Who is eligible?
Food stamps are available to households with a monthly income that falls, after a series of deductions and allowances, below the federal poverty level and to households in which all members receive Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). There is also a resources test for eligibility. Certain resources, including a home and lot and all or part of the value of an automobile are not counted under the resources test. Food stamps are available in Florida to certain classes of legal aliens through a program funded by the state of Florida.
What benefits are provided?
Food stamps provided by the program may be redeemed for food in grocery stores. Beginning in February 1998, Florida switched to a system of providing food stamp debit cards instead of monthly allotments of stamps. Recipients who receive debit cards will receive a monthly credit that can be accessed by using debit card readers at grocery store check out lines. The amount of monthly food stamps provided varies according to household size and income. From October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024, the maximum monthly allotments are:
|
Household size |
Maximum Monthly Allotment |
For each additional household member, add $219.
How do I apply?
You may apply for food stamps through your local office of the Florida Department of Children and Families, or online at www.myflorida.com/accessflorida. Applications for food stamps cover TCA and Medicare eligibility as well, but a household may apply for food stamps alone without using up part of its lifetime eligibility for TCA or Medicare. For more information, call 1-866-762-2237.
