How to Get Food Stamps if You're on Unemployment Benefits
- 1). Meet the income test. Unless all the members in your household are receiving Social Security Insurance (SSI) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), a federal assistance program, you must meet the income test (see Resource). As of May 2011, browser requirements include Netscape Navigator 4.7 or higher and Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 or higher. This will determine if your household makes too much money to qualify for food stamps.
- 2). Count your number of resources. According to the Social Security Administration, "A household cannot have more than $2,000 in resources unless a household includes a person age 60 or older or who is disabled, in which case the limit is $3,000."
- 3). Receive an estimation of your potential benefit amount using the Food Stamp Pre-Screening Tool (see Resource).
- 4). Visit a local Social Security Administration Office to complete an application. Call 800-772-1213 to find a location in your county or city.
- 5). Bring identification such as a driver's license or state-issued identification card, pay stubs, proof of child care expenses, rent receipts or proof of mortgage payments, and copies of utility bills and medical bills for persons age 60 or older.