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Program Description:
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Food stamps help low-income households buy the food they need for good
health and are used like cash to buy food. In Maryland, food stamp
benefits are accessed through an Electronic Benefits Transfer System.
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Eligibility:
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There are several eligibility requirements that include resource and income
limits. Households may have up to $2,000 in countable resources, which
includes a bank account. If a member of the household is 60 or older,
a person with disability,
countable resources increase to $3,000.
Most households must meet a gross income test (130 percent of poverty).
If the household includes an elderly person or a person receiving disability
benefits, only the "net test" must be met.
Deductions from gross income: 20 percent of earned income, a standard
deduction according to household size; a dependent-care deduction; any medical expenses in excess of $35
for elderly or disabled members; housing and legally owed and paid child
support.
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Accessibility:
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Applications must be
filed, interviews conducted and all financial and technical
eligibility factors must be met prior to issuance of benefits. The program is a
federal entitlement program accessed through the electronic
benefits transfer system.
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Where to Apply:
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Apply at your Local Department of Social Services.
Click here for a list of local departments to apply in person.
You may file an application by mail, fax or other electronic means or someone may drop an
application off for you.
Apply online: Go to
www.marylandsail.org to file your application.
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Click here for
information on how to apply for this program.
Food Stamp Nutrition Education
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