SNAP Benefits in Maine: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Maine. See income limits, how to apply, and how to manage your EBT benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Nov 6, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Maine: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Maine. See income limits, how to apply, and how to manage your EBT benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Nov 6, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Maine: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Maine. See income limits, how to apply, and how to manage your EBT benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Nov 6, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Maine: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Maine. See income limits, how to apply, and how to manage your EBT benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Nov 6, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Maine: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Maine. See income limits, how to apply, and how to manage your EBT benefits.
Edward Cheng
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Nov 6, 2025
SHARE
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you buy the food you need. It provides monthly funds to low-income individuals and families in Maine for purchasing groceries.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Maine
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Maine and the amount you receive are determined by your household’s gross monthly income. Maine requires your income to be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level to qualify for assistance.
The maximum benefit amounts are set by federal guidelines and are updated each year. Below are the income limits and maximum monthly SNAP benefits as of July 2025. You can always find the most current figures on the state's official website.
Household Size 1: Gross Monthly Income Limit $2,609, Maximum Benefit Amount $292
Household Size 2: Gross Monthly Income Limit $3,525, Maximum Benefit Amount $536
Household Size 3: Gross Monthly Income Limit $4,442, Maximum Benefit Amount $768
Household Size 4: Gross Monthly Income Limit $5,359, Maximum Benefit Amount $975
Household Size 5: Gross Monthly Income Limit $6,275, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross Monthly Income Limit $7,192, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross Monthly Income Limit $8,109, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross Monthly Income Limit $9,025, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,756
For each additional person: Add $917 to the income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit.
These numbers can help you estimate your eligibility. Keep in mind that figures for Maine SNAP benefits 2026 will be adjusted based on new federal poverty levels and food plan costs.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Maine
To determine your SNAP benefits eligibility for Maine, you must meet several requirements set by the state and federal government.
Income Limits: Your household's gross monthly income must generally be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, and Maine has no asset limit for most applicants.
Residency Requirements: You must live in the state of Maine to apply for and receive benefits.
Citizenship Status: At least one person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen to meet Maine SNAP benefits eligibility.
Work Requirements: Most adults who are able to work must register for work and accept suitable employment, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents.
Special Conditions: Seniors, people with disabilities, and students are subject to different rules, such as exemptions or modified income tests.
You can find a complete breakdown of these requirements on the official Maine SNAP site.
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 Maine
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Maine online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires providing information to determine your household's eligibility.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest way to submit your information. You will need to provide details about your household through the official Maine SNAP site.
As part of the process, an interview is required. You must also provide or apply for a Social Security number for everyone in your household requesting benefits.
In-Person Application
You can also apply by visiting a local Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office. This allows you to submit documents and ask questions directly.
You must live in Maine and may need to provide proof of residence. Your household’s income is a primary factor, with both gross and net income limits applying to most applicants.
Application by Mail
If you prefer, you can mail a completed paper application to the DHHS. This method may take longer, but it is a valid option for submitting your request.
At least one person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen. Adults aged 16-59 must also typically meet work requirements to be eligible.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Maine
For help with your application, you can call the Office for Family Independence (OFI) Call Center at 1-855-797-4357.
Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET.
They can help with your application status and online portal questions.
See Maine EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Maine
Once approved for SNAP, it helps to know 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 are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card each month. Think of it as a special debit card just for your food assistance funds. It makes buying groceries simple and secure.
Using your EBT card is just like using a regular debit card. You swipe it at the checkout counter and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This covers most groceries you would find at a supermarket, helping you prepare meals at home. The program focuses on providing access to essential food items.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Other foods such as snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Benefits cannot be used for non-food items or prepared hot meals. You should separate these items at checkout to ensure a smooth transaction.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals (with some exceptions)
Foods that are hot at the point of sale
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget effectively and make sure you always have food on the table.
How to Check Your EBT Balance
You can check your EBT card balance in a few ways. After a purchase, your balance is usually printed on the receipt. You can also call the customer service number on the back of your card for an automated update.
