Missouri Food Assistance
Food Stamps * Food Banks * Food Pantries * Soup Kitchens * WIC
School Meals * Special Milk * Summer Food * Senior Nutrition
In the State of Missouri, there are many sources for help with food. The Missouri Food Stamp Program, food banks, food pantries, and soup kitchens are all helping residents in need to cope with hunger and food insecurity.
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Learn more about
SNAP benefits a.k.a. Food Stamps.
Who is eligible for SNAP benefits (Food Stamps) in Missouri?
How to apply for Missouri Food Assistance?
How does Missouri Department of Social Services determine eligibility?
Approved! When and how do I get the Food Stamps benefits?
How much Food Stamps benefits do participants receive per month?
How and where to use Food Stamps benefits?
Food Stamp (SNAP benefits) in Missouri
Missouri Food Stamp Program
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or the Food Stamps Program as it is known by the public, is a federal program that provides grants to the States for purpose of reducing hunger and malnutrition in all eligible households across the nation. SNAP helps provide healthy food to qualifying low-income families with children, elderly or disabled in each State of the USA, including Missouri.
It is important to know that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is a federal entitlement program funded by U.S. Government grants. Any U.S. Citizen, even some legal alien residents, will get free food assistance as long as they meet the SNAP eligibility guidelines. In other words, there is enough Supplemental Nutrition Assistance for every American that qualifies.
In Missouri, the SNAP is administered by the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) and its Family Support Division (FSD). The Federal Government oversees the State operation of the SNAP. According to the Missouri Department of Social Services, “SNAP is designed to promote the general welfare and safeguard the health and well-being of the nation’s population by raising the levels of nutrition among low-income households. The program is called the Food Stamp Program in Missouri.”
%
Approx. of the total Missouri population received Food Stamp Benefits in 2018
Recipients in June, 2018 of Food Stamps (SNAP) Benefits in Missouri
Recipients in June, 2017 of Food Stamp (SNAP) Benefits in Missouri
Who is Eligible for Missouri Food Stamp Assistance?
The eligibility rules and benefit amounts in Missouri, like in other States, are based on a limited income, limited liquid resources, household size, and other requirements. Most eligibility rules are determined by regulations issued by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Nutrition Service (FNS).
The federal law allows States some flexibility when implementing SNAP on a State level. State agencies can adapt some of the food assistance program rules in order to meet the needs of the eligible, low‐income local population.
Missouri Food Stamp Program is designed for individuals and families with limited income resources, who compose a household, and purchase and prepare their meals together for home consumption.
In general, to qualify for Missouri Food Stamp Benefits you must meet the following basic eligibility requirements:
- Missouri Resident – must be a U.S. Citizen or a legal resident with SNAP eligible non-citizen status;
- Work Requirement – unless exempted, each able-bodied household member, age 16-60, who are unemployed or under-employed must be registered to work, and accept a suitable employment offer;
- Resource Limit – countable household assets are limited to $2,000 or less ($3,250 or less for households containing a member who is disabled or 60 years of age or older), assets not countable include the home you live in, personal belongings, cash value of life insurance policy, and vehicles;
- Income Limits – Income limits eligibility depends on household size and composition. Households with no elderly or disabled individuals must meet both gross and net income limits. Households with elderly or disabled individuals must meet only the net income limits. Gross income includes wages, salaries, commissions, dividends, child support, self-employment income, unemployment compensation, social security benefits, and other sources. Household net income is computed by deducting certain allowed expenses from gross income. The resulting numbers must fall below the net income dollar amounts listed in the table below for your household to get food assistance benefits. This dollar amount depends on the number of people in your household.
See the table with Missouri food stamp income limits per household size below.
Missouri Food Stamps – Quick Eligibility Check
USDA Food and Nutrition Service offer this Pre-Screening Tool you can use to find out if you may be eligible to get Missouri SNAP Benefits (Food Stamps). Although you will be notified immediately if you qualify, after completing the questionnaire, you still have to make an application to the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) and its Family Support Division (FSD).
Regardless of the results of the Pre-Screening Tool, potential applicants are encouraged to call 1-855-373-4636 or visit one of the DSS/FSD offices and inquire. A conversation with one of the DSS/FSD specialists will help anyone in need of food assistance find out if they may be eligible for Missouri Food Stamp Benefits.
