Verifications Needed to Apply For
Verifications Needed To Apply for
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Required Verifications:
ÿ Proof of identity (for primary applicant) : license, passport, Social Security card, or birth certificate
ÿ Social Security Number (SSN): You need the SSN for all members in your household that are applying for food stamps.
ÿ Proof that you live in Massachusetts: driver’s license, or utility bill, or tax forms
ÿ If applicable:
o Earned income: pay stubs showing your earnings before taxes from the last four
weeks or a letter from your employer.
o Other income: proof of Social Security payments, unemployment, pension,
workers’ compensation, and/or child support.
o Self-employment income: most recent tax forms or business records for the last three months.
o Rental income: If you get paid by someone who rents a room or apartment from
you, a copy of the lease agreement or statement from your tenant showing the amount of rent paid.
o Non-citizen status: only if you are not a U.S. citizen (alien card or other
immigration documents).
o Assets: For certain elderly/disabled households and households with disqualified
members, asset information may be required.
Verifications that will help you get more benefits:
The more information you include, the more SNAP benefits you may receive.
ÿ Housing costs
o If renting, submit your current lease, or rent receipt or a letter from your landlord.
o If you own your home, submit a mortgage statement, proof of property taxes, and homeowners insurance.
ÿ Utilities: heat/air conditioning, electric, gas, and/or telephone bills).
ÿ Medical Expenses: only if you or someone in your household is over 60 years old and/or disabled and receiving a disability-based benefits.
o Payments for health insurance, co-payment receipts, transportation costs to doctor appointments or pharmacy, medication (over the counter and prescription).
ÿ Child support payments proof of court-ordered payment.
ÿ Child or Adult care expenses program fees and transportation costs.