For real-time updates, you can use a free smartphone app. The Benny app shows your current SNAP and EBT Cash balance instantly. It also offers cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine
Your SNAP benefits are deposited on the same day each month. In Maine, the deposit date is based on the last digit of your day of birth. This system helps spread out payments throughout the month.
Benefits are issued between the 10th and the 14th of the month. For example, if your birthday ends in 0 or 1, you receive benefits on the 10th. You can find the full benefit issuance schedule online.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits are not indefinite and you must periodically renew them to continue receiving assistance. This process is called recertification and it confirms your household is still eligible.
You generally need to recertify every 12 months to continue receiving benefits. The DHHS will mail you a notice when it is time to renew. You can complete the process online, by mail, or in person.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine
In Maine, your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly between the 10th and 14th. The exact date depends on the last digit of your day of birth, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can check your specific payment date in our Maine deposit schedule.
See Maine EBT deposit schedule 2026
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance through the online Pine Tree Card portal, by calling the number on your card, or on your last purchase or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your balance and offers cashback.
Our guide covers each method for checking your 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. You can also get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
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 Maine, you must recertify your SNAP benefits to continue receiving them. This process typically happens every 12 months. The Department of Health and Human Services will mail you a form when it's time for you to renew.
You will need to provide updated proof of your household's income, expenses like rent and utilities, and report any changes. Completing this recertification on time is the best way to avoid any interruption in your food assistance.
Special SNAP Services in Maine
Maine offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for households with little money and assistance after disasters like storms or floods.
Expedited Food Supplement (Emergency SNAP)
This service helps households with almost no cash get benefits in seven days or less. You may qualify if your income is under $150 and resources are under $100, or if housing costs exceed your income.
Apply through MyMaineConnection, phone, mail, or in person. Request “expedited” service when you apply. You will need to prove your identity, but other documents can be submitted later.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food. This is available when the President approves disaster assistance for Maine. Current SNAP households may also get extra benefits. Future notices will have details.
You must have lived or worked in the disaster area and have related losses. DHHS announces application dates and sites. You will need to show proof of identity and residency to apply for benefits.
SNAP Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
If food you bought with SNAP is destroyed in a disaster, you can get replacement benefits. You must report the loss within 10 days. Check for active waivers or guidance from DHHS.
File a “Request for Replacement of Destroyed Food” with DHHS by mail, in person, or online. List the approximate value of the food you lost to receive a replacement on your EBT card.
Transitional Food Assistance (Transitional SNAP)
This program continues food benefits for five months for families who recently left TANF. It helps you stay stable as you adjust to new income sources without reapplying for SNAP.
Enrollment is automatic if your household received both TANF and SNAP before TANF ended. You only need to report a change of address. More information is available online.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you buy the food you need. It provides monthly funds to low-income individuals and families in Maine for purchasing groceries.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Maine
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Maine and the amount you receive are determined by your household’s gross monthly income. Maine requires your income to be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level to qualify for assistance.
The maximum benefit amounts are set by federal guidelines and are updated each year. Below are the income limits and maximum monthly SNAP benefits as of July 2025. You can always find the most current figures on the state's official website.
Household Size 1: Gross Monthly Income Limit $2,609, Maximum Benefit Amount $292
Household Size 2: Gross Monthly Income Limit $3,525, Maximum Benefit Amount $536
Household Size 3: Gross Monthly Income Limit $4,442, Maximum Benefit Amount $768
Household Size 4: Gross Monthly Income Limit $5,359, Maximum Benefit Amount $975
Household Size 5: Gross Monthly Income Limit $6,275, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross Monthly Income Limit $7,192, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross Monthly Income Limit $8,109, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross Monthly Income Limit $9,025, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,756
For each additional person: Add $917 to the income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit.
These numbers can help you estimate your eligibility. Keep in mind that figures for Maine SNAP benefits 2026 will be adjusted based on new federal poverty levels and food plan costs.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Maine
To determine your SNAP benefits eligibility for Maine, you must meet several requirements set by the state and federal government.
