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Applying for Food Stamps in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the Twin Cities

By Clara James, About.com

Around 10% of families qualify for food stamps, formally known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP. In Minnesota it is called the Food Support Program.

Here's how to find out if you are eligible for the Food Support program and food stamps, and how to apply for the Food Support program and food stamps.

Are You Eligible for Food Stamps?

Everyone in your household has to meet certain requirements. Applicants have to have a social security number, be US residents, or a qualifying legal resident, and have to meet income criteria.

The US Department of Agriculture has a pre-screening online tool that can determine if you may be eligible to receive food stamps.

How Can You Apply for Food Support and Food Stamps?

Food Support application forms are usually available at county offices and Social Security offices. The food stamp application form is also online. The form can be mailed to you if you call the Food Support office for your county - follow the appropriate link below.

To apply for food stamps, complete the application form and take it to the office that administers Food Stamp benefits for the county you live in.

Or call the Minnesota state hotline for Food Support to find your nearest Food Support office: 1-800-657-3698.

You may be required to attend an interview before you can receive Food Support benefits.

Where Can you Buy Food with Food Stamps?

Food Stamp benefits are provided on an electronic benefits transfer card, EBT card, that can be used just like an ATM card at most grocery stores in Minnesota.

Farmer's Markets are beginning to accept Food Stamps. Currently, the only Farmer's Market in the Twin Cities to accept Food Stamps is the Midtown Farmer's Market in Minneapolis.

More information about the Food Support Program and Food Stamps in Minnesota

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