How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Rhode Island

Applying for SNAP in Rhode Island is straightforward. You can submit your application online, in person at a DHS office, or by mail.

Online Application

The quickest way to apply is online through the state's official portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload required documents directly from your computer or mobile device, saving you a trip.

Before starting, gather documents for everyone in your household. You will need to provide proof of your identity, Social Security numbers, immigration status, income, and expenses. You must also be a Rhode Island resident.

Most households must meet income limits. For instance, a three-person household generally cannot have a gross monthly income over $3,981. Rules may differ for households with seniors or members with disabilities.

You can start your application and find detailed income guidelines on the Rhode Island SNAP website. After you apply, you can check your balance with the Benny app.

In-Person Application

You can apply in person at a local Department of Human Services (DHS) office. This option is helpful if you need assistance filling out the form or wish to ask a caseworker questions directly.

Bring all necessary documents with you to the office. This includes verification of your identity, income, residency, and Social Security numbers for all household members. Having everything ready will help streamline your application process.

Be aware of work requirements. Most adults must register for work and accept suitable job offers. Able-bodied adults without dependents may have time limits unless they meet specific work or training criteria.

Visit the official DHS website to find the office location nearest to you. The site provides addresses and hours of operation for all statewide offices.

Mail-In Application

If you prefer a paper application, you can download the form from the DHS website and mail it in. This method is a good alternative if you do not have reliable internet access.

Complete the application form and attach copies of your required documents. Be sure to include verification for your identity, income, expenses, and household composition before sending your packet to the DHS.

Note any special circumstances on your form. Households facing extreme hardship may qualify for expedited seven-day processing. Different rules may also apply to students or seniors applying for benefits.

The application form and correct mailing address are available on the official DHS website. Check the site to ensure you have the most current version of the application.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Rhode Island

• Services: For help with SNAP applications, eligibility, and general benefit questions.

• Phone Number: Call the DHS Call Center at 1-855-697-4347.

• Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET.

See Rhode Island EBT Customer Service Contacts

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Rhode Island

Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including 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 just like a debit card. When you shop at an approved store, you'll swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to pay.

The process is simple and discreet, working the same way you would use any other bank card for a purchase. The cost of eligible food items is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your EBT card is for buying groceries to prepare at home. You can purchase a wide variety of food items that make up a healthy diet for your household. This includes staples from every food group.

• Fruits and vegetables

• Meat, poultry, and fish

• Dairy products like milk and cheese

• 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. Your 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.

• Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco

• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements

• Live animals (with some exceptions like shellfish)

• Hot foods prepared for immediate consumption

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

How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits

Effectively managing your SNAP benefits helps you budget for groceries and make your food assistance last throughout the entire month.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, SNAP benefits are deposited onto your EBT card on the first day of every month. This simple schedule makes it easy to know when to expect your funds for monthly grocery planning.

You can check your specific payment date in our Rhode Island deposit schedule.

See Rhode Island EBT deposit schedule for 2025

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

You have several ways to check your balance. You can log into the online portal, use the Benny app, call the number on your card, or check your last grocery or ATM receipt.

Our guide covers how to check your EBT balance using each of these methods.

Check Your Rhode Island 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 to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

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