Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Are College Students Eligible for SNAP?

In order to qualify for this benefit program, an individual must be a resident of the state of Nevada and meet one of the following requirements:

• The individual has a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $2,001, or
• The individual has a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $3,001 who share their household with one of the following:
  • A person or persons age 60 and over or
  • A person with a disability (a child, your spouse, a parent, or yourself).

Education assistance that is made payable directly to the financial institution or institution of higher learning does not count as income.

Work & Student Status

In December 2020, Congress passed legislation that temporarily changes SNAP eligibility requirements for college students. College students enrolled at least half-time and who meet income and eligibility requirements can now qualify for SNAP. If you think you might qualify for SNAP, call the Food Bank of Northern Nevada at (775) 331-3663 to learn more.

How Do I Apply?

You don’t need to go to an office! You can apply online, and receive your EBT card in the mail.

The quickest and easiest way to apply for SNAP is online through Access Nevada at https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov/

If you are eligible, you will be able to access your SNAP benefits no later than 30 days from the date the office received your application. If you have very little or no income for the month and you need help right away, you may qualify for SNAP benefits within 7 days.

Where/How to Use

• SNAP benefits can only be used to buy food, and plants and seeds to grow food for your household to eat.
• You can use your EBT card to purchase food at any grocery store or farmers’ market that accepts SNAP. Use the map on the FreshEBT app to find grocery stores and farmers markets near you.

This page was last updated on February 26, 2021.