The Application Form
SNAP applicants must file an application, which can be found online or obtained from any SNAP office. Many human service agencies also keep SNAP applications on hand.
SNAP offices are required to mail an application form the same day it is requested.
Anyone has a right to submit an application to any SNAP office in NYS. That office must forward the application to the correct SNAP office, based on the applicant’s county of residence. However, that is not always a smooth process. Therefore, it is best to be clear about a county’s SNAP application procedures and direct applicants to the SNAP office in their county of residence. For a listing of all county SNAP offices, visit OTDA’s website.
New York State has three application forms:
- 2-page simplified SNAP-only application for people 60 and older or those with a disability with no earned income. Known as the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP), this new application is part of a larger effort to simplify the SNAP application/recertification process for these vulnerable populations, in an effort to increase participation.
- 6-page simplified SNAP-only application
- 16-page common application form—also known as the joint application—used by anyone who wishes to apply for multiple assistance programs, including:
- SNAP
- Medicaid
- Child care assistance
- Temporary Assistance (TANF)
NYS “myBenefits” Screening Tool and “myBenefits” Online SNAP Application
“myBenefits,” an online tool available to all NYS residents, educates and connects individuals and families with an array of benefits, services, and work supports customized to fit their unique circumstances.
Applicants answer a simple set of online questions. Applicant information will stay private and secure.
Currently, myBenefits covers the following benefit programs:
- Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
- Earned Income Tax Credit
- Health insurance programs for individuals, families, and children
- Healthy New York
- HEAP
- Medicaid
- Noncustodial Parent Tax Credit
- Nutrition Education
- School Meals
- SNAP
- Summer Food Service Program
- Temporary Assistance
- Veteran Affairs
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
- Wide variety of services for older New Yorkers
- The Special Supplemental Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
Programs continue to be added.