Income Limits: Your household's gross monthly income must generally be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, and Maine has no asset limit for most applicants.
Residency Requirements: You must live in the state of Maine to apply for and receive benefits.
Citizenship Status: At least one person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen to meet Maine SNAP benefits eligibility.
Work Requirements: Most adults who are able to work must register for work and accept suitable employment, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents.
Special Conditions: Seniors, people with disabilities, and students are subject to different rules, such as exemptions or modified income tests.
You can find a complete breakdown of these requirements on the official Maine SNAP site.
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 Maine
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Maine online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires providing information to determine your household's eligibility.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest way to submit your information. You will need to provide details about your household through the official Maine SNAP site.
As part of the process, an interview is required. You must also provide or apply for a Social Security number for everyone in your household requesting benefits.
In-Person Application
You can also apply by visiting a local Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office. This allows you to submit documents and ask questions directly.
You must live in Maine and may need to provide proof of residence. Your household’s income is a primary factor, with both gross and net income limits applying to most applicants.
Application by Mail
If you prefer, you can mail a completed paper application to the DHHS. This method may take longer, but it is a valid option for submitting your request.
At least one person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen. Adults aged 16-59 must also typically meet work requirements to be eligible.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Maine
For help with your application, you can call the Office for Family Independence (OFI) Call Center at 1-855-797-4357.
Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET.
They can help with your application status and online portal questions.
See Maine EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Maine
Once approved for SNAP, it helps to know 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 are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card each month. Think of it as a special debit card just for your food assistance funds. It makes buying groceries simple and secure.
Using your EBT card is just like using a regular debit card. You swipe it at the checkout counter and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This covers most groceries you would find at a supermarket, helping you prepare meals at home. The program focuses on providing access to essential food items.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Other foods such as snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Benefits cannot be used for non-food items or prepared hot meals. You should separate these items at checkout to ensure a smooth transaction.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals (with some exceptions)
Foods that are hot at the point of sale
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget effectively and make sure you always have food on the table.
How to Check Your EBT Balance
You can check your EBT card balance in a few ways. After a purchase, your balance is usually printed on the receipt. You can also call the customer service number on the back of your card for an automated update.
For real-time updates, you can use a free smartphone app. The Benny app shows your current SNAP and EBT Cash balance instantly. It also offers cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine
Your SNAP benefits are deposited on the same day each month. In Maine, the deposit date is based on the last digit of your day of birth. This system helps spread out payments throughout the month.
Benefits are issued between the 10th and the 14th of the month. For example, if your birthday ends in 0 or 1, you receive benefits on the 10th. You can find the full benefit issuance schedule online.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits are not indefinite and you must periodically renew them to continue receiving assistance. This process is called recertification and it confirms your household is still eligible.
You generally need to recertify every 12 months to continue receiving benefits. The DHHS will mail you a notice when it is time to renew. You can complete the process online, by mail, or in person.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine
In Maine, your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly between the 10th and 14th. The exact date depends on the last digit of your day of birth, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can check your specific payment date in our Maine deposit schedule.
See Maine EBT deposit schedule 2026
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance through the online Pine Tree Card portal, by calling the number on your card, or on your last purchase or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your balance and offers cashback.
Our guide covers each method for checking your 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. You can also get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
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 Maine, you must recertify your SNAP benefits to continue receiving them. This process typically happens every 12 months. The Department of Health and Human Services will mail you a form when it's time for you to renew.
You will need to provide updated proof of your household's income, expenses like rent and utilities, and report any changes. Completing this recertification on time is the best way to avoid any interruption in your food assistance.
Special SNAP Services in Maine
Maine offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for households with little money and assistance after disasters like storms or floods.
Expedited Food Supplement (Emergency SNAP)
This service helps households with almost no cash get benefits in seven days or less. You may qualify if your income is under $150 and resources are under $100, or if housing costs exceed your income.
