Frequently Asked Questions About Food Stamps

How Soon Will I Receive My Food Stamps?

I Need Help Right Away?

Do I Have To Be  A Citizen To Get Food Stamps?

What Can Food Stamp Benefits Be Used To Purchase?

Are There Items I Cannot Purchase With Food Stamp Benefits?

Can I Get Help If I’m Not Working?

Can I Get Help If I’m Working?

What if I Am Elderly Or Have A Disability?

What Is The Amount Of Food Stamp Benefits I Will Receive?

If I Am Receiving SSI/SSP Can I Also Receive Food Stamp Benefits?

What if I Need Cash Assistance?

How Soon Will I Receive My Food Stamps?

After all necessary information is provided and verified for eligibility, you will be able to receive your food stamps within 30 days of your dated application.

I Need Help Right Away?

You may qualify for Expedited Service and receive your food stamp benefits within three (3) days if you meet the requirements.

Do I Have To Be A Citizen To Get Food Stamps?

Talk to the Food Stamp Worker about this. Even if you can't get food stamps, other members of your family may be eligible to get them. Getting food stamps won't hurt you if you want to become a citizen.

What Can Food Stamp Benefits Be Used To Purchase?

Food Stamp benefits can be used to purchase:

• Foods for human consumption.
• Seeds and plants to grow food for household use.

Are There Items I Cannot Purchase With Food Stamp Benefits?

Yes, Food Stamp benefits cannot be used to purchase:

• Any non-food item such as pet food; soaps, paper products, and household supplies; and grooming items and cosmetics.
• Alcoholic beverages or tobacco products.
• Vitamins and medicines.
• Any food that will be eaten in the store.
• Any food marketed to be heated in the store.

Can I Get Help If I’m Not Working?

Yes, but you may be required to participate in a work or training program.

Can I Get Help If I’m Working?

You may be eligible to receive food stamp benefits even if you work if you are low income.  Income limits vary depending on the number of persons in your household and their ages.

What if I Am Elderly Or Have A Disability?

If you are 60 years old or over, or have a disability, you don't have to look for work. You may also be able to claim high medical bills that insurance doesn't cover.

What Is The Amount Of Food Stamp Benefits I Will Receive?

The amount of food stamp benefits you can receive is based on the number of people in your household, the total amount of your household’s income, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Thrifty Food Plan. The Thrifty Food Plan is an estimate of how much it costs to provide a household with nutritious, low-cost meals.

If I Am Receiving SSI/SSP Can I Also Receive Food Stamp Benefits?

If you are receiving SSI/SSP, you cannot receive food stamp benefits in California. However, other family members may be eligible to receive Food Stamp benefits.

What if I Need Cash Assistance?

There are various programs available that provide Cash assistance.