To figure out, before applying, if you'd qualify for food stamps benefits in your state you have to consider the following:
- Your Household size: How many people you live and buy food with? Count:
- anyone you live with and buy and make food with
- children under 22 years old and,
- elderly 60+ and disabled that you make food for.
- Your Income: How much money does your household make? This includes both:
- earned income - the money you make from jobs and
- unearned income - cash assistance, Social Security, unemployment insurance, child support, etc.
Who counts as a member of the household for SNAP eligibility?
In general, anyone who lives with you and you buy food with counts a member of your household.
Your children under 22 of age count as household members, even if they buy and make their own food.
But your tenant, for example, or your adult children that are over 22 of age do not count. They are not counted in the household number for the purpose of food stamp benefits qualification.
The elderly age of 60+ and disabled people count as household members if you buy and make food for them, or you buy and make food together. If they live with you, but they buy and make food separately, they do not count as household members.
See the updated table below for this fiscal year's income limits and monthly benefits (allotments).
What is the gross and net income limit that qualifies you for food stamps?
SNAP Max Income for Food Stamps
Oct. 1, 2019, through Sept. 30, 2020
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limits (130% of poverty) | Net Monthly Income Limits (100% of poverty) | Max Food Assistance Benefit Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,580 | $1,215 | $291 |
| 2 | $2,137 | $1,644 | $535 |
| 3 | $2,694 | $2,072 | $766 |
| 4 | $3,250 | $2,500 | $973 |
| 5 | $3,807 | $2,929 | $1,155 |
| 6 | $4,364 | $3,357 | $1,386 |
| 7 | $4,921 | $3,785 | $1,532 |
| 8 | $5,478 | $4,214 | $1,751 |
| Each additional member | +$557 | +$429 | +$219 |
Source: USDA, SNAP Income Eligibility Standards
Missouri Food Stamps – Quick Eligibility Check
USDA Food and Nutrition Service offer this Pre-Screening Tool you can use to find out if you may be eligible to get Missouri SNAP Benefits (Food Stamps). Although you will be notified immediately if you qualify, after completing the questionnaire, you still have to make an application to the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) and its Family Support Division (FSD).
Regardless of the results of the Pre-Screening Tool, potential applicants are encouraged to call 1-855-373-4636 or visit one of the DSS/FSD offices and inquire. A conversation with one of the DSS/FSD specialists will help anyone in need of food assistance find out if they may be eligible for Missouri Food Stamp Benefits.
What are the Benefits?
If approved, the Missouri Food Stamp Benefit amounts depend on the household size and the amount of their net income. USDA has maximum food stamp benefit limits per month, per household size. Check the table column about Max Food Assistance Benefit per month in dollars for each size of the household.
How to Apply for Food Stamps in Missouri?
Missouri residents interested in applying for food stamps can pick up an application at any DSS/FSD Customer Service or Resource Center or download and print the Application for Food Stamp Benefits from the Missouri Department of Social Services website. All looking for help with food can also apply in person by visiting one of the local DSS/FSD Customer Service Centers.
The applicant needs to fill out all the required information on the application and have all the supporting documents. If you do not have all the information – complete as much as you can including your name, social security number, what you are applying for, and sign it. The DSS/FSD has to accept the application with the current date. You can provide the rest of the information later.
Applicants for Food Stamp Benefits can return the application in person, by mail, or by fax to any DSS Family Support Division (FSD) Customer Service Center or Resource Center.
Before a decision is made a Missouri DSS/FSD specialist has to verify all the paperwork and schedule an interview with the applicant. A face-to-face interview is required to help DSS/FSD establish the applicant’s eligibility.
The face-to-face requirements may be waived and the interview done over the phone for the elderly, disabled, or applicants in special situations that prevent them from participating in an in-office interview.
At the interview, applicants must provide all required documentation for verification and approval purposes.
If the applicant is found eligible, they will receive within 30 days a notice stating how much of a benefit they qualify for when to expect their benefits, and for how long is the applicant eligible for getting food stamps.
Missouri Food Stamps Approval, Rules, Proofs Required
Missouri DSS/FSD needs to verify submitted information before before determining if the household is eligible for Food Stamp Benefits.
The DSS lists examples of documents and information that may be needed to determine your eligibility when you apply for Food Stamps Benefits.
