For more information about SNAP updates, including past updates regarding D-SNAP and P-EBT, click here.
For more information call Public Assistance Toll Free Information Line at 1-855-643-1643.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and administered at the federal level through its Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). State agencies administer the program at the state and local levels, including determination of eligibility and monthly allotments. In Hawaii, this service is provided by the Department of Human Services (DHS) Benefit, Employment & Support Services Division (BESSD).
What is SNAP?
The SNAP program provides crucial food and nutritional support to qualifying low-income and needy households, and those making the transition from welfare to self-sufficiency. In FY 2014, SNAP helped put food on the table for an estimated 193,565 Hawaii residents (98,440 families).
The Hawaii Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Program
The Hawaii Electronic Benefit Transfer (HI/EBT) system processes financial assistance benefits provided by BESSD. Payments distributed through this system are for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Temporary Assistance for Other Needy Families (TAONF), General Assistance (GA), Aid to the Aged, Blind or Disabled (AABD), Repatriates, Childcare, Employment and Training (E & T), First-To-Work (FTW) and the SNAP programs.
Clients use an EBT debit card to access their cash and/or SNAP benefits at authorized food retailers through their Point of Sale (POS) machines and Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). Allpoint ® – Global Surcharge-Free ATM Networks are located across the state. Visit this website to find the system nearest to you.
Recipients receiving cash assistance may also choose to have their cash benefits directly deposited into their personal bank accounts.
Who is Eligible to Receive SNAP?
Households must meet specific eligibility requirements and provide proof of their statements about household circumstances. U.S. citizens and some aliens who are admitted for permanent residency may qualify. Federal poverty guidelines are established by the Office of Management and Budget, and are updated annually by the Department of Health and Human Services.
What is the SNAP Application Process?
(Multi-language access is available)
When you submit your application, you will receive a receipt with your tracking number. This means we have received your application. DHS will contact you for your interview.
Due to the increase in applications and the subsequent workload at Processing Centers, there may be delays in processing and replies to voice mails. Providing you with timely service is very important to us.
There are 3 ways to submit your application:
*Paper form – Once complete, you may print and sign the form, then mail it, or drop it off at a processing center as noted above.
SNAP/FINANCIAL ELIGIBILITY DETERMINATION AMID COVID-19 – click here to view the location of Processing Centers.
Current Recipients of SNAP:
Some of the information about in-person contact below is not applicable during the COVID-19 crisis:
During normal circumstances, the form is also available for pick up from all State benefits offices. After you have filled out your application and gathered all the required paperwork to verify your information, visit the benefits office closest to your residence.
An intake worker will review your completed application package to determine if you qualify for SNAP benefits. If you are eligible, the worker will assign you to one of three eligibility standards, based on your family’s unique situation. The federal poverty guidelines (FPL) listed below will help you to determine if your monthly income exceeds SNAP eligibility criteria. If your income exceed the criteria, you will not be eligible for SNAP assistance.
*** This Federal Poverty Limit (FPL) chart is for reference only. An intake worker will make the final determination of your eligibility category.
SNAP GROSS INCOME STANDARDS (Effective 10/1/2023)
Other eligibility criteria include:Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) expands SNAP benefits to low-income families with high expenses, and to families whose gross incomes are slightly higher than the 130% FPL normal gross income test. Under BBCE, the gross income limit is 200% FPL and there is an unlimited asset standard. Most households qualify for BBCE. However, if a household member has been disqualified under SNAP, it may not qualify for BBCE.
Monthly Application Timeliness Rates FFY 2024 (Updated Monthly)
Monthly Participation Rates SFY 2024 (Updated Monthly)
ARCHIVE – SNAP Monthly Participation Rates
