SNAP Benefits in Alabama: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Alabama. See income limits, benefit amounts, how to apply, and manage your EBT.
Sep 13, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Alabama: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Alabama. See income limits, benefit amounts, how to apply, and manage your EBT.
Sep 13, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Alabama: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Alabama. See income limits, benefit amounts, how to apply, and manage your EBT.
Sep 13, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Alabama: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Alabama. See income limits, benefit amounts, how to apply, and manage your EBT.
Sep 13, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Alabama: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Alabama. See income limits, benefit amounts, how to apply, and manage your EBT.
Sep 13, 2025
SHARE
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides vital food benefits to low-income households in Alabama. This program helps families and individuals purchase nutritious food and maintain their well-being.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Alabama
SNAP income limits and benefit amounts are updated each federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1 to September 30.
The USDA sets the gross monthly income threshold at 130 percent of the federal poverty level. Alabama adopts these limits for most households applying for benefits.
Maximum benefit amounts are also determined by the USDA. They apply to the 48 contiguous states and receive a yearly cost-of-living adjustment.
Household Size: 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size: 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756For each additional person, add $583 to the gross income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit, based on federal eligibility rules and income standards.
For the most current figures, or if special rules apply to your household, please visit the Alabama Department of Human Resources Food Assistance page.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Alabama
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Alabama, households must meet several requirements related to income, residency, and other factors.
Income Limits: Most households must meet both gross and net income limits, though special rules with higher limits apply to households with elderly or disabled members.
Residency Requirements: Applicants must be residents of Alabama to receive food assistance benefits.
Citizenship Status: Your household must include at least one U.S. citizen or a non-citizen with an eligible immigration status.
Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must meet work registration rules, with stricter requirements for those aged 18-49 without dependents.
Special Conditions: Seniors, disabled individuals, and students may be subject to different rules, simplified applications, or specific exemptions.
You can find complete eligibility details on the Alabama DHR website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Alabama
Applying for SNAP in Alabama can be done online, in person, or by mail, offering flexibility to meet your needs.
Online Application
The quickest way to apply is online through the Alabama Department of Human Resources. This method allows you to submit your application and documents electronically from any computer with internet access.
You can start your application on the official Alabama SNAP website. The portal guides you through the required information and allows for document uploads to complete your submission.
In-Person Application
For face-to-face assistance, you can apply in person. Staff at your local county office can help you fill out the application and answer any questions you may have during the process.
Visit your county's Department of Human Resources (DHR) office to pick up and submit a paper application. This is a good option if you need direct help or lack internet access.
Mail-In Application
If you prefer a paper-based method, you can mail your completed application. This option provides a traditional way to apply without needing to visit an office or use a computer.
Download the application form from the DHR website, print it, and fill it out completely. Mail the signed form to your local county DHR office for processing.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Alabama
Call the 24/7 helpline at 1-800-997-8888.
Services include reporting a lost card, resetting your PIN, or checking your balance.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food assistance and stay on top of your budget.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Alabama
In Alabama, SNAP benefits are deposited onto EBT cards between the 4th and the 23rd of each month. Your specific deposit date is based on the last two digits of your case number. Knowing your date helps with meal planning.
You can find a helpful guide on the EBT deposit schedule.
See Alabama EBT deposit schedule
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online portal, the Benny app, the phone number on the back of your card, or from an ATM receipt.
This helpful resource provides additional information on each method.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
To continue receiving SNAP benefits, you must periodically recertify your eligibility. This process usually happens every 6 to 12 months. Your local agency will mail you a recertification packet with instructions and a deadline.
You will need to submit documents verifying your income, expenses, and household information. Completing this recertification on time is necessary to avoid any interruption in your monthly food assistance.
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny offers a straightforward way to manage your SNAP benefits. The app lets you check your EBT card balance and review your transaction history instantly, helping you track your spending.
You can also earn cash back on eligible groceries and other purchases at retailers like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This feature helps your benefits go further.
You can learn more about Benny and how it works.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
Special SNAP Services in Alabama
Alabama offers special SNAP services for specific situations, including disasters and aid for seniors.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
D-SNAP provides short-term food aid after a federally declared disaster. It helps households that lost income or food, including those not on regular SNAP or whose benefits are now inadequate due to disaster-related expenses.
