How to Renew or Recertify SNAP Benefits in Missouri

Renewing your SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits in Missouri is called recertification. It’s the process your household must complete regularly so the state can confirm you’re still eligible and determine your new benefit amount.

This guide explains how SNAP recertification in Missouri typically works, what to expect, which documents to gather, and how to avoid common problems. It is for general information only. HowToGetAssistance.org is not a government agency, cannot take applications, and cannot renew your benefits. To recertify, you must go through Missouri’s official SNAP office or online portal.

SNAP Recertification in Missouri: The Basics

What is SNAP recertification?

Recertification is a required review of your:

• Household members
• Income and expenses
• Living situation (address, rent, utilities)
• Citizenship or immigration status (where applicable)

Missouri uses this information to decide:

• Whether you still qualify for SNAP
• How much you will receive each month
• How long your next certification period will last

If you do not complete recertification by the deadline, your SNAP benefits usually stop at the end of your current certification period.

Who handles SNAP in Missouri?

SNAP in Missouri is run by the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS), Family Support Division (FSD).
Depending on where you live, you might work with:

• A local FSD office
• A statewide call center or hotline
• The official Missouri online benefits portal

Names and numbers can change, so it’s safest to check the official Missouri state government website or call 211 for help finding the correct SNAP office.

When and How Often You Must Recertify

How often do you need to renew SNAP in Missouri?

Most households must renew SNAP every 6 to 12 months, but the exact period can vary based on:

• Household income
• Age and disability status of members
• Work status and other factors

Your approval notice or current benefit letter typically lists:

• Your certification end date
• Your recertification due date
• Instructions for how to renew

If you are unsure, you can call your local Family Support Division office or check your online account on the official Missouri benefits portal.

Watch for recertification notices

Missouri typically sends a recertification notice before your benefits period ends. This may arrive:

• By mail
• Through your online account
• By text or email alerts, if you signed up for them

The notice usually includes:

• Your deadline
• What form or packet you need to complete
• Whether you must complete an interview

If you move or change your mailing address, it’s critical to update your address with the state agency as soon as possible so you receive these notices.

Ways to Recertify SNAP in Missouri

Missouri usually offers several ways to recertify. The options below are typical, but always confirm with your local office or the state’s official website:

Not every method will be available to every household; some steps may still require you to submit documents, even if you talk to a worker by phone.

Step-by-Step: How to Renew SNAP in Missouri

1. Check your deadline

Locate your:

• Certification end date
• Recertification due date

These can be found:

• On your approval or benefit letter
• In your online account
• By calling your local Family Support Division office

⚠️ Important: If you submit your recertification after your certification end date, your benefits may stop, and you might have to complete a new application instead of a simple renewal.

2. Gather required information and documents

Missouri generally requires the same kinds of information each time you recertify. Having everything ready can speed up the process.

Common information:

• Names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers (if available) for everyone in your SNAP household
• Current address and phone number
• Monthly income for each adult (job, self-employment, benefits)
• Expenses such as rent, mortgage, utilities, child care, and certain medical costs

Common documents you may need:

• Proof of identity (driver’s license, state ID, passport)
• Social Security cards or official SSN documents (if requested)
• Proof of income, such as:
  • Recent pay stubs (usually last 30 days)
  • Self-employment records
  • Benefits letters (Social Security, unemployment, SSI, VA, etc.)
• Proof of rent or mortgage:
  • Lease agreement, mortgage statement, or rent receipt
• Utility bills:
  • Electric, gas, water, trash, phone, internet (if counted)
• Child care expenses:
  • Receipts or written statement from the provider
• Medical expenses (for elderly or disabled members, when allowed):
  • Bills, receipts, pharmacy printouts, insurance premium statements

Your notice or local office can tell you exactly what is required in your case.

3. Complete the recertification form

You will usually need to fill out a recertification form or renewal packet. This might be:

• A paper form mailed to you
• An online recertification form available through the official portal

When completing the form:

• List all people who eat and live with you (as required for a SNAP household)
• Report current income as accurately as possible
• Update any changes since your last application:
  • Moved to a new address
  • Someone joined or left your household
  • Started or stopped a job
  • Changes in child care or medical expenses

Be sure to sign and date the form. Unsigned forms can cause delays or denials.

4. Submit the form and documents

Follow the instructions in your recertification notice. You may be able to:

• Upload documents online
• Mail copies (not originals) to the address listed
• Fax them to the provided fax number
• Drop them off at a local FSD office

If you mail or drop off documents, write your full name and case number (if you have it) on every page, so they can be matched to your case.

