SNAP Benefits in Connecticut: How to Apply and Qualify
Do you qualify for SNAP in Connecticut? Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply, use, and manage your benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Dec 13, 2025
Published on:
Oct 9, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Connecticut: How to Apply and Qualify
Do you qualify for SNAP in Connecticut? Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply, use, and manage your benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Dec 13, 2025
Published on:
Oct 9, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Connecticut: How to Apply and Qualify
Do you qualify for SNAP in Connecticut? Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply, use, and manage your benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Dec 13, 2025
Published on:
Oct 9, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Connecticut: How to Apply and Qualify
Do you qualify for SNAP in Connecticut? Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply, use, and manage your benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Dec 13, 2025
Published on:
Oct 9, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Connecticut: How to Apply and Qualify
Do you qualify for SNAP in Connecticut? Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply, use, and manage your benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Dec 13, 2025
Published on:
Oct 9, 2025
SHARE
ON THIS PAGE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides monthly funds to help you and your family buy groceries. This program supports low-income households in Connecticut, making nutritious food more accessible.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Connecticut
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Connecticut and the amount you receive depend on your household's gross monthly income. The state uses expanded eligibility, so most households with income up to 200% of the federal poverty level can qualify based on current eligibility guidelines.
Household Size 1: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,510, Maximum Benefit Amount: $292
Household Size 2: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,407, Maximum Benefit Amount: $536
Household Size 3: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,304, Maximum Benefit Amount: $768
Household Size 4: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,200, Maximum Benefit Amount: $975
Household Size 5: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,097, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,994, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,890, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $8,787, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756
For each additional person: Add $897 to the income limit and $220 to the benefit amount.
These amounts are adjusted annually for inflation, so the numbers for Connecticut SNAP benefits 2026 may change. For the most up-to-date information, it's best to check the official state website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Connecticut
To determine your Connecticut SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements based on your income, residency, and household situation.
Income Limits: Most households must meet both gross and net income tests, but if your household includes someone over 60 or with a disability, only the net income test applies.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Connecticut to apply for and receive benefits in the state.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and all household members need to have or apply for a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents are generally required to register for work and may be subject to time limits on their benefits.
Special Conditions: Seniors and people with disabilities can have different income rules, while college students must meet specific exemptions to qualify for SNAP benefits eligibility for Connecticut.
These rules can have specific exemptions and may change. You can find detailed definitions and the latest updates on the Connecticut SNAP page.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
You can apply for Connecticut SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires the same information to determine eligibility.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest way to submit your information. You can start your application and upload required documents through the state’s official web portal.
Before you apply, check the current income limits. For example, a household of four must have a gross monthly income at or below $5,200. You will need to provide proof of your income.
In-Person Application
You can apply in person at a Department of Social Services (DSS) field office. This allows you to ask questions and receive direct assistance with your application form.
When you visit, you must prove you are a Connecticut resident. U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens are eligible. All household members need a Social Security number or must apply for one.
Mail-In Application
If you prefer a paper-based process, you can download an application from the DSS website and mail it. This method may take longer to process than applying online.
Most households have no asset limit. However, if your household includes someone over 60 or with a disability and has higher income, an asset limit applies. Be sure to include all required proofs.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Connecticut
For questions about your EBT card, call 1-888-328-2666 anytime. For help with your SNAP application or case, use the DSS Client Information Line:
Phone: 1-855-626-6632
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (for live assistance)
Services: Get answers to case questions and help with benefit changes.
See Connecticut EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
After your SNAP approval, it's time to learn what you can buy with your benefits and where you can shop.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits arrive each month on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. It works very similarly to a debit card, but it is exclusively for your food assistance. You can use it to buy eligible food at authorized stores and farmers markets.
Using your EBT card is straightforward. At the checkout, you swipe the card and enter your private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). The transaction process is just like using a regular debit card.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are meant for purchasing staple food items to help you prepare meals at home. You can use your EBT card to buy a wide range of groceries, including:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are some restrictions on what you can purchase. Your benefits do not cover non-food items, vitamins, or prepared hot meals. Ineligible items include:
Alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready to eat
Non-food items like cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet food
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Effectively managing your benefits is straightforward. It means checking your balance, knowing when funds arrive, and handling your renewal on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Connecticut
In Connecticut, your SNAP benefits follow a monthly deposit schedule on the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd. Your specific date is set by the first letter of your last name, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can find your specific payment date in our Connecticut deposit schedule guide.