Wait for a public notice naming eligible counties. Apply in person at a temporary site, or by phone or online if offered. You will need a photo ID and proof of residence. Benefits are issued within three days.
SNAP Replacement Benefits After A Disaster
Current SNAP households that lose food from disasters like storms or power outages can get benefits replaced. Eligibility requires being in a county covered by an FNS waiver and reporting the food loss.
File an “Affidavit of Loss” with your local DHR office, usually within 10 days or by an extended deadline. Submit the form by mail, fax, or in person. DHR issues replacements to your EBT account after verification.
Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project (AESAP)
The Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project streamlines SNAP for households where everyone is 60+ with no earned income. It reduces paperwork and offers a 36-month certification period to improve senior access to food assistance.
Seniors can apply online via MyDHR, mail a printed form, or visit a county DHR office. You must provide proof of identity, residency, and total unearned income like Social Security. Most assets are not counted.
Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)
Alabama SUN Bucks provides summer food benefits to children who lose access to free or reduced-price school meals. Most children on SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or approved for free school lunches qualify automatically.
Most eligible families receive benefits automatically on an EBT or SUN Bucks card. Others can submit a short application through their child’s school or the portal on the DHR website to receive funds once approved.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Alabama
Once your SNAP application is approved, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card is how you receive and spend your SNAP benefits. It works like a debit card, holding your monthly food assistance funds electronically. The card is mailed to you once your application is approved.
To use it, you swipe the card at the checkout of any authorized store. You will then enter a private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase. The amount is deducted directly from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This includes a wide range of groceries that form the basis of a healthy diet. Eligible items generally include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food
However, there are specific restrictions on what you can buy. SNAP benefits cannot be used for non-food items or certain prepared foods. Ineligible items include:
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals
Hot foods ready to eat
Nonfood items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
Your EBT card is accepted at most grocery stores, convenience stores, and some farmers’ markets. You can also use SNAP benefits for online purchases from approved retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Look for the Quest® logo or signs indicating EBT is accepted at participating locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides vital food benefits to low-income households in Alabama. This program helps families and individuals purchase nutritious food and maintain their well-being.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Alabama
SNAP income limits and benefit amounts are updated each federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1 to September 30.
The USDA sets the gross monthly income threshold at 130 percent of the federal poverty level. Alabama adopts these limits for most households applying for benefits.
Maximum benefit amounts are also determined by the USDA. They apply to the 48 contiguous states and receive a yearly cost-of-living adjustment.
Household Size: 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size: 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756For each additional person, add $583 to the gross income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit, based on federal eligibility rules and income standards.
For the most current figures, or if special rules apply to your household, please visit the Alabama Department of Human Resources Food Assistance page.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Alabama
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Alabama, households must meet several requirements related to income, residency, and other factors.
Income Limits: Most households must meet both gross and net income limits, though special rules with higher limits apply to households with elderly or disabled members.
Residency Requirements: Applicants must be residents of Alabama to receive food assistance benefits.
Citizenship Status: Your household must include at least one U.S. citizen or a non-citizen with an eligible immigration status.
Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must meet work registration rules, with stricter requirements for those aged 18-49 without dependents.
Special Conditions: Seniors, disabled individuals, and students may be subject to different rules, simplified applications, or specific exemptions.
You can find complete eligibility details on the Alabama DHR website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Alabama
Applying for SNAP in Alabama can be done online, in person, or by mail, offering flexibility to meet your needs.
Online Application
The quickest way to apply is online through the Alabama Department of Human Resources. This method allows you to submit your application and documents electronically from any computer with internet access.
You can start your application on the official Alabama SNAP website. The portal guides you through the required information and allows for document uploads to complete your submission.
In-Person Application
For face-to-face assistance, you can apply in person. Staff at your local county office can help you fill out the application and answer any questions you may have during the process.
Visit your county's Department of Human Resources (DHR) office to pick up and submit a paper application. This is a good option if you need direct help or lack internet access.