5. Complete your interview (if required)

Missouri typically requires a recertification interview for SNAP. This may be:

• By phone
• In person at a local office

During the interview, a worker may:

• Review your household information
• Ask about changes in income, expenses, or people in the home
• Request clarification or additional documents

If you miss your scheduled interview:

• Call as soon as possible to reschedule
• If you do not complete the interview by the recertification deadline, your benefits may end

What Happens After You Recertify

Processing and decision

After the state receives your:

• Completed recertification form
• Required documents
• Interview (if required)

They will review your eligibility. In many cases, you will receive:

• A notice of decision in the mail or online
• An update to your benefit amount
• A new certification period (for example, another 6 or 12 months)

If your recertification is approved, your EBT card is usually reloaded each month as long as you continue to meet program rules.

If your recertification is denied, the notice should explain:

• The reason for denial
• The effective date your benefits end
• Your rights to appeal

Common Reasons SNAP Recertification Gets Delayed or Denied

Several issues commonly cause problems during Missouri SNAP recertification:

• Missed deadlines
  • Form, documents, or interview not completed by the due date
• Missing documents
  • No proof of income, rent, or identity
• Incomplete forms
  • Required sections left blank or unsigned
• Unreported changes
  • Not reporting that someone left or joined the household
  • Not reporting new employment or income
• Difficulty contacting you
  • Phone number or address not updated, so you miss calls or notices

If you think your case was closed by mistake or you had a good reason for missing a step, contact your local FSD office as soon as possible to ask what options you may have.

How to Appeal a Denial or Benefit Reduction

If your recertification is denied or your benefits are reduced and you disagree, Missouri typically allows you to:

1. Request a fair hearing (appeal)

   • Follow the instructions on your denial or change notice.
   • You usually must request a hearing within a specific number of days (often around 90 days, but check your notice).

2. Submit your request in writing or by phone

   • Some people write a brief letter; others use a state form or call the number on the notice.
   • Keep a copy of anything you send and note the date you sent it.

3. Prepare for the hearing

   • Gather documents that support your case: pay stubs, bills, letters, etc.
   • You may be able to get free help from legal aid organizations in Missouri.

Your notice from the state should include details about how to request a hearing and what to expect.

If You Miss the Recertification Deadline

If you miss your deadline:

• Your SNAP benefits may stop at the end of your certification period.
• You might need to file a new application for SNAP, rather than a simple recertification.
• In some situations, if you act quickly, you might still be able to complete late steps. This varies and depends on state rules and timing.

To find out your options:

• Call your local Family Support Division office or the state SNAP hotline
• Ask if your case can still be recertified, or if you must start a new application

Alternatives and Extra Help if You Don’t Qualify or Have a Gap

If your SNAP benefits in Missouri stop, are reduced, or you don’t qualify, there may still be other resources:

• Local food pantries and food banks

  • Many communities have nonprofit organizations that provide free groceries.
  • You can call 211 to ask about food resources near you.

• School meal programs

  • Children may be able to receive free or reduced-price school meals through their school district.

• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

  • Provides food benefits and nutrition support for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children who meet criteria.

• Community action agencies or social service nonprofits

  • Some offer emergency food, utility assistance, or guidance on public benefits.

These are not replacements for SNAP but can help if there is a delay or if you are ineligible.

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

Because SNAP involves personal information, it’s important to confirm you are working with official state offices, not private companies or scams.

Here are ways to verify:

• Check the web address
  • Official Missouri state sites usually end in “.gov”.
• Confirm with the state directly
  • Use the phone number listed on your SNAP notice, EBT card materials, or the main Missouri Department of Social Services contact line.
• Be cautious with fees
  • SNAP applications and recertifications are free. Be skeptical of anyone who asks for payment to submit, speed up, or guarantee your benefits.
• Protect your EBT card information
  • Do not share your PIN with anyone.
  • The state may ask for your case number or EBT card number to help you, but they should not ask for your PIN.

If something seems suspicious, you can hang up, close the website, and call the official state SNAP office using a number you trust.

Key Takeaways for Renewing SNAP in Missouri

• You must recertify regularly (often every 6–12 months) to keep receiving SNAP.
• Watch your mail and online account for your recertification notice and deadlines.
• Gather documents early: ID, income proof, rent, utilities, and expense records.
• Submit your form and complete your interview before your certification period ends.
• If your benefits are denied, reduced, or closed, you may have the right to appeal.
• For alternative food help, consider 211, food pantries, WIC, and school meal programs.
• Always use official Missouri government channels to manage your SNAP case.

For specific instructions, forms, and up-to-date contact information, reach out directly to the Missouri Department of Social Services, Family Support Division, or visit Missouri’s official state benefits website.