Apply through MyMaineConnection, phone, mail, or in person. Request “expedited” service when you apply. You will need to prove your identity, but other documents can be submitted later.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food. This is available when the President approves disaster assistance for Maine. Current SNAP households may also get extra benefits. Future notices will have details.
You must have lived or worked in the disaster area and have related losses. DHHS announces application dates and sites. You will need to show proof of identity and residency to apply for benefits.
SNAP Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
If food you bought with SNAP is destroyed in a disaster, you can get replacement benefits. You must report the loss within 10 days. Check for active waivers or guidance from DHHS.
File a “Request for Replacement of Destroyed Food” with DHHS by mail, in person, or online. List the approximate value of the food you lost to receive a replacement on your EBT card.
Transitional Food Assistance (Transitional SNAP)
This program continues food benefits for five months for families who recently left TANF. It helps you stay stable as you adjust to new income sources without reapplying for SNAP.
Enrollment is automatic if your household received both TANF and SNAP before TANF ended. You only need to report a change of address. More information is available online.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you buy the food you need. It provides monthly funds to low-income individuals and families in Maine for purchasing groceries.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Maine
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Maine and the amount you receive are determined by your household’s gross monthly income. Maine requires your income to be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level to qualify for assistance.
The maximum benefit amounts are set by federal guidelines and are updated each year. Below are the income limits and maximum monthly SNAP benefits as of July 2025. You can always find the most current figures on the state's official website.
Household Size 1: Gross Monthly Income Limit $2,609, Maximum Benefit Amount $292
Household Size 2: Gross Monthly Income Limit $3,525, Maximum Benefit Amount $536
Household Size 3: Gross Monthly Income Limit $4,442, Maximum Benefit Amount $768
Household Size 4: Gross Monthly Income Limit $5,359, Maximum Benefit Amount $975
Household Size 5: Gross Monthly Income Limit $6,275, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross Monthly Income Limit $7,192, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross Monthly Income Limit $8,109, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross Monthly Income Limit $9,025, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,756
For each additional person: Add $917 to the income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit.
These numbers can help you estimate your eligibility. Keep in mind that figures for Maine SNAP benefits 2026 will be adjusted based on new federal poverty levels and food plan costs.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Maine
To determine your SNAP benefits eligibility for Maine, you must meet several requirements set by the state and federal government.
Income Limits: Your household's gross monthly income must generally be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, and Maine has no asset limit for most applicants.
Residency Requirements: You must live in the state of Maine to apply for and receive benefits.
Citizenship Status: At least one person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen to meet Maine SNAP benefits eligibility.
Work Requirements: Most adults who are able to work must register for work and accept suitable employment, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents.
Special Conditions: Seniors, people with disabilities, and students are subject to different rules, such as exemptions or modified income tests.
You can find a complete breakdown of these requirements on the official Maine SNAP site.
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 Maine
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Maine online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires providing information to determine your household's eligibility.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest way to submit your information. You will need to provide details about your household through the official Maine SNAP site.
As part of the process, an interview is required. You must also provide or apply for a Social Security number for everyone in your household requesting benefits.
In-Person Application
You can also apply by visiting a local Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office. This allows you to submit documents and ask questions directly.
You must live in Maine and may need to provide proof of residence. Your household’s income is a primary factor, with both gross and net income limits applying to most applicants.
Application by Mail
If you prefer, you can mail a completed paper application to the DHHS. This method may take longer, but it is a valid option for submitting your request.
At least one person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen. Adults aged 16-59 must also typically meet work requirements to be eligible.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Maine
For help with your application, you can call the Office for Family Independence (OFI) Call Center at 1-855-797-4357.
Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET.
They can help with your application status and online portal questions.
See Maine EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Maine
Once approved for SNAP, it helps to know 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 are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card each month. Think of it as a special debit card just for your food assistance funds. It makes buying groceries simple and secure.