See Connecticut EBT deposit schedule 2026
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance in several ways: through the online portal, with the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or on your last store or ATM receipt.
Our guide covers each of these methods for checking your EBT balance.
Check Your Connecticut EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Connecticut, you typically need to renew your SNAP benefits every 12 months. The Department of Social Services (DSS) will mail you a form before your benefits expire. You must complete this form and may need an interview to continue receiving assistance.
You will need to provide documents that verify your current income, expenses like rent and utilities, and any household changes. Submitting your renewal on time prevents any interruption in receiving your monthly food assistance.
Special SNAP Services in Connecticut
Connecticut offers special SNAP services for certain situations, including expedited benefits for emergencies, disaster relief, and simplified applications for seniors or people with disabilities.
Expedited SNAP (Expedited Service)
If you have a financial emergency, you may get Expedited SNAP within seven days. DSS screens all applications for eligibility, which includes households with very low income or resources. No separate form is needed to apply for this service.
Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, you may receive Disaster SNAP to replace lost food or income. Eligibility requires living or working in the disaster area and meeting specific income tests. You must apply in person at temporary sites during the application period.
SNAP Replacement of Lost Food
If a misfortune like a power outage or flood destroys your food, you can get replacement benefits. You must report the loss to DSS within 10 days and submit Form W-1225. Benefits are issued within 10 days of form submission.
Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP)
The Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) streamlines SNAP for households where all adults are over 60 or have a disability, with no earned income. DSS identifies eligible households through the standard application, offering a longer certification period.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides monthly funds to help you and your family buy groceries. This program supports low-income households in Connecticut, making nutritious food more accessible.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Connecticut
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Connecticut and the amount you receive depend on your household's gross monthly income. The state uses expanded eligibility, so most households with income up to 200% of the federal poverty level can qualify based on current eligibility guidelines.
Household Size 1: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,510, Maximum Benefit Amount: $292
Household Size 2: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,407, Maximum Benefit Amount: $536
Household Size 3: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,304, Maximum Benefit Amount: $768
Household Size 4: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,200, Maximum Benefit Amount: $975
Household Size 5: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,097, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,994, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,890, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $8,787, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756
For each additional person: Add $897 to the income limit and $220 to the benefit amount.
These amounts are adjusted annually for inflation, so the numbers for Connecticut SNAP benefits 2026 may change. For the most up-to-date information, it's best to check the official state website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Connecticut
To determine your Connecticut SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements based on your income, residency, and household situation.
Income Limits: Most households must meet both gross and net income tests, but if your household includes someone over 60 or with a disability, only the net income test applies.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Connecticut to apply for and receive benefits in the state.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and all household members need to have or apply for a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents are generally required to register for work and may be subject to time limits on their benefits.
Special Conditions: Seniors and people with disabilities can have different income rules, while college students must meet specific exemptions to qualify for SNAP benefits eligibility for Connecticut.
These rules can have specific exemptions and may change. You can find detailed definitions and the latest updates on the Connecticut SNAP page.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
You can apply for Connecticut SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires the same information to determine eligibility.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest way to submit your information. You can start your application and upload required documents through the state’s official web portal.
Before you apply, check the current income limits. For example, a household of four must have a gross monthly income at or below $5,200. You will need to provide proof of your income.
In-Person Application
You can apply in person at a Department of Social Services (DSS) field office. This allows you to ask questions and receive direct assistance with your application form.
When you visit, you must prove you are a Connecticut resident. U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens are eligible. All household members need a Social Security number or must apply for one.
Mail-In Application
If you prefer a paper-based process, you can download an application from the DSS website and mail it. This method may take longer to process than applying online.
Most households have no asset limit. However, if your household includes someone over 60 or with a disability and has higher income, an asset limit applies. Be sure to include all required proofs.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Connecticut
For questions about your EBT card, call 1-888-328-2666 anytime. For help with your SNAP application or case, use the DSS Client Information Line:
Phone: 1-855-626-6632
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (for live assistance)
Services: Get answers to case questions and help with benefit changes.
See Connecticut EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
After your SNAP approval, it's time to learn what you can buy with your benefits and where you can shop.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits arrive each month on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. It works very similarly to a debit card, but it is exclusively for your food assistance. You can use it to buy eligible food at authorized stores and farmers markets.
