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

Applying for Maryland SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, sometimes called “food stamps”) usually goes more smoothly when you gather your paperwork in advance. This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains the types of documents Maryland households are commonly asked to provide, why they matter, and what to do if you are missing something.

HowToGetAssistance.org is not a government agency and not an application site. This article is meant to help you understand the process so you can work more confidently with Maryland’s official SNAP offices and online systems.

Quick Overview: What Maryland SNAP Is

SNAP is a federal nutrition program run in Maryland by the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) through local Department of Social Services (DSS) offices. SNAP usually provides monthly benefits on an EBT card that can be used to buy eligible food at participating stores and some farmers markets.

You generally need to:

• Live in Maryland
• Meet income and resource limits (which vary by household size, age, and disability status)
• Be a U.S. citizen or qualifying noncitizen for each person receiving benefits
• Provide required verification documents

The exact details can vary, so the official Maryland DHS website, your local DSS office, or the SNAP customer service line are the best sources for current rules.

Why Documents Matter for Maryland SNAP

Maryland SNAP offices typically have to verify key facts about your household before approving benefits:

• Who lives with you
• How much income and resources you have
• Your identity and immigration status (if applicable)
• Your housing and utility costs

If you don’t submit enough documentation, your case may be:

• Delayed while the office waits for more information
• Denied if you do not respond or cannot verify required details in time

Knowing what to gather ahead of time can make the process faster and less stressful.

Main Document Categories for Maryland SNAP

Most Maryland SNAP applications will involve documents in these core categories:

1. Identity
2. Social Security number (SSN)
3. Citizenship or immigration status
4. Maryland residency
5. Household composition (who lives with you)
6. Income (earned and unearned)
7. Resources/assets (in some cases)
8. Housing and utility costs
9. Childcare, medical, and other allowable expenses (when applicable)

Below is a closer look at each category and the types of documents that are typically accepted.

1. Proof of Identity

Maryland SNAP usually requires proof of identity for the person applying (and sometimes for other adult members).

Common examples:

• Maryland driver’s license or state ID card
• U.S. passport
• Military ID
• Tribal ID
• School ID (for older students)
• Work ID badge with name and photo
• Birth certificate (often used alongside another document)

If you do not have a photo ID, local offices sometimes accept other combinations, such as a birth certificate together with a Social Security card or another official document. The exact options can differ by office, so it helps to ask your local DSS office what they will accept.

2. Social Security Number (SSN) Documentation

Usually, each person in the household who is applying for SNAP must provide or apply for a Social Security number.

Common proof:

• Social Security card
• Official letter from the Social Security Administration showing your SSN
• SSA-1099 form or other official SSA notices showing the SSN

If someone does not yet have a Social Security number, the SNAP office may instruct you to apply through the Social Security Administration, then share proof that you have applied.

3. Citizenship or Immigration Status

For each person who is applying for benefits, Maryland SNAP typically must verify citizenship or qualifying immigration status.

Typical documents:

For U.S. citizens:

• U.S. birth certificate
• U.S. passport
• Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship
• Certain tribal documents

For noncitizens (if eligible):

• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card, Form I‑551)
• I‑94 Arrival/Departure record
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
• Other USCIS-issued documents showing lawful status

People in a household who do not want to share immigration information can usually choose not to be included as SNAP recipients. However, their income may still count when determining eligibility for other household members. The official SNAP office can explain how this works in detail.

4. Proof of Maryland Residency

You typically must show that you live in Maryland and intend to stay.

Common proof of address:

• Lease agreement or rental contract
• Mortgage statement or property tax bill
• Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) with your name and address
• Official mail (for example, from a government agency, school, or insurance)
• Letter from a shelter or transitional housing program if you are staying there

If you are homeless or do not have a stable address, SNAP rules still may allow you to qualify. Talk with your local DSS office about what they will accept, such as a letter from a shelter or a person you are staying with.

5. Household Composition (Who Lives with You)

Maryland SNAP bases eligibility on the household unit, which is generally people who buy and prepare food together. The office may request documents to verify who lives in the home and relationships.