Using your EBT card is just like using a regular debit card. You swipe it at the checkout counter and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This covers most groceries you would find at a supermarket, helping you prepare meals at home. The program focuses on providing access to essential food items.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Other foods such as snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Benefits cannot be used for non-food items or prepared hot meals. You should separate these items at checkout to ensure a smooth transaction.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals (with some exceptions)
Foods that are hot at the point of sale
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget effectively and make sure you always have food on the table.
How to Check Your EBT Balance
You can check your EBT card balance in a few ways. After a purchase, your balance is usually printed on the receipt. You can also call the customer service number on the back of your card for an automated update.
For real-time updates, you can use a free smartphone app. The Benny app shows your current SNAP and EBT Cash balance instantly. It also offers cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine
Your SNAP benefits are deposited on the same day each month. In Maine, the deposit date is based on the last digit of your day of birth. This system helps spread out payments throughout the month.
Benefits are issued between the 10th and the 14th of the month. For example, if your birthday ends in 0 or 1, you receive benefits on the 10th. You can find the full benefit issuance schedule online.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits are not indefinite and you must periodically renew them to continue receiving assistance. This process is called recertification and it confirms your household is still eligible.
You generally need to recertify every 12 months to continue receiving benefits. The DHHS will mail you a notice when it is time to renew. You can complete the process online, by mail, or in person.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine
In Maine, your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly between the 10th and 14th. The exact date depends on the last digit of your day of birth, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can check your specific payment date in our Maine deposit schedule.
See Maine EBT deposit schedule 2026
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance through the online Pine Tree Card portal, by calling the number on your card, or on your last purchase or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your balance and offers cashback.
Our guide covers each method for checking your 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. You can also get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
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 Maine, you must recertify your SNAP benefits to continue receiving them. This process typically happens every 12 months. The Department of Health and Human Services will mail you a form when it's time for you to renew.
You will need to provide updated proof of your household's income, expenses like rent and utilities, and report any changes. Completing this recertification on time is the best way to avoid any interruption in your food assistance.
Special SNAP Services in Maine
Maine offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for households with little money and assistance after disasters like storms or floods.
Expedited Food Supplement (Emergency SNAP)
This service helps households with almost no cash get benefits in seven days or less. You may qualify if your income is under $150 and resources are under $100, or if housing costs exceed your income.
Apply through MyMaineConnection, phone, mail, or in person. Request “expedited” service when you apply. You will need to prove your identity, but other documents can be submitted later.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food. This is available when the President approves disaster assistance for Maine. Current SNAP households may also get extra benefits. Future notices will have details.
You must have lived or worked in the disaster area and have related losses. DHHS announces application dates and sites. You will need to show proof of identity and residency to apply for benefits.
SNAP Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
If food you bought with SNAP is destroyed in a disaster, you can get replacement benefits. You must report the loss within 10 days. Check for active waivers or guidance from DHHS.
File a “Request for Replacement of Destroyed Food” with DHHS by mail, in person, or online. List the approximate value of the food you lost to receive a replacement on your EBT card.
Transitional Food Assistance (Transitional SNAP)
This program continues food benefits for five months for families who recently left TANF. It helps you stay stable as you adjust to new income sources without reapplying for SNAP.
Enrollment is automatic if your household received both TANF and SNAP before TANF ended. You only need to report a change of address. More information is available online.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you buy the food you need. It provides monthly funds to low-income individuals and families in Maine for purchasing groceries.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Maine
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Maine and the amount you receive are determined by your household’s gross monthly income. Maine requires your income to be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level to qualify for assistance.
The maximum benefit amounts are set by federal guidelines and are updated each year. Below are the income limits and maximum monthly SNAP benefits as of July 2025. You can always find the most current figures on the state's official website.
