SNAP in North Dakota: Who Qualifies and How Eligibility Works

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low‑income individuals and families buy food. In North Dakota, SNAP is run through the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, but the basic rules come from federal law, so many requirements are similar nationwide.

This guide explains who typically qualifies for SNAP in North Dakota, what factors are considered, what documents you may need, and how to move forward through official state channels. HowToGetAssistance.org is not a government office or application site, but this overview can help you understand what to expect before you contact the state.

What Is SNAP in North Dakota?

SNAP (sometimes still called “food stamps”) provides monthly benefits on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that can be used to buy most groceries at participating stores and some farmers markets.

Key points:

• Benefits are meant to supplement your food budget, not cover every grocery purchase.
• You must apply through the state’s official SNAP office or online benefits portal.
• Eligibility is based on household size, income, resources, and certain expenses.

Who Typically Qualifies for SNAP in North Dakota?

In general, you may qualify for SNAP in North Dakota if:

1. Your household income is within SNAP limits for your household size.
2. Your citizenship or immigration status meets federal SNAP rules.
3. You live in North Dakota and apply in the county where you reside.
4. You meet work requirements, if they apply to you.
5. Your resources (assets) are within the allowed limits, if resource limits apply to your household.

SNAP rules can be detailed, but you do not need to figure it all out on your own. The state agency reviews your full situation during the application and interview.

How North Dakota Defines a “Household” for SNAP

SNAP eligibility is based on a household, not just one person.

A SNAP household usually includes people who:

• Live together, and
• Purchase and prepare food together.

Common examples:

• A single adult living alone → 1‑person household
• Two parents and two children sharing meals → 4‑person household
• Roommates who buy and cook separately may count as separate SNAP households, even if they share an address.

Some people are always part of the same household if they live together:

• Spouses
• Children under 22 living with their parents
• Certain dependents

When you apply, the state will ask who lives with you, who buys and prepares food together, and how you are related.

Income Limits for SNAP in North Dakota

SNAP income rules focus on gross income (before taxes and deductions) and, in some cases, net income (after certain allowable deductions).

Typical income considerations:

• Gross monthly income test: Most households must have gross income below a limit based on household size.
• Net income test: After subtracting certain expenses (like a standard deduction, some shelter costs, and in some cases child care), your net income also must be below a separate limit.
• Some households with elderly (60+) or disabled members may have slightly different rules.

Because income limits change over time, the most reliable way to know your specific limit is to:

• Use an eligibility screener on the official North Dakota benefits website, or
• Contact your local county social services office and ask about the current SNAP income limits for your household size.

What Counts as Income?

When you apply, you usually must report all income, including:

• Earned income:
  • Wages, salary, tips
  • Self‑employment income (after allowable business expenses)
• Unearned income:
  • Social Security benefits
  • Unemployment benefits
  • Pensions or retirement income
  • Child support received
  • Some disability benefits
  • Certain cash assistance programs

Some types of income may be excluded under SNAP rules, but the state agency will decide that. It is important to report all sources of income honestly, then let the worker determine what counts.

Resource (Asset) Limits in North Dakota SNAP

Depending on your situation, resources (also called assets) may also affect eligibility.

Resources that may count:

• Cash on hand
• Money in checking and savings accounts
• Some other financial assets

Resources that usually do not count:

• Your primary home
• Most retirement accounts (such as many 401(k)s and IRAs)
• Most personal belongings and household items
• One vehicle used for transportation in many cases (details can vary)

Households with elderly (60+) or disabled members usually have different or higher resource limits. Not every household is subject to a resource test because of how federal and state rules interact, so workers often review this case by case.

For specific resource limits in North Dakota, it is best to:

• Call the state SNAP information line or
• Speak with your local county social services office.

Citizenship and Immigration Status Rules

SNAP is open to many, but not all, immigration categories.

Typical rules:

• U.S. citizens may qualify if all other requirements are met.
• Many lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and certain other qualified non‑citizens may qualify, sometimes after a waiting period or under specific conditions.
• Some household members may be ineligible non‑citizens, but:
  • They are not required to share certain immigration details to be excluded from coverage.
  • Their income may still count when deciding eligibility for the rest of the household.
• Children who are U.S. citizens may qualify for SNAP even if their parents are not eligible.