Using your EBT card is straightforward. At the checkout, you swipe the card and enter your private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). The transaction process is just like using a regular debit card.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are meant for purchasing staple food items to help you prepare meals at home. You can use your EBT card to buy a wide range of groceries, including:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are some restrictions on what you can purchase. Your benefits do not cover non-food items, vitamins, or prepared hot meals. Ineligible items include:
Alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready to eat
Non-food items like cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet food
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Effectively managing your benefits is straightforward. It means checking your balance, knowing when funds arrive, and handling your renewal on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Connecticut
In Connecticut, your SNAP benefits follow a monthly deposit schedule on the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd. Your specific date is set by the first letter of your last name, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can find your specific payment date in our Connecticut deposit schedule guide.
See Connecticut EBT deposit schedule 2026
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance in several ways: through the online portal, with the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or on your last store or ATM receipt.
Our guide covers each of these methods for checking your EBT balance.
Check Your Connecticut EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Connecticut, you typically need to renew your SNAP benefits every 12 months. The Department of Social Services (DSS) will mail you a form before your benefits expire. You must complete this form and may need an interview to continue receiving assistance.
You will need to provide documents that verify your current income, expenses like rent and utilities, and any household changes. Submitting your renewal on time prevents any interruption in receiving your monthly food assistance.
Special SNAP Services in Connecticut
Connecticut offers special SNAP services for certain situations, including expedited benefits for emergencies, disaster relief, and simplified applications for seniors or people with disabilities.
Expedited SNAP (Expedited Service)
If you have a financial emergency, you may get Expedited SNAP within seven days. DSS screens all applications for eligibility, which includes households with very low income or resources. No separate form is needed to apply for this service.
Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, you may receive Disaster SNAP to replace lost food or income. Eligibility requires living or working in the disaster area and meeting specific income tests. You must apply in person at temporary sites during the application period.
SNAP Replacement of Lost Food
If a misfortune like a power outage or flood destroys your food, you can get replacement benefits. You must report the loss to DSS within 10 days and submit Form W-1225. Benefits are issued within 10 days of form submission.
Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP)
The Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) streamlines SNAP for households where all adults are over 60 or have a disability, with no earned income. DSS identifies eligible households through the standard application, offering a longer certification period.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides monthly funds to help you and your family buy groceries. This program supports low-income households in Connecticut, making nutritious food more accessible.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Connecticut
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Connecticut and the amount you receive depend on your household's gross monthly income. The state uses expanded eligibility, so most households with income up to 200% of the federal poverty level can qualify based on current eligibility guidelines.
Household Size 1: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,510, Maximum Benefit Amount: $292
Household Size 2: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,407, Maximum Benefit Amount: $536
Household Size 3: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,304, Maximum Benefit Amount: $768
Household Size 4: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,200, Maximum Benefit Amount: $975
Household Size 5: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,097, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,994, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,890, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $8,787, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756
For each additional person: Add $897 to the income limit and $220 to the benefit amount.
These amounts are adjusted annually for inflation, so the numbers for Connecticut SNAP benefits 2026 may change. For the most up-to-date information, it's best to check the official state website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Connecticut
To determine your Connecticut SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements based on your income, residency, and household situation.
Income Limits: Most households must meet both gross and net income tests, but if your household includes someone over 60 or with a disability, only the net income test applies.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Connecticut to apply for and receive benefits in the state.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and all household members need to have or apply for a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents are generally required to register for work and may be subject to time limits on their benefits.
Special Conditions: Seniors and people with disabilities can have different income rules, while college students must meet specific exemptions to qualify for SNAP benefits eligibility for Connecticut.
These rules can have specific exemptions and may change. You can find detailed definitions and the latest updates on the Connecticut SNAP page.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
You can apply for Connecticut SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires the same information to determine eligibility.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest way to submit your information. You can start your application and upload required documents through the state’s official web portal.
Before you apply, check the current income limits. For example, a household of four must have a gross monthly income at or below $5,200. You will need to provide proof of your income.
In-Person Application
You can apply in person at a Department of Social Services (DSS) field office. This allows you to ask questions and receive direct assistance with your application form.
When you visit, you must prove you are a Connecticut resident. U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens are eligible. All household members need a Social Security number or must apply for one.