Household Size 1: Gross Monthly Income Limit $2,609, Maximum Benefit Amount $292
Household Size 2: Gross Monthly Income Limit $3,525, Maximum Benefit Amount $536
Household Size 3: Gross Monthly Income Limit $4,442, Maximum Benefit Amount $768
Household Size 4: Gross Monthly Income Limit $5,359, Maximum Benefit Amount $975
Household Size 5: Gross Monthly Income Limit $6,275, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross Monthly Income Limit $7,192, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross Monthly Income Limit $8,109, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross Monthly Income Limit $9,025, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,756
For each additional person: Add $917 to the income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit.
These numbers can help you estimate your eligibility. Keep in mind that figures for Maine SNAP benefits 2026 will be adjusted based on new federal poverty levels and food plan costs.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Maine
To determine your SNAP benefits eligibility for Maine, you must meet several requirements set by the state and federal government.
Income Limits: Your household's gross monthly income must generally be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, and Maine has no asset limit for most applicants.
Residency Requirements: You must live in the state of Maine to apply for and receive benefits.
Citizenship Status: At least one person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen to meet Maine SNAP benefits eligibility.
Work Requirements: Most adults who are able to work must register for work and accept suitable employment, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents.
Special Conditions: Seniors, people with disabilities, and students are subject to different rules, such as exemptions or modified income tests.
You can find a complete breakdown of these requirements on the official Maine SNAP site.
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 Maine
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Maine online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires providing information to determine your household's eligibility.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest way to submit your information. You will need to provide details about your household through the official Maine SNAP site.
As part of the process, an interview is required. You must also provide or apply for a Social Security number for everyone in your household requesting benefits.
In-Person Application
You can also apply by visiting a local Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office. This allows you to submit documents and ask questions directly.
You must live in Maine and may need to provide proof of residence. Your household’s income is a primary factor, with both gross and net income limits applying to most applicants.
Application by Mail
If you prefer, you can mail a completed paper application to the DHHS. This method may take longer, but it is a valid option for submitting your request.
At least one person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen. Adults aged 16-59 must also typically meet work requirements to be eligible.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Maine
For help with your application, you can call the Office for Family Independence (OFI) Call Center at 1-855-797-4357.
Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET.
They can help with your application status and online portal questions.
See Maine EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Maine
Once approved for SNAP, it helps to know 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 are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card each month. Think of it as a special debit card just for your food assistance funds. It makes buying groceries simple and secure.
Using your EBT card is just like using a regular debit card. You swipe it at the checkout counter and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This covers most groceries you would find at a supermarket, helping you prepare meals at home. The program focuses on providing access to essential food items.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Other foods such as snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Benefits cannot be used for non-food items or prepared hot meals. You should separate these items at checkout to ensure a smooth transaction.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals (with some exceptions)
Foods that are hot at the point of sale
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget effectively and make sure you always have food on the table.
How to Check Your EBT Balance
You can check your EBT card balance in a few ways. After a purchase, your balance is usually printed on the receipt. You can also call the customer service number on the back of your card for an automated update.
For real-time updates, you can use a free smartphone app. The Benny app shows your current SNAP and EBT Cash balance instantly. It also offers cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine
Your SNAP benefits are deposited on the same day each month. In Maine, the deposit date is based on the last digit of your day of birth. This system helps spread out payments throughout the month.
Benefits are issued between the 10th and the 14th of the month. For example, if your birthday ends in 0 or 1, you receive benefits on the 10th. You can find the full benefit issuance schedule online.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits are not indefinite and you must periodically renew them to continue receiving assistance. This process is called recertification and it confirms your household is still eligible.
You generally need to recertify every 12 months to continue receiving benefits. The DHHS will mail you a notice when it is time to renew. You can complete the process online, by mail, or in person.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine
In Maine, your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly between the 10th and 14th. The exact date depends on the last digit of your day of birth, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can check your specific payment date in our Maine deposit schedule.
See Maine EBT deposit schedule 2026
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance through the online Pine Tree Card portal, by calling the number on your card, or on your last purchase or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your balance and offers cashback.
Our guide covers each method for checking your 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. You can also get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
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 Maine, you must recertify your SNAP benefits to continue receiving them. This process typically happens every 12 months. The Department of Health and Human Services will mail you a form when it's time for you to renew.
