SNAP Benefits/EBT
How do I apply for SNAP Benefits?
SNAP is a federal nutrition program administered by the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA). The quickest way to apply for benefits is through the DTA Connect app either by mobile device or desktop by visiting www.DTAConnect.com.
You can also apply by:
- Phone: Call the DTA Assistance Line at 877-382-2363 which is open from 8:15 A.M. to 4:45 P.M. Monday – Friday.
- Mail: Download an application here, complete it, and mail the completed cover sheet and application to:
DTA Document Processing Center
P.O. Box 4406
Taunton, MA 02780
- Fax: Send the completed application by fax to Document Processing Center at 617-887-8765
- In person: Visit a local DTA office or with a contracted community partner.
Who can I contact if I am having trouble with an application or if my benefits have changed?
You can call the DTA Assistance Line at 877-382-2363 (though there may be a very long wait time). Using the DTAConnect app is another way to get up to date information on your case. Also, you can go in person to a DTA office.
Who can I contact if the DTA phone line has a long wait time? Is there an email address?
You can work with contracted SNAP Outreach Partners. Unfortunately, there is no email address for case specific questions. The SNAP-Ed email address cannot address questions about benefits, applications, or interviews.
SNAP-Ed
What is SNAP-Ed?
SNAP-Ed is the education arm of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It is a program managed by DTA in Massachusetts and partnered with other agencies in all areas of the Commonwealth. SNAP-Ed is a community-focused public health program that helps run projects and activities that promote healthy eating and physical activity.
What does SNAP-Ed do?
SNAP-Ed provides classroom education for both youth and adults on topics related to healthy eating and physical activity. Additionally, SNAP-Ed leads community-based projects such as school and community gardens, food pantry updates, and farmers market tours.
Recipes
Where can I find healthy, culturally relevant recipes?
Check out the Recipes page. You can use the filter on the right hand side to sort recipes by different cultural inspirations.
Do you have an easy way to plan out creative meals?
Try these Build Your Own Recipe cards. You can create lots of different meals by plugging in your favorite foods to each category. Also, the first few Cooking Videos on this page can give you some more inspiration.
Do you have tips for busy parents?
About half way down the Cooking Videos page, there are tips to jazz up recipes, eat healthy recipes on the go, and manage tantrums at the table.
Shopping with an EBT Card
Do farmers markets accept SNAP benefits?
Yes! Check out the Farmer’s Market Locator. You can also extend your SNAP benefits with HIP—the Healthy Incentives Program.
How can I save time and money when grocery shopping?
Check out this blog about Shopping on a Budget. If you are looking to save time, you can use your EBT card to buy groceries online. Learn more about the Online Purchasing Program here.
Are there any other benefits with my EBT card?
Your EBT card can get you discounts at many museums and other cultural institutions across Massachusetts. Learn more about the EBT Card to Culture program.
Classes and Activities
Do you have anything to keep my kids busy?
Check out the Just for Kids page. There are coloring pages, book recommendations, and both indoor and outdoor activities.
How do I find out about nutrition education lessons?
Our Implementing Agencies host all the nutrition education lessons and other activities. You can learn more about each Implementing Agency and contact them through the About page.
How do I know what you are doing in my communities?
Check out the Spotlights section. There are often highlights of the work happening with SNAP-Ed throughout all of Massachusetts. You can also connect with our Implementing Agencies through the About page to find out more about their specific community-based activities.