The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often known as food stamps, is a vital program designed to help millions of low-income individuals and families across the United States afford nutritious food. It plays a crucial role in fighting hunger and improving health. Many people apply for SNAP benefits, but sometimes, applications are denied. This can be confusing and frustrating, especially when you are in need of assistance.
This guide aims to explain the most common reasons why a SNAP application might be turned down. By understanding these reasons, individuals can learn how to avoid common mistakes and what steps to take if an application is denied, helping them successfully get the food assistance needed.
Why Your SNAP Benefits Might Be Denied (Common Reasons)
When a SNAP application is denied, it can be due to various factors related to eligibility, how the application was handled, or other specific situations. The wide range of possible denial reasons highlights the complex nature of SNAP regulations. This complexity can be a significant barrier for applicants, even for those who genuinely need food assistance. It means that simply meeting financial need is often not enough; applicants must also successfully navigate a detailed and sometimes rigid system. This can lead to applications being turned down due to misunderstandings of the rules or procedural missteps, rather than a lack of actual financial need.
Not Meeting Eligibility Rules
One of the main reasons for denial is not meeting the program’s eligibility requirements.
1. Income Too High
SNAP has specific income limits that depend on the size of a household. If a household’s total income, either before taxes (gross income) or after certain allowed deductions (net income), is above these limits, the application will be denied. Most households must meet both gross and net income limits to qualify. These income limits are updated every year. While there are federal guidelines, the exact numbers can vary slightly by state. For example, some states, like Colorado, use a higher gross income limit (200% of the Federal Poverty Level) than the standard 130% FPL, and states like Alaska and Hawaii have different limits due to higher costs of living. This variation in income limits and specific rules across states means that while SNAP is a federally funded program, state-level implementation adds a layer of complexity. This can confuse applicants seeking general information, as what qualifies someone in one state might be different in another. Because of this, it is always best to check with a local SNAP office for the most accurate information for a specific location.
2. Assets (Resources) Over the Limit
SNAP also has limits on the value of certain assets or “resources” a household can own. These include readily available funds like cash or money in bank accounts. If countable resources exceed the set limit, an application can be denied. It is important to know that many valuable items are
not counted towards these limits. This includes the home an applicant lives in, household goods, personal property, retirement accounts (like IRAs and 401ks), and the cash value of life insurance. Rules for vehicles can be complex, but generally, one licensed vehicle per adult household member is excluded, and other vehicles used for work or school by a minor may also be excluded. For other licensed vehicles, only the fair market value
over $4,650 or the equity value (the vehicle’s value minus what is still owed on it), whichever is greater, might count as a resource.
3. Household Members Not Counted Correctly
SNAP has specific rules about who must apply together as a single “household” for benefits. This is not always everyone living under the same roof. For instance, spouses living together, and parents with their biological, adoptive, or stepchildren under age 22, generally must apply as one SNAP household, even if the child has their own children or spouse living with them. If an individual applies separately when they should be part of a larger household, or vice-versa, the application might be denied.
These rules can be tricky. For example, adult siblings living together, or adult children (age 22 or older) living with their parents, may apply separately if they buy and prepare their food apart. However, if roommates buy and share food together, they must apply as one household. The detailed and often counter-intuitive rules for household composition can lead to significant misinterpretation by applicants. This suggests a difference between common societal definitions of “family” or “household” and the program’s specific administrative requirements. Misunderstanding these nuanced definitions can cause an applicant to incorrectly define their household unit, leading to a denial even if their combined circumstances would otherwise qualify them for benefits.
4. Not Meeting Work Requirements
Most adults (generally ages 16-59) applying for SNAP must meet certain work-related rules unless they qualify for an exemption. These rules are in place to encourage self-sufficiency. If an individual is required to meet these rules and does not, and they do not have a valid exemption, their benefits can be denied or stopped.
There are many important exemptions from these work rules. For example, children, seniors (age 60 or older, with specific age changes for “Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents” or ABAWDs), veterans, pregnant individuals, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those with physical or mental health reasons are often exempt. The rules for who needs to work to get SNAP can change, especially for adults without children. For instance, the age at which an individual is excused from these work rules has been updated several times recently. Specifically, the age for ABAWD exemption increased to 51+ on September 1, 2023, to 53+ on October 1, 2023, and will increase to 55+ on October 1, 2024. This means that someone who was eligible last year might not be this year, or vice versa, just because of a rule change. It is important for people to stay updated on these changes, as they can directly affect whether they continue to receive benefits. Failing to comply with work rules can lead to “sanctions,” meaning benefits are stopped for a period (e.g., 1 month for the first failure, up to 6 months for repeated failures).
