SNAP Benefits in Kentucky: How to Apply and Qualify

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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides monthly funds for groceries. If you're a low-income individual or family in Kentucky, this program can help you buy healthy food.

SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Kentucky

Your eligibility and benefit amount are tied to federal poverty guidelines. The U.S. Department of Agriculture updates these figures each October to account for the cost of living, which determines the income limits and maximum benefits for households.

Here are the maximum monthly income limits and SNAP benefits in Kentucky for fiscal year 2025, which runs from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.

Household Size 1: Gross monthly income limit of $1,632, maximum benefit of $292
Household Size 2: Gross monthly income limit of $2,215, maximum benefit of $536
Household Size 3: Gross monthly income limit of $2,797, maximum benefit of $768
Household Size 4: Gross monthly income limit of $3,380, maximum benefit of $975
Household Size 5: Gross monthly income limit of $3,963, maximum benefit of $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross monthly income limit of $4,546, maximum benefit of $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross monthly income limit of $5,129, maximum benefit of $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross monthly income limit of $5,711, maximum benefit of $1,756

For each additional person in your household, the gross monthly income limit increases by $583, and the maximum benefit amount goes up by $220.

These amounts can change annually. For the most current information, including future updates for Kentucky SNAP benefits 2026, always check the official Kentucky SNAP page.

Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Kentucky

To determine your Kentucky SNAP benefits eligibility, you'll need to meet several requirements based on your household's circumstances.

Income Limits: Your household's gross monthly income must generally be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, though households with an elderly or disabled member only need to meet a net income test.
Residency Requirements: You must live in the Kentucky county where you submit your application.
Citizenship Status: SNAP benefits eligibility for Kentucky is available to U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens who meet specific federal criteria.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable employment, with additional rules for those without dependents in certain counties.
Special Conditions: Students, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those facing emergencies like homelessness may have different rules or qualify for faster benefits.

You can find the latest income charts, application forms, and county contact information on the official Kentucky SNAP website.

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 Kentucky

Applying for SNAP in Kentucky is straightforward. You can apply online for convenience, visit an office for in-person assistance, or mail in a paper form.

Online Application

The quickest way to apply is through the state's online portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload documents from home. You can find the portal on the Kentucky SNAP website.

In-Person Application

If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at your county's Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office. Staff can answer questions and guide you through the paperwork. Find your local office on the state's website.

Application By Mail

You can also apply by mail. Download and print the application form from the official Kentucky SNAP website, fill it out completely, and mail it to your local DCBS office for processing.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Kentucky

Application Help: Call the DCBS Call Service Center at 855-306-8959 for questions about your benefits or help with your application.
Hours: They are open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET.

See Kentucky EBT Customer Service Contacts

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Kentucky

Once you receive your benefits, knowing what you can purchase and where you can shop will help you use them effectively.

What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?

Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Think of it just like a debit card. It holds your monthly food assistance funds electronically, so you don't have to deal with paper coupons or vouchers.

Using your EBT card is simple. At the checkout of an authorized store, you just swipe your card and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This helps you and your family get the groceries you need to prepare meals at home. Eligible items generally include:

Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks
Seeds and plants that produce food

It's also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Benefits cannot be used for non-food products or items intended for immediate consumption. Ineligible items include:

Alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods ready to eat
Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics

How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits

Staying on top of your benefits helps you budget for groceries. Knowing your balance, payment schedule, and renewal process is straightforward.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Kentucky

In Kentucky, your SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 19th of each month. The specific date is based on the last digit of your case number, which helps you plan your grocery budget.

You can find your specific payment date in our Kentucky deposit schedule.

See Kentucky EBT deposit schedule 2026

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

You can check your balance through the official ebtEDGE portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by checking your last store or ATM receipt.

You can check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.

Check Your Kentucky 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, Kroger, Costco, and others.

To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and 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 Kentucky, you typically need to recertify for SNAP benefits every 6 to 12 months. You will receive a notice by mail when it's time to renew, so be sure to watch for this letter to start the process promptly.

The process involves submitting a form and possibly an interview. You'll need to provide documents verifying your income, expenses like rent and utilities, and any household changes.

Submitting your renewal on time prevents a gap in your food assistance. If you miss the deadline, your case may close, and you will have to reapply entirely.