You will need to provide updated proof of your household's income, expenses like rent and utilities, and report any changes. Completing this recertification on time is the best way to avoid any interruption in your food assistance.
Special SNAP Services in Maine
Maine offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for households with little money and assistance after disasters like storms or floods.
Expedited Food Supplement (Emergency SNAP)
This service helps households with almost no cash get benefits in seven days or less. You may qualify if your income is under $150 and resources are under $100, or if housing costs exceed your income.
Apply through MyMaineConnection, phone, mail, or in person. Request “expedited” service when you apply. You will need to prove your identity, but other documents can be submitted later.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food. This is available when the President approves disaster assistance for Maine. Current SNAP households may also get extra benefits. Future notices will have details.
You must have lived or worked in the disaster area and have related losses. DHHS announces application dates and sites. You will need to show proof of identity and residency to apply for benefits.
SNAP Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
If food you bought with SNAP is destroyed in a disaster, you can get replacement benefits. You must report the loss within 10 days. Check for active waivers or guidance from DHHS.
File a “Request for Replacement of Destroyed Food” with DHHS by mail, in person, or online. List the approximate value of the food you lost to receive a replacement on your EBT card.
Transitional Food Assistance (Transitional SNAP)
This program continues food benefits for five months for families who recently left TANF. It helps you stay stable as you adjust to new income sources without reapplying for SNAP.
Enrollment is automatic if your household received both TANF and SNAP before TANF ended. You only need to report a change of address. More information is available online.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you buy the food you need. It provides monthly funds to low-income individuals and families in Maine for purchasing groceries.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Maine
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Maine and the amount you receive are determined by your household’s gross monthly income. Maine requires your income to be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level to qualify for assistance.
The maximum benefit amounts are set by federal guidelines and are updated each year. Below are the income limits and maximum monthly SNAP benefits as of July 2025. You can always find the most current figures on the state's official website.
Household Size 1: Gross Monthly Income Limit $2,609, Maximum Benefit Amount $292
Household Size 2: Gross Monthly Income Limit $3,525, Maximum Benefit Amount $536
Household Size 3: Gross Monthly Income Limit $4,442, Maximum Benefit Amount $768
Household Size 4: Gross Monthly Income Limit $5,359, Maximum Benefit Amount $975
Household Size 5: Gross Monthly Income Limit $6,275, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,158
Household Size 6: Gross Monthly Income Limit $7,192, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,390
Household Size 7: Gross Monthly Income Limit $8,109, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,536
Household Size 8: Gross Monthly Income Limit $9,025, Maximum Benefit Amount $1,756
For each additional person: Add $917 to the income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit.
These numbers can help you estimate your eligibility. Keep in mind that figures for Maine SNAP benefits 2026 will be adjusted based on new federal poverty levels and food plan costs.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Maine
To determine your SNAP benefits eligibility for Maine, you must meet several requirements set by the state and federal government.
Income Limits: Your household's gross monthly income must generally be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, and Maine has no asset limit for most applicants.
Residency Requirements: You must live in the state of Maine to apply for and receive benefits.
Citizenship Status: At least one person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen to meet Maine SNAP benefits eligibility.
Work Requirements: Most adults who are able to work must register for work and accept suitable employment, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents.
Special Conditions: Seniors, people with disabilities, and students are subject to different rules, such as exemptions or modified income tests.
You can find a complete breakdown of these requirements on the official Maine SNAP site.
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 Maine
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Maine online, in person, or by mail. Each method requires providing information to determine your household's eligibility.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest way to submit your information. You will need to provide details about your household through the official Maine SNAP site.
As part of the process, an interview is required. You must also provide or apply for a Social Security number for everyone in your household requesting benefits.
In-Person Application
You can also apply by visiting a local Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office. This allows you to submit documents and ask questions directly.
You must live in Maine and may need to provide proof of residence. Your household’s income is a primary factor, with both gross and net income limits applying to most applicants.