5. Special Rules for Students or Non-Citizens Not Met
If an applicant is a student enrolled at least half-time in a college, university, or vocational school that requires a high school diploma or GED, special rules apply to their SNAP eligibility. Most students in higher education are not eligible for SNAP unless they meet a specific exemption, such as working at least 20 hours a week, caring for a young child, or receiving certain other assistance like TANF. Additionally, if a school meal plan covers more than half (typically 11 or more meals per week) of a student’s weekly meals, they are usually ineligible for SNAP under any circumstances. This can lead to a denial if the student does not meet these specific student eligibility requirements.
For non-citizens, only U.S. citizens and certain lawfully present non-citizens can receive SNAP benefits. Undocumented individuals are explicitly not eligible. While some lawfully present non-citizens are eligible immediately (like Lawful Permanent Residents or certain parolees), many others must wait a “waiting period” of 5 years after their arrival in the U.S. before they can become eligible. However, there are important exceptions to this waiting period for groups like children under 18, blind or disabled individuals receiving benefits, or those with a U.S. military connection. The highly complex and multi-layered eligibility rules for non-citizens can present a significant challenge for applicants. This increases the likelihood of confusion and incorrect application of rules, leading to denials for a vulnerable population. The intricate details of immediate eligibility versus a 5-year waiting period, combined with numerous specific exceptions and criteria like military service or work quarters, make it incredibly difficult for a layperson to self-assess their eligibility without expert guidance. This complexity can cause applications to be denied even when an individual might be eligible, perpetuating food insecurity within immigrant and refugee communities.
6. Living in an Institution or as a Boarder
If an individual lives in an institution that provides most of their meals (like a prison, some nursing homes, or mental health facilities), they are generally not eligible for SNAP. There are some exceptions for elderly or disabled persons. Similarly, if an individual is considered a “boarder” (someone paying for meals and lodging as part of a single payment) in someone else’s home, they might not be eligible as a separate household because they are considered part of the household providing the meals.
Problems with Your Application or Information
Beyond eligibility, issues with the application process itself are very common reasons for denial. Procedural failures, such as missing interviews or not providing required verification, appear to be as common, if not more common, reasons for denial than purely financial ineligibility. This highlights a critical need for clear communication and accessible support throughout the application process. Many denials occur not because an applicant earns too much or has too many assets, but because they miss a step in the administrative process.
1. Missing Your Interview or Not Cooperating
After a SNAP application is submitted, an interview with a SNAP worker is almost always required. This interview helps the agency understand the applicant’s situation and verify the information provided. It can often be done by phone or in person. If an applicant misses this scheduled interview or refuses to cooperate by providing necessary details, the application will be denied. This is one of the most common procedural reasons for denial, emphasizing the importance of tracking application status and responding to all communications from the SNAP office. If an appointment cannot be made, rescheduling is always advisable.
2. Not Providing All Required Documents (Verification)
To confirm eligibility, applicants will need to provide proof (called “verification”) for almost everything stated on the application. This might include wage stubs, utility bills, bank statements, proof of identity, and residency. If all required documents are not submitted, or if the documents provided do not clearly verify the information, the application will be denied.
3. Not Reporting Changes in Your Situation
Once an individual applies for or starts receiving SNAP benefits, there is a responsibility to report certain changes in the household’s circumstances within a specific timeframe (often 10 days). This includes changes to income, address, household size, or resources. Failing to report these changes accurately and on time can lead to a denial or reduction of benefits. This reporting requirement is crucial for the program to ensure benefits are issued correctly and to maintain fairness. Some specific changes, like winning a large lottery prize (over $4,250) or if work hours fall below 20 hours a week, have strict reporting deadlines.
4. Providing Incorrect or False Information
All information provided on a SNAP application and during interviews must be complete and honest. If an applicant knowingly gives false information or intentionally fails to report required details, they could face serious penalties. These can include fines, imprisonment, and removal from the SNAP program for a period.
Other Specific Situations
Beyond eligibility and procedural issues, other situations can also lead to a SNAP denial.
1. Being on Strike
If an individual is involved in a strike, their eligibility for SNAP is generally determined based on their income, assets, and other factors from the day before the strike began. This can lead to denial if the individual does not meet the eligibility criteria under those circumstances.