Special SNAP Services in Kentucky

Kentucky offers special SNAP services for urgent needs like financial crises or natural disasters. These include expedited benefits, disaster assistance, and replacement funds for spoiled food.

Expedited SNAP (Emergency Processing)

If you're in a financial crisis, you may get benefits within seven days. You could qualify with very low income and resources. Apply online, by phone, or at a DCBS office and note you need emergency service.

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

After a major disaster, D-SNAP provides temporary food aid to households with disaster-related losses in declared counties. Apply by phone or in person during the state-announced period if you live or work in the affected area.

Hot Foods Purchase Waiver

When power outages occur, a hot foods waiver may let you buy prepared meals with your EBT card. This applies automatically to SNAP households in affected counties, so no separate application is needed.

Replacement SNAP for Disaster-Related Food Loss

If a disaster spoils your food, you can request replacement benefits. Kentucky may extend the reporting deadline. Call or visit a DCBS office to file a replacement request form for the food you lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides monthly funds for groceries. If you're a low-income individual or family in Kentucky, this program can help you buy healthy food.

SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Kentucky

Your eligibility and benefit amount are tied to federal poverty guidelines. The U.S. Department of Agriculture updates these figures each October to account for the cost of living, which determines the income limits and maximum benefits for households.

Here are the maximum monthly income limits and SNAP benefits in Kentucky for fiscal year 2025, which runs from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.

Household Size 1: Gross monthly income limit of $1,632, maximum benefit of $292
Household Size 2: Gross monthly income limit of $2,215, maximum benefit of $536
Household Size 3: Gross monthly income limit of $2,797, maximum benefit of $768
Household Size 4: Gross monthly income limit of $3,380, maximum benefit of $975
Household Size 5: Gross monthly income limit of $3,963, maximum benefit of $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross monthly income limit of $4,546, maximum benefit of $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross monthly income limit of $5,129, maximum benefit of $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross monthly income limit of $5,711, maximum benefit of $1,756

For each additional person in your household, the gross monthly income limit increases by $583, and the maximum benefit amount goes up by $220.

These amounts can change annually. For the most current information, including future updates for Kentucky SNAP benefits 2026, always check the official Kentucky SNAP page.

Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Kentucky

To determine your Kentucky SNAP benefits eligibility, you'll need to meet several requirements based on your household's circumstances.

Income Limits: Your household's gross monthly income must generally be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, though households with an elderly or disabled member only need to meet a net income test.
Residency Requirements: You must live in the Kentucky county where you submit your application.
Citizenship Status: SNAP benefits eligibility for Kentucky is available to U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens who meet specific federal criteria.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable employment, with additional rules for those without dependents in certain counties.
Special Conditions: Students, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those facing emergencies like homelessness may have different rules or qualify for faster benefits.

You can find the latest income charts, application forms, and county contact information on the official Kentucky SNAP website.

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 Kentucky

Applying for SNAP in Kentucky is straightforward. You can apply online for convenience, visit an office for in-person assistance, or mail in a paper form.

Online Application

The quickest way to apply is through the state's online portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload documents from home. You can find the portal on the Kentucky SNAP website.

In-Person Application

If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at your county's Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office. Staff can answer questions and guide you through the paperwork. Find your local office on the state's website.

Application By Mail

You can also apply by mail. Download and print the application form from the official Kentucky SNAP website, fill it out completely, and mail it to your local DCBS office for processing.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Kentucky

Application Help: Call the DCBS Call Service Center at 855-306-8959 for questions about your benefits or help with your application.
Hours: They are open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET.

See Kentucky EBT Customer Service Contacts

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Kentucky

Once you receive your benefits, knowing what you can purchase and where you can shop will help you use them effectively.

What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?

Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Think of it just like a debit card. It holds your monthly food assistance funds electronically, so you don't have to deal with paper coupons or vouchers.

Using your EBT card is simple. At the checkout of an authorized store, you just swipe your card and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This helps you and your family get the groceries you need to prepare meals at home. Eligible items generally include:

Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks
Seeds and plants that produce food

It's also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Benefits cannot be used for non-food products or items intended for immediate consumption. Ineligible items include:

Alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods ready to eat
Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics

How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits

Staying on top of your benefits helps you budget for groceries. Knowing your balance, payment schedule, and renewal process is straightforward.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Kentucky

In Kentucky, your SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 19th of each month. The specific date is based on the last digit of your case number, which helps you plan your grocery budget.