Application by Mail
If you prefer, you can mail a completed paper application to the DHHS. This method may take longer, but it is a valid option for submitting your request.
At least one person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen. Adults aged 16-59 must also typically meet work requirements to be eligible.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Maine
For help with your application, you can call the Office for Family Independence (OFI) Call Center at 1-855-797-4357.
Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET.
They can help with your application status and online portal questions.
See Maine EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Maine
Once approved for SNAP, it helps to know 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 are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card each month. Think of it as a special debit card just for your food assistance funds. It makes buying groceries simple and secure.
Using your EBT card is just like using a regular debit card. You swipe it at the checkout counter and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. This covers most groceries you would find at a supermarket, helping you prepare meals at home. The program focuses on providing access to essential food items.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products
Breads and cereals
Other foods such as snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Benefits cannot be used for non-food items or prepared hot meals. You should separate these items at checkout to ensure a smooth transaction.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Live animals (with some exceptions)
Foods that are hot at the point of sale
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying on top of your SNAP benefits helps you budget effectively and make sure you always have food on the table.
How to Check Your EBT Balance
You can check your EBT card balance in a few ways. After a purchase, your balance is usually printed on the receipt. You can also call the customer service number on the back of your card for an automated update.
For real-time updates, you can use a free smartphone app. The Benny app shows your current SNAP and EBT Cash balance instantly. It also offers cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine
Your SNAP benefits are deposited on the same day each month. In Maine, the deposit date is based on the last digit of your day of birth. This system helps spread out payments throughout the month.
Benefits are issued between the 10th and the 14th of the month. For example, if your birthday ends in 0 or 1, you receive benefits on the 10th. You can find the full benefit issuance schedule online.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits are not indefinite and you must periodically renew them to continue receiving assistance. This process is called recertification and it confirms your household is still eligible.
You generally need to recertify every 12 months to continue receiving benefits. The DHHS will mail you a notice when it is time to renew. You can complete the process online, by mail, or in person.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine
In Maine, your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly between the 10th and 14th. The exact date depends on the last digit of your day of birth, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can check your specific payment date in our Maine deposit schedule.
See Maine EBT deposit schedule 2026
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance through the online Pine Tree Card portal, by calling the number on your card, or on your last purchase or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your balance and offers cashback.
Our guide covers each method for checking your 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. You can also get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
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 Maine, you must recertify your SNAP benefits to continue receiving them. This process typically happens every 12 months. The Department of Health and Human Services will mail you a form when it's time for you to renew.
You will need to provide updated proof of your household's income, expenses like rent and utilities, and report any changes. Completing this recertification on time is the best way to avoid any interruption in your food assistance.
Special SNAP Services in Maine
Maine offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for households with little money and assistance after disasters like storms or floods.
Expedited Food Supplement (Emergency SNAP)
This service helps households with almost no cash get benefits in seven days or less. You may qualify if your income is under $150 and resources are under $100, or if housing costs exceed your income.
Apply through MyMaineConnection, phone, mail, or in person. Request “expedited” service when you apply. You will need to prove your identity, but other documents can be submitted later.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food. This is available when the President approves disaster assistance for Maine. Current SNAP households may also get extra benefits. Future notices will have details.
You must have lived or worked in the disaster area and have related losses. DHHS announces application dates and sites. You will need to show proof of identity and residency to apply for benefits.
SNAP Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
If food you bought with SNAP is destroyed in a disaster, you can get replacement benefits. You must report the loss within 10 days. Check for active waivers or guidance from DHHS.
File a “Request for Replacement of Destroyed Food” with DHHS by mail, in person, or online. List the approximate value of the food you lost to receive a replacement on your EBT card.
Transitional Food Assistance (Transitional SNAP)
This program continues food benefits for five months for families who recently left TANF. It helps you stay stable as you adjust to new income sources without reapplying for SNAP.
Enrollment is automatic if your household received both TANF and SNAP before TANF ended. You only need to report a change of address. More information is available online.