Mail-In Application
If you prefer a paper-based process, you can download an application from the DSS website and mail it. This method may take longer to process than applying online.
Most households have no asset limit. However, if your household includes someone over 60 or with a disability and has higher income, an asset limit applies. Be sure to include all required proofs.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Connecticut
For questions about your EBT card, call 1-888-328-2666 anytime. For help with your SNAP application or case, use the DSS Client Information Line:
Phone: 1-855-626-6632
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (for live assistance)
Services: Get answers to case questions and help with benefit changes.
See Connecticut EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
After your SNAP approval, it's time to learn what you can buy with your benefits and where you can shop.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits arrive each month on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. It works very similarly to a debit card, but it is exclusively for your food assistance. You can use it to buy eligible food at authorized stores and farmers markets.
Using your EBT card is straightforward. At the checkout, you swipe the card and enter your private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). The transaction process is just like using a regular debit card.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are meant for purchasing staple food items to help you prepare meals at home. You can use your EBT card to buy a wide range of groceries, including:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are some restrictions on what you can purchase. Your benefits do not cover non-food items, vitamins, or prepared hot meals. Ineligible items include:
Alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready to eat
Non-food items like cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet food
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Effectively managing your benefits is straightforward. It means checking your balance, knowing when funds arrive, and handling your renewal on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Connecticut
In Connecticut, your SNAP benefits follow a monthly deposit schedule on the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd. Your specific date is set by the first letter of your last name, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can find your specific payment date in our Connecticut deposit schedule guide.
See Connecticut EBT deposit schedule 2026
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance in several ways: through the online portal, with the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or on your last store or ATM receipt.
Our guide covers each of these methods for checking your EBT balance.
Check Your Connecticut EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Connecticut, you typically need to renew your SNAP benefits every 12 months. The Department of Social Services (DSS) will mail you a form before your benefits expire. You must complete this form and may need an interview to continue receiving assistance.
You will need to provide documents that verify your current income, expenses like rent and utilities, and any household changes. Submitting your renewal on time prevents any interruption in receiving your monthly food assistance.
Special SNAP Services in Connecticut
Connecticut offers special SNAP services for certain situations, including expedited benefits for emergencies, disaster relief, and simplified applications for seniors or people with disabilities.
Expedited SNAP (Expedited Service)
If you have a financial emergency, you may get Expedited SNAP within seven days. DSS screens all applications for eligibility, which includes households with very low income or resources. No separate form is needed to apply for this service.
Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, you may receive Disaster SNAP to replace lost food or income. Eligibility requires living or working in the disaster area and meeting specific income tests. You must apply in person at temporary sites during the application period.
SNAP Replacement of Lost Food
If a misfortune like a power outage or flood destroys your food, you can get replacement benefits. You must report the loss to DSS within 10 days and submit Form W-1225. Benefits are issued within 10 days of form submission.
Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP)
The Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) streamlines SNAP for households where all adults are over 60 or have a disability, with no earned income. DSS identifies eligible households through the standard application, offering a longer certification period.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides monthly funds to help you and your family buy groceries. This program supports low-income households in Connecticut, making nutritious food more accessible.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Connecticut
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Connecticut and the amount you receive depend on your household's gross monthly income. The state uses expanded eligibility, so most households with income up to 200% of the federal poverty level can qualify based on current eligibility guidelines.
Household Size 1: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,510, Maximum Benefit Amount: $292
Household Size 2: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,407, Maximum Benefit Amount: $536
Household Size 3: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,304, Maximum Benefit Amount: $768
Household Size 4: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,200, Maximum Benefit Amount: $975
Household Size 5: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,097, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,994, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,890, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $8,787, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756
For each additional person: Add $897 to the income limit and $220 to the benefit amount.
These amounts are adjusted annually for inflation, so the numbers for Connecticut SNAP benefits 2026 may change. For the most up-to-date information, it's best to check the official state website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Connecticut
To determine your Connecticut SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements based on your income, residency, and household situation.
Income Limits: Most households must meet both gross and net income tests, but if your household includes someone over 60 or with a disability, only the net income test applies.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Connecticut to apply for and receive benefits in the state.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and all household members need to have or apply for a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents are generally required to register for work and may be subject to time limits on their benefits.
Special Conditions: Seniors and people with disabilities can have different income rules, while college students must meet specific exemptions to qualify for SNAP benefits eligibility for Connecticut.