Mail-In Application
If you prefer a paper-based method, you can mail your completed application. This option provides a traditional way to apply without needing to visit an office or use a computer.
Download the application form from the DHR website, print it, and fill it out completely. Mail the signed form to your local county DHR office for processing.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Alabama
Call the 24/7 helpline at 1-800-997-8888.
Services include reporting a lost card, resetting your PIN, or checking your balance.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food assistance and stay on top of your budget.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Alabama
In Alabama, SNAP benefits are deposited onto EBT cards between the 4th and the 23rd of each month. Your specific deposit date is based on the last two digits of your case number. Knowing your date helps with meal planning.
You can find a helpful guide on the EBT deposit schedule.
See Alabama EBT deposit schedule
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online portal, the Benny app, the phone number on the back of your card, or from an ATM receipt.
This helpful resource provides additional information on each method.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
To continue receiving SNAP benefits, you must periodically recertify your eligibility. This process usually happens every 6 to 12 months. Your local agency will mail you a recertification packet with instructions and a deadline.
You will need to submit documents verifying your income, expenses, and household information. Completing this recertification on time is necessary to avoid any interruption in your monthly food assistance.
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny offers a straightforward way to manage your SNAP benefits. The app lets you check your EBT card balance and review your transaction history instantly, helping you track your spending.
You can also earn cash back on eligible groceries and other purchases at retailers like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This feature helps your benefits go further.
You can learn more about Benny and how it works.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
Special SNAP Services in Alabama
Alabama offers special SNAP services for specific situations, including disasters and aid for seniors.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
D-SNAP provides short-term food aid after a federally declared disaster. It helps households that lost income or food, including those not on regular SNAP or whose benefits are now inadequate due to disaster-related expenses.
Wait for a public notice naming eligible counties. Apply in person at a temporary site, or by phone or online if offered. You will need a photo ID and proof of residence. Benefits are issued within three days.
SNAP Replacement Benefits After A Disaster
Current SNAP households that lose food from disasters like storms or power outages can get benefits replaced. Eligibility requires being in a county covered by an FNS waiver and reporting the food loss.
File an “Affidavit of Loss” with your local DHR office, usually within 10 days or by an extended deadline. Submit the form by mail, fax, or in person. DHR issues replacements to your EBT account after verification.
Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project (AESAP)
The Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project streamlines SNAP for households where everyone is 60+ with no earned income. It reduces paperwork and offers a 36-month certification period to improve senior access to food assistance.
Seniors can apply online via MyDHR, mail a printed form, or visit a county DHR office. You must provide proof of identity, residency, and total unearned income like Social Security. Most assets are not counted.
Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)
Alabama SUN Bucks provides summer food benefits to children who lose access to free or reduced-price school meals. Most children on SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or approved for free school lunches qualify automatically.
Most eligible families receive benefits automatically on an EBT or SUN Bucks card. Others can submit a short application through their child’s school or the portal on the DHR website to receive funds once approved.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Alabama
Once your SNAP application is approved, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card is how you receive and spend your SNAP benefits. It works like a debit card, holding your monthly food assistance funds electronically. The card is mailed to you once your application is approved.
To use it, you swipe the card at the checkout of any authorized store. You will then enter a private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase. The amount is deducted directly from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This includes a wide range of groceries that form the basis of a healthy diet. Eligible items generally include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food
However, there are specific restrictions on what you can buy. SNAP benefits cannot be used for non-food items or certain prepared foods. Ineligible items include:
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals
Hot foods ready to eat
Nonfood items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
Your EBT card is accepted at most grocery stores, convenience stores, and some farmers’ markets. You can also use SNAP benefits for online purchases from approved retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Look for the Quest® logo or signs indicating EBT is accepted at participating locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides vital food benefits to low-income households in Alabama. This program helps families and individuals purchase nutritious food and maintain their well-being.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Alabama
SNAP income limits and benefit amounts are updated each federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1 to September 30.
The USDA sets the gross monthly income threshold at 130 percent of the federal poverty level. Alabama adopts these limits for most households applying for benefits.
Maximum benefit amounts are also determined by the USDA. They apply to the 48 contiguous states and receive a yearly cost-of-living adjustment.