If you are unsure about immigration status and SNAP, you can:

• Ask for help from the state SNAP office, or
• Contact a reputable legal aid or immigration assistance organization for guidance.

Work Requirements for SNAP in North Dakota

SNAP rules often include work-related requirements, especially for certain adults without dependents.

General Work Rules

Many adult SNAP applicants must:

• Register for work (this often happens automatically when you apply).
• Accept suitable job offers.
• Not quit a job or reduce hours without good cause.

Failing to meet these requirements can lead to sanctions or loss of benefits.

Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs)

If you are an able-bodied adult between certain ages (often 18–52, but this can change) and have no dependents, you may be subject to stricter time limits and work rules.

Common expectations for ABAWDs:

• Work or participate in qualifying work or training activities for a set number of hours per week, or
• Be limited to a certain number of months of SNAP benefits within a 3‑year period unless exempt.

Some people may be exempt from ABAWD rules, such as:

• People who are pregnant
• Individuals with a verified disability
• People caring for a child or incapacitated household member
• People who are homeless or have certain hardships (depends on specific rules at the time)

Because work requirements and waivers can change, contact your local SNAP office to understand current rules in North Dakota.

Special Rules for Seniors, People With Disabilities, and Students

Households With Elderly (60+) or Disabled Members

If someone in your household is age 60 or older or receives certain disability benefits, there may be:

• Different income and resource rules
• More generous deductions for medical expenses
• Different interview or verification options

If this applies to you, be sure to:

• Report all medical expenses that might be allowable (such as out‑of‑pocket costs above a certain amount).
• Tell the worker about disability status and any benefits you receive (for example, SSI or SSDI).

College Students

SNAP has special eligibility rules for students enrolled at least half‑time in college or certain training programs.

Students may still qualify if they meet certain conditions, such as:

• Working a required minimum number of hours per week, or
• Participating in an eligible work-study or training program, or
• Having a dependent child, or
• Meeting other specific exemptions

If you are a student, ask the local SNAP office for details on current student rules in North Dakota, as these rules can be complex and may change.

Basic SNAP Eligibility Checklist for North Dakota

The table below summarizes the main factors North Dakota typically considers for SNAP:

If you are uncertain about any one factor, you can still apply through the official portal or office and let the agency make a formal decision.

What Documents to Gather Before You Apply

Having documents ready can help your SNAP application move faster and reduce delays.

Commonly requested documents include:

Identity and Residency

• Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, tribal ID, passport, etc.)
• Social Security numbers for household members applying, if available
• Proof of North Dakota address (lease, utility bill, official mail, etc.)

Income

• Recent pay stubs (usually for the last 30 days or more)
• Employer letter or employment verification, if pay stubs are not available
• Proof of self‑employment income and expenses (invoices, records, tax forms)
• Benefit letters for:
  • Social Security
  • Unemployment
  • Workers’ compensation
  • Pensions/retirement
  • Disability benefits
• Proof of child support received or other regular payments

Expenses (Can Affect Benefit Amount)

• Rent or mortgage statement
• Property tax and homeowner’s insurance (if applicable)
• Utility bills (electric, gas, water, sewer, trash, heating fuel, etc.)
• Child care or adult care expenses, if you pay someone to care for a dependent so you can work or attend training
• Medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members (prescriptions, co‑pays, transportation to medical appointments, etc.)

Immigration and Disability (If Applicable)

• Immigration documents for non‑citizen applicants (green card, work permit, etc.)
• Disability award letters or documents showing SSI, SSDI, VA disability, or other disability‑related benefits

If you are missing some documents, you can usually still submit an application, then work with your local office to provide additional proof later.

How to Apply for SNAP in North Dakota

You cannot apply through HowToGetAssistance.org. To apply, you must use official North Dakota channels, which typically include:

1. Online

North Dakota usually has an official benefits portal where you can:

• Create an account
• Fill out a SNAP application
• Upload documents, in some cases

To find this portal:

• Search for the North Dakota Health and Human Services website and navigate to food assistance or SNAP.
• Make sure the site is a .gov address and clearly identifies itself as a state government site.