2. Application Withdrawn
Sometimes, an applicant might decide to withdraw their application before the agency makes a final decision. If an application is withdrawn, it will result in a denial.
3. Past Program Violations
If an individual has been found guilty of an “Intentional Program Violation” (IPV) in the past (e.g., selling SNAP benefits, or knowingly providing false information to get benefits), they may be disqualified from receiving SNAP benefits for a certain period of time.
Understanding SNAP Eligibility Rules in More Detail
To help clarify the requirements, a deeper look into specific eligibility criteria is provided below.
Income Limits: Gross vs. Net Income and How Deductions Help
SNAP considers two main types of income: “gross income” and “net income.” Gross income is the total money a household earns or receives before any taxes or deductions are taken out. Net income is the amount left after certain allowed expenses (deductions) are subtracted from the gross income. Most households must meet both the gross and net income limits to qualify.
Certain expenses can be subtracted from gross income to arrive at net income, which can help a household meet the net income limit. These important deductions include:
- Earned Income Deduction: A 20% deduction from any money earned from a job. This means only 80% of earned income is counted.
- Standard Deduction: A fixed amount given to all households, which varies based on household size.
- Dependent Care Deduction: Costs for childcare or care for other dependents when needed for work, training, or education.
- Medical Expense Deduction: For elderly (age 60 or older) or disabled household members, medical costs over $35 per month that are not paid by insurance or someone else can be deducted.
- Excess Shelter Cost Deduction: If a household’s total shelter expenses (rent or mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and utilities) are more than half of its adjusted income (income after other deductions), the “excess” amount can be deducted. There is usually a cap on this deduction (e.g., $712), unless a household member is elderly or disabled, in which case there is no cap. Some states also allow a set amount for utility costs instead of actual costs.
Understanding how these deductions work can be complex. For example, a 4-person household with a gross income of $2,050 and $1,500 in earned income would first deduct 20% of the earned income ($300). Then, they would subtract the standard deduction, dependent care, and any qualifying medical expenses. Finally, if their shelter costs are more than half of their remaining income, an excess shelter deduction would apply. This process helps determine if their final “net monthly income” meets the required limit.
Below is a table showing general SNAP income limits, effective October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025. It is important to remember that these are general guidelines, and state-specific limits may vary.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit (130% of Poverty) | Net Monthly Income Limit (100% of Poverty) | |
| 1 | $1,632 | $1,255 | |
| 2 | $2,215 | $1,704 | |
| 3 | $2,798 | $2,152 | |
| 4 | $3,380 | $2,600 | |
| 5 | $3,963 | $3,049 | |
| 6 | $4,546 | $3,497 | |
| 7 | $5,129 | $3,945 | |
| 8 | $5,712 | $4,394 | |
| Each additional member | +$583 | +$449 | |
| Source: USDA FNS (effective Oct. 1, 2024, through Sept. 30, 2025) |
Resource Limits: What Counts and What Doesn’t
“Resources” are things an applicant owns that could potentially be used to buy food, like money in checking or savings accounts, or certain valuable property.
1. General Limits
For most households, the limit for countable resources is $3,000. However, for households that include at least one member who is age 60 or older, or who is disabled, the resource limit is higher, at $4,500. These amounts are updated annually.
2. What is NOT Counted (Important Exclusions)
Many important assets are not counted when determining SNAP eligibility, meaning they will not affect whether an applicant qualifies. These include:
- The home an applicant currently lives in and its surrounding lot.
- Common household goods and personal belongings.
- Income-producing property (like a rental property, if it is genuinely for income).
- Real estate that is genuinely up for sale.
- The cash value of life insurance policies.
- Retirement accounts, such as IRAs and 401k plans.
- Most Vehicles: Generally, one licensed vehicle per adult household member is excluded. Any other vehicle used by a household member under 18 to drive to work, school, job training, or to look for work is also excluded. For other licensed vehicles, only the fair market value over $4,650 or the equity value (the vehicle’s value minus what is still owed on it), whichever is greater, might count as a resource. Unlicensed vehicles’ equity value generally counts, with some exceptions.
- Resources of people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Here is a quick overview of SNAP resource limits:
| Household Type | Maximum Countable Resources | |
| General Household | $3,000 | |
| Household with Elderly/Disabled Member | $4,500 | |
| Source: USDA FNS |
Who is in Your Household? (Household Composition)
For SNAP, a “household” is not just everyone who lives in the same house. It is defined by who buys and prepares food together, and certain family relationships. Understanding this is crucial because it affects income and resource limits.
