Documents You’ll Typically Need for Connecticut SNAP (Food Stamps)

If you’re getting ready to apply for Connecticut SNAP (formerly called food stamps), one of the most important steps is gathering the right documents. Having these papers ready can make the process smoother and help avoid delays.

This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains the common documents Connecticut SNAP applicants are usually asked to provide, why they matter, and how to handle situations where you don’t have everything. This site is informational only—it is not a government agency, application portal, or benefits office, but it can help you understand what to expect before you contact official Connecticut SNAP offices.

What Is Connecticut SNAP?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps eligible households buy food each month using an EBT card that works like a debit card at most grocery stores and some farmers markets.

In Connecticut, SNAP is administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS). Applications are generally handled online, by mail, by fax, or in person through DSS offices. Exact steps and document requirements can change, so it’s always best to confirm details with your local DSS office or the official state benefits website.

Overview: What Documents Does Connecticut SNAP Usually Require?

While every household is different, Connecticut SNAP applications typically require proof in several main areas:

• Identity
• Social Security numbers (SSNs) or proof of applying for them
• Connecticut residency
• Household composition (who lives with you)
• Income
• Expenses (especially housing and certain other deductions)
• Immigration status (for non-citizens applying)

Here’s a quick reference table to help you see which documents go with which requirement:

What you are asked for can depend on your household situation, so you may not need every single item listed here.

Identity Documents for Connecticut SNAP

Proving Who You Are

Connecticut DSS typically requires at least one document to verify your identity. Common options include:

• Connecticut driver’s license or state ID
• U.S. passport
• Military ID
• Photo school ID (often accepted for students)
• Birth certificate (sometimes used with another document if no photo ID is available)

If you do not have photo ID, DSS may accept a combination of documents, such as:

• A birth certificate or baptismal record
• A letter from a shelter, social worker, or community organization confirming your identity

If you’re unsure, you can contact your local DSS office and ask what they will accept in your specific case.

Social Security Numbers (SSNs)

Who Must Provide an SSN?

In most cases, each household member applying for SNAP benefits needs to provide a Social Security number or proof that they have applied for one.

Typical documents:

• Social Security card
• Official SSA letter showing the SSN
• Social Security award or benefit letter

If someone does not have an SSN:

• You may be asked to show proof that an application for an SSN has been submitted, such as a receipt or letter from the Social Security Administration.
• Household members who do not want to provide an SSN can often choose not to be included in the SNAP household, but their income may still be counted. This is a complex area, so ask your DSS worker for clarification.

Proof of Connecticut Residency

You usually must show that you live in Connecticut and typically apply in the area where you reside.

Common residency documents:

• Current lease or rental agreement
• Rent receipts with your name and address
• Mortgage statement
• Property tax bill
• Utility bill (electric, gas, water, phone, internet) with your name and address
• Official mail from a government agency (e.g., DSS, SSA, DMV) addressed to you in Connecticut

If you are homeless or staying temporarily:

• A letter from a shelter, church, or service provider
• A statement from a friend or relative with whom you are staying can sometimes be used to confirm where you are living and receiving mail.

Documenting Your Household Members

SNAP benefits are based on the household, usually defined as people who buy and prepare food together.

To verify who is in your household, DSS may ask for:

• Lease or rental agreement listing occupants
• Mail for different household members at the same address
• School records showing address for children
• A written statement from a landlord or property manager
• A signed statement from another adult in the home (sometimes used if other documentation is limited)

For children, you may also be asked for:

• Birth certificates to show relationship and age
• Custody or guardianship papers, if applicable

Income Verification for Connecticut SNAP

Types of Income You May Need to Prove

Connecticut SNAP rules consider all countable income in your household. You’ll typically need to show proof for each source.

Common income documents include:

For employment (wages):

• Pay stubs for the last 4 weeks (or a full month)
• A letter from your employer on company letterhead stating:
  • Your start date
  • Your hourly wage or salary
  • Average hours worked per week
• If you were just hired and don’t have pay stubs yet, an offer letter or employer statement may be requested.

