Food Assistance
Notice: Emergency pandemic SNAP allotment increases will end in February 2023 due to a federal law change. Beginning in March, eligible clients will receive their standard allotments.
Check your eligibility and apply for benefits through Ohio's Self-Service Portal
SNAP Program Helps Qualifying Families Meet Nutritional Needs
Families may qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help meet their nutritional needs. Eligible families are issued an electronic debit card, which can be used for food at participating stores.
To qualify for SNAP, your household income must not exceed 130% of the Federal Poverty Level.
| Household Size | Monthly Gross Income at 130% of Federal Poverty Level |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,473 |
| 2 | $1,984 |
| 3 | $2,495 |
| 4 | $3,007 |
| 5 | $3,518 |
| 6 | $4,029 |
| 7 | $4,541 |
| 8 | $5,052 |
| 9 | $5,564 |
| 10 | $6,076 |
The easiest way to apply is from a home computer or from your local library by going to the Self-Service Portal. Learn how to use the Self-Service Portal. You can find an application for SNAP benefits online, or simply fill one out at The Job Center, 1111 S Edwin Moses Boulevard, Dayton.
What to Bring to Determine Eligibility
- Identification
- Proof of Social Security number or proof of application for Social Security card
- Proof of alien status if you are not a U.S. citizen
- Proof of household income
The amount of assistance will vary based on family size and other factors, and your caseworker may ask for additional verifications. Able-bodied adults may be asked to complete a work requirement in exchange for their assistance.
You can buy food, as well as seeds and plants to grow food using your Ohio Direction Card.
Examples of Things You Cannot Purchase
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tobacco products
- Medicines
- Pet food
- Paper goods, cleaning supplies, household items
There is a new 20-day issuance schedule for new or interrupted Food Assistance benefits. See when to expect your benefits (PDF) to be loaded onto your card.
Replacement Benefits Due to Power Loss
If you have an existing SNAP case and a loss of power or four or more hours caused your SNAP food to spoil, you can apply for replacement benefits. You need to fill out this replacement benefits form (PDF). It can be faxed to 937-496-3306 or emailed to us. See additional details on applying for replacement SNAP benefits (PDF).
Produce Perks
You can now use your EBT card at local farmer's markets and get $1 in free produce for each dollar you spend (up to $20). There are eight participating Produce Perks locations within 25 miles of downtown Dayton. Three are open year-round; others begin service in May or June and conclude in the fall.
Find more information on SNAP, or go to the USDA's SNAP site for helpful links, recipes and an Ask the Expert database. In line with USDA standards, Montgomery County has adopted the USDA Nondiscrimination Statement.