The fastest way to apply is online through the Maryland Department of Human Services website

You can start a food stamps application on your computer or phone through the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) online portal without leaving home. The online application takes about 20 to 30 minutes if you have your documents ready. You will need your Social Security number, proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and identification.

After you submit online, DHS will contact you by phone or email to schedule an interview. That interview can happen over the phone or video call in most cases — you do not have to visit an office in person. Once approved, your benefits load onto a Maryland EBT card (electronic benefits transfer card) that works like a debit card at grocery stores.

If you do not have internet access or prefer to apply in person, you can visit your local Department of Social Services office. Staff there can help you fill out the paper application and answer questions about what documents you need. You can find your local office on the DHS website by entering your zip code.

Key Takeaways

  • Apply online through the Maryland DHS website, by phone, or in person at your local Department of Social Services office.
  • You will need proof of income, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and a valid ID to complete your application.
  • After you apply, DHS will call or email you to schedule an interview, which usually happens by phone or video.
  • If approved, benefits arrive on an EBT card within 7 to 10 days and can be used at any store that accepts SNAP.
  • Your household income must fall below a certain limit, which changes based on family size and is updated each year.

What documents you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin your application. Having them ready speeds up the process and reduces the chance that DHS will ask you to resubmit information later. If you do not have one of these documents, tell the interviewer — they can sometimes accept alternatives or give you time to find them.

Proof of income: Recent pay stubs (usually the last 30 days), tax returns from the past year, a letter from your employer on company letterhead stating your wages, or bank statements showing regular deposits. If you are self-employed, bring tax returns and bank statements. If you receive unemployment, Social Security, or disability, bring the award letter or benefit statement.

Proof of residency: A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works.

Identification: A driver's license, state ID card, passport, or birth certificate. If you do not have a photo ID, bring two documents that show your name and date of birth.

Social Security number: Yours and the Social Security number of every person in your household who is applying. You will need to provide this during the interview even if you do not have a card.

Income limits and household size

Your household's total monthly income must fall below a set limit to receive food stamps. The limit changes each year and depends on how many people live in your home. Maryland uses the federal income guidelines, which are adjusted every October.

Income includes wages, self-employment earnings, unemployment benefits, Social Security, disability payments, child support, and rental income. It does not include certain benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) if you are already receiving them.

During your interview, DHS will calculate your household's gross income and net income (after deductions like child care costs or medical expenses). You must meet both the gross and net income limits. If your income is close to the limit or changes month to month, tell the interviewer — they can average your income over the past 30 days.

The interview and approval timeline

After you submit your application, DHS has 30 days to contact you and schedule an interview. Most interviews happen by phone or video within 7 to 14 days. During the interview, a caseworker will ask questions about your household size, income, expenses, and living situation. They may also ask to verify the documents you submitted.

Be honest and specific during the interview. If you do not understand a question, ask the caseworker to explain it. If you do not have a document they ask for, tell them what you have instead — they can often work with alternatives or give you a deadline to send it later.

After the interview, DHS usually makes a decision within 7 to 10 days. If approved, your EBT card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 days after that. Your benefits for the first month load onto the card as soon as it is activated. If denied, you will receive a letter explaining why and information about how to request a hearing to appeal the decision.

How to apply by phone or in person

If you prefer not to apply online, call the Maryland DHS Customer Service Center at 1-800-332-6347. Staff can answer questions about what you need and help you schedule a phone interview. You will still need to provide the same documents — you can email, mail, or fax them to DHS, or bring them to your local office.

To apply in person, find your local Department of Social Services office on the DHS website or call the customer service number above. Bring all your documents with you. Office hours vary by location, so call ahead to confirm when they are open and whether you need an appointment. Some offices accept walk-ins, but others require you to schedule a time slot.

Applying in person can be slower than online or phone because offices are often busy, but staff can answer questions on the spot and help you fill out the application correctly the first time.

What happens after you are approved

Once approved, your EBT card arrives in the mail. Activate it by calling the number on the back or going online. Your first month's benefits load automatically once the card is activated. After that, benefits load on the same day each month — usually between the 1st and the 23rd, depending on your case number.

You can check your balance anytime by calling the EBT customer service number on the back of your card, checking online through the DHS website, or asking a cashier at checkout. Food stamps can be used to buy fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cereals, snacks, and other food items. You cannot use them for hot food, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, or household supplies.

Your case will be reviewed every 12 months. DHS will send you a notice before your renewal date. You will need to resubmit proof of income and residency to keep your benefits. If your household income or size changes during the year, report it to DHS right away — your benefit amount may go up or down.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get approved?

DHS has 30 days from the date you apply to make a decision, but most cases are approved or denied within 7 to 14 days. Once approved, your EBT card arrives within 7 to 10 days. In total, you can usually expect to receive benefits within 2 to 3 weeks of applying.

Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?

You must be a U.S. citizen or a may have access to non-citizen to receive food stamps. may have access to non-citizens include lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and some other immigration statuses. During your application, you will be asked about your citizenship or immigration status. Bring your green card, visa, or other immigration documents to your interview.

What if my income is too high?

If your household income exceeds the limit, you do not meet the basic requirement for food stamps. However, income limits change each year, so you may become may be able to access later if your income drops. You can reapply at any time. Some people with slightly higher income may still may have access to if they have high expenses like medical bills or child care.

Can I use my EBT card at farmers markets or online?

Many farmers markets in Maryland accept EBT cards, and some online grocery retailers like Amazon Fresh and Instacart now accept SNAP benefits in certain areas. Ask the store or market whether they accept EBT before you shop. You can also check the USDA website to find retailers near you that accept food stamps.

What do I do if I lose my EBT card?

Call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card or contact your local DHS office to report it lost or stolen. A replacement card will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 days. If you need benefits before the new card arrives, DHS can issue an emergency replacement at your local office.