How to apply for SNAP food benefits (Oregon)

Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Self-Sufficiency Programs

Who it's for

SNAP gives a monthly benefit on an EBT card (the Oregon Trail Card) to buy groceries. Most households can get SNAP with gross monthly income up to $2,660 for one person, $3,607 for two, or $4,554 for three (March 2026 through February 2027). Your house, car and money in the bank usually do not count. Adults 60 or older can count out-of-pocket medical costs to offset their income, and older adults can have their full shelter costs counted. Adults 65 or older in Clackamas, Columbia, Multnomah and Washington counties can get benefits by direct deposit, check or EBT card. An older adult who has trouble getting to the store can name a trusted person to shop for them. Apply online, by phone at 1-800-699-9075, or at a local office. Older adults and people with disabilities can get help from the ADRC at 1-855-673-2372.

The income amounts shown are a general guide for most households. Households with a member 60 or older or disabled may qualify even above these amounts, because the agency looks at net income after deductions such as medical and housing costs. ODHS makes the final decision and sets the benefit amount after an interview.

People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.

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What you'll need

  • SNAP application (online at ONE.Oregon.gov, by phone, or at a local office)
  • Proof of out-of-pocket medical costs (if 60 or older and claiming them)
  • Proof of immigration status (for non-citizens)

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 1-800-699-9075

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about SNAP food benefits (Oregon). 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 sNAP application (online at ONE.Oregon.gov, by phone, or at a local office), proof of out-of-pocket medical costs (if 60 or older and claiming them), proof of immigration status (for non-citizens) — 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 if this program may fit your household. SNAP gives a monthly benefit on an EBT card to buy groceries. Most households can get SNAP with gross monthly income up to $2,660 for one person, $3,607 for two, or $4,554 for three. If your household has someone age 60 or older or disabled, you may still qualify above these amounts because medical and housing costs can be counted.
  2. Gather the needed information and papers. Be ready to complete a SNAP application. Gather proof of out-of-pocket medical costs if you are age 60 or older and want those costs counted. Gather proof of immigration status if you are a non-citizen.
  3. Apply online, by phone at 1-800-699-9075, or at a local office.
  4. Ask for help if needed. Older adults and people with disabilities can get help from the ADRC at 1-855-673-2372.
  5. Complete the interview with ODHS. The agency makes the final decision and sets the benefit amount after the interview.
  6. Use your benefits in the way allowed for your situation. Benefits are usually put on the Oregon Trail Card. If you are age 65 or older and live in Clackamas, Columbia, Multnomah, or Washington County, you may be able to get benefits by direct deposit, check, or EBT card. If getting to the store is hard, you can name a trusted person to shop for you.

What to expect: After you apply, ODHS will review your application and interview you before making a decision. Processing times vary, so ask the agency if you want an estimate. If approved, you will get your SNAP benefit in the form allowed for your situation. During your benefit period, you will need to complete a periodic report midway through the period, and then renew your benefits.

Renewals

periodic report midway through the benefit period, then renewal

Official source →Last verified · October 5, 2026

Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.