How to Get Food Supplements (Disabled Veterans)

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How to Get Food Supplements (Disabled Veterans)

FAQ regarding disabled veterans' eligibility for SNAP food supplement benefits and SNAP's time limit.
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How to Get Food Supplements (Disabled Veterans)

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food supplement benefits to low-income families. SNAP food supplement benefits used to be known as food stamps. Generally, you must work 20 hours each week or attend a work program 20 hours each week to get SNAP benefits.  If you are not working or attending a work program, you can only get SNAP benefits for three months in any three-year period. This is called the time limit.
 

Fortunately, the "time limit" is not currently being enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the "time limit" is expected to return once the federal government has announced the pandemic is over.   
 

But take comfort if you are: 

  • a person under the age of 18, or
     
  • a person older than 50 years old, or
     
  • parent of a minor child, or 
     
  • disabled 

 

If you qualify as any of the above, you are exempt from this work requirement and the time limit will not apply to you
 

 

What exactly is the time limit?

The "time limit" means that you can only get SNAP benefits for three months during any three-year period unless you are exempt from the time limit. Again, you are exempt if:
 

  • You meet the work requirements
     
  • You are under the age of 18 or over the age of 50
     
  • You are the parent of a minor child; or
     
  • You are disabled
     

This means if you fall into any of the categories above, the time "limit" does not apply you.
 

 

Does my specific disability make me exempt from the "time limit"?

If you are receiving temporary or permanent VA disability benefits, or a doctor has declared you unfit for employment, you should be considered disabled for SNAP benefits and the time limit will not apply to you. Some of the eligible temporary and permanent disability benefits include:
 

  • SSI
     
  • SSDI
     
  • VA disability benefits

     

 

If I am rated less than 100% for VA disability, am I still eligible?

Yes! 


According to a 2016 USDA memorandum, if you receive temporary or permanent VA disability compensation you are eligible for SNAP and the "time limit" will not apply to you...regardless of your disability rating.



 

How do I apply?

To apply for benefits, contact your local SNAP office or apply online by clicking your state on this FDA Map



 

What if my state says I am not eligible because I am rated less than 100%?

You should contact your local legal assistance office to see if they can help you appeal the decision. 



 

Do I need a lawyer to help with my appeal?

No. You can appeal on your own. However, you may find it helpful to talk to a lawyer or an advocate. This USDA document and website can provide more information on the time limit exemption for disabled veterans.
 


 

Need help?

If you get a notice in the mail that says you have been denied SNAP benefits because you are not rated 100 percent disabled by the VA, contact your local legal services office right away. They may be able to help you.

 

 

Reviewed December 2021