You can find your specific payment date in our Kentucky deposit schedule.

See Kentucky EBT deposit schedule 2026

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

You can check your balance through the official ebtEDGE portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by checking your last store or ATM receipt.

You can check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.

Check Your Kentucky 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, Kroger, Costco, and others.

To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and 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 Kentucky, you typically need to recertify for SNAP benefits every 6 to 12 months. You will receive a notice by mail when it's time to renew, so be sure to watch for this letter to start the process promptly.

The process involves submitting a form and possibly an interview. You'll need to provide documents verifying your income, expenses like rent and utilities, and any household changes.

Submitting your renewal on time prevents a gap in your food assistance. If you miss the deadline, your case may close, and you will have to reapply entirely.

Special SNAP Services in Kentucky

Kentucky offers special SNAP services for urgent needs like financial crises or natural disasters. These include expedited benefits, disaster assistance, and replacement funds for spoiled food.

Expedited SNAP (Emergency Processing)

If you're in a financial crisis, you may get benefits within seven days. You could qualify with very low income and resources. Apply online, by phone, or at a DCBS office and note you need emergency service.

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

After a major disaster, D-SNAP provides temporary food aid to households with disaster-related losses in declared counties. Apply by phone or in person during the state-announced period if you live or work in the affected area.

Hot Foods Purchase Waiver

When power outages occur, a hot foods waiver may let you buy prepared meals with your EBT card. This applies automatically to SNAP households in affected counties, so no separate application is needed.

Replacement SNAP for Disaster-Related Food Loss

If a disaster spoils your food, you can request replacement benefits. Kentucky may extend the reporting deadline. Call or visit a DCBS office to file a replacement request form for the food you lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides monthly funds for groceries. If you're a low-income individual or family in Kentucky, this program can help you buy healthy food.

SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Kentucky

Your eligibility and benefit amount are tied to federal poverty guidelines. The U.S. Department of Agriculture updates these figures each October to account for the cost of living, which determines the income limits and maximum benefits for households.

Here are the maximum monthly income limits and SNAP benefits in Kentucky for fiscal year 2025, which runs from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.

Household Size 1: Gross monthly income limit of $1,632, maximum benefit of $292
Household Size 2: Gross monthly income limit of $2,215, maximum benefit of $536
Household Size 3: Gross monthly income limit of $2,797, maximum benefit of $768
Household Size 4: Gross monthly income limit of $3,380, maximum benefit of $975
Household Size 5: Gross monthly income limit of $3,963, maximum benefit of $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross monthly income limit of $4,546, maximum benefit of $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross monthly income limit of $5,129, maximum benefit of $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross monthly income limit of $5,711, maximum benefit of $1,756

For each additional person in your household, the gross monthly income limit increases by $583, and the maximum benefit amount goes up by $220.

These amounts can change annually. For the most current information, including future updates for Kentucky SNAP benefits 2026, always check the official Kentucky SNAP page.

Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Kentucky

To determine your Kentucky SNAP benefits eligibility, you'll need to meet several requirements based on your household's circumstances.

Income Limits: Your household's gross monthly income must generally be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, though households with an elderly or disabled member only need to meet a net income test.
Residency Requirements: You must live in the Kentucky county where you submit your application.
Citizenship Status: SNAP benefits eligibility for Kentucky is available to U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens who meet specific federal criteria.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable employment, with additional rules for those without dependents in certain counties.
Special Conditions: Students, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those facing emergencies like homelessness may have different rules or qualify for faster benefits.

You can find the latest income charts, application forms, and county contact information on the official Kentucky SNAP website.

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 Kentucky

Applying for SNAP in Kentucky is straightforward. You can apply online for convenience, visit an office for in-person assistance, or mail in a paper form.

Online Application

The quickest way to apply is through the state's online portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload documents from home. You can find the portal on the Kentucky SNAP website.

In-Person Application

If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at your county's Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office. Staff can answer questions and guide you through the paperwork. Find your local office on the state's website.

Application By Mail

You can also apply by mail. Download and print the application form from the official Kentucky SNAP website, fill it out completely, and mail it to your local DCBS office for processing.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Kentucky

Application Help: Call the DCBS Call Service Center at 855-306-8959 for questions about your benefits or help with your application.
Hours: They are open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET.

