Special SNAP Services in Oregon

Oregon provides special SNAP services for households facing specific hardships. These programs offer faster benefits in a crisis, aid after disasters, and support for finding employment.

Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)

This service speeds up food assistance for households in a financial crisis. It allows them to receive benefits and buy groceries within seven days, much faster than the standard 30-day processing time.

You may be eligible if your household has less than $150 in gross monthly income and $100 or less in cash. Eligibility also extends to those whose housing and utility costs exceed their income, or to migrant farm-worker households with limited resources.

To apply, submit a standard SNAP application online, by phone at 800-699-9075, or at an ODHS office. You must request “expedited service” and provide proof of identity. Other documents can be submitted later. ODHS provides official details on its website.

Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)

D-SNAP offers short-term food aid following a federally declared disaster. It helps people who are not already on SNAP or those who require additional benefits to cope with the disaster's impact.

To qualify, you must live in a county approved for D-SNAP and have had disaster-related expenses, lost income, or damage to your home or food. Your total income and resources after the disaster must fall below the limit set for the event.

Once approved, ODHS sets up temporary application sites or online options. You must apply within the announced window, which is typically about one week. Be prepared to provide ID, proof of address, and report your disaster expenses. Updates are posted on the USDA disaster page.

Replacement SNAP Benefits For Food Lost In A Disaster Or Power Outage

This program allows current SNAP households to replace benefits used on food that was destroyed or spoiled. This can happen during events like storms, wildfires, power outages, or other disasters.

Eligibility is for current SNAP recipients who live in counties where the USDA has waived the standard 10-day reporting rule. For example, waivers were approved for several Oregon counties after severe storms in March 2025.

You must file a “Replacement Request” form through the ONE portal, by phone, or at a Self-Sufficiency office. This must be done by the deadline listed in the waiver. Staff will verify the loss and add replacement benefits to your EBT card. Current waivers are on the USDA disaster page.

SNAP Training & Employment Program (STEP)

The STEP program provides free job search assistance, training, education, and other support services. Its goal is to help SNAP recipients move into employment and achieve higher wages for greater self-sufficiency.

Most SNAP participants between the ages of 16 and 59 who are not receiving TANF cash assistance are eligible. Participation in STEP is voluntary unless you are subject to specific work requirements as part of your SNAP eligibility.

To enroll, speak with your ODHS caseworker or contact a local STEP partner organization. They will verify your SNAP status and connect you with services. Support can include help with tuition, books, transportation, and child care. More program information is available online.

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Oregon

Once approved for SNAP benefits, you need to understand how to use them, including what you can purchase and where.

What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?

An Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is how you receive and spend your SNAP benefits. It functions much like a debit card. Each month, your benefits are loaded onto the card automatically.

When you shop at an authorized store, you swipe your EBT card at the checkout terminal and enter a four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase. The amount is then deducted from your SNAP balance.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your EBT card is for purchasing staple food items for your household. This includes most groceries that you would prepare and eat at home, helping you maintain a healthy diet. The program focuses on providing access to nutritious food.

• Fruits and vegetables

• Meat, poultry, and fish

• Dairy products

• Breads and cereals

• Non-alcoholic beverages

• Seeds and plants that produce food

However, there are specific restrictions. SNAP benefits cannot be used for non-food goods or items prepared for immediate consumption. Knowing these limitations helps avoid issues at checkout and ensures your benefits are used for eligible products only.

• Alcoholic beverages, beer, or wine

• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements

• Hot foods ready to eat

• Pet foods

• Cleaning supplies, paper products, and other household items

• Tobacco products

Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?

Your EBT card is accepted at most major grocery stores, supermarkets, and corner stores. Look for signs at the entrance or checkout lanes that say “Oregon Trail Card” or “EBT Accepted.” This includes large chains and many local food retailers, making it convenient to shop for groceries.

Many farmers’ markets also accept EBT, allowing you to buy fresh, local produce directly from growers. Some markets even offer matching programs that can increase your purchasing power. Check with your local market to see if they participate and how to use your card there.

You can also use your benefits to shop online with approved retailers like Amazon and Walmart for grocery delivery or pickup. You will need to add your EBT card as a payment method on their websites or apps to place an order for eligible food items.

Download Benny for Free and Earn Cash Back on EBT

You can get more from your grocery budget with the Benny app. Earn cash back when you shop for food at stores like Target, Walmart, and Dollar Tree. The app also gives you rewards for services you might use, such as Uber and Lyft, helping you save money.

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