Resources
Do You Need Food Assistance Now?
Call 2-1-1 for 24-hour help, 7 days a week. They can help answer questions about your SNAP benefits, finding resources like food, childcare, transportation and more. If the 2-1-1 number does not work, please dial 1-800-203-1234. For more information visit www.211ct.org.
For additional information about food resources in CT, check out End Hunger CT or FoodShare. For even more national resources, visit the USDA's Food Assistance Page or call the USDA National Hunger hotline at 1-866-348-6479.
What is SNAP-Ed?
The goal of SNAP-Ed (Education) and this site is to teach SNAP-eligible people how to choose and prepare healthy foods and live a healthy, active lifestyle on a limited budget. As SNAP-Ed providers, we at HNS encourage visitors to make nutritious and economical food choices. Please explore (and share) this site for Nutrition Education, Budget-Friendly Recipes and other Resources to assist you in making the healthiest choices for you and your family.
SNAP-Ed is separate from SNAP (EBT) benefits. Questions on SNAP benefits can be answered by the Connecticut DSS office closest to you.
Can I get EBT / SNAP benefits in Connecticut?
Your ability to receive SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), which is also called EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer), depends on things like the number of people in your household, income, and resources (cash, bank accounts, etc.). Income includes money earned from work, and other benefits like Social Security, unemployment, and SSI.
To receive SNAP benefits, you need to apply by using Connecticut's SNAP Application.
Help with EBT / SNAP Benefits in Connecticut
Applicants and clients have the option of contacting the Department of Social Services online, by phone (1-855-6-CONNECT), or in-person at your local DSS office.
| SNAP Eligibility |
How to Apply |
| Apply Now |
Renew Benefits |
| Application Help |
Check EBT Balance |
We encourage DSS clients who have online access to open a client benefits account (MyAccount) at www.connect.ct.gov.
In addition, phone access is available through the DSS Client Information Line and Benefits Center at 1-855-6-CONNECT.
When will my SNAP benefits be available on my EBT card?
If you have just been certified to receive SNAP benefits, your benefits should be in your EBT account within 30 days from the date you filed your application. If you qualified for expedited benefits because your income was very low, your benefits should be in the account within 7 days from the date you filed the application. You will need to contact your case worker to find out the exact day your benefits will be available.
Once you are certified and have received your first allotment, SNAP benefits will be made available to you on a monthly basis. You can check your EBT balance online to see how much money you have in your account.
What foods can I buy with EBT / SNAP benefits?
Things you CAN buy using EBT / SNAP:
- Breads and cereals
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meats, fish and poultry
- Dairy products
- Seeds and plants that produce food such as tomato seeds
- Bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages
Things you CANNOT buy using EBT / SNAP:
- Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes or tobacco
- Any nonfood items, such as:pet foods, soaps, paper products and house hold supplies
- Vitamins and medicines
- Food that will be eaten in the store
- Hot foods or foods that are already prepared
Find more information on What Can SNAP Buy.
Can I buy baby food or infant formula using EBT / SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can use your SNAP benefits to buy baby food. This includes infant formula, cereals, juices, and baby food in boxes and jars. Visit the SNAP Eligible Food List for more information.
SNAP Employment Training with the CT Pathways Program
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients in Connecticut may be eligible to participate in SNAP Employment and Training (E&T). The SNAP E&T programs offer scholarships to obtain training and additional skills in multiple fields that can lead to employment or a higher paying job. Find more information on these programs offered through CT Community Colleges here.
