prepare Beforehand
Before you start your online application, gather the following documents and information:
- Social Security numbers and dates of birth for all household members.
- Proof of income for the past 30 days, such as pay stubs, self-employment income statements, or Social Security/SSI/VA benefit letters.
- Proof of expenses for the past 30 days, such as rent/mortgage payments, utility bills, medical bills, childcare costs, etc.
- Bank account information for direct deposit of benefits (optional).
- Employment information for all working household members, including employer name, address, phone number, and gross monthly income.
- Information about any resources you have, such as cash on hand, stocks, bonds, or real estate.
- Go to the New Mexico Human Services Department’s website: https://www.hsd.state.nm.us/food/
- Click on the “Apply for Food Assistance Online” button.
- Create an online account or log in to your existing account.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the online application.
- Upload or fax required documents, if any.
- Review and submit your application.
- Proof of identity (such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
- Proof of residency (such as a utility bill, rental agreement, or mortgage statement)
- Proof of income (such as pay stubs, bank statements, or Social Security benefits award letter)
- Proof of expenses (such as rent, mortgage, utilities, and childcare costs)
- Proof of resources (such as bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and vehicles)
Online Application Process
To apply for food stamps online in New Mexico:
After You Apply
After you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation number. Keep this number for your records. You can check the status of your application online or by calling the New Mexico Human Services Department’s customer service line at 1-800-283-4465.
If you are approved for food stamps, you will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card in the mail. This card can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers.
Additional Information
For more information on food stamps in New Mexico, visit the New Mexico Human Services Department’s website or call the customer service line at 1-800-283-4465.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,517 |
| 2 | $2,046 |
| 3 | $2,575 |
| 4 | $3,104 |
| 5 | $3,633 |
| 6 | $4,162 |
| 7 | $4,691 |
| 8 | $5,220 |
SNAP Office Locations and Phone Numbers in New Mexico
Albuquerque: 2905 San Mateo Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110. Phone: (505) 346-6200
Las Cruces: 129 E Griggs Ave, Las Cruces, NM 88001. Phone: (575) 524-0137
Roswell: 414 W Alameda St, Roswell, NM 88203. Phone: (575) 624-6272
Santa Fe: 3250 Richards Ln, Santa Fe, NM 87505. Phone: (505) 476-7200
Taos: 206 Cruz Alta Rd, Taos, NM 87571. Phone: (575) 758-1880
Documentation You May Need to Apply for Food Stamps
Submitting Your Food Stamp Application
You can apply for food stamps online, by mail, by phone, or in person at your local SNAP office. You can also apply through a community agency that provides food stamp assistance.
If you are applying online or by mail, you will need to download and complete the SNAP application form. You can find the form on the New Mexico Human Services Department website.
If you are applying by phone, you will need to call the New Mexico SNAP hotline at 1-800-343-1454.
If you are applying in person, you will need to visit your local SNAP office and bring all of the required documentation with you.
Processing Time for Food Stamp Applications
The processing time for food stamp applications varies depending on the county in which you live. In general, you can expect to receive a decision on your application within 30 days.
If your application is approved, you will receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers.
The amount of food stamps you receive each month will be based on your household size and income.
If you are experiencing financial hardship, you may be eligible for expedited benefits. Expedited benefits are processed within seven days.
Contact Information for Food Stamp Assistance in New Mexico
| Service | Phone Number | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 1-800-343-1454 | New Mexico Human Services Department |
Hey there, thanks for taking the time to learn about applying for food stamps in New Mexico. I hope this article has been helpful in guiding you through the process. Remember, applying for food stamps isn’t just about getting a handout, it’s about accessing the resources you need to feed yourself and your family. If you have any more questions or need additional assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Human Services Department or visit the Food and Nutrition Service website. And while you’re here, feel free to check out some of our other articles on how to navigate the ins and outs of life in New Mexico. Thanks again for reading, and we hope to see you back soon!