Household Size: 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size: 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756For each additional person, add $583 to the gross income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit, based on federal eligibility rules and income standards.
For the most current figures, or if special rules apply to your household, please visit the Alabama Department of Human Resources Food Assistance page.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Alabama
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Alabama, households must meet several requirements related to income, residency, and other factors.
Income Limits: Most households must meet both gross and net income limits, though special rules with higher limits apply to households with elderly or disabled members.
Residency Requirements: Applicants must be residents of Alabama to receive food assistance benefits.
Citizenship Status: Your household must include at least one U.S. citizen or a non-citizen with an eligible immigration status.
Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must meet work registration rules, with stricter requirements for those aged 18-49 without dependents.
Special Conditions: Seniors, disabled individuals, and students may be subject to different rules, simplified applications, or specific exemptions.
You can find complete eligibility details on the Alabama DHR website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Alabama
Applying for SNAP in Alabama can be done online, in person, or by mail, offering flexibility to meet your needs.
Online Application
The quickest way to apply is online through the Alabama Department of Human Resources. This method allows you to submit your application and documents electronically from any computer with internet access.
You can start your application on the official Alabama SNAP website. The portal guides you through the required information and allows for document uploads to complete your submission.
In-Person Application
For face-to-face assistance, you can apply in person. Staff at your local county office can help you fill out the application and answer any questions you may have during the process.
Visit your county's Department of Human Resources (DHR) office to pick up and submit a paper application. This is a good option if you need direct help or lack internet access.
Mail-In Application
If you prefer a paper-based method, you can mail your completed application. This option provides a traditional way to apply without needing to visit an office or use a computer.
Download the application form from the DHR website, print it, and fill it out completely. Mail the signed form to your local county DHR office for processing.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Alabama
Call the 24/7 helpline at 1-800-997-8888.
Services include reporting a lost card, resetting your PIN, or checking your balance.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food assistance and stay on top of your budget.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Alabama
In Alabama, SNAP benefits are deposited onto EBT cards between the 4th and the 23rd of each month. Your specific deposit date is based on the last two digits of your case number. Knowing your date helps with meal planning.
You can find a helpful guide on the EBT deposit schedule.
See Alabama EBT deposit schedule
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online portal, the Benny app, the phone number on the back of your card, or from an ATM receipt.
This helpful resource provides additional information on each method.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
To continue receiving SNAP benefits, you must periodically recertify your eligibility. This process usually happens every 6 to 12 months. Your local agency will mail you a recertification packet with instructions and a deadline.
You will need to submit documents verifying your income, expenses, and household information. Completing this recertification on time is necessary to avoid any interruption in your monthly food assistance.
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny offers a straightforward way to manage your SNAP benefits. The app lets you check your EBT card balance and review your transaction history instantly, helping you track your spending.
You can also earn cash back on eligible groceries and other purchases at retailers like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This feature helps your benefits go further.
You can learn more about Benny and how it works.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
Special SNAP Services in Alabama
Alabama offers special SNAP services for specific situations, including disasters and aid for seniors.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
D-SNAP provides short-term food aid after a federally declared disaster. It helps households that lost income or food, including those not on regular SNAP or whose benefits are now inadequate due to disaster-related expenses.
Wait for a public notice naming eligible counties. Apply in person at a temporary site, or by phone or online if offered. You will need a photo ID and proof of residence. Benefits are issued within three days.
SNAP Replacement Benefits After A Disaster
Current SNAP households that lose food from disasters like storms or power outages can get benefits replaced. Eligibility requires being in a county covered by an FNS waiver and reporting the food loss.
File an “Affidavit of Loss” with your local DHR office, usually within 10 days or by an extended deadline. Submit the form by mail, fax, or in person. DHR issues replacements to your EBT account after verification.
Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project (AESAP)
The Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project streamlines SNAP for households where everyone is 60+ with no earned income. It reduces paperwork and offers a 36-month certification period to improve senior access to food assistance.
Seniors can apply online via MyDHR, mail a printed form, or visit a county DHR office. You must provide proof of identity, residency, and total unearned income like Social Security. Most assets are not counted.
Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)
Alabama SUN Bucks provides summer food benefits to children who lose access to free or reduced-price school meals. Most children on SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or approved for free school lunches qualify automatically.
Most eligible families receive benefits automatically on an EBT or SUN Bucks card. Others can submit a short application through their child’s school or the portal on the DHR website to receive funds once approved.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Alabama
Once your SNAP application is approved, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card is how you receive and spend your SNAP benefits. It works like a debit card, holding your monthly food assistance funds electronically. The card is mailed to you once your application is approved.
To use it, you swipe the card at the checkout of any authorized store. You will then enter a private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase. The amount is deducted directly from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This includes a wide range of groceries that form the basis of a healthy diet. Eligible items generally include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food
However, there are specific restrictions on what you can buy. SNAP benefits cannot be used for non-food items or certain prepared foods. Ineligible items include:
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals
Hot foods ready to eat
Nonfood items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
Your EBT card is accepted at most grocery stores, convenience stores, and some farmers’ markets. You can also use SNAP benefits for online purchases from approved retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Look for the Quest® logo or signs indicating EBT is accepted at participating locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides vital food benefits to low-income households in Alabama. This program helps families and individuals purchase nutritious food and maintain their well-being.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Alabama
SNAP income limits and benefit amounts are updated each federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1 to September 30.
The USDA sets the gross monthly income threshold at 130 percent of the federal poverty level. Alabama adopts these limits for most households applying for benefits.
Maximum benefit amounts are also determined by the USDA. They apply to the 48 contiguous states and receive a yearly cost-of-living adjustment.
Household Size: 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size: 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756For each additional person, add $583 to the gross income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit, based on federal eligibility rules and income standards.
For the most current figures, or if special rules apply to your household, please visit the Alabama Department of Human Resources Food Assistance page.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Alabama
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Alabama, households must meet several requirements related to income, residency, and other factors.
Income Limits: Most households must meet both gross and net income limits, though special rules with higher limits apply to households with elderly or disabled members.
Residency Requirements: Applicants must be residents of Alabama to receive food assistance benefits.
Citizenship Status: Your household must include at least one U.S. citizen or a non-citizen with an eligible immigration status.
Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must meet work registration rules, with stricter requirements for those aged 18-49 without dependents.
Special Conditions: Seniors, disabled individuals, and students may be subject to different rules, simplified applications, or specific exemptions.
You can find complete eligibility details on the Alabama DHR website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Alabama
Applying for SNAP in Alabama can be done online, in person, or by mail, offering flexibility to meet your needs.
Online Application
The quickest way to apply is online through the Alabama Department of Human Resources. This method allows you to submit your application and documents electronically from any computer with internet access.
You can start your application on the official Alabama SNAP website. The portal guides you through the required information and allows for document uploads to complete your submission.
In-Person Application
For face-to-face assistance, you can apply in person. Staff at your local county office can help you fill out the application and answer any questions you may have during the process.
Visit your county's Department of Human Resources (DHR) office to pick up and submit a paper application. This is a good option if you need direct help or lack internet access.
Mail-In Application
If you prefer a paper-based method, you can mail your completed application. This option provides a traditional way to apply without needing to visit an office or use a computer.
Download the application form from the DHR website, print it, and fill it out completely. Mail the signed form to your local county DHR office for processing.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Alabama
Call the 24/7 helpline at 1-800-997-8888.
Services include reporting a lost card, resetting your PIN, or checking your balance.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food assistance and stay on top of your budget.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Alabama
In Alabama, SNAP benefits are deposited onto EBT cards between the 4th and the 23rd of each month. Your specific deposit date is based on the last two digits of your case number. Knowing your date helps with meal planning.
You can find a helpful guide on the EBT deposit schedule.
See Alabama EBT deposit schedule
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online portal, the Benny app, the phone number on the back of your card, or from an ATM receipt.
This helpful resource provides additional information on each method.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
To continue receiving SNAP benefits, you must periodically recertify your eligibility. This process usually happens every 6 to 12 months. Your local agency will mail you a recertification packet with instructions and a deadline.
You will need to submit documents verifying your income, expenses, and household information. Completing this recertification on time is necessary to avoid any interruption in your monthly food assistance.
