Applying for food stamps in Milwaukee is straightforward. Initial inquiries can be made online using MyACCESS, a secure online benefits portal, or by phone. Alternatively, individuals can apply in person at the local county human services office. Necessary documents include proof of identity, income, and expenses. Additionally, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency is required. Once the application is submitted, it typically takes about 30 days for a decision to be made. During this time, applicants may be asked to provide additional information or attend an interview. If approved, benefits will be issued electronically or via a card similar to a debit card.
Eligibility Requirements for Milwaukee Residents
To be eligible for Food Stamps in Milwaukee, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a resident of Milwaukee County.
- Be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen.
- Have a Social Security number or a valid immigrant status.
- Meet the income and asset limits.
- Be unemployed, underemployed, or receiving low wages.
- Be pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Be caring for a child under the age of 5.
- Be a person with a disability.
- Be a student.
The income and asset limits for Food Stamps in Milwaukee are as follows:
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit | Net Monthly Income Limit | Asset Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,835 | $1,394 | $2,500 |
| 2 | $2,469 | $1,854 | $3,750 |
| 3 | $3,103 | $2,314 | $5,000 |
| 4 | $3,737 | $2,774 | $6,250 |
| 5 | $4,371 | $3,234 | $7,500 |
| 6 | $5,005 | $3,694 | $8,750 |
| 7 | $5,639 | $4,154 | $10,000 |
| 8 | $6,273 | $4,614 | $11,250 |
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for Food Stamps online, by mail, or in person at your local Department of Human Services office.
Documents Needed for Application Milwaukee Residents
To apply for Food Stamps in Milwaukee, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of identity (such as a driver’s license, state ID card, or birth certificate)
- Proof of residency (such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement)
- Proof of income (such as pay stubs, Social Security benefits, or pension statements)
- Proof of assets (such as bank statements, stocks, or bonds)
- Proof of expenses (such as rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, and child care costs)
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
- Proof of student status (if applicable)
You can apply for Food Stamps online, by mail, or in person at your local Department of Human Services office.
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Proof of identity | A driver’s license, state ID card, or birth certificate |
| Proof of residency | A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement |
| Proof of income | Pay stubs, Social Security benefits, or pension statements |
| Proof of assets | Bank statements, stocks, or bonds |
| Proof of expenses | Rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, and child care costs |
| Social Security numbers | For all household members |
| Proof of disability | If applicable |
| Proof of student status | If applicable |
Applying Online or by Mail
Residents of Milwaukee can apply for food stamps online or by mail. Both methods are convenient and straightforward.
Online Application
- Visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) website.
- Click on the “Apply for Benefits” button.
- Select “FoodShare” from the list of benefits.
- Follow the instructions to complete the online application.
Mail-In Application
- Download the FoodShare application form from the DHS website.
- Print the form and fill it out completely.
- Mail the completed application to the DHS office in your county.
Table: DHS Office Addresses in Milwaukee
| County | Address |
|---|---|
| Milwaukee County | 8200 W. Center Street, Milwaukee, WI 53222 |
| Waukesha County | 1210 W. Main Street, Waukesha, WI 53186 |
| Ozaukee County | 1130 N. Port Washington Road, Grafton, WI 53024 |
Note: You can also apply for FoodShare in person at your local DHS office.
Contacting the Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services
The Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is responsible for administering the FoodShare program in Milwaukee County. To apply for FoodShare benefits, you can contact the DHHS in several ways.
- Online: You can apply for FoodShare benefits online at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website.
- By phone: You can call the DHHS FoodShare hotline at 414-223-6600.
- In person: You can apply for FoodShare benefits in person at the DHHS office located at 8731 W. North Avenue, Wauwatosa, WI 53226.
What You Will Need to Apply
When you apply for FoodShare benefits, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, state ID card, passport)
- Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card, W-2 form)
- Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns)
- Proof of expenses (e.g., rent or mortgage receipts, utility bills, child care expenses)
- Proof of citizenship or legal residency (e.g., birth certificate, naturalization certificate, green card)
The Application Process
The FoodShare application process typically takes about 30 days. Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a notice in the mail letting you know if you have been approved for benefits. If you are approved, you will receive a FoodShare card that you can use to purchase food at authorized retailers.
FoodShare Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for FoodShare benefits, you must meet the following requirements:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Income | Your household income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level. |
| Assets | Your household assets must be at or below certain limits. |
| Work requirements | Able-bodied adults without dependents must work or participate in a work program for at least 20 hours per week. |
Contact Information
For more information about FoodShare benefits in Milwaukee County, you can contact the DHHS FoodShare hotline at 414-223-6600 or visit the DHHS website.
Thanks for taking the time to read about how to apply for food stamps in Milwaukee. I know it can be a lot of information to take in, but hopefully, it’s given you a good starting point. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. In the meantime, be sure to check back later for more updates and information on how to get the help you need. Take care!