For self-employment:

• Business records or profit-and-loss statements
• Recent tax return with attached schedules
• Invoices and receipts showing income and business expenses

For benefits and unearned income:

• Social Security benefit letter
• Unemployment benefit determination or payment history
• Workers’ compensation documentation
• Pension or retirement income statements
• Child support received, with court order or payment records

For no income:

• You may be asked to explain in writing how you are meeting basic needs if you report zero income.
• Sometimes a statement from a person supporting you (friend/family) may help confirm your situation.

Expense Documents That Can Affect Your SNAP Amount

Your SNAP benefit amount may be higher if you can show certain allowable expenses. Not all expenses count, but these commonly do:

Housing Costs

To document housing, you may need:

• Rent receipt or lease agreement
• Mortgage statement
• Property tax bill
• Homeowner’s insurance bill (if not already included in mortgage)
• Condo or association fees documentation (if applicable)

Utility Costs

You may be asked to show:

• Gas, electric, water, sewer, or trash bills
• Heating fuel bills (oil, propane, wood, etc.)
• Telephone or cell phone bill (policies may vary on counting this as a deduction)

In some cases, Connecticut SNAP may use a standard utility allowance rather than requiring exact amounts, but having bills available can still be helpful.

Child Support Paid

If you pay court-ordered child support to someone outside your household, you may need:

• Court order for child support
• Payment records, such as:
  • Wage garnishment statements
  • Cancelled checks or money order receipts
  • Official payment history from the state child support agency

Medical Expenses (For Certain Households)

Households with elderly (60+) or disabled members may receive extra deductions for out-of-pocket medical expenses above a certain amount.

You may be asked for:

• Pharmacy receipts or printouts of prescription costs
• Doctor, dentist, therapist, or hospital bills
• Health insurance premium bills (if you pay them yourself)
• Receipts for medical equipment (e.g., walkers, oxygen, diabetic supplies)

If you think medical costs apply in your household, ask your DSS worker how to document them correctly.

Immigration and Citizenship Documents

SNAP eligibility has specific rules for non-citizens, but not every member of the household must be a U.S. citizen for the household to get some benefits.

For U.S. Citizens

For citizens, you may be asked for:

• Birth certificate
• U.S. passport
• Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship
• Some offices may verify citizenship through electronic data, but you might still be asked for documents.

For Non-Citizens Applying for SNAP

People who are not U.S. citizens but are requesting benefits may need to provide:

• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• I-94 arrival/departure record
• Employment Authorization Document
• Other USCIS (immigration) documents showing lawful status

Important points:

• Household members do not have to provide immigration information if they are not applying for benefits for themselves. However, their income may still be counted if they live and buy food with you.
• Immigration-related rules can be complex. It’s best to ask a DSS worker or an immigration-informed legal aid or advocacy group if you have concerns.

Special Situations and Alternative Documents

Not everyone has standard paperwork. DSS is used to working with people in unstable housing, informal work, or crisis situations.

If You Are Homeless or Lack Standard Documents

You might use:

• A letter from a shelter, outreach worker, case manager, or faith-based organization
• A statement from a person you stay with describing your living situation
• Any official mail you receive, even if it’s to a P.O. box or agency address

If You Work “Under the Table” or Informally

If you don’t get regular pay stubs, DSS might ask for:

• A written statement from the person who pays you (if possible)
• Personal records showing dates and amounts you were paid
• Bank statements showing deposits (if you use a bank account)

Explain your situation clearly during your interview so the worker knows what to request.

If You Are Fleeing Domestic Violence

Safety is the priority. If you are leaving a dangerous situation, tell DSS this as early as possible. They may:

• Help you complete the application without some documents at first
• Allow alternative forms of verification
• Work with you to protect your address or contact information, when allowed by policy

You can also call 211 in Connecticut to be connected with local domestic violence services and legal help.

How to Submit Documents for Connecticut SNAP

Connecticut DSS typically offers several ways to submit documents. Options can change, so check current instructions on the official DSS website or by calling your local office.

Common methods include:

1. Online Upload

   • If you apply through the official Connecticut benefits portal, you may be able to upload scans or photos of documents.
   • Make sure images are clear and readable.