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny offers a straightforward way to manage your SNAP benefits. The app lets you check your EBT card balance and review your transaction history instantly, helping you track your spending.
You can also earn cash back on eligible groceries and other purchases at retailers like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This feature helps your benefits go further.
You can learn more about Benny and how it works.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
Special SNAP Services in Alabama
Alabama offers special SNAP services for specific situations, including disasters and aid for seniors.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
D-SNAP provides short-term food aid after a federally declared disaster. It helps households that lost income or food, including those not on regular SNAP or whose benefits are now inadequate due to disaster-related expenses.
Wait for a public notice naming eligible counties. Apply in person at a temporary site, or by phone or online if offered. You will need a photo ID and proof of residence. Benefits are issued within three days.
SNAP Replacement Benefits After A Disaster
Current SNAP households that lose food from disasters like storms or power outages can get benefits replaced. Eligibility requires being in a county covered by an FNS waiver and reporting the food loss.
File an “Affidavit of Loss” with your local DHR office, usually within 10 days or by an extended deadline. Submit the form by mail, fax, or in person. DHR issues replacements to your EBT account after verification.
Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project (AESAP)
The Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project streamlines SNAP for households where everyone is 60+ with no earned income. It reduces paperwork and offers a 36-month certification period to improve senior access to food assistance.
Seniors can apply online via MyDHR, mail a printed form, or visit a county DHR office. You must provide proof of identity, residency, and total unearned income like Social Security. Most assets are not counted.
Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)
Alabama SUN Bucks provides summer food benefits to children who lose access to free or reduced-price school meals. Most children on SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or approved for free school lunches qualify automatically.
Most eligible families receive benefits automatically on an EBT or SUN Bucks card. Others can submit a short application through their child’s school or the portal on the DHR website to receive funds once approved.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Alabama
Once your SNAP application is approved, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card is how you receive and spend your SNAP benefits. It works like a debit card, holding your monthly food assistance funds electronically. The card is mailed to you once your application is approved.
To use it, you swipe the card at the checkout of any authorized store. You will then enter a private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase. The amount is deducted directly from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This includes a wide range of groceries that form the basis of a healthy diet. Eligible items generally include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food
However, there are specific restrictions on what you can buy. SNAP benefits cannot be used for non-food items or certain prepared foods. Ineligible items include:
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals
Hot foods ready to eat
Nonfood items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
Your EBT card is accepted at most grocery stores, convenience stores, and some farmers’ markets. You can also use SNAP benefits for online purchases from approved retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Look for the Quest® logo or signs indicating EBT is accepted at participating locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides vital food benefits to low-income households in Alabama. This program helps families and individuals purchase nutritious food and maintain their well-being.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Alabama
SNAP income limits and benefit amounts are updated each federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1 to September 30.
The USDA sets the gross monthly income threshold at 130 percent of the federal poverty level. Alabama adopts these limits for most households applying for benefits.
Maximum benefit amounts are also determined by the USDA. They apply to the 48 contiguous states and receive a yearly cost-of-living adjustment.
Household Size: 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size: 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756For each additional person, add $583 to the gross income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit, based on federal eligibility rules and income standards.
For the most current figures, or if special rules apply to your household, please visit the Alabama Department of Human Resources Food Assistance page.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Alabama
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Alabama, households must meet several requirements related to income, residency, and other factors.
Income Limits: Most households must meet both gross and net income limits, though special rules with higher limits apply to households with elderly or disabled members.
Residency Requirements: Applicants must be residents of Alabama to receive food assistance benefits.
Citizenship Status: Your household must include at least one U.S. citizen or a non-citizen with an eligible immigration status.
Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must meet work registration rules, with stricter requirements for those aged 18-49 without dependents.
Special Conditions: Seniors, disabled individuals, and students may be subject to different rules, simplified applications, or specific exemptions.
You can find complete eligibility details on the Alabama DHR website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Alabama
Applying for SNAP in Alabama can be done online, in person, or by mail, offering flexibility to meet your needs.
Online Application
The quickest way to apply is online through the Alabama Department of Human Resources. This method allows you to submit your application and documents electronically from any computer with internet access.