These rules can have specific exemptions and may change. You can find detailed definitions and the latest updates on the Connecticut SNAP page.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
You can apply for Connecticut SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires the same information to determine eligibility.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest way to submit your information. You can start your application and upload required documents through the state’s official web portal.
Before you apply, check the current income limits. For example, a household of four must have a gross monthly income at or below $5,200. You will need to provide proof of your income.
In-Person Application
You can apply in person at a Department of Social Services (DSS) field office. This allows you to ask questions and receive direct assistance with your application form.
When you visit, you must prove you are a Connecticut resident. U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens are eligible. All household members need a Social Security number or must apply for one.
Mail-In Application
If you prefer a paper-based process, you can download an application from the DSS website and mail it. This method may take longer to process than applying online.
Most households have no asset limit. However, if your household includes someone over 60 or with a disability and has higher income, an asset limit applies. Be sure to include all required proofs.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Connecticut
For questions about your EBT card, call 1-888-328-2666 anytime. For help with your SNAP application or case, use the DSS Client Information Line:
Phone: 1-855-626-6632
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (for live assistance)
Services: Get answers to case questions and help with benefit changes.
See Connecticut EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
After your SNAP approval, it's time to learn what you can buy with your benefits and where you can shop.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits arrive each month on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. It works very similarly to a debit card, but it is exclusively for your food assistance. You can use it to buy eligible food at authorized stores and farmers markets.
Using your EBT card is straightforward. At the checkout, you swipe the card and enter your private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). The transaction process is just like using a regular debit card.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are meant for purchasing staple food items to help you prepare meals at home. You can use your EBT card to buy a wide range of groceries, including:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are some restrictions on what you can purchase. Your benefits do not cover non-food items, vitamins, or prepared hot meals. Ineligible items include:
Alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready to eat
Non-food items like cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet food
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Effectively managing your benefits is straightforward. It means checking your balance, knowing when funds arrive, and handling your renewal on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Connecticut
In Connecticut, your SNAP benefits follow a monthly deposit schedule on the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd. Your specific date is set by the first letter of your last name, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can find your specific payment date in our Connecticut deposit schedule guide.
See Connecticut EBT deposit schedule 2026
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance in several ways: through the online portal, with the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or on your last store or ATM receipt.
Our guide covers each of these methods for checking your EBT balance.
Check Your Connecticut EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Connecticut, you typically need to renew your SNAP benefits every 12 months. The Department of Social Services (DSS) will mail you a form before your benefits expire. You must complete this form and may need an interview to continue receiving assistance.
You will need to provide documents that verify your current income, expenses like rent and utilities, and any household changes. Submitting your renewal on time prevents any interruption in receiving your monthly food assistance.
Special SNAP Services in Connecticut
Connecticut offers special SNAP services for certain situations, including expedited benefits for emergencies, disaster relief, and simplified applications for seniors or people with disabilities.
Expedited SNAP (Expedited Service)
If you have a financial emergency, you may get Expedited SNAP within seven days. DSS screens all applications for eligibility, which includes households with very low income or resources. No separate form is needed to apply for this service.
Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, you may receive Disaster SNAP to replace lost food or income. Eligibility requires living or working in the disaster area and meeting specific income tests. You must apply in person at temporary sites during the application period.
SNAP Replacement of Lost Food
If a misfortune like a power outage or flood destroys your food, you can get replacement benefits. You must report the loss to DSS within 10 days and submit Form W-1225. Benefits are issued within 10 days of form submission.
Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP)
The Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) streamlines SNAP for households where all adults are over 60 or have a disability, with no earned income. DSS identifies eligible households through the standard application, offering a longer certification period.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides monthly funds to help you and your family buy groceries. This program supports low-income households in Connecticut, making nutritious food more accessible.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Connecticut
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Connecticut and the amount you receive depend on your household's gross monthly income. The state uses expanded eligibility, so most households with income up to 200% of the federal poverty level can qualify based on current eligibility guidelines.
Household Size 1: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,510, Maximum Benefit Amount: $292
Household Size 2: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,407, Maximum Benefit Amount: $536
Household Size 3: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,304, Maximum Benefit Amount: $768
Household Size 4: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,200, Maximum Benefit Amount: $975
Household Size 5: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,097, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,994, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,890, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross Monthly Income Limit: $8,787, Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756
For each additional person: Add $897 to the income limit and $220 to the benefit amount.
