How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Minnesota

You can apply for Minnesota SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method has a straightforward process to follow.

Online Application

Applying online is the fastest way to submit your application. You can complete the process from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection, saving you a trip to a local office.

To apply online, visit the official Minnesota SNAP website. You will need to create an account to start your application, providing details about your household, income, and expenses.

After submitting, your county or Tribal Nation office will contact you for an interview, which is usually done over the phone. You may need to provide documents to verify your information.

In-Person Application

If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can apply in person. Staff at your local human services office can help you fill out the form and answer any questions you may have.

You must apply at the county or Tribal Nation human services office where you live. You can find your local office location and hours online or by calling your county's main information line.

Bring any required documents with you, such as proof of identity, income, and residency. This can help speed up the process. An interview will be scheduled after you submit your application.

Mail-In Application

Applying by mail is another option. You can download and print the application form to complete at your own pace before mailing it to the appropriate office for processing.

First, download the Combined Application Form from the Minnesota SNAP portal. You can also request that a paper form be mailed to you by calling your local human services office.

Complete the form and mail it to your county or Tribal Nation human services office. Be sure to fill it out completely to avoid delays. You will be contacted for an interview.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Minnesota

• Contact: For application help, call the Minnesota SNAP Hotline at 800-657-3698.

• Hours: Representatives are available during business hours, Monday through Friday.

• Services: Get help with your application and answers to general food benefit questions.

See Minnesota EBT Customer Service Contacts

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Minnesota

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 each month. Think of it as a special debit card just for your food assistance. It's a safe and easy way to access your benefits without carrying cash or paper vouchers.

Using your EBT card is simple. It works just like a regular debit card at the checkout counter. You just swipe your card and enter your private four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your EBT card allows you to purchase a wide range of groceries to keep your kitchen stocked. These benefits are designed to cover staple food items that you prepare at home, helping you maintain a healthy diet for your household.

• Fruits and vegetables

• Dairy products

• Breads and cereals

• Meat, fish, and poultry

• Non-alcoholic beverages

It's also important to know what you cannot buy with your SNAP benefits. The program has specific restrictions, and your EBT card will be declined if you try to purchase ineligible items like non-food products or prepared hot meals.

• Alcoholic beverages

• Hot foods that are ready to eat

• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements

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

How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits

Managing your SNAP benefits helps you budget for groceries and stay on top of your monthly food allowance and renewal dates.

How to Check Your EBT Balance

Knowing your EBT card balance helps you plan your shopping trips. You can check your balance by calling the customer service number on the back of your card or by looking at your last grocery store receipt.

You can also use an app to see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balance. For example, the Benny app shows your balance and can help you get cashback on eligible purchases.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Minnesota

In Minnesota, SNAP benefits are deposited onto your EBT card between the 4th and the 13th of each month. The exact date depends on the last digit of your case number.

You can find your specific deposit date on the state’s EBT card page. Knowing your deposit date helps you know when your funds will be available each month.

Renewing Your SNAP Benefits

To continue receiving SNAP benefits, you must renew them periodically. This process is also called recertification. Your local office will send you a notice when it is time to renew.

You will need to complete a renewal form and may have to provide updated information about your household's income and expenses. Submitting your renewal on time prevents a gap in your benefits.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Minnesota

In Minnesota, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 4th and 13th of each month. Your specific date is determined by the last digit of your case number, which helps you plan your grocery budget.

Check our Minnesota deposit schedule to find your exact payment date.

See Minnesota EBT deposit schedule for 2025

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

Check your balance via the ebtEDGE portal, by calling the number on your card, or on an ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your balance and helps you get cashback on eligible purchases.

Our guide covers how to check your EBT balance using each method.

Check Your Minnesota EBT Balance

Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you see your EBT balance in real-time and get cashback 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 you will receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to help manage your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.