You can start your application on the official Alabama SNAP website. The portal guides you through the required information and allows for document uploads to complete your submission.
In-Person Application
For face-to-face assistance, you can apply in person. Staff at your local county office can help you fill out the application and answer any questions you may have during the process.
Visit your county's Department of Human Resources (DHR) office to pick up and submit a paper application. This is a good option if you need direct help or lack internet access.
Mail-In Application
If you prefer a paper-based method, you can mail your completed application. This option provides a traditional way to apply without needing to visit an office or use a computer.
Download the application form from the DHR website, print it, and fill it out completely. Mail the signed form to your local county DHR office for processing.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Alabama
Call the 24/7 helpline at 1-800-997-8888.
Services include reporting a lost card, resetting your PIN, or checking your balance.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food assistance and stay on top of your budget.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Alabama
In Alabama, SNAP benefits are deposited onto EBT cards between the 4th and the 23rd of each month. Your specific deposit date is based on the last two digits of your case number. Knowing your date helps with meal planning.
You can find a helpful guide on the EBT deposit schedule.
See Alabama EBT deposit schedule
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online portal, the Benny app, the phone number on the back of your card, or from an ATM receipt.
This helpful resource provides additional information on each method.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
To continue receiving SNAP benefits, you must periodically recertify your eligibility. This process usually happens every 6 to 12 months. Your local agency will mail you a recertification packet with instructions and a deadline.
You will need to submit documents verifying your income, expenses, and household information. Completing this recertification on time is necessary to avoid any interruption in your monthly food assistance.
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny offers a straightforward way to manage your SNAP benefits. The app lets you check your EBT card balance and review your transaction history instantly, helping you track your spending.
You can also earn cash back on eligible groceries and other purchases at retailers like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This feature helps your benefits go further.
You can learn more about Benny and how it works.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
Special SNAP Services in Alabama
Alabama offers special SNAP services for specific situations, including disasters and aid for seniors.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
D-SNAP provides short-term food aid after a federally declared disaster. It helps households that lost income or food, including those not on regular SNAP or whose benefits are now inadequate due to disaster-related expenses.
Wait for a public notice naming eligible counties. Apply in person at a temporary site, or by phone or online if offered. You will need a photo ID and proof of residence. Benefits are issued within three days.
SNAP Replacement Benefits After A Disaster
Current SNAP households that lose food from disasters like storms or power outages can get benefits replaced. Eligibility requires being in a county covered by an FNS waiver and reporting the food loss.
File an “Affidavit of Loss” with your local DHR office, usually within 10 days or by an extended deadline. Submit the form by mail, fax, or in person. DHR issues replacements to your EBT account after verification.
Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project (AESAP)
The Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project streamlines SNAP for households where everyone is 60+ with no earned income. It reduces paperwork and offers a 36-month certification period to improve senior access to food assistance.
Seniors can apply online via MyDHR, mail a printed form, or visit a county DHR office. You must provide proof of identity, residency, and total unearned income like Social Security. Most assets are not counted.
Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)
Alabama SUN Bucks provides summer food benefits to children who lose access to free or reduced-price school meals. Most children on SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or approved for free school lunches qualify automatically.
Most eligible families receive benefits automatically on an EBT or SUN Bucks card. Others can submit a short application through their child’s school or the portal on the DHR website to receive funds once approved.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Alabama
Once your SNAP application is approved, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card is how you receive and spend your SNAP benefits. It works like a debit card, holding your monthly food assistance funds electronically. The card is mailed to you once your application is approved.
To use it, you swipe the card at the checkout of any authorized store. You will then enter a private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase. The amount is deducted directly from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This includes a wide range of groceries that form the basis of a healthy diet. Eligible items generally include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food
However, there are specific restrictions on what you can buy. SNAP benefits cannot be used for non-food items or certain prepared foods. Ineligible items include:
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals
Hot foods ready to eat
Nonfood items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
Your EBT card is accepted at most grocery stores, convenience stores, and some farmers’ markets. You can also use SNAP benefits for online purchases from approved retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Look for the Quest® logo or signs indicating EBT is accepted at participating locations.
