Catawba County Food Stamp Application: What You Need to Know

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides crucial support for low-income households, ensuring they have access to essential food items. However, with the rise of skimming, it's essential to understand how SNAP benefits can be stolen without your knowledge.

Skimming is a criminal activity where thieves use devices placed over point-of-sale card readers to steal information from payment cards like SNAP EBT and cash assistance cards. This means that even if you're diligent about keeping your card secure, it can still be compromised.

Ohio is among several states being targeted by criminals stealing SNAP benefits. To protect yourself, make sure to regularly check your account balance, transaction history, and report any lost or stolen cards immediately. You can do this by calling 1-86 or visiting The Ohio Direction Card website.

It's also crucial to understand what constitutes 'eligible purchases.' This includes food products, but excludes items like alcohol, tobacco, and prepared meals at restaurants. When making eligible grocery purchases, simply swipe your card through the reader at checkout, and the amount will be deducted from your total monthly benefit amount.

Before using your SNAP benefits, check with your primary grocery store to learn how your card will work. You can use it in most any food store checkout line, just like a credit or debit card. The Ohio Direction Card (also known as the Electronic Benefit Transfer EBT card) is issued and sent to your address once you've been approved for food assistance.

Some households may qualify for SNAP benefits even if their income exceeds the limit, provided someone in the household is elderly or disabled. You can check eligibility requirements on the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities website.

Food Assistance Eligibility

Eligibility for food assistance is complex and based on income guidelines and family size. Both families and individuals may be eligible to receive SNAP benefits. The program helps households meet their basic needs while adults work towards financial stability.

Healthy individuals under 60 can also participate in Food Assistance Employment and Training (FAET) programs, which provide work experience and support to move towards self-sufficiency. Benefits are distributed on an Ohio Direction Card, which can be used like a debit card at the grocery store.

In conclusion, food assistance is crucial for low-income households, providing essential support for healthy eating and basic needs. By understanding how SNAP benefits work and taking steps to protect your account, you can ensure that you receive the help you need to stretch your food budget and achieve financial stability.

Sources:

Federal Food and Nutrition Service

Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities

The Ohio Direction Card website

Catawba county food stamp application