SNAP benefits and “food stamps” refer to the same federal program, though the terminology has evolved over time. Here’s a concise breakdown to clarify. What SNAP is today
- SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that provides nutrition assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families. Benefits are issued on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that can be used to purchase approved food items at authorized retailers.
Why the terms feel different
- “Food stamps” is the historical name for the program when benefits were issued as physical stamps. The name is still used colloquially and in some older references, but the official program name is SNAP. The transition to electronic benefits via EBT began in the late 1990s and continues today.
Key points for your understanding
- Coverage: SNAP is designed to help eligible households afford food. Benefit amounts depend on household size, income, and certain expenses, and they are updated monthly.
- Availability: Eligibility rules and benefit levels can vary by state, since states administer the program under federal guidelines.
- Common misperceptions: SNAP is not a cash program; benefits are restricted to eligible food items and cannot be used for non-food purchases like alcohol or vitamins.
If you’re trying to determine whether you or someone you know can get SNAP benefits, or how to apply, I can provide guidance on typical eligibility criteria and steps to apply, tailored to your location.
