SNAP in Maryland: Who Qualifies and How to Get Started

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Maryland helps eligible households buy food each month using an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Many people know it as food stamps.

This guide explains who typically qualifies for SNAP in Maryland, what factors the state looks at, and what to expect when you go through the official process. It is for general information only. HowToGetAssistance.org is not a government agency, cannot take applications, and does not approve benefits. To apply or check your case, you must use an official Maryland benefits office, hotline, or portal.

What Is SNAP in Maryland?

SNAP is a federal program run day-to-day by states. In Maryland, SNAP is managed by the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) through local departments of social services and the state’s online benefits portal.

If you qualify, you receive monthly food benefits on an EBT card that works like a debit card at most grocery stores and many farmers markets. SNAP is meant to supplement your food budget, not cover all food costs.

Who Typically Qualifies for SNAP in Maryland?

Maryland generally follows federal SNAP rules, with some state-level choices. Whether you qualify usually depends on:

• Where you live
• Household size and members
• Income
• Resources (assets), in some cases
• Immigration status
• Student status (for college/technical students)
• Work requirements for some adults

In most cases, you may qualify if:

1. You live in Maryland, and
2. Your household income is within the SNAP limits, and
3. You meet citizenship or eligible immigration status rules, and
4. You follow any work requirements that apply to you.

Because rules can change, it is important to confirm current details with your local department of social services or through Maryland’s official benefits portal or helpline.

Basic Eligibility: Residency and Household

Maryland Residency

To get SNAP from Maryland, you must:

• Live in Maryland at the time you apply
• Apply only in one state at a time

You do not need to have lived in Maryland for a certain number of months first. You simply must currently reside in the state.

How Maryland Defines a “Household”

For SNAP, a household is usually people who:

• Live together, and
• Buy and prepare most of their food together

Some people are always considered part of the same household, even if they say they buy food separately:

• Spouses living together
• Parents and children under age 22 living together
• Some situations involving minor children and their caretakers

Roommates who live together but truly buy and cook separately might be separate SNAP households. Maryland will ask questions about how food is bought and prepared to decide.

Income Limits for SNAP in Maryland

Gross and Net Income

SNAP looks at two types of income:

• Gross income: Income before taxes or other deductions
• Net income: Income after allowable SNAP deductions (for housing, utilities, dependent care, some medical costs, etc.)

Many Maryland households must meet both gross and net income limits. Some groups (like households with elderly or disabled members) may only need to meet net limits.

What Counts as Income?

Common types of counted income include:

• Wages, salaries, and tips
• Self-employment income
• Unemployment benefits
• Some disability or pension payments
• Certain other regular payments

Some income may be partially or fully excluded under SNAP rules (for example, some educational aid or certain reimbursements). Maryland caseworkers determine what counts and what is deducted.

Because income limits depend on household size and current federal standards, the exact dollar amounts change over time. You can:

• Call your local department of social services,
• Use the official Maryland benefits portal, or
• Call the program’s official hotline

to get the current income charts for SNAP in Maryland.

Resource (Asset) Rules

SNAP sometimes looks at your resources, also called assets. These can include:

• Money in bank accounts (checking, savings)
• Cash on hand
• Some investment accounts

In many states, including Maryland, most households are evaluated under a more flexible policy called broad-based categorical eligibility, which may relax or remove strict asset limits for many applicants.

However, some households may still have to meet federal asset limits, especially if:

• No one in the household is elderly or disabled, and
• The household is not otherwise categorically eligible

Certain items are usually not counted as resources, such as:

• Your primary home
• Most retirement accounts
• One vehicle used by the household (additional vehicles may be evaluated under specific rules)

Because resource rules can be technical and can change, it is wise to ask your caseworker or local office how Maryland is applying resource rules at the time you apply.

Citizenship and Immigration Status for SNAP in Maryland

SNAP has federal rules about who can receive benefits based on immigration status. In general:

• U.S. citizens may qualify if they meet all other requirements.
• Many lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and some other lawfully present immigrants may qualify, often after meeting certain waiting periods or conditions.
• Some non-citizens in the household may not qualify themselves, but their U.S. citizen children or eligible family members still can.

Maryland will typically ask for:

• Proof of citizenship (for example, birth certificate, U.S. passport, or other accepted document), or
• Proof of eligible immigration status (for example, a green card or other official immigration documents)

Undocumented individuals usually cannot receive SNAP for themselves, but having them in the household does not automatically prevent eligible members (like citizen children) from qualifying.

If some members are ineligible due to immigration status, the state will typically count only the income and allowable expenses related to the eligible members, using special calculations.

Work Rules and Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs)

Some adults must follow work rules to receive SNAP.