1. Who Must Apply Together (Required Household Members)
- Spouses: People who are married and living together must be in the same SNAP household.
- Parents and Young Children: Parents and their children (biological, adoptive, or stepchildren) who are under age 22 and live together must apply as one household. This rule applies even if the child under 22 has their own minor children or spouse living with them.
- Children Under Parental Control: Children under age 18 who live with and are under the “parental control” of an adult who is not their parent or stepparent must also be included in that adult’s household.
2. Who May Apply Separately (If Food is Kept Separate)
- Adult Siblings: Adult brothers and sisters living together may be separate SNAP households if they buy and prepare their food separately.
- Adult Children (22+): Adult children who are age 22 or older and live with their parents may apply separately if they purchase and prepare their food apart from their parents.
- Other Relatives: Cousins, aunts/uncles, and other distant relatives can be separate SNAP households if they buy and prepare food separately.
- Roomers or Boarders: If someone is a “roomer” (rents a room) or a “boarder” (pays for meals and lodging as part of a single payment), they are generally not considered part of a SNAP household and may apply separately if eligible. However, if they pay less than a reasonable amount for meals, they might be considered part of the household providing the service.
- Live-in Attendants: A person who lives in a home solely to provide services like medical care, housekeeping, or childcare can choose to be included in the household or apply as a separate SNAP unit, if otherwise eligible.
How SNAP defines a “household” can be different from what most people think of as a family. For example, even if adult children live with their parents, they might be considered a separate SNAP household if they buy and cook their food separately. But if they are under 22, they usually have to apply with their parents. These detailed rules can be confusing and lead to mistakes on the application, which can cause a denial even if the family truly needs help. This highlights how important it is to understand SNAP’s specific definitions.
3. Who is NOT Eligible (Excluded Household Members)
- Institutionalized Individuals: People living in institutions that provide most of their meals (like prisons or certain long-term care facilities) are generally not eligible for SNAP, with some exceptions for elderly or disabled persons.
- Disqualified for Violations: Individuals who have been disqualified from SNAP due to an “Intentional Program Violation” cannot be included in any SNAP unit for a certain period.
- Already in Another Unit: If someone is already receiving SNAP benefits as a member of another household, they cannot be included in a new application.
Work Requirements: Who Needs to Work and Who is Exempt
To receive SNAP benefits, most adults are generally expected to meet certain work requirements, unless they qualify for an exemption. These rules are in place to encourage self-sufficiency.
General Work Requirements
If an individual is between the ages of 16 and 59 and does not meet an exemption, they must:
- Register for Work: Sign up for work at the time of application and every 12 months afterward.
- Maintain Employment: Not voluntarily quit a job or reduce work hours below 30 hours per week (or 80 hours per month) without a good reason.
- Accept Job Offers: Take a suitable job if it is offered.
- Participate in Programs: Take part in employment and training programs if the state agency assigns them to one.
- Work 20 Hours/Week: For Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs), there are additional requirements, often needing to work or participate in a work program at least 20 hours per week, or receive pay equal to the federal minimum wage for 20 hours per week.
Exemptions (Who Doesn’t Have to Meet Work Rules)
Many groups are excused from these work requirements, including:
- Children: Individuals under age 16, or 16-17 if they are not the head of the household or are attending school.
- Seniors: Individuals age 60 or older. Specific age thresholds for ABAWD exemptions have been changing: 51+ as of Sept 1, 2023; 53+ as of Oct 1, 2023; 55+ as of Oct 1, 2024.
- Veterans: Regardless of their age.
- Individuals Experiencing Homelessness: Regardless of their age.
- Pregnant Individuals: All pregnant individuals are exempt.
- Individuals with Disabilities: People who are exempt due to physical or mental health reasons.
- Former Foster Care Youth: Individuals age 24 or younger who were in foster care on their 18th birthday.
- Already Working/Receiving Benefits: Those already working at least 20 hours per week, or receiving other assistance payments like TANF or SSI.
Consequences of Not Meeting Work Rules
If an individual is required to meet work rules and fails to do so without a good reason, their benefits can be “sanctioned” (stopped). The minimum sanction periods are: 1 month (or until compliance) for the first failure, 3 months (or until compliance) for the second, and 6 months (or until compliance) for the third and subsequent failures.
