To determine if you are eligible for SNAP (known as Food and Nutrition Services or FNS in North Carolina), you must meet specific requirements regarding your household, income, and resources.

1. Basic Eligibility Criteria

You may be eligible for FNS benefits if you fall into one or more of the following categories:

• Have no job or a low-paying job.
• Are elderly (60+) or disabled and have a low income.
• Are currently experiencing homelessness.
• Receive other benefits like Work First Family Assistance (TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

2. Household Rules

Eligibility is calculated based on your “household,” which is defined by who you live and prepare meals with:

• Household of One: If you live alone, are homeless, or have roommates you do not cook and eat meals with, you apply as a household of one.
• Larger Household: If you live with others and prepare and eat meals together, everyone (including children and seniors) must be counted in the household.

3. Income and Resource Limits

FNS eligibility is based on a complex calculation of your household size, total income, and assets.

• Income Limits: There are limits on the amount of money your household can receive monthly.
• Asset Limits: There are also limits on “resources” (property and money you own), though you may still qualify if you own a home or a car.
• Deductions: Case workers will look at your specific expenses, such as medical or shelter costs, to see if they can be deducted from your income to help you qualify.

4. Other Requirements

• Residency: You must be a resident of North Carolina.
• Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or have a certain legal status (undocumented immigrants are not eligible).
• Social Security: You must have a Social Security number or have applied for one.
• Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without children may be required to work or participate in a work program to maintain benefits.

How to Confirm Your Eligibility

Because the calculation is complex, the state recommends that you apply even if you aren’t sure if you qualify. You can check your eligibility or apply through the following channels:

• Online: Apply at ePASS.nc.gov.
• In-Person: Visit the Union County Department of Social Services at 2330 Concord Avenue, Monroe, NC 28110.
• Screening Help: You can contact More In My Basket at the Union County Center (704-283-3737) for an eligibility screening and help with the application process.