See Kentucky EBT Customer Service Contacts

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Kentucky

Once you receive your benefits, knowing what you can purchase and where you can shop will help you use them effectively.

What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?

Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Think of it just like a debit card. It holds your monthly food assistance funds electronically, so you don't have to deal with paper coupons or vouchers.

Using your EBT card is simple. At the checkout of an authorized store, you just swipe your card and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This helps you and your family get the groceries you need to prepare meals at home. Eligible items generally include:

Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks
Seeds and plants that produce food

It's also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Benefits cannot be used for non-food products or items intended for immediate consumption. Ineligible items include:

Alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods ready to eat
Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics

How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits

Staying on top of your benefits helps you budget for groceries. Knowing your balance, payment schedule, and renewal process is straightforward.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Kentucky

In Kentucky, your SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 19th of each month. The specific date is based on the last digit of your case number, which helps you plan your grocery budget.

You can find your specific payment date in our Kentucky deposit schedule.

See Kentucky EBT deposit schedule 2026

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

You can check your balance through the official ebtEDGE portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by checking your last store or ATM receipt.

You can check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.

Check Your Kentucky 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, Kroger, Costco, and others.

To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and 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 Kentucky, you typically need to recertify for SNAP benefits every 6 to 12 months. You will receive a notice by mail when it's time to renew, so be sure to watch for this letter to start the process promptly.

The process involves submitting a form and possibly an interview. You'll need to provide documents verifying your income, expenses like rent and utilities, and any household changes.

Submitting your renewal on time prevents a gap in your food assistance. If you miss the deadline, your case may close, and you will have to reapply entirely.

Special SNAP Services in Kentucky

Kentucky offers special SNAP services for urgent needs like financial crises or natural disasters. These include expedited benefits, disaster assistance, and replacement funds for spoiled food.

Expedited SNAP (Emergency Processing)

If you're in a financial crisis, you may get benefits within seven days. You could qualify with very low income and resources. Apply online, by phone, or at a DCBS office and note you need emergency service.

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

After a major disaster, D-SNAP provides temporary food aid to households with disaster-related losses in declared counties. Apply by phone or in person during the state-announced period if you live or work in the affected area.

Hot Foods Purchase Waiver

When power outages occur, a hot foods waiver may let you buy prepared meals with your EBT card. This applies automatically to SNAP households in affected counties, so no separate application is needed.

Replacement SNAP for Disaster-Related Food Loss

If a disaster spoils your food, you can request replacement benefits. Kentucky may extend the reporting deadline. Call or visit a DCBS office to file a replacement request form for the food you lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides monthly funds for groceries. If you're a low-income individual or family in Kentucky, this program can help you buy healthy food.

SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Kentucky

Your eligibility and benefit amount are tied to federal poverty guidelines. The U.S. Department of Agriculture updates these figures each October to account for the cost of living, which determines the income limits and maximum benefits for households.

Here are the maximum monthly income limits and SNAP benefits in Kentucky for fiscal year 2025, which runs from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.

Household Size 1: Gross monthly income limit of $1,632, maximum benefit of $292
Household Size 2: Gross monthly income limit of $2,215, maximum benefit of $536
Household Size 3: Gross monthly income limit of $2,797, maximum benefit of $768
Household Size 4: Gross monthly income limit of $3,380, maximum benefit of $975
Household Size 5: Gross monthly income limit of $3,963, maximum benefit of $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross monthly income limit of $4,546, maximum benefit of $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross monthly income limit of $5,129, maximum benefit of $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross monthly income limit of $5,711, maximum benefit of $1,756

For each additional person in your household, the gross monthly income limit increases by $583, and the maximum benefit amount goes up by $220.

These amounts can change annually. For the most current information, including future updates for Kentucky SNAP benefits 2026, always check the official Kentucky SNAP page.

Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Kentucky

To determine your Kentucky SNAP benefits eligibility, you'll need to meet several requirements based on your household's circumstances.

Income Limits: Your household's gross monthly income must generally be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, though households with an elderly or disabled member only need to meet a net income test.
Residency Requirements: You must live in the Kentucky county where you submit your application.
Citizenship Status: SNAP benefits eligibility for Kentucky is available to U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens who meet specific federal criteria.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable employment, with additional rules for those without dependents in certain counties.
Special Conditions: Students, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those facing emergencies like homelessness may have different rules or qualify for faster benefits.