2. Mail or Fax

   • You can send copies (not originals) to the address or fax number listed on your:
     • Application form
     • DSS office information
     • SNAP notice or letter

3. In-Person Drop-Off

   • Many DSS offices allow document drop-off at:
     • Reception desks
     • Drop boxes
   • Ask for a receipt if possible.

Always keep copies of anything you submit, plus any confirmation pages, fax receipts, or drop-off slips.

What Happens After You Apply and Submit Documents

The general process in Connecticut usually looks like this:

1. Application Submitted

   • You apply through the official online portal, by mail, fax, or in person.
   • You can usually submit an application even if you do not have every document yet.

2. Interview

   • Most SNAP applicants complete an interview by phone or in person with a DSS worker.
   • During this interview, they review your information and may tell you exactly which documents are still needed.

3. Verification and Follow-Up

   • DSS reviews your application and documents.
   • You may receive a request for additional verification with a deadline to submit missing items.

4. Eligibility Decision

   • Once the information is verified, DSS sends a written notice that you are either:
     • Approved, with details of your monthly benefit, or
     • Denied, with a reason explained.

Processing times can vary depending on workload and whether your application is expedited (rush processing for certain emergency situations). For the most accurate timeframes, contact the official SNAP hotline or DSS office.

Common Reasons for Delays or Denials

People are often delayed or denied SNAP because of incomplete information, not necessarily because they are ineligible. Some common issues include:

• Missing documents (e.g., no proof of income or rent)
• Unclear or inconsistent information between the application and documents
• Not completing the interview
• Missing deadlines for turning in verification
• Income over the limit for your household size (according to program rules)
• Not reporting all household members or income sources

If you receive a notice saying more information is needed, try to:

• Respond as quickly as possible
• Contact your DSS worker if you cannot get a particular document; they may be able to verify it in another way or give you alternatives.

If You Are Denied or Disagree with a Decision

If Connecticut DSS denies your SNAP application or you disagree with:

• The amount of benefits, or
• A sanction, reduction, or closure,

you generally have the right to request a hearing (appeal).

Typical appeal steps include:

1. Read the denial or change notice carefully, noting:

   • The reason for the decision
   • The deadline to request a hearing

2. Request a hearing:

   • Follow the instructions on the official notice. This might involve:
     • Filling out and mailing a form
     • Calling a listed hearing request line or DSS office

3. Gather documents:

   • Collect any proof that supports your case (pay stubs, rent receipts, letters, etc.).
   • You may bring a representative or advocate, such as a legal aid attorney or social worker.

For help with appeals, you can contact legal aid organizations in Connecticut or call 211 to be connected with local resources.

If You Don’t Qualify or Need Additional Help

If you’re not eligible for SNAP or your benefit amount is low, consider:

• Local food pantries and food banks
  • Many operate through churches, community nonprofits, and regional food banks.
• Community meal programs
  • Soup kitchens or community centers offering free or low-cost meals.
• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
  • For pregnant people, new parents, and young children meeting income and nutritional risk guidelines.
• School meal programs
  • Free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch for eligible children.
• 211 Connecticut
  • By dialing 211, you can get information about local food resources, housing help, utility assistance, and more.

These programs usually have their own documentation requirements, but many use similar proofs: ID, income information, and residency.

How to Make Sure You’re Using Official Connecticut SNAP Channels

Because SNAP involves personal information and financial data, it’s important to confirm you’re dealing with legitimate offices:

• Look for “.gov” in state website addresses.
• When in doubt, call the official Connecticut DSS phone number listed on:
  • State government directories
  • Phone books
  • The back of any EBT card you already have
• Be cautious of:
  • Anyone asking for fees to apply for SNAP (the official application is typically free).
  • Requests for bank account passwords or unrelated financial data.
  • Websites that do not clearly identify a state agency or recognized nonprofit.

If something feels off, you can call 211 to ask how to reach the official SNAP office in Connecticut safely.

By gathering these common documents—proof of identity, residency, income, household members, expenses, and status—before you contact the Connecticut Department of Social Services, you can make the SNAP application process more manageable and reduce the chances of delays. For the most accurate, up-to-date requirements, always confirm directly with your local DSS office or the official state benefits portal.