Tompkins County DSS Details Page

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as SNAP, is a federally funded program that assists low-income households purchase nutritious food at authorized grocery stores and other retailers. Individuals must apply for this program and provide all the required documentation. If approved, recipients receive an electronic benefit card (EBT), which is similar to a debit card. The SNAP benefit is provided monthly directly into the EBT card. Amount of SNAP benefit is based on household size, income and other factors.

• Social security numbers
• Proof of residence
• Proof of alien status
• Proof of earned Income and unearned Income
• Proof of child care expenses if applicable
• Proof of medical expenses if applicable
• Additional documentation pertinent to program guidelines might be requested

Eligible Purchases:

• Breads and cereals
• Fruits and vegetables
• Meats, fish and poultry
• Dairy products
• Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat

Ineligible Purchases (SNAP benefits cannot be used for):

• Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes or tobacco
• Any nonfood items, such as: pet foods, soaps, paper products, household supplies, vitamins and medicines
• Food that will be eaten in the store
• Prepared or hot foods

• Financial and Emergency Assistance
• Medicaid
• Day Care Payment Assistance
• Transportation Resources
• Child Support Services
• Child Protective Services
• Youth and Family Services
• Adult Protective Services
• Long Term Care Services

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