You can find the latest income charts, application forms, and county contact information on the official Kentucky SNAP website.

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 Kentucky

Applying for SNAP in Kentucky is straightforward. You can apply online for convenience, visit an office for in-person assistance, or mail in a paper form.

Online Application

The quickest way to apply is through the state's online portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload documents from home. You can find the portal on the Kentucky SNAP website.

In-Person Application

If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at your county's Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office. Staff can answer questions and guide you through the paperwork. Find your local office on the state's website.

Application By Mail

You can also apply by mail. Download and print the application form from the official Kentucky SNAP website, fill it out completely, and mail it to your local DCBS office for processing.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Kentucky

Application Help: Call the DCBS Call Service Center at 855-306-8959 for questions about your benefits or help with your application.
Hours: They are open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET.

See Kentucky EBT Customer Service Contacts

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Kentucky

Once you receive your benefits, knowing what you can purchase and where you can shop will help you use them effectively.

What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?

Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Think of it just like a debit card. It holds your monthly food assistance funds electronically, so you don't have to deal with paper coupons or vouchers.

Using your EBT card is simple. At the checkout of an authorized store, you just swipe your card and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This helps you and your family get the groceries you need to prepare meals at home. Eligible items generally include:

Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks
Seeds and plants that produce food

It's also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Benefits cannot be used for non-food products or items intended for immediate consumption. Ineligible items include:

Alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods ready to eat
Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics

How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits

Staying on top of your benefits helps you budget for groceries. Knowing your balance, payment schedule, and renewal process is straightforward.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Kentucky

In Kentucky, your SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 19th of each month. The specific date is based on the last digit of your case number, which helps you plan your grocery budget.

You can find your specific payment date in our Kentucky deposit schedule.

See Kentucky EBT deposit schedule 2026

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

You can check your balance through the official ebtEDGE portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by checking your last store or ATM receipt.

You can check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.

Check Your Kentucky 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, Kroger, Costco, and others.

To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and 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 Kentucky, you typically need to recertify for SNAP benefits every 6 to 12 months. You will receive a notice by mail when it's time to renew, so be sure to watch for this letter to start the process promptly.

The process involves submitting a form and possibly an interview. You'll need to provide documents verifying your income, expenses like rent and utilities, and any household changes.

Submitting your renewal on time prevents a gap in your food assistance. If you miss the deadline, your case may close, and you will have to reapply entirely.

Special SNAP Services in Kentucky

Kentucky offers special SNAP services for urgent needs like financial crises or natural disasters. These include expedited benefits, disaster assistance, and replacement funds for spoiled food.

Expedited SNAP (Emergency Processing)

If you're in a financial crisis, you may get benefits within seven days. You could qualify with very low income and resources. Apply online, by phone, or at a DCBS office and note you need emergency service.

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

After a major disaster, D-SNAP provides temporary food aid to households with disaster-related losses in declared counties. Apply by phone or in person during the state-announced period if you live or work in the affected area.

Hot Foods Purchase Waiver

When power outages occur, a hot foods waiver may let you buy prepared meals with your EBT card. This applies automatically to SNAP households in affected counties, so no separate application is needed.

Replacement SNAP for Disaster-Related Food Loss

If a disaster spoils your food, you can request replacement benefits. Kentucky may extend the reporting deadline. Call or visit a DCBS office to file a replacement request form for the food you lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides monthly funds for groceries. If you're a low-income individual or family in Kentucky, this program can help you buy healthy food.

SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Kentucky

Your eligibility and benefit amount are tied to federal poverty guidelines. The U.S. Department of Agriculture updates these figures each October to account for the cost of living, which determines the income limits and maximum benefits for households.

Here are the maximum monthly income limits and SNAP benefits in Kentucky for fiscal year 2025, which runs from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.

Household Size 1: Gross monthly income limit of $1,632, maximum benefit of $292
Household Size 2: Gross monthly income limit of $2,215, maximum benefit of $536
Household Size 3: Gross monthly income limit of $2,797, maximum benefit of $768
Household Size 4: Gross monthly income limit of $3,380, maximum benefit of $975
Household Size 5: Gross monthly income limit of $3,963, maximum benefit of $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross monthly income limit of $4,546, maximum benefit of $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross monthly income limit of $5,129, maximum benefit of $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross monthly income limit of $5,711, maximum benefit of $1,756

For each additional person in your household, the gross monthly income limit increases by $583, and the maximum benefit amount goes up by $220.

