How to apply for SNAP food assistance in Utah
Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS)
Who it's for
SNAP (formerly food stamps) gives a monthly benefit on an EBT card to help buy food. Workforce Services looks at your household's income and resources. Most households must pass a gross income test (usually up to 130% of the poverty level) and a net income test, but if someone in the household is 60 or older or receives certain disability payments, the household only has to meet the net income test (after deductions such as part of your rent and certain expenses). Households with at least one person who is 60 or older or disabled can have up to $4,500 in countable resources, such as money in the bank; most other households can have up to $3,000. Cars and other vehicles are usually not counted. As of October 1, 2026, the maximum monthly benefit is $306 for 1 person and $562 for 2. People who are elderly or have a disability and no earned income may be approved for three years at a time under the Elderly Simplified Application Process. Apply online at jobs.utah.gov/mycase, at an employment center, or call 801-526-0950 or toll free 866-435-7414 to ask for a paper application. Benefits start on the day you apply.
The $4,500 resource limit applies to households with someone 60 or older or disabled; other households have a $3,000 limit. Income is judged after deductions, so apply even if your income seems high. DWS 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.
Discover my benefitsWhat you'll need
- You don't need any documents when you first turn in your application; DWS will ask for proofs later
- If you qualify for expedited service, only proof of identity is needed
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-801-526-0950 (toll free 1-866-435-7414)
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about SNAP food assistance in Utah. 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 you don't need any documents when you first turn in your application; DWS will ask for proofs later, if you qualify for expedited service, only proof of identity is needed — 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
varies (households where everyone is elderly or disabled with no earned income may be approved for three years)
Related programs
Other help that people in the same situation often look at.
- Food AssistanceCommodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) Senior Food BoxU.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service (administered by your state)
- Food AssistanceCongregate Meals at Senior CentersAdministration for Community Living (delivered locally by Area Agencies on Aging)
- Medicare SavingsMedicare Savings Programs in Utah (QMB, SLMB, QI): help paying Medicare costsUtah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Medicaid; eligibility decided by the Department of Workforce Services (DWS)
- Tax ReliefUtah Circuit Breaker Homeowner's Credit (low-income property tax abatement, 67+ or widowed)Your county government, under Utah State Tax Commission rules
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.