General Work Requirements

Many SNAP applicants between certain ages who are able to work must:

• Register for work
• Accept suitable job offers
• Not voluntarily quit a job or reduce hours without good cause

These rules often apply to adults 16–59, with several exceptions (such as those who are pregnant, caring for young children, or medically unable to work). Maryland caseworkers explain which rules apply to you.

ABAWD Time Limits

Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) are a specific group, usually:

• Adults age 18–52 (this age range is being phased in and may adjust under federal rules),
• Who do not have dependents they are responsible for in the home, and
• Who are not exempt due to disability, pregnancy, or other reasons.

ABAWDs are often limited to three months of SNAP in a 36‑month period unless they:

• Work or participate in certain work activities for a set number of hours per week, or
• Qualify for an exemption (for example, living in an area with waived time limits, being homeless with documented barriers, etc.)

Maryland may also provide access to employment and training programs to help people meet these requirements. Since these rules can change and may be waived in some counties or time periods, it is important to verify current ABAWD rules with your local office.

Special Rules for Students, Seniors, and People With Disabilities

College and Higher Education Students

SNAP has extra rules for students in college or some vocational programs. In general:

• Students 18–49 enrolled at least half-time in higher education must meet additional conditions to qualify (for example, working a certain number of hours, participating in a qualifying work-study program, or caring for dependents).

Many students assume they are not eligible, but some do qualify, especially those with low income, children, or work obligations. Maryland follows federal student rules, with possible state-specific interpretations. A local office can explain how they apply in your situation.

Seniors (Age 60+) and People With Disabilities

Households with someone who is 60 or older or receiving disability benefits often have:

• Higher income limits or more flexible rules
• Different deductions, especially for out-of-pocket medical expenses over a certain amount

These households might also:

• Have different interview options, such as phone interviews
• Have slightly different recertification periods

If anyone in your household is elderly or disabled, tell the caseworker. Providing proof of medical expenses, disability status, and income can be especially important for this group.

Documents to Gather Before You Apply

Having documents ready can help speed up your application. Maryland’s offices may accept different forms of proof for each item, but typical documents include:

Proof of identity

• Driver’s license or state ID
• Passport
• Other government-issued photo ID

Proof of Maryland residency

• Lease or rental agreement
• Utility bill with your name and address
• Official mail from a government agency

Proof of income

• Recent pay stubs (usually last 30 days)
• Employer letter stating wages and hours
• Unemployment benefit statements
• Social Security income or pension statements
• Self-employment records, invoices, or tax documents

Proof of expenses

• Rent or mortgage statement
• Property tax bill and homeowner’s insurance (if owning a home)
• Utility bills (electric, gas, water, trash, phone, heating)
• Childcare or dependent care receipts
• Medical bills or receipts for seniors/people with disabilities

Proof of citizenship or immigration status

• Birth certificate for U.S. citizens
• U.S. passport
• Permanent resident card (green card)
• Other official immigration documents

Social Security numbers (SSNs)

• Social Security cards, if available, or
• Official documents showing SSNs for all applying household members

If you do not have every document, you can usually still apply, and the local office will tell you what else they need.

Snapshot: Who Commonly Qualifies for SNAP in Maryland?

The table below gives a general overview. It is not a final decision tool, but it can help you see if it might be worth applying.

The only way to know for sure is to submit an application through Maryland’s official channels and complete the eligibility process.

How to Apply for SNAP in Maryland (Official Channels Only)

You cannot apply for SNAP through HowToGetAssistance.org. To apply for SNAP in Maryland, people typically use one of these official options:

1. Online

   • Through Maryland’s official benefits portal (often called “MyMDTHINK” or similar).
   • You create an account, fill out the SNAP application, and upload documents.

2. In person

   • At your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office.
   • You can usually find the nearest office by searching online for “Maryland Department of Human Services local office” or by calling a state hotline.

3. By mail or fax

   • You may be able to print an application from Maryland’s official site or pick up a paper form at a local office, then return it by mail or fax.

4. By phone (in some cases)

   • Some counties or call centers may help you with a phone application. Check with your local office or the Maryland DHS customer service line.

If you are unsure where to start, calling 211 can often connect you with information about the correct Maryland office or hotline for SNAP.

What Happens After You Apply?

After you submit an application through an official Maryland channel, a common process is:

1. Application received

   • Your application is stamped or logged with a filing date.
   • This date can affect when your benefits start if you are approved.

2. Screening for expedited service

   • Some households with very low income or no money for food may qualify for expedited (emergency) SNAP, where a decision is made faster, sometimes within 7 days.
   • You still must provide required information, but the timeline may be shorter.

