Apply For Food Stamps in Louisiana Under the SNAP Program

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The Louisiana Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income households obtain the proper food necessary to maintain health. The SNAP program transfers food assistance benefits to the electronic Louisiana Purchase EBT debit card according to household need (which is largely dependent on a set income limit). Once a household is approved for food assistance, they are allowed to make purchases at grocery stores or convenience shops that display the Quest logo. Applicants must complete a SNAP form in order to be considered for eligibility.

First, determine whether you are eligible for food stamps. Families cannot exceed more than $2,000 in monthly assets and no more than $3,000 for families with disabled persons or elderly 60 and over.Use the pre-screening eligibility tool located on the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Service website to determine if you may be able to receive SNAP benefits.

Locate the “Family Support” link from the Department of Social Services website where you will be able to access the “Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps) and download and complete the Application for Assistance.” You should have your social security number available, as well as last four check stubs or unemployment worksheet, and possibly a recent bank statement to complete the application. Drop off the application (or mail it in) to your local Office of Family Support Parish. You can also visit your local OFS Parish office to submit a paper SNAP application in person. A letter from the Louisiana Department of Human Resource confirming the status of your application will have a mandatory date and time that will allow you to meet with your caseworker reviewing your file. Contact Human Resources if you need a phone interview or must reschedule as soon as possible.

Attend your in-house interview on time. The application process may be lengthy, and if you arrive late, you can be sitting for a while and have your claim file delayed. It is required that your bring in valid identification, your social security card, last four recent check stubs or self-employed income tax return, rent or mortgage receipts, a utility bill and any medical bills you have available.

It takes about two to three weeks to receive a SNAP benefit approval letter. When you get it, it will highlight the monthly amount you have been granted based off your monthly income. It will also include your Louisiana Purchase EBT Card and PIN number. Denial letters can be appealed simply by writing to your local Department of Human Services or contacting Human Services to request an appeal form.