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How is SNAP (food assistance) used?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits are used like cash to buy eligible items at any store, supermarket, farmers market or co-op approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. SNAP can only be used for food and for plants and seed to grow food to eat. Sales tax cannot be charged on items bought with SNAP.

Indiana uses an Electronic Benefits Transfer system to distribute SNAP benefits. Benefits are accessed with a plastic Hoosier Works card. The card replaced paper coupons. The Hoosier Works EBT card is similar to commercial debit and ATM cards; it has a unique 16-digit account number, a magnetic strip on the back and only works with a four-digit Personal Identification Number selected by the participant.

The application process, eligibility requirements and the amount of assistance received did not change with the EBT system.

To apply for benefits, please CLICK HERE and select your county for details.

In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs or disability.

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call toll free (866) 632-9992 (Voice). Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.