The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federally funded program that helps low-income individuals and families afford nutritious, healthy food. Benefits are loaded onto an EBT card, which works like a debit card and can be used discreetly at most grocery stores, select convenience stores, and even some farmers’ markets.
In Connecticut, nearly 400,000 residents rely on SNAP each month. Many households that qualify for SNAP may also be eligible for additional Community Action Agency services, including Energy Assistance, Head Start, Case Management, and WIC referrals.
Click here to view our USDA/FNS Non-Discrimination & Credit Funding Statements.
For more information or to apply, call Alliance for Community Empowerment at:
Important Update: HR-1 bill changes (effective November 1, 2025)
Recent changes to federal law expanded the SNAP work requirement age range to 18–65 years old. This means some individuals may need to meet basic work requirements unless they qualify for an exemption.
Alliance now offers exemption screenings, work requirement support, and DSS assistance to help clients understand how HR-1 impacts their benefits.
For more information or help applying
Call Alliance for Community Empowerment at (203) 366-8241. Our staff can help you apply, understand your notices, or determine whether you qualify for a work exemption.
FAQs
What is SNAP?
SNAP provides monthly nutritional support to low-income individuals and families. Benefits are issued on an EBT card, which is used like a bank card to buy eligible food items at most grocery stores. SNAP benefits are not cash and cannot be withdrawn for non-food purchases.
How can SNAP help me?
SNAP helps reduce the amount of household income you need to spend on food. The EBT card can be used at:
- Major grocery stores
- Select convenience stores
- Participating farmers’ markets
To see what foods you can or cannot buy, visit: www.fns.usda.gov/snap/eligible-food-items
Do I qualify for SNAP benefits?
Eligibility depends on:
- Household income
- Allowable deductions (rent, medical expenses, child support, etc.)
- Household size
- U.S. residency status (qualified non-citizens must meet the 5-year residency rule)
Because of HR-1, some adults ages 18–65 may also need to meet basic work requirements unless they qualify for an exemption. Alliance can screen you to determine if you qualify.
Click here to check eligibility.
How do I apply for SNAP benefits?
You can apply by completing a CT State DSS application online:
https://www.connect.ct.gov/access/jsp/access/Home.jspOr call Alliance for help applying at (203) 366-8241.
Alliance can help you:
- Submit the application
- Upload documents
- Complete DSS portal tasks
- Interpret your benefit notices
What will I need to apply?
You may need:
- Identification (driver’s license, state ID, etc.)
- Social Security numbers for all applicants
- Proof of income
- Proof of immigration status for non-citizens
- Documentation for medical, shelter, or dependent care expenses (if applicable)