Record high unemployment has caused an increasing number of families to consider applying for food stamps. Food stamp programs have been extended in response to this need, and more families than ever before now qualify for food stamp assistance. In Oregon and around the country, the food stamp benefit program is called SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Applying for food stamps in Oregon is a simple process.
Step 1- Use the food stamp benefit calculator on Oregon’s DHS website. The food stamp benefit calculator will give you an idea if you might qualify for food stamps in Oregon and how much your food stamp benefit might be. The calculator is only an estimate, but it may help you decide if you want to apply for food stamps.
Step 2– Fill out the food stamp application. Oregon does not offer an online food stamp application at this time, so you have to fill out the paper forms to apply for food stamps. You can either print out the Oregon food stamp application from the Oregon DHS website or visit your local food stamp office to pick up an application. Be sure to fill out your food stamp application completely and honestly. If you don’t, it will take longer to process your food stamp application.
Step 3– Gather the appropriate paperwork. Before turning in your food stamp application you will want to have some documents. Important documents include: birth certificate for all family members, social security card for all family members, drivers license for head of household, lease agreement (proof of address), pay stubs for last month, SSI or Social Security income verification, any other income verification. If you cannot get all these together quickly, don’t worry. You can still apply for food stamps without them. It will cause your food stamp application to be processed quicker if you do have them though.
Step 4– Visit your local food stamp office. Oregon DHS has food stamp offices located in every county. Expect to spend an hour at the Oregon DHS office when you turn in your Oregon food stamp application. Depending on which office you visit, you could have a long wait. When you turn in your application, you will be asked several questions that will determine if you qualify for expedited food stamps. If you qualify for expedited food stamps, you may see a caseworker that same day.
Step 5– When you are approved for food stamp benefits, you will be issued an EBT card. This looks like a credit or debit card. It is used the same way as a debit card- you slide the card in the reader, enter your pin, and approve the purchase price. Your receipt will usually show the ending balance.
If your food stamp application is denied or you disagree with the amount of food stamp benefits you were awarded, you can ask for a fair hearing. A fair hearing form can be obtained from your local Oregon DHS office.
In order to keep your Oregon food stamp benefits, you need to follow the rules. Your caseworker will tell you what those rules are. Failure to follow the rules can cause your Oregon food stamp benefits to be withdrawn or reduced.
Oregon DHS Food Stamp Calculator
Oregon SNAP Food Stamp Info
