Apply for SNAP NYC by submitting an application through the ACCESS HRA portal. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), formerly known as food stamps, provides monthly funds on an EBT card to help low-income New Yorkers purchase groceries.

Living in New York City is an endurance sport. Between rent that eats half your paycheck and the price of groceries at your local bodega, making ends meet can feel impossible—especially if you are a new resident, a student, or working a contract job. SNAP is not “charity”; it is a civic utility designed to stabilize the city’s workforce and families. If you are eligible, you should use it.

This guide cuts through the bureaucratic noise to explain exactly how to apply for SNAP in NYC as of late 2025.

What is SNAP in NYC?

In New York City, SNAP is administered by the Human Resources Administration (HRA). Unlike some other states where you might deal with a county office, here everything goes through the HRA’s centralized digital system, ACCESS HRA.

Once approved, you receive a Common Benefit Identification Card (CBIC)—commonly called an EBT card. It looks and works like a debit card. You can use it at almost all supermarkets (Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Key Food), thousands of bodegas, and even many of NYC’s Greenmarkets (Farmers Markets).

Eligibility: Do You Qualify? (2025-2026 Limits)

Eligibility is primarily based on household size and monthly income. In NYC, the income limits are generally higher than the federal standard because the state uses “Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility,” which allows households with slightly higher gross incomes to qualify if they have high expenses (like NYC rent and childcare).

Below are the estimated Gross Monthly Income Limits effective from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026.

Note: Income limits are estimates based on 2025 Federal Poverty Levels (130%-150%). Households with elderly (60+) or disabled members may have higher income limits and no asset test. Always apply even if you are close to the limit.

The “Student Rule” in NYC

If you are a college student enrolled at least half-time, you generally cannot get SNAP unless you meet an exemption, such as working 20 hours a week or participating in a work-study program. New York has specific exemptions for CUNY/SUNY students in certain vocational programs.

Documents You Need to Apply

Before you open the app, gather these documents. You will need to upload photos of them.

• Proof of Identity: Driver’s license, IDNYC, or passport.
• Proof of NYC Residency: Lease, ConEd bill, or a letter from your roommate/landlord.
• Proof of Income: Pay stubs for the last 4 weeks, or a letter from your employer. If you are a freelancer, detailed business records.
• Housing Costs: Proof of how much rent you pay (this helps you get a higher benefit amount).
• Social Security Numbers: For all household members applying. (Note: You can apply for eligible children even if you as a parent are undocumented. See our guide on Navigating NYC’s Immigration Services).

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for SNAP in NYC

Method 1: ACCESS HRA (The Best Way)

This is the “local’s trick” to avoiding the miserable experience of sitting in a government office all day.

1. Download the App: Get the ACCESS HRA mobile app (iOS/Android) or go to the website.
2. Create an Account: You will need an email address.
3. Start “Apply for Benefits”: Select SNAP. The application takes about 20-30 minutes.
4. Upload Documents: Use the app to take photos of your pay stubs and ID. Do this immediately after submitting the application.

Method 2: In-Person or Mail

If you lack internet access, you can visit a SNAP center. Be warned: wait times can be long. You can also print the application (LDSS-4826) and mail it to the Brooklyn central processing unit, but this adds weeks to the process.

The Interview Process (2025 Update)

After you submit your application, HRA must interview you.

• The Call: HRA will usually call you for a phone interview. Pick up unknown numbers in the days following your application—it is likely them.
• On-Demand Interviews: You can sometimes call the HRA OneNumber (718-557-1399) to complete your interview immediately after submitting your application online.
• Waivers: While pandemic-era waivers were common, as of late 2025, expect to do a phone interview unless specific new waivers have been announced by OTDA.

Work Requirements: Good News for 2025-2026

Normally, “Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents” (ABAWDs) are limited to 3 months of SNAP every 3 years unless they work 80 hours/month.

However, in NYC, the ABAWD work requirement is currently WAIVED until February 28, 2026. This means you do not need to prove work hours to keep your benefits right now, regardless of your age or dependent status.

Using Your EBT Card in NYC

Once approved, your card will arrive in the mail (or you can pick it up at a center for immediate use if you qualify for “Expedited SNAP”).

• Bodegas: Look for the “EBT Accepted” sign in the window. Yes, you can buy a chopped cheese (cold) with EBT, but hot prepared food is generally excluded.
• Greenmarkets: NYC Greenmarkets offer “Health Bucks.” For every $2 of SNAP you spend, you get a $2 coupon for fresh fruits and veggies. It’s effectively a 100% match.
• Online: You can use your EBT card on Amazon, Walmart, and even Instacart for grocery delivery in NYC.

FAQ