How does SNAP work?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps a variety of people in need, including students, older adults, people with disabilities, people and families who are either unemployed or underemployed, and veterans or active military members and their families.

Once enrolled in the program, an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is issue to your household that is to be used like a debit card. Benefits are issued monthly, and the funds can be used to purchase food that qualifies within the program.

Am I eligible to receive SNAP?

Eligibility and benefit levels are based on household size, income and other factors. Additional links are below.



Guidelines for SNAP eligibility



SNAP benefits estimator



New York State “My Benefits” homepage

SNAP applications

A collection of SNAP resources, including applications in various languages, can be found on the website of New York State’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.

Applications for SNAP can be accessed below.

The first button provides access to an application for all ages, while the second button leads to an application specific to anyone who is disabled, and adults who are at least 60 years old and do not earn income.

all ages application

disabled or older adults application


If you are a student and have questions regarding SNAP or the application process, click the button below.

student application assistance



energy assistance application

The state ODTA also provides information regarding the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

The program provides financial help for heating costs, and also assists people who may need emergency benefits or assistance in paying fees associated with repairing or replacing heating equipment.



The full HEAP application can be downloaded by clicking below.


HEAP application

visit an outreach for guidance

Each month, members of FeedMore WNY’s SNAP team provide public outreach events.

At the outreaches, members of our staff will be present to help people learn more about receiving assistance, including determining eligibility and applying for the program.

Below is a list of outreaches for May 2024.




using your SNAP benefits

The federal Department of Agriculture oversees what items may be purchased with SNAP benefits. Its website lists the item categories.

In addition, the site also lists the types of retailers that accept SNAP benefits as payment. Click the below links for further information.

maintaining your account

Below are some links to assist you with your EBT Benefits Card and the account.

Also provided below are links for renewing your benefits and a Change Report Form to disclose a change of circumstances.

SNAP in the news

Click on any of the below links to view recent or notable news articles regarding SNAP and other assistance programs.


SNAP facts and myths compiled by the National Council on Aging




SNAP benefits stolen through electronic theft eligible for replacement




State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance details cost of living adjustment for 2024



contact us

For more information reach out to a member of the SNAP team!


erie and niagara counties

Lauren Merriman MSW
SNAP Outreach Supervisor
91 Holt St., Buffalo 14206
716-822-2005 ext. 3052
lmerriman@feedmorewny.org


chautauqua county

Brooke S. Barone
SNAP Outreach Coordinator
2485 Falconer Frewsburg Road, Falconer 14733
716-822-2005 ext. 3105
bbarone@feedmorewny.org


cattaraugus county

Directions in Independent Living, Inc.
512 W. State St., Olean 14760
716-373-4602 ext. 8714