Special SNAP Services in Alabama

Alabama offers special SNAP services for specific situations, such as disaster relief for affected households or simplified applications for seniors. These programs provide targeted food assistance when it's needed most.

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

The Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) program provides short-term food benefits to households after a federally declared disaster. It is designed to help those who have lost income, property, or food due to the event.

Eligibility extends to residents in counties named in the state’s disaster request. It serves people who were not receiving regular SNAP or whose benefits are now insufficient because of disaster-related expenses. Income and resources are screened under streamlined rules.

To apply, wait for Alabama DHR’s public notice naming eligible counties and application dates. You must apply in person at a temporary D-SNAP site with a photo ID and proof of residence. Approved benefits are loaded to an EBT card within three days.

SNAP Replacement Benefits After A Disaster

Current SNAP households that lose food because of a disaster, such as a storm or power outage, can have those benefits replaced. This ensures families can restock essential groceries without waiting for their next monthly benefit issuance.

Eligibility is limited to SNAP recipients who live in counties covered by a Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) waiver and report the food loss. Alabama has previously received waivers for storms and tornadoes.

You must file an “Affidavit of Loss” with your local DHR office, typically within 10 days or by an extended deadline. Once DHR verifies the loss, the replacement benefits are issued to the household’s EBT account.

Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project (AESAP)

The Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project (AESAP) streamlines the SNAP process for certain senior households. It reduces paperwork and offers a longer, 36-month certification period to make accessing food assistance easier for older adults.

This program is for households where every member is 60 years of age or older and has no earned income. Most assets are excluded from consideration, focusing instead on unearned income like Social Security benefits.

Seniors can submit the short AESAP form online through MyDHR, mail it, or apply at any county DHR office. Applicants must provide proof of identity, residency, and total household income to complete the process.

Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)

Alabama SUN Bucks, also known as Summer EBT, provides a fixed grocery benefit to children who lose access to free or reduced-price school meals during the summer. The program helps families afford nutritious food when school is not in session.

Most eligible children are enrolled automatically if their household already participates in SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, or if they are approved for free or reduced-price lunches. Other families can submit a SUN Bucks application through their school.

Families who qualify automatically will receive the benefit on an existing EBT card or a new SUN Bucks card. Those who need to apply can do so through a portal on the DHR website or via their child’s school.

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Alabama

After SNAP approval, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where to shop.

What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?

An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card is how you receive and spend your SNAP benefits. It's a plastic card that works much like a regular debit or credit card, making grocery shopping discreet and simple. Your monthly food assistance funds are loaded directly onto this card.

At checkout, you swipe or insert your EBT card into the point-of-sale terminal and enter your private Personal Identification Number (PIN). The cost of eligible food items is then automatically deducted from your SNAP account balance, completing the transaction securely.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. The program focuses on helping you buy groceries to prepare nutritious meals at home. Eligible items cover most food groups.

• 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, SNAP benefits cannot be used for certain products. These restrictions are in place to ensure the funds are used strictly for food. Ineligible items include prepared hot foods and non-food goods.

• Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products

• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements

• Hot foods ready for immediate consumption

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

Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?

You can use your EBT card at most authorized retailers, including major grocery stores, supermarkets, and many corner stores. Look for a sign that says "We Accept EBT" or a Quest logo at the store entrance or checkout lane to confirm they accept SNAP.

Many farmers’ markets also accept EBT, offering a way to purchase fresh, local produce. These markets typically have a central point where you can swipe your card to receive tokens or a receipt that can be used at vendor stalls.

Online grocery shopping is also an option. Major retailers like Amazon and Walmart accept EBT for eligible food purchases in Alabama, allowing you to order groceries for delivery or pickup. You can add your EBT card as a payment method on their websites or apps.

Download Benny for Free and Earn Cash Back on EBT

With the Benny app, you can stretch your grocery budget further. Earn cash back on EBT purchases at participating stores like Target, Walmart, and Dollar Tree. You can also get rewards when using services such as Uber and Lyft, helping you save on everyday expenses.

Download Benny for free. Connect your EBT card and earn cashback as you shop.