How to apply for SNAP food assistance (Alabama Food Assistance Program)

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.

What 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

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.

Step by step

1. Check whether this program fits your household. SNAP in Alabama is called the Food Assistance Program and gives a monthly benefit on an EBT card to buy groceries.
2. Review the income rules before you apply. From October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026, the gross monthly income limits for most households are $1,696 for one person, $2,292 for two, and $2,888 for three.
3. Use the special rule if your household has someone age 60 or older or disabled. These households only have to meet the net income limit after deductions, such as medical and housing costs, and there is no asset limit.
4. Choose the right application. Use the regular food assistance application, or use the two-page AESAP application if everyone in the household is age 65 or older and no one has earnings from work.
5. Gather the needed documents. Include proof of medical expenses if claiming the medical deduction, proof of shelter and utility costs, and proof of non-citizen status if it applies to your household.
6. Apply online, by phone at 1-833-822-2202, or through your county DHR office.

What to expect: After you apply, DHR reviews your application, checks your documents, and makes the final decision about eligibility and benefit amount. If everyone in your household is age 65 or older and no one has earnings from work, AESAP offers a three-year certification and no face-to-face interview unless requested. Other households renew each year. Processing times vary, so ask DHR if you want an estimate.

Renewals

annual (AESAP households: every three years)