Proof of Identity:
- Driver’s License
- Photo ID Card
- Birth Certificate
- Social Security Card
Proof of Immigration Status of Non-Citizens:
- Resident Alien Card
- Copy of a residency document issued by the Department of Homeland Security
Residence:
- Rent or mortgage receipts
- Mail addressed to you
- Utility receipts
- References contacted
Proof of Income:
- Work Verification form signed by the employer
- Paycheck Stubs – for the last 30 days
- Award letters from Social Security Administration, or Veteran’s Administration
- Copy of most recent tax forms (include all schedule forms if self-employed)
- Benefits Letters from SSI or VA
- Check stub for Unemployment Compensation benefits or Worker’s Compensation checks
- Copies of child support checks
Resources:
- Bank Statements
- Copies of deeds or purchase agreements
- Statements that show the current value of stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, etc.
Deductible Expenses:
- Housing costs such as rent or mortgage payments
- Utility costs such as electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, telephone, real estate taxes, or homeowner’s insurance
- Dependent care or child care costs, including transportation to and from the daycare provider
- Child Support paid to non-household members
- Medical expenses
This is not a complete list and depending on the case the DSS/FSD specialist may request additional types of proof and application supporting documents.
Missouri Food Stamp participants between the ages 16-60, able to work and who are unemployed or underemployed must register to work with the Missouri Division of Workforce Development.
As per SNAP federal regulations, the State of Missouri is required to offer an employment and training program for Food Stamp participants. This program is known as the Missouri Employment and Training Program (METP) and offers training, education, and job search assistance to Food Stamp participants. With its focused approach and one-to-one case management, the METP provides excellent opportunities for participants to be successful in finding sustainable employment.
If you are Missouri Food Stamp recipient and interested in employment and training program, contact the METP office at 1-855-278-0354.
Approved! When and How Do I Get the Food Assistance Benefits?
Missouri Food Stamp Program provides the SNAP benefits via the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system.
The monetary benefits of the Missouri Food Stamps are transferred to the accounts of qualified beneficiaries and are accessible through the Missouri EBT Card.
Benefits are made available over the first 22 days of every month, based on the client’s birth month and last name:
Birth Month is January and the first letter of the last name is A-K = benefits available on the 1st of the month
Birth Month is January and the first letter of the last name is L-Z = benefits available on the 2nd of the month
Birth Month is February and the first letter of the last name is A-K = benefits available on the 3rd of the month
Birth Month is February and the first letter of the last name is L-Z = benefits available on the 4th of the month
Birth Month is March and the first letter of the last name is A-K = benefits available on the 5th of the month
Birth Month is March and the first letter of the last name is L-Z = benefits available on the 6th the month
Birth Month is April and the first letter of the last name is A-Z = benefits available on the 7th of the month
Birth Month is May and the first letter of the last name is A-K = benefits available on the 8th of the month
Birth Month is May and the first letter of the last name is L-Z = benefits available on the 9th of the month
Birth Month is June and the first letter of the last name is A-K = benefits available on the 10th of the month
Birth Month is June and the first letter of the last name is L-Z = benefits available on the 11th of the month
Birth Month is July and the first letter of the last name is A-K = benefits available on the 12th of the month
Birth Month is July and the first letter of the last name is L-Z = benefits available on the 13th of the month
Birth Month is August and the first letter of the last name is A-K = benefits available on the 14th of the month
Birth Month is August and the first letter of the last name is L-Z = benefits available on the 15th of the month
Birth Month is September and the first letter of the last name is A-K = benefits available on the 16th of the month
Birth Month is September and the first letter of the last name is L-Z = benefits available on the 17th of the month
Birth Month is October and the first letter of the last name is A-K = benefits available on the 18th of the month
Birth Month is October and the first letter of the last name is L-Z = benefits available on the 19th of the month
Birth Month is November and the first letter of the last name is A-K = benefits available on the 20th of the month
Birth Month is November and the first letter of the last name is L-Z = benefits available on the 21st of the month
Birth Month is December and the first letter of the last name is A-Z = benefits available on the 22nd of the month
If you have any question regarding your EBT Account or EBT Card call Missouri EBT Customer Service: 800-997-7777
How and Where to Use Food Stamp Benefits?
Missouri Food Stamp benefits can only be used to purchase eligible food items at Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) authorized stores displaying the Quest mark.
Households and individuals get Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to use their food assistance benefits at any grocery stores and farmers’ markets that are authorized by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Food Assistance Benefits can only be used to purchase eligible food items at Food Stamps (SNAP) authorized stores. Find a Missouri Food Stamp participating store in your area.
