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SNAP Benefits FAQ
How Does SNAP Work?
- SNAP helps you buy the food you need.
- You receive benefits on an EBT card, which works like a debit card.
- You can use your EBT card at most grocery stores and food retailers.
- Income, household size, assets, medical expenses, and other factors determine eligibility.
- Generally, your gross household income must be less than 200% of the federal poverty level, but deductions may apply.
- Gross income is what you earn before taxes.

SNAP and FDPIR NDS
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the State or local Agency that administers the program or contact USDA through the Telecommunications Relay Service at 711 (voice and TTY). Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.
To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: USDA Food and Nutrition Administration, George Washington Carver Center, 5601 Sunnyside Avenue, Beltsville, MD 20740; or (2) email: FNACIVILRIGHTSCOMPLAINTS@usda.gov.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
All Other Programs NDS
In accordance with federal civil rights law and USDA civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices, employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the state or local agency that administers the program or contact USDA through the Telecommunications Relay Service at 711 (voice and TTY). Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.
To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:
- Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Mail Stop 9410, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;
- Fax: (202) 690-7442; or
- Email: program.intake@usda.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SNAP called in North Carolina?
North Carolina calls the program Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). It is the state name for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and approved benefits are issued on an EBT card.
How do I apply for SNAP benefits in North Carolina?
You can apply online through ePASS or contact your county Department of Social Services. MANNA can also provide free, confidential help with an application or recertification.
How do I know whether I am eligible?
Eligibility depends on household size, income, resources, deductions, residency, and other rules. Because the calculation is complex, North Carolina recommends applying so a caseworker can make an official determination.
Can MANNA help with a SNAP application or recertification?
Yes. Call or text MANNA’s Food Helpline at 828-290-9749 for free, confidential help or to schedule an appointment.
Program details can change. Confirm current information with NC Department of Health and Human Services.
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