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SNAP Food & Nutrition Services
Supporting Nutrition for Individuals and Families in Times of Need
Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), also known as Food Stamps or SNAP, helps eligible individuals and families with limited income buy the food they need. Benefits are provided on an EBT card, which works like a debit card. The card can be used at checkout to buy food at grocery stores and other locations that accept EBT. Look for signs that say, “We accept SNAP benefits.”
If you additional assistance there are seven food banks in the state of North Carolina as a food stamp outreach initiative.
Pitt County is one of the target counties.
What to Expect in the Application and Interview Process
Eligibility for FNS benefits is based on several factors, including identity, residency, income, resources, household size, student status, and citizenship or immigration status. Staff use this information to determine whether you may qualify and the amount of benefits you could receive.
Requirements to Receive Assistance
- You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified legal immigrant.
- You must have or apply for a Social Security number.
- You must meet income and reserve requirements.
Application & Interview Process
Residents who apply in person may be able to complete their interview the same day. If you apply by mail, fax, or online and do not hear from staff within one to two days, contact the Department of Social Services to schedule your interview. You may submit an application even if you do not have all documents ready.
The application process may take up to 25 days. Providing requested information as quickly as possible can help reduce delays.
During the interview, a worker will review your application with you. Residents can update answers, ask questions, or share any missing information. If additional documentation is needed, staff will let you know and provide a deadline for when it should be returned.
Information You May Be Asked to Provide
Before your Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) application can be processed, you must complete an interview by phone or in person. If you apply in person, you may be interviewed the same day. If you apply by mail, fax, or online, contact your local Department of Social Services (DSS) if you are not contacted within one or two days to schedule an interview.
You may also be asked to provide documents to help staff decide if you qualify. Examples of common documents are listed below. This may not be a complete list, or If eligibility cannot be confirmed using the information listed in the “What’s Needed” column, additional documents and details may be requested.
You can still apply and complete the interview even if you do not have all documents right away.
| Eligibility Requirement | What’s Needed | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Address / Living With / Living Arrangement | Voter registration or library card, utility bill, rent or mortgage receipt, mail received at the address, or contact with someone knowledgeable of the situation | At application, review, change in situation, or if moving |
| Age | Birth certificate or date of birth (client statement acceptable) | At application, review, or change in situation |
| Assets / Resources | Ownership and tax records, bank statements, or court documents | At application, review, or change in situation |
| Citizenship / Alien Status | Verification of citizenship or alien status through Immigration and Naturalization Service | At application or when required |
| Emancipation | Marriage certificate, court records, or military ID | As needed |
| Gas and Electric Bills | Copy of utility bills | At application, review, or change in situation |
| Health Insurance | Insurance policy or card | As needed |
| Identity | Driver’s license, work, school, or health benefit ID, voter registration card, or contact with someone knowledgeable of the situation | At application or if questionable |
| Income | Wage stubs, tax forms, benefit letters, or other proof of income | At application, review, or change in situation |
| Kinship | Client statement or contact with someone knowledgeable | At application, review, or change in situation |
| Pregnancy | Statement from a medical provider | At application or as needed |
| Social Security Number | Valid Social Security card or number | At application or until received |
| Student Status | Bank records or student financial records | At application or as needed |
| Work Capacity | Medical statement from a doctor | As needed |
Getting the Most Out of Your Benefits
Your benefit amount may stay the same, but everyday needs can change. Using simple budgeting and planning strategies can help stretch your Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits further. The resources below offer practical tips to help residents make the most of their available funds in Pitt County.
- Eat Right When Money’s Tight
SNAP-Ed tools to help households on a budget make healthy food choices. - Meal Planning, Shopping, and Budgeting
SNAP-Ed resources that teach simple meal planning and smart shopping skills. - SNAP-Ed Recipes
Easy, low-cost recipes with short ingredient lists. - EBT Shopper Recipes
Helpful tips and simple recipes designed for EBT and WIC users.