Common documents:

• Birth certificates for children
• School records showing the child’s address
• Custody or guardianship papers
• Marriage certificate or divorce decree
• Adoption papers
• A signed statement from a landlord or roommate confirming who lives there (when other proof is limited)

If your situation is complicated (shared custody, informal living arrangements, or frequent moves), be prepared to explain your living situation during the interview and provide any paperwork you do have.

6. Proof of Income

Income is one of the most important factors for Maryland SNAP. You will usually need to verify all sources of income for every household member.

Earned Income (from a job)

Common documents:

• Pay stubs (typically the last 4 weeks, or last 30 days, depending on your pay schedule)
• Letter from employer on company letterhead stating:
  • Pay rate
  • Average hours worked
  • How often you are paid
• Work schedule or contract showing hours and pay rate (for new jobs)

If you are self-employed (for example, gig work, rideshare, babysitting, freelance):

• Business records or invoices
• Self-employment ledger or a written record of income and expenses
• Recent tax return (Schedule C or other applicable forms)

Unearned Income

Unearned income is money that does not come from working a job. Common examples:

• Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability benefits
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Veterans benefits
• Unemployment insurance payments
• Workers’ compensation
• Pensions or retirement account distributions
• Child support or alimony received
• Cash assistance from state programs (such as Temporary Cash Assistance in Maryland)

Typical documents for unearned income:

• Official award letters or benefit determination letters
• Bank statements showing regular deposits
• Unemployment benefit statements
• Court orders for child support or alimony, with proof of payments received

7. Resources and Assets (When Applicable)

SNAP rules on resources (assets) can vary based on factors like household composition, age, and disability. Some households in Maryland may need to verify:

• Bank account balances
• Cash on hand
• Stocks, bonds, or mutual funds
• Additional real estate (other than your primary home)

Common documents:

• Bank statements for checking and savings accounts
• Investment account statements
• Property tax bills or deeds for second properties

Some households (for example, those with older or disabled members) may have different rules. Your local DSS office or the official Maryland SNAP information line can clarify whether resource limits apply to you.

8. Housing and Utility Expenses

Your housing and utility costs can affect your benefit amount, because they help determine your deductions.

Typical documents:

• Lease or rental agreement, including amount of rent and what utilities are included
• Mortgage statement
• Property tax bill and homeowner’s insurance bill (if you own your home)
• Recent utility bills:
  • Electric
  • Gas or heating fuel
  • Water/sewer
  • Trash
  • Telephone or cell phone (in some cases)

If you share housing or utilities with others, the office may ask you to explain how bills are split and whether you cook and shop together.

9. Childcare, Adult Care, and Medical Expenses

Certain expenses can increase your SNAP benefit because they reduce your “countable” income. Maryland SNAP may ask for documentation if you claim these deductions.

Childcare and Adult Care

If someone in the household pays for childcare or care of a disabled adult so they can work, attend school, or look for a job, you may need:

• Receipts from daycare, babysitters, or after-school programs
• Statements from caregivers with:
  • Name of caregiver
  • Amount paid
  • How often payment is made

Medical Expenses (for elderly or disabled members)

For household members who are 60 or older or receive disability benefits, certain out-of-pocket medical expenses over a specific amount may count as deductions.

Common documents:

• Pharmacy printouts showing prescription costs
• Bills from doctors, clinics, hospitals, or therapists
• Receipts for medical supplies or equipment
• Health insurance premium statements

You are usually not required to claim these deductions, but if your medical expenses are high, documenting them may increase your SNAP benefits.

Summary Table: Common Maryland SNAP Documents by Category

This table is a general guide. Your official Maryland SNAP office is the final authority on which documents they accept.

How to Apply for Maryland SNAP and Where Documents Fit In

Maryland offers several ways to start your SNAP application. Processes can update over time, so it is important to confirm details through official channels.