These amounts can change annually. For the most current information, including future updates for Kentucky SNAP benefits 2026, always check the official Kentucky SNAP page.

Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Kentucky

To determine your Kentucky SNAP benefits eligibility, you'll need to meet several requirements based on your household's circumstances.

Income Limits: Your household's gross monthly income must generally be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, though households with an elderly or disabled member only need to meet a net income test.
Residency Requirements: You must live in the Kentucky county where you submit your application.
Citizenship Status: SNAP benefits eligibility for Kentucky is available to U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens who meet specific federal criteria.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable employment, with additional rules for those without dependents in certain counties.
Special Conditions: Students, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those facing emergencies like homelessness may have different rules or qualify for faster benefits.

You can find the latest income charts, application forms, and county contact information on the official Kentucky SNAP website.

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How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Kentucky

Applying for SNAP in Kentucky is straightforward. You can apply online for convenience, visit an office for in-person assistance, or mail in a paper form.

Online Application

The quickest way to apply is through the state's online portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload documents from home. You can find the portal on the Kentucky SNAP website.

In-Person Application

If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at your county's Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office. Staff can answer questions and guide you through the paperwork. Find your local office on the state's website.

Application By Mail

You can also apply by mail. Download and print the application form from the official Kentucky SNAP website, fill it out completely, and mail it to your local DCBS office for processing.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Kentucky

Application Help: Call the DCBS Call Service Center at 855-306-8959 for questions about your benefits or help with your application.
Hours: They are open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET.

See Kentucky EBT Customer Service Contacts

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Kentucky

Once you receive your benefits, knowing what you can purchase and where you can shop will help you use them effectively.

What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?

Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Think of it just like a debit card. It holds your monthly food assistance funds electronically, so you don't have to deal with paper coupons or vouchers.

Using your EBT card is simple. At the checkout of an authorized store, you just swipe your card and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN). The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This helps you and your family get the groceries you need to prepare meals at home. Eligible items generally include:

Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks
Seeds and plants that produce food

It's also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Benefits cannot be used for non-food products or items intended for immediate consumption. Ineligible items include:

Alcohol, cigarettes, and tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods ready to eat
Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics

How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits

Staying on top of your benefits helps you budget for groceries. Knowing your balance, payment schedule, and renewal process is straightforward.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Kentucky

In Kentucky, your SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 19th of each month. The specific date is based on the last digit of your case number, which helps you plan your grocery budget.

You can find your specific payment date in our Kentucky deposit schedule.

See Kentucky EBT deposit schedule 2026

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

You can check your balance through the official ebtEDGE portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by checking your last store or ATM receipt.

You can check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.

Check Your Kentucky 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, Kroger, Costco, and others.

To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

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How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits

In Kentucky, you typically need to recertify for SNAP benefits every 6 to 12 months. You will receive a notice by mail when it's time to renew, so be sure to watch for this letter to start the process promptly.

The process involves submitting a form and possibly an interview. You'll need to provide documents verifying your income, expenses like rent and utilities, and any household changes.

Submitting your renewal on time prevents a gap in your food assistance. If you miss the deadline, your case may close, and you will have to reapply entirely.

Special SNAP Services in Kentucky

Kentucky offers special SNAP services for urgent needs like financial crises or natural disasters. These include expedited benefits, disaster assistance, and replacement funds for spoiled food.

Expedited SNAP (Emergency Processing)

If you're in a financial crisis, you may get benefits within seven days. You could qualify with very low income and resources. Apply online, by phone, or at a DCBS office and note you need emergency service.

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

After a major disaster, D-SNAP provides temporary food aid to households with disaster-related losses in declared counties. Apply by phone or in person during the state-announced period if you live or work in the affected area.

Hot Foods Purchase Waiver

When power outages occur, a hot foods waiver may let you buy prepared meals with your EBT card. This applies automatically to SNAP households in affected counties, so no separate application is needed.

Replacement SNAP for Disaster-Related Food Loss

If a disaster spoils your food, you can request replacement benefits. Kentucky may extend the reporting deadline. Call or visit a DCBS office to file a replacement request form for the food you lost.