Special Rules for Students
If an individual is a student enrolled at least half-time in an “institution of higher education” (like a college, university, or a technical/trade school that typically requires a high school diploma or GED), special rules apply to their SNAP eligibility.
General Ineligibility (Unless Exempt)
Most students in higher education are not eligible for SNAP unless they meet one of several specific exemptions. If enrolled less than half-time, these student restrictions do not apply.
Common Exemptions (How Students Can Qualify)
If an individual is a student, they might still be eligible for SNAP if they meet one of these exemptions:
- Age: Under age 18 or age 50 or older.
- Disability: Physically or mentally unfit for work (this usually requires verification from a medical professional).
- Work: Work at least 20 hours a week in paid employment. If self-employed (e.g., as an Uber/Lyft driver), they must work at least 20 hours a week and earn at least the federal minimum wage multiplied by 20 hours ($145 per week).
- Work-Study/Training: Participate in a state or federally financed work-study program, or an on-the-job training program (not typically an unpaid internship).
- Caring for Children:
- Care for a child under the age of 6.
- Care for a child age 6 to 11 and lack the necessary childcare that would allow them to attend school and work 20 hours a week or participate in work study.
- Are a single parent enrolled full-time in college and taking care of a child under 12.
- Other Benefits: Receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) assistance.
- Specific Programs: In some states, community college students may be eligible if they are in a career or technical program supported by federal training funds (like Perkins IV) or a course of study in a high-demand occupation.
Meal Plan Impact
A very important rule for students is that if a school meal plan covers more than half (typically 11 or more meals per week) of their weekly meals, they are generally not eligible for SNAP under any circumstances, even if they meet other exemptions.
Important Note on Temporary Exemptions
During the COVID-19 pandemic, some temporary student exemptions were put in place. However, these temporary exemptions ended on July 1, 2023. Students applying for or renewing SNAP benefits on or after this date must meet the regular, long-standing student exemptions to be eligible.
Rules for Non-Citizens
Only U.S. citizens and certain lawfully present non-citizens can receive SNAP benefits. It is crucial to understand that undocumented individuals are not and have never been eligible for SNAP. Non-citizens like tourists and most students are also generally not eligible.
Immediately Eligible (No Waiting Period)
Some lawfully present non-citizens are eligible for SNAP right away, as long as they meet all other financial and non-financial SNAP requirements. These include:
- Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs): Also known as Green Card holders.
- Parolees: Those granted parole for a period of at least one year (e.g., Afghan or Ukrainian parolees, and their spouses/children/caregivers, under specific conditions).
- Conditional Entrants: Individuals granted this status.
- Battered Non-Citizens: Victims of abuse who have an approved or pending petition, have been abused in the U.S. by a spouse, parent, or family member, and show a substantial connection between the abuse and the need for public benefits.
- COFA Citizens: Citizens of Compacts of Free Association (COFA) nations (e.g., Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau).
- Certain Hmong/Highland Laotian Tribes: Members who helped U.S. personnel during a specific period.
- Native Americans with Treaty Rights: Members of federally recognized Native American tribes with treaty rights to cross U.S. borders.
- Victims of Trafficking: Individuals subjected to severe forms of trafficking, or their parents/siblings/caregivers under certain conditions.
Eligibility After a 5-Year Waiting Period
Many other lawfully present non-citizens must wait for a “waiting period” of 5 years after their arrival in the U.S. before they can become eligible for SNAP benefits.
Exceptions to the 5-Year Waiting Period (Can Be Eligible Sooner)
Even if an individual is in a group that usually has a 5-year waiting period, they might be eligible for SNAP sooner if they meet one of these criteria:
- Age: Are a child under 18 years old.
- Disability: Are blind or disabled and receiving disability-related assistance or benefits.
- Long-Term Resident: Were lawfully residing in the U.S. and were 65 or older on August 22, 1996.
- U.S. Military Connection: Have a connection to the U.S. military, such as being on active duty (other than for training), a veteran who was honorably discharged, or the spouse or unmarried child of such individuals.
- Work History (40 Quarters): Have 40 “qualifying quarters” of work history (which generally equals 10 years of work). These quarters can also include work done by a parent before the applicant turned 18, or by a spouse during the marriage.
Social Security Number (SSN)
An applicant must provide a Social Security Number (or proof that they have applied for one) for any household member who is applying for SNAP benefits. If a non-citizen is not applying for benefits for themselves, they do not need to provide an SSN.
