Many seniors struggle to pay bills while on a fixed income. They might have to choose between buying food or medication. Under the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), seniors may qualify for food assistance (formerly called "food stamps") to help buy food.
In Ohio, a person can apply for food assistance with their local County Department of Job and Family Services (JFS). They can apply in-person, by phone, or online. Later, you will need to have an interview with JFS. You will also have to give proof of your income and bills (e.g., rent and utilities receipts, bank statements). It is important that you mail, fax, or deliver these papers as soon as possible.
Si puede recibir asistencia alimentaria depende de:
- el número de personas en su hogar,
- sus ingresos, y
- sus recursos (tales como efectivo, cuentas de ahorros y cuentas corrientes).
Your income must be below a certain limit. A special income rule applies to elderly or disabled persons. The county will not look at your "gross" income but will subtract certain expenses (such as heating and cooling expenses, mortgage or rent, and medical expenses), and use this "net" income to decide if you qualify.
Un hogar con un miembro de la tercera edad (mayor de 60 años) puede tener hasta $4,250 en recursos. Los artículos del hogar, la mayoría de los planes de jubilación y la casa en la que vive no se cuentan como recursos.
If you are approved, you will receive an "electronic benefits transfer" (EBT) card. Shopping with the card is like shopping with a bank debit or ATM card. You can buy food or food-related products, including seeds and plants to grow food. You cannot buy alcohol, tobacco, or vitamins.
If your SNAP application is denied or the amount you get each month is reduced, you can appeal that decision and ask for a hearing. To apply for legal help with that appeal, contact Legal Aid at 888-817-3777 or apply online at lasclev.org.
Esta información se actualizó en abril de 2024.