How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Maine

You can apply for SNAP benefits in Maine through several methods. These include applying online, visiting an office in-person, or mailing an application.

Apply Online

Applying online is often the quickest method. You can submit your application and documents electronically through the state's official portal, which helps streamline the process from the comfort of your home.

To start your application, visit the official Maine SNAP site. You will need to complete the form and provide documents verifying your identity, residence, and income. An interview with DHHS is also part of the process.

Apply In-Person

If you prefer face-to-face assistance or need help with the forms, you can apply at a local Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) office. Staff can answer questions and guide you.

Bring documents to verify your identity, residency, and income. A DHHS worker will help you complete the application. You will also need to complete an interview to determine your eligibility for benefits.

Apply By Mail

For those who prefer a paper-based process, you can apply by mail. This allows you to complete the application at your own pace before submitting it to the DHHS for review.

You can download the application from the official DHHS website. After filling it out, mail the completed form and copies of your supporting documents to your local DHHS office. An interview will follow.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Maine

For help with your SNAP application, contact the Office for Family Independence (OFI) Call Center.

• Phone: 1-855-797-4357

• Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET

• Services: Representatives provide help with application status and online portal assistance.

See Maine EBT Customer Service Contacts

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Maine

After your SNAP application is approved, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.

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 like a debit card for your food assistance. It holds your monthly benefit amount and lets you pay for groceries at authorized stores.

Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout, just swipe or insert your card and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The cost of eligible food is deducted from your account. You can also get cashback with the Benny app.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your EBT card is for buying food items that you can prepare and eat at home. You can use your benefits to purchase a wide variety of groceries that help you create healthy meals for your family.

• Fruits and vegetables

• Meat, poultry, and fish

• Dairy products

• Breads and cereals

• Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages

• Seeds and plants that produce food

However, there are some restrictions on what you can buy. SNAP benefits cannot be used for non-food items or for foods that are sold hot and ready to eat at the point of sale.

• Alcoholic beverages or tobacco

• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements

• Hot foods ready to eat

• Non-food items like cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet foods

How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits

Properly managing your SNAP benefits helps you make them last all month. This includes checking your balance and knowing your deposit schedule.

How to Check Your EBT Balance

You can check your EBT card balance in a few ways. Look at your last grocery receipt, call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card, or check online through Maine's EBT portal.

You can also use a third-party app. The Benny app shows your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balance. It also helps you get cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine

Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto your EBT card on the same day each month. The specific date depends on your case details. Maine's DHHS sets this schedule for all recipients.

To find your exact deposit date, you can check your approval letter from DHHS or call EBT customer service. Knowing your date helps you plan your grocery shopping for the month.

Renewing Your SNAP Benefits

SNAP benefits are not permanent and you must renew them periodically to continue receiving assistance. This process is sometimes called recertification. Your certification period can range from a few months to a year.

The DHHS will mail you a renewal packet before your benefits are set to expire. You will need to complete the forms and return them by the deadline to avoid a gap in your benefits.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Maine

In Maine, your SNAP benefits are deposited between the 10th and 14th of the month. The exact date depends on the last digit of your birthday, which helps you plan your monthly grocery budget.

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

See Maine EBT deposit schedule for 2025

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

You can check your EBT balance through the online Pine Tree Card portal, by calling the number on your card, or on your last store or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your balance and helps you get cashback.

Check out our guide covering each method on how to check your EBT balance.

Check Your Maine 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 and Walmart. To get started, link your EBT card. After a purchase, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

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