What to Do If Your Application is Denied: The Appeal Process
Receiving a denial for SNAP benefits can be disheartening, but it is important to know that there are steps to take if an applicant believes the decision was incorrect.
Review Your Denial Letter Carefully
The very first and most crucial step after receiving a denial is to thoroughly read the denial letter. This official letter will clearly state why the application was denied. It will also provide important instructions on how to appeal the decision and, most importantly, the specific deadline for filing the appeal. Understanding the exact reason for denial (e.g., income too high, missing specific documents, missed interview, or incorrect household composition) is essential. This information will guide the next steps, helping to decide whether to appeal the decision or reapply with corrected information.
Your Right to Appeal (Fair Hearing)
If an applicant disagrees with the decision to deny SNAP benefits, they have a fundamental right to request a “fair hearing.” This is a formal meeting with an impartial official (often called an Administrative Law Judge or Hearing Officer) who is legally required to review the facts of the case in a fair and objective way. It is an opportunity to explain the situation, present any additional information, and argue why the decision was incorrect based on SNAP rules. While a fair hearing cannot change the actual laws or regulations governing SNAP, it can ensure that the laws were applied correctly to a specific case. This process is designed to protect applicants’ rights.
How to Ask for an Appeal
Applicants can typically request a fair hearing in several ways, depending on their state’s procedures:
- In Writing: An applicant can write a letter explaining why they disagree with the decision, or they can fill out a specific “Appeal and Request for Hearing” form. Many states provide these forms online or at local offices.
- By Phone: An applicant can call their local SNAP office or their state’s Department of Human Services to request an appeal over the phone.
- In Person: An applicant can visit their local SNAP office and make their appeal request in person.
- Online: Some states may offer an online portal or form for submitting appeal requests.
When requesting an appeal, it is important to clearly state that an appeal is being requested and to include the reasons for disagreeing with the denial. Most states require an appeal request to be filed within 90 days of the date on the denial notice. If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, it is usually extended to the next business day. In some cases, if there was a good reason beyond an individual’s control for missing the deadline (like a serious illness or family emergency), an appeal might still be granted.
Preparing for Your Fair Hearing
Once an appeal is requested, a notice of hearing will be sent, usually at least 14 days before the hearing date. This notice will provide the date, time, and how the hearing will be held (often by telephone, though in-person hearings can be requested in the county of residence).
To prepare for the hearing:
- Gather Evidence: Collect all documents that support your case. This might include pay stubs, bank statements, utility bills, medical records, or any other papers that prove your eligibility or show why the denial was incorrect. It is often helpful to submit these documents to the Appeal Hearings Section, with a copy to the Department, at least seven days before the hearing.
- Review Your Case File: An applicant has the right to review their case information and obtain copies of documents in the file without charge.
- Consider Representation: An applicant can represent themselves, or they can choose to be represented by an attorney or another person they trust. If choosing legal representation, the applicant is responsible for attorney fees, though free legal services may be available in the community.
- List Key Points: Make a list of all the information you want the hearing officer to consider. If there are people with knowledge of your case (like a landlord or employer), they can be asked to testify on your behalf. Subpoenas can be requested if their attendance is necessary.
- Request Continuance if Needed: If unable to attend the hearing at the scheduled time, immediately request a postponement (continuance) by contacting the Appeal Hearings Section. This request should ideally be made at least five business days prior to the hearing date, except in unforeseen emergencies.
What Happens After the Hearing
After the hearing, the Administrative Law Judge or Hearing Officer will make a decision. This decision will be sent in writing. If the decision is in the applicant’s favor, the SNAP benefits will be approved or reinstated, and any missed benefits (called “back benefits”) may be issued. If the decision upholds the denial, the applicant will receive a letter explaining why. In some cases, there may be further appeal options, such as appealing the denial of a “good cause” claim for missing a deadline.
Considering Reapplication
If an appeal is unsuccessful, or if an applicant decides not to appeal, reapplying for SNAP benefits is always an option. Before reapplying, it is important to address the reasons for the initial denial. For example, if the denial was due to income being too high, the applicant should reapply if their income has decreased. If it was due to missing documents or a missed interview, the applicant should ensure all paperwork is complete and that they attend all scheduled appointments for the new application. Understanding the specific requirements and time limits in the state is crucial for a successful reapplication.