How to apply for Ohio Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) — Produce Vouchers

Who it's for

Ohio SFMNP provides $50 in produce vouchers (5 × $10 coupons) per program year to age 60+ low-income Ohioans, redeemable at participating farmers' markets, farm stands, and CSAs. Income limit: 185% FPL (~$27,861 single, 2026). Distribution through local AAAs (Area Agencies on Aging) + senior centers — apply through your local AAA or check aging.ohio.gov. Limited supply (first-come, first-served) — apply early in the season (typically May).

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+
• Proof of Ohio residency
• Proof of all household income

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Ohio Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) — Produce Vouchers. 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 proof of age 60+, proof of Ohio residency, proof of all household income — 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. Gather your required documents: proof of age (showing you are 60 or older), proof of Ohio residency, and proof of all household income.
2. Check that your income falls at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level. The program lists an approximate limit of $27,861 per year for a single-person household (2026 figures).
3. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) early in the season — typically in May — since vouchers are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. You can find your local AAA by calling 1-866-243-5678 or visiting aging.ohio.gov.
4. Apply online or by phone at 1-866-243-5678. Have your documents ready when you apply.
5. If approved, receive your $50 in produce vouchers — five $10 coupons — to use at participating farmers' markets, farm stands, and CSAs across Ohio during the distribution season (May through October).

What to expect: After submitting your application, your local AAA will review your documents and determine eligibility. Processing times vary, so ask your local AAA for an estimate when you apply. If approved, you will receive five $10 coupons to spend on fresh produce at participating locations during the May–October season. Because voucher supplies are limited each year, applying as early as possible gives you the best chance of receiving them. This benefit renews annually, so you will need to reapply each program year to continue receiving vouchers.

Renewals

annual