SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides benefits to low-income individuals or families via Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. The card can be used as a debit card to pay for food in authorized retail food stores. This article will tell you how to quickly apply for SNAP Benefits in Michigan.
Ensure Your Eligibility Before SNAP Benefits Application
Before really applying for SNAP benefits in Michigan, it’s required to guarantee your eligibility for its application. The eligibility is generally determined based on expenses, assets, and income.
Residency Requirements
The following residency requirements apply:
- Must be a U.S. citizen (or acceptable alien status).
- Must live in Michigan.
Expenses
Some household expenses are taken into account when determining your benefit amount. Examples of some of these expenses include:
- Shelter (rent, mortgage, heat, electric,
- water, telephone, etc.).
- Court-ordered or legally obligated child support payments.
- Dependent care expenses.
- Medical (medical and dental care, hospitalization or nursing care, medical supplies, health insurance premiums etc.) for certain members who have a disability or are at least 60 years old.
Asset Limits
Effective 12/01/19 the food asset assistance limit is $15,000. Effective 1/1/20, lottery or gambling winnings of $3,500 or more. Examples of assets are:
- Cash on hand.
- Checking and savings accounts.
- Investments.
- Some trusts.
- Property or real estate (excludes first home).
Income
Most earned and unearned income is counted. Income is considered when determining the amount of food assistance you are eligible to receive. Examples of countable income are:
- Wages.
- Self-employment earnings.
- Rental income.
- Social Security benefits.
- Veterans benefits.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Michigan
Michigan citizens are allowed to apply for SNAP in three ways, online, in person and in writing.
Online
Apply for SNAP online through MI Bridges.
In Person
Apply at the MDHHS office in your area.
This method for SNAP application isn’t suggested during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Fax or Mail
Mail or fax your assistance application to the MDHHS office in your area. You can download the application form MDHHS-1171 in different languages here.
How Long Does It Take to Get the SNAP Benefits in Michigan?
Once your application is received, MDHHS will schedule a telephone interview. The application should be processed within 7 days if you meet faster service rules or 30 days from the date your signed application is received in the MDHHS office serving the area where you live.
How to Use the SNAP Benefits in Michigan?
After approved, a Michigan Bridge Card will be mailed to you to purchase certain food products and access cash benefits at a number of retailers and ATMs throughout the state. You can also buy eligible food item online from Amazon.com and Walmart.com using their Bridge Cards.
SNAP benefits cannot be used to pay for delivery fees. Cash Assistance and WIC benefits cannot be used for online purchases.
You are able to use the Michigan Bridge card to purchase prepared food from participating restaurants if you meet one or more of the following conditions:
- Individuals (on the FAP case) 60 years of age and over and their spouse.
- Disabled individuals (on the FAP case) and their disabled spouse (as defined in BEM 550).
- Homeless individuals (on the FAP case).
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Michigan from a Phone
It’s the easiest to apply for SNAP or other programs when a smartphone is used. FAX app is capable of changing a phone into a fax machine allowing users to fill, sign and send SNAP application form anytime and anywhere.
Step 1. Download FAX app and install it on your device, iOS or Android.
Step 2. Finish filling your SNAP application form and scan it with the webcam on your phone.
Step 3. Sign your SNAP application form, add a cover sheet, edit and preview your fax document.
- Step 4. Fill in the fax number 1-888-642-7434 and tap the “Send” button to complete faxing.
SNAP Benefits Application in Michigan Contact Information
Fax to
- l 1-888-642-7434
Official Website
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