How to apply for SNAP food assistance (Alabama Food Assistance Program)
Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR), Food Assistance Division
Who it's for
SNAP (called the Food Assistance Program in Alabama) gives a monthly benefit on an EBT card to buy groceries. From October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026, gross monthly income limits are $1,696 for one person, $2,292 for two, and $2,888 for three. Households with someone 60 or older or disabled only have to meet the net income limit ($1,305 for one person, $1,763 for two) after deductions, and there is no limit on savings or other assets. Older and disabled people can deduct out-of-pocket medical costs over $35 a month. If everyone in the household is 65 or older and no one has earnings from work, a shorter two-page application (AESAP) is available, with a three-year certification and no face-to-face interview unless requested. Apply online, by mail, or at your county DHR office.
The income amounts shown are the limits for most households. Households with a member 60 or older or disabled only have to meet the net income limit after deductions (such as medical and housing costs), so the gross amounts are not a cutoff for them, and there is no asset limit. DHR makes the final decision and sets the benefit amount.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Find my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Food assistance application (or the two-page AESAP application if everyone is 65+ with no earnings)
- Proof of medical expenses (if claiming the medical deduction)
- Proof of shelter and utility costs
- Proof of non-citizen status (if applicable)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-833-822-2202
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about SNAP food assistance (Alabama Food Assistance Program). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need food assistance application (or the two-page AESAP application if everyone is 65+ with no earnings), proof of medical expenses (if claiming the medical deduction), proof of shelter and utility costs — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
annual (AESAP households: every three years)
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.