Eligible food items are any food to be eaten at home by people, including baby food, non-alcoholic beverages, and seasonings. Seeds and plants to grow food for your own family’s consumption are also allowed to be purchased with food stamp benefits. You cannot buy non-grocery items with food stamp benefits, such as cleaning products, pet food, paper products, alcohol, or tobacco.
I Need Food Assistance Now. It is an Emergency!
Some households may get Expedited Services – that is getting Food Assistance Benefits within 7 calendar days if your household has less than $150 in monthly gross income and liquid resources (cash, checking or savings accounts) of $100 or less; or your rent/mortgage and utilities are more than your household’s combined monthly income and liquid resources, or a member of your household is a migrant or seasonal farmworker. In order to get expedite assistance, if you qualify, provide all required information and proof as soon as possible. Call 1-855-373-4636 for more information on the Missouri Food Stamp Program.
Missouri Food Assistance Program
Find more about Missouri Food Assistance Program
Search for Food Assistance by County and Town
Food Banks in Missouri
Missouri food banks play an important role in the overall Missouri food assistance effort to end hunger and food insecurity throughout the State of Missouri.
Their main objective is to collect food from various sources like wholesale organizations, grocery stores, and farms who have food in excess and are willing to donate.
Food banks then, sort, store, and distribute donated food to local soup kitchens, shelters, and food pantries.
The Food Bank Association of Missouri is such a non-profit organization that works to alleviate hunger in Missouri.
Missouri Food Banks
Food Pantries in Missouri
Food pantries offer food directly to people that need it and who have the means to cook it. They usually receive food from local food banks and in turn distribute it to low-income individuals and households at no cost.
Food pantries are typically located in facilities where received food can be stored and handled in a safe and sanitary manner.
Each food pantry serves a designated local area and most of them require prior registration and approval before food can be distributed to a particular individual or a family.
Soup Kitchens in Missouri
Soup kitchens serve cooked meals on-site to needy people at no cost. Like food pantries, they normally receive their food from local food banks.
Soup kitchens take care mostly of homeless people and people who do not have the means to cook for themselves.
They require storage, cleaning, and cooking equipment as they have to do food preparation, serving, and cleaning after the meals.
Food pantries are typically located in facilities where received food can be stored and handled in a safe and sanitary manner.
Each food pantry serves a designated local area and most of them require prior registration and approval before food can be served to a particular individual or a family.
WIC Program in Missouri
Missouri Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides healthy foods, breastfeeding support, nutrition education, health care referrals to Missouri pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and young children during times of important growth.
Missouri Women, Infants, and Children Program
School Meals in Missouri
School meals in Missouri are offered mainly through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.
The Missouri school meals programs make nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free meals available to school children each school day in the year.
School meals nutritional standards are based on the recommendation from the Institute of Medicine and the U.S. Government and teachers have reported that students perform better in class if they get regular meals.
Children getting school breakfast also had significantly reduced absence and tardiness rates, according to a Tufts University study.
Missouri School Lunch Program | Missouri School Breakfast Program
Special Milk Program in Missouri
Missouri Special Milk Program offers milk to children in schools, childcare institutions, and eligible camps. Any child in a school or institution that participates in the Special Milk Program can get milk.
Schools may elect to offer free milk to low-income children. In order to qualify for Missouri Special Milk, the child must be a resident of the State of Missouri.
Summer Food Program in Missouri
Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) is another Missouri food assistance program that provides free meals and snacks to help low-income Missouri children get nutritious meals in the summertime.
The Summer Food Service Program is a federal program that provides grants to local sponsors who want to combine a food service with a summer activity program.
The funding provided by SFSP ensures that Missouri children in low-income areas continue to receive nutritious meals during long school vacations when they do not have access to school lunch or breakfast.
Missouri Summer Food Service Program
Senior Nutrition in Missouri
Missouri Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides low-income seniors with special checks to buy fresh, nutritious fruits, vegetables, and herbs from authorized farmers’ markets. To qualify for Missouri senior nutrition special checks, the applicants must be 60 years of age or older and their gross household income must not exceed certain limits.
An application must be completed for each person in the household that wants to apply for the SFMNP benefits. Once approved, each beneficiary must reapply every year to continue participating in the Missouri Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program. Learn more about how the senior nutrition program works.
Missouri Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
Sources: State Agencies, FNS, USDA