These amounts are adjusted annually for inflation, so the numbers for Connecticut SNAP benefits 2026 may change. For the most up-to-date information, it's best to check the official state website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Connecticut
To determine your Connecticut SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements based on your income, residency, and household situation.
Income Limits: Most households must meet both gross and net income tests, but if your household includes someone over 60 or with a disability, only the net income test applies.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Connecticut to apply for and receive benefits in the state.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and all household members need to have or apply for a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents are generally required to register for work and may be subject to time limits on their benefits.
Special Conditions: Seniors and people with disabilities can have different income rules, while college students must meet specific exemptions to qualify for SNAP benefits eligibility for Connecticut.
These rules can have specific exemptions and may change. You can find detailed definitions and the latest updates on the Connecticut SNAP page.
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How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
You can apply for Connecticut SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires the same information to determine eligibility.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest way to submit your information. You can start your application and upload required documents through the state’s official web portal.
Before you apply, check the current income limits. For example, a household of four must have a gross monthly income at or below $5,200. You will need to provide proof of your income.
In-Person Application
You can apply in person at a Department of Social Services (DSS) field office. This allows you to ask questions and receive direct assistance with your application form.
When you visit, you must prove you are a Connecticut resident. U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens are eligible. All household members need a Social Security number or must apply for one.
Mail-In Application
If you prefer a paper-based process, you can download an application from the DSS website and mail it. This method may take longer to process than applying online.
Most households have no asset limit. However, if your household includes someone over 60 or with a disability and has higher income, an asset limit applies. Be sure to include all required proofs.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Connecticut
For questions about your EBT card, call 1-888-328-2666 anytime. For help with your SNAP application or case, use the DSS Client Information Line:
Phone: 1-855-626-6632
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (for live assistance)
Services: Get answers to case questions and help with benefit changes.
See Connecticut EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
After your SNAP approval, it's time to learn what you can buy with your benefits and where you can shop.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits arrive each month on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. It works very similarly to a debit card, but it is exclusively for your food assistance. You can use it to buy eligible food at authorized stores and farmers markets.
Using your EBT card is straightforward. At the checkout, you swipe the card and enter your private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). The transaction process is just like using a regular debit card.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are meant for purchasing staple food items to help you prepare meals at home. You can use your EBT card to buy a wide range of groceries, including:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are some restrictions on what you can purchase. Your benefits do not cover non-food items, vitamins, or prepared hot meals. Ineligible items include:
Alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready to eat
Non-food items like cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet food
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Effectively managing your benefits is straightforward. It means checking your balance, knowing when funds arrive, and handling your renewal on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Connecticut
In Connecticut, your SNAP benefits follow a monthly deposit schedule on the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd. Your specific date is set by the first letter of your last name, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can find your specific payment date in our Connecticut deposit schedule guide.
See Connecticut EBT deposit schedule 2026
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance in several ways: through the online portal, with the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or on your last store or ATM receipt.
Our guide covers each of these methods for checking your EBT balance.
Check Your Connecticut EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Connecticut, you typically need to renew your SNAP benefits every 12 months. The Department of Social Services (DSS) will mail you a form before your benefits expire. You must complete this form and may need an interview to continue receiving assistance.
You will need to provide documents that verify your current income, expenses like rent and utilities, and any household changes. Submitting your renewal on time prevents any interruption in receiving your monthly food assistance.
Special SNAP Services in Connecticut
Connecticut offers special SNAP services for certain situations, including expedited benefits for emergencies, disaster relief, and simplified applications for seniors or people with disabilities.
Expedited SNAP (Expedited Service)
If you have a financial emergency, you may get Expedited SNAP within seven days. DSS screens all applications for eligibility, which includes households with very low income or resources. No separate form is needed to apply for this service.
Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, you may receive Disaster SNAP to replace lost food or income. Eligibility requires living or working in the disaster area and meeting specific income tests. You must apply in person at temporary sites during the application period.
SNAP Replacement of Lost Food
If a misfortune like a power outage or flood destroys your food, you can get replacement benefits. You must report the loss to DSS within 10 days and submit Form W-1225. Benefits are issued within 10 days of form submission.
Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP)
The Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) streamlines SNAP for households where all adults are over 60 or have a disability, with no earned income. DSS identifies eligible households through the standard application, offering a longer certification period.
