Are you looking for food assistance in Hawaii? You might be eligible for food stamps, officially known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This crucial federal program, administered locally by the Hawaii Department of Human Services (DHS), helps low-income individuals and families afford groceries and maintain a healthy diet.
This guide provides comprehensive information about food stamps in Hawaii, covering eligibility requirements, how to apply, and what benefits you can receive. If you have questions or need assistance, you can also contact the Public Assistance Toll Free Information Line at 1-855-643-1643.
Understanding SNAP: Food Stamps in Hawaii
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federally funded initiative by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). In Hawaii, the program is managed by the Department of Human Services (DHS) Benefit, Employment & Support Services Division (BESSD). SNAP’s primary goal is to combat food insecurity by providing nutritional support to eligible low-income households, empowering them to move towards self-sufficiency. In 2014 alone, SNAP supported approximately 193,565 Hawaii residents, representing 98,440 families, ensuring they had access to nutritious food.
Hawaii EBT Card: Accessing Your Food Stamps
Hawaii utilizes the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system, known as HI/EBT, to distribute SNAP benefits and other financial aid. This system uses a debit card, the Hawaii EBT card, to provide access to your benefits.
How does the Hawaii EBT card work for food stamps?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto your EBT card each month. You can then use this card at authorized retailers, such as grocery stores and farmers’ markets, that display the SNAP acceptance sign. Transactions are processed through Point of Sale (POS) machines, similar to using a debit card. Additionally, you can locate surcharge-free ATMs across Hawaii through the Allpoint® network to access cash benefits, if applicable to other assistance programs you may be receiving. You can find the nearest participating ATM and retailer locations by visiting ebtEDGE.com.
SNAP Eligibility in Hawaii: Do You Qualify for Food Stamps?
To receive food stamps in Hawaii, households must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements are in place to ensure that benefits reach those who are most in need. Eligibility is based on factors such as income, household size, and residency status.
Key Eligibility Factors:
- Residency: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or certain qualified non-citizens, including those admitted for permanent residency.
- Income Limits: There are both gross and net income limits based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPL), which are updated annually. Hawaii SNAP uses both 130% and 100% of the FPL for gross and net income limits respectively, with some exceptions under Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE).
- Household Composition: The size and makeup of your household are considered when determining eligibility and benefit amounts.
Detailed income limits are provided in the tables below. Remember that these are general guidelines, and a DHS intake worker will make the final eligibility determination based on your specific circumstances.
Applying for Food Stamps in Hawaii: Your SNAP Application Guide
Applying for food stamps in Hawaii is a straightforward process. The Department of Human Services offers multiple ways to submit your application to ensure accessibility.
How to Apply for Food Stamps Hawaii:
- Online Application: The quickest and most convenient method is to apply online through the ONLINE APPLICATION PORTAL. This portal offers multi-language access for your convenience.
- Paper Application: If you prefer a paper application, you can download and print the form DHS-1240 Application for Financial & SNAP Assistance.
- Mail or Drop-off: Completed paper applications can be mailed or dropped off at a processing center.
SNAP BENEFITS and FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE APPLICATION – SNAP RECERTIFICATION
(Multi-language access is available)
What to Expect After Applying:
Upon submitting your application, you will receive a receipt with a tracking number, confirming that DHS has received your application. A DHS representative will then contact you to schedule an interview. Due to application volume, processing times may vary.
If you are unable to apply online, you may download and print this paper form application – click here
Submitting Your Application:
- Apply Online: Use the ONLINE APPLICATION for the fastest service.
- U.S. Postal Mail: Mail your completed paper form.
- Drop Off: Deliver your paper form to a processing center.
For more details on what happens after you apply, refer to the guide: WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I APPLY FOR BENEFITS [updated July 2020].
If you are already a SNAP recipient and need to recertify, you can also use the online portal or paper application form. Paper applications are available for pickup at all State processing centers. To find a processing center near you, click here: Processing Center Locations.
Hawaii Food Stamps Income Limits and Eligibility Standards (2024-2025)
To determine if you are eligible for food stamps in Hawaii, review the income limits below, effective October 1, 2024. These tables outline both Gross Monthly Income and Net Monthly Income limits based on household size.
NOTICE: EBT (SNAP) Magnetic Stripe Issue for New Cards Received 11/09/20 – 11/17/20
SNAP Gross Monthly Income Eligibility Standards (Effective 10/1/2024)
| Household Size | 130% Federal Poverty Level | 200% Federal Poverty Level (BBCE) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,876 | $2,886 |
| 2 | $2,546 | $3,918 |
| 3 | $3,217 | $4,950 |
| 4 | $3,887 | $5,980 |
| 5 | $4,558 | $7,012 |
| 6 | $5,229 | $8,044 |
| 7 | $5,899 | $9,076 |
| 8 | $6,570 | $10,108 |
| Each additional member | +$671 | +$1,032 |
SNAP Net Monthly Income Eligibility Standards (Effective 10/1/2024)
| Household Size | 100% Federal Poverty Level |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,443 |
| 2 | $1,959 |
| 3 | $2,475 |
| 4 | $2,990 |
| 5 | $3,506 |
| 6 | $4,022 |
| 7 | $4,538 |
| 8 | $5,054 |
| Each additional member | +$516 |
Note: These Federal Poverty Level (FPL) charts are for reference only. An intake worker will determine your final eligibility category.
Understanding Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE):
BBCE allows more families to qualify for food stamps in Hawaii. Under BBCE, the gross income limit expands to 200% FPL, and there is no asset limit. Furthermore, as of February 1, 2025, households meeting BBCE criteria are not subject to the net income test. Most households become eligible for BBCE upon receiving a copy of the DHS 1464 (TANF Brochure).
Additional SNAP Eligibility Criteria in Hawaii
Beyond income limits, other factors contribute to SNAP eligibility:
- Categorical Eligibility: Households where all members receive TANF or SSI cash assistance are automatically eligible for SNAP, regardless of income or asset limits.
- Net Income Test: Households without elderly or disabled members must meet the net monthly income limit, which is 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Net income is calculated after deductions for certain expenses like childcare and housing costs. Households with elderly or disabled members are only subject to the net income test.
- Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must meet specific work requirements to maintain SNAP benefits.
- Social Security Number: All household members must provide or apply for a Social Security number.
FRAUD ALERT USDA Warns of Text Scam Targeting SNAP Recipients
SNAP Program Data and Resources for Hawaii Residents
Stay informed about the SNAP program in Hawaii with these updated resources:
- Monthly Application Timeliness Rates: FFY 2024 (Updated Monthly)
- Monthly Participation Rates: SFY 2024 (Updated Monthly)
- Archive SNAP Data: Access historical data on participation and timeliness rates (links provided in the original article).
- Employment and Training (E&T) State Plan: FFY 2025 Approved Plan
- Rights and Responsibilities: Hawaii Financial and SNAP Benefits
- SNAP Quality Control: Brochure
- Hawaii EBT Program Information: EBT Program Page
- SNAP Nondiscrimination Policy: Nondiscrimination Page
- SNAP Outreach Contact Information: Outreach Providers
This guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of food stamps in Hawaii. If you believe you may be eligible, we encourage you to apply and access this valuable resource for nutritional assistance. For further assistance, contact the Public Assistance Toll Free Information Line at 1-855-643-1643.
