Getting started.
Who this helps
Maine residents may qualify based on income, household composition, certain expenses, and other criteria. The household's situation affects eligibility.
How to get started
An eligibility specialist will interview you by phone or in person. The interview takes about 30 minutes on average. OFI has 30 days after receiving your application to make a decision. If approved, you will receive a Notice of Decision with your monthly benefit amount. If you have never had an EBT card, it will arrive by mail within 5 to 7 days of the decision.
Choose an application method.
Apply online through My Maine Connection, call 1-855-797-4357, or visit a regional DHHS office. You can also get the SNAP application from DHHS Applications & Forms and mail, email, or fax it. Ask for interpretation for phone or in-person applications.
Complete an interview.
Complete the required interview with an eligibility specialist by phone or in person.
Send requested proof.
Send the identity, income, and expense proof OFI requests by the deadline in its letter. For expense proof, upload it to your My Maine Connection account, mail it, drop it off, or email OFI.
How they can help.
The Department of Health and Human Services' Office for Family Independence reviews applications. Benefits help low-income households buy food. Other support includes employment and training, plus bonus dollars for local fruits and vegetables through partner programs.
- Monthly benefits to buy nutritious food
- SNAP Employment and Training supports
- Bonus dollars for local fruits and vegetables
- EBT cards mailed to approved households that have never had one
A few questions before you go.
Be ready to show proof of identity, household income, and household expenses. Examples include current pay stubs, rent or childcare receipts, and utility bills. OFI may ask for other proof based on your situation.
- Which people should I include in my SNAP household?
- What proof should I have ready?
- Can I have the interview by phone?
- How long might a decision take?