3. Interview

   • Most applicants must complete an interview by phone or in person with a caseworker.
   • You will be asked about your household members, income, expenses, and situation.
   • This is also your chance to ask questions.

4. Verification of information

   • The caseworker reviews your documents and answers.
   • If something is missing or unclear, you may get a notice asking for more proof, with a deadline to turn it in.

5. Eligibility decision

   • Maryland will send you a written notice stating if you are approved or denied.
   • If approved, the notice typically explains:
     • Your monthly benefit amount
     • Your certification period (how long before you must renew)
     • Any special rules that apply to your household

6. EBT card issued

   • Approved households receive an EBT card by mail or at an office (depending on local procedures).
   • You set a PIN and can then use the card at participating stores to buy eligible food items.

Recertification: Keeping Your SNAP Benefits Active

SNAP approvals are not permanent. Maryland gives you benefits for a set period (often several months to a year). Before that period ends, you must:

• Complete a recertification (renewal) form, and
• Provide updated information and documents

Maryland will usually send a notice explaining:

• When your certification period ends
• When your recertification is due
• How to complete it (online, by mail, by phone, or in person)

If you miss the recertification deadline, your SNAP benefits may stop, and you may need to reapply.

Common Reasons for Delays or Denials

Many people qualify but run into problems that delay or block their application. Common issues include:

• Missing documents
  • Not turning in proof of income, identity, or residency on time
• Incomplete application
  • Leaving important sections blank or not signing the form
• Unable to reach you
  • Missing the interview or not responding to calls or letters from the local office
• Income over the limit
  • Having gross or net income above the current SNAP limits for your household size
• Not meeting work requirements
  • For example, an ABAWD not meeting work-hour rules and not qualifying for an exemption
• Unclear household information
  • Confusion about who lives in the home, how food is purchased, or who is financially responsible

If your situation is complicated (self-employment, shared housing, mixed immigration statuses), it may help to keep detailed records and explain things clearly during the interview.

What If You Are Denied SNAP in Maryland?

If Maryland denies your application, the notice you receive should explain:

• Why you were denied
• Which rules or limits apply
• How to appeal the decision
• Deadlines for filing an appeal

You generally have the right to:

• Ask for an explanation
• Request a fair hearing (an appeal) by contacting the number or address on your notice
• Submit more information that might change the decision

Appeals are handled through official Maryland channels such as the Office of Administrative Hearings or a similar body. You may be able to:

• Present your situation in person, by phone, or in writing
• Bring documents and witnesses
• Have a representative, such as an advocate or legal aid attorney, with you

If you want help, you can contact:

• Legal aid organizations in Maryland
• Community-based advocacy groups
• 211, which may help you locate free or low-cost legal help in your area

Be sure to watch the deadlines. If you miss the appeal window, you may have to submit a new SNAP application.

If You Don’t Qualify for SNAP: Other Food Assistance Options

If you do not qualify for SNAP in Maryland or your benefits are very small, you may still have options:

• Food pantries and food banks

  • Many nonprofits, faith-based groups, and community centers operate free food distributions.
  • 211 or your local social services office can usually provide a list.

• Soup kitchens and community meals

  • Some organizations serve prepared meals on certain days or every day.

• WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children)

  • For pregnant people, new parents, and young children who meet income and nutrition guidelines.
  • WIC is separate from SNAP, has different rules, and is run through Maryland’s health or human services agencies.

• School meal programs

  • Children may qualify for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch at school.
  • Some districts also offer summer meals.

• Senior nutrition programs

  • Programs like home-delivered meals or congregate meals at senior centers may be available for older adults.

Even if you cannot get SNAP, your local department of social services and 211 can often point you toward food programs and other assistance available in your community.

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

Because SNAP benefits are valuable, scams do exist. To protect yourself:

• Do not pay anyone to apply for SNAP.
  • SNAP applications are free.
• Verify websites
  • Official Maryland SNAP or benefits sites usually end in “.gov”.
  • Be cautious of sites that ask for payment or unusual personal details unrelated to benefits.
• Guard your EBT card and PIN
  • Do not share your PIN with anyone who is not officially authorized to use your benefits.
• Use official contact numbers
  • Find phone numbers from:
    • The back of your EBT card
    • Official Maryland DHS materials
    • State government directories
• Watch for red flags
  • Texts or messages promising “guaranteed approval” or asking you to share your full card number and PIN are usually scams.

If you are unsure whether a phone number, office, or website is official, you can:

• Call 211 and ask to be connected to Maryland’s SNAP information, or
• Look up the Maryland Department of Human Services main number and ask to be transferred to the SNAP unit.

By understanding who qualifies for SNAP in Maryland, what documents to gather, and how the process usually works, you can better decide whether to apply and how to move forward through official state channels.