Typical options include:

1. Online application through Maryland’s official benefits portal
2. Paper application submitted by mail, fax, or in person to your local Department of Social Services (DSS)
3. In-person help at a local DSS office

When you apply, you will usually:

1. Fill out the application form with basic information about your household.
2. Submit available documents with the application (upload, attach, or bring copies).
3. Complete an interview, often by phone, where a caseworker may request additional documentation.
4. Send in any missing documents by the deadline given, using the methods allowed by your local office (for example, upload, mail, fax, drop-off).

You can find the correct local DSS office by checking the Maryland Department of Human Services website or calling the state’s SNAP hotline or 211 for guidance.

What Happens After You Apply

After your application is received:

• A caseworker reviews your form and documents.
• You usually have a phone or in-person interview.
• The worker may send you a notice requesting more information if something is missing or unclear.
• Once the office has enough information, they make a decision on your SNAP eligibility.
• You receive a notice of approval or denial, typically by mail or through the online portal if you signed up for electronic notices.

If approved:

• You are usually sent an EBT card (if you do not already have one).
• The decision notice explains how much you will receive each month and how long your certification period lasts (for example, 6 or 12 months).

You will need to report certain changes (like income increases or address changes) and complete periodic renewals. Renewals also typically require updated documents.

Common Document-Related Problems and How to Avoid Them

People applying for Maryland SNAP often experience delays or denials for reasons related to paperwork. Common issues include:

• Missing pay stubs or income proof
• Not turning in requested documents by the deadline
• Unreadable or incomplete copies (for example, cut-off pages or blurry photos)
• Not explaining self-employment income clearly
• No proof of address when bills or leases are in someone else’s name

To avoid these problems:

• Gather documents early, before or while you complete the application.
• If you cannot get something, tell your caseworker and ask what alternatives might be accepted.
• When submitting documents, try to:
  • Send complete pages
  • Make sure the name, date, and amounts are clearly visible
• Keep your own copies of everything you submit, including any cover pages.
• Check your mail, voicemail, and online portal messages regularly for requests from the SNAP office.

If Your Maryland SNAP Application Is Denied or Delayed

If you receive a denial or reduction notice:

1. Read the notice carefully. It usually lists the reason (for example, missing documents, income too high, or incomplete interview).
2. If the problem is missing information, you may be able to submit the documents and reapply or ask for reconsideration, depending on the timeline and the rules in effect.
3. If you disagree with the decision, you typically have the right to request a fair hearing (appeal).

Maryland SNAP notices usually explain:

• How to request a hearing
• Where to send your request
• Deadlines for filing

You can also contact your local DSS office, the Maryland DHS customer service line, or local legal aid organizations for guidance on appeals.

If You Don’t Qualify for Maryland SNAP

If you learn that you are not eligible for SNAP or your benefit amount is lower than you expected, there may be other resources worth exploring:

• Food pantries and food banks (often listed by calling 211 in Maryland)
• Community meal programs run by local nonprofits, faith-based groups, or community centers
• WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) if you are pregnant, postpartum, or have young children
• School meal programs (free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch) for school-age children
• Local faith-based or charity assistance for emergency food and basic needs

These programs each have their own eligibility rules and documentation requirements. When you contact them, ask what documents you should bring.

Protecting Yourself: How to Be Sure You’re Using an Official SNAP Channel

Because SNAP is a government benefit, it is important to be sure you are communicating with legitimate offices.

Here are some ways to protect yourself:

• Never pay a fee to apply for Maryland SNAP. The application process is free.
• Use the Maryland Department of Human Services website, the state’s official benefits portal, or your local DSS office to start your application or ask questions.
• If you receive texts, emails, or calls offering guaranteed approval or faster benefits for a fee, treat them as suspicious.
• If you’re unsure whether a site or phone number is official:
  • Call 211 and ask to be connected to your local Maryland SNAP office.
  • Look up the Maryland Department of Human Services through a trusted directory or government resource.

Remember, HowToGetAssistance.org is an independent informational resource. It cannot process applications or check your case status. To take the next step, you will need to work with Maryland’s official SNAP agencies and portals.

By gathering the identity, income, residency, and expense documents listed above and staying in close contact with your local Maryland SNAP office, you can usually move through the application or renewal process more smoothly and with fewer delays.