2. In Person

You can typically:

• Visit your county social services office or local human services zone office.
• Ask for a SNAP application form.
• Get help filling it out, if needed.

County offices can be found by searching for your county name + “North Dakota social services” or “human service zone” and confirming you are on an official government site or using a published government phone number.

3. By Mail or Fax

Many counties allow you to:

• Download and print an application from the state’s official website, or
• Pick up a paper application in person, then
• Mail or fax the completed form to your local office.

If you are unsure which option is available, you can call your local office or the state SNAP information line to ask.

What Happens After You Apply

Once you submit your application through the official channel, this is what usually happens:

1. Application Date Set

   • The date your complete (or even incomplete) application is received is often used as your filing date.
   • Filing as early as possible can matter for when benefits start, if you are approved.

2. Interview

   • Most applicants must complete an interview, usually by phone, sometimes in person.
   • During the interview, a worker reviews your application, asks follow‑up questions, and explains what else is needed.

3. Verification

   • You may be asked to submit additional documents if anything is missing or unclear.
   • There is typically a deadline to provide these items; missing the deadline can delay or deny your case.

4. Eligibility Decision

   • The agency decides whether you qualify and, if so, how much your monthly benefit will be.
   • You should receive a notice by mail (and sometimes electronically) telling you the decision, the amount, and how long your certification period lasts.

5. EBT Card Issued

   • If approved, you receive an EBT card in the mail or from a designated location.
   • Instructions usually cover how to:
     • Activate the card
     • Set a PIN
     • Check your balance

Processing timelines can vary, but many states have rapid processing for emergency (expedited) SNAP when certain very low income or limited resources conditions are met. If you have extremely low or no income, ask your local office whether you might qualify for expedited processing.

Common Reasons SNAP Applications Are Delayed or Denied

Knowing common pitfalls can help you avoid problems:

• Missing documents: Not turning in pay stubs, ID, or other requested proof on time.
• Incomplete application: Leaving important sections blank, such as income or household members.
• Unable to reach you: Missing the interview or not responding to calls or letters from the agency.
• Unreported income: If income is discovered later that you did not report, it can lead to denial, overpayments, or penalties.
• Not meeting work requirements (when they apply): Refusing suitable work, quitting a job without good cause, or not meeting hours for ABAWD rules.
• Over the income/resource limits: If your income or assets are above current program limits.

If you receive a denial or your case is closed, the notice of action should explain the reason.

If You Are Denied: How Reviews and Appeals Usually Work

If you disagree with a decision, you usually have the right to request a fair hearing or appeal.

Typical steps:

1. Read the notice carefully

   • Look for the reason given for denial or reduction.
   • Note any deadline for filing an appeal (often within a set number of days from the date of the notice).

2. Request a hearing

   • Follow the instructions in your notice to request a fair hearing through the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services.
   • You may be able to submit this request by mail, fax, in person, or possibly online, depending on current state procedures.

3. Prepare for the hearing

   • Gather documents, pay stubs, bills, or letters that support your case.
   • You may ask about:
     • Bringing a representative or advocate
     • Using legal aid if available in your area

4. Attend the hearing

   • A hearing officer or judge reviews your case and makes a decision based on SNAP rules and the facts.

During the appeal process, some people may be able to keep receiving benefits until there is a decision, depending on the type of change and how quickly they appeal. The notice should explain if that option applies to you. If not clear, ask your local office directly.

If You Don’t Qualify for SNAP in North Dakota

If you learn you do not qualify, there may be other food assistance options:

• Local food pantries and food banks

  • Often run by community organizations, charities, or faith‑based groups.
  • You can usually find them by calling 211 or contacting local community action agencies.

• Free or reduced‑price school meals

  • Children in qualifying households may still get help through school breakfast and lunch programs.
  • Ask your child’s school office about the application process.

• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

  • Supports eligible pregnant and postpartum individuals, infants, and young children up to age 5 with food benefits and nutrition services.
  • Apply through your local WIC clinic or health department, not through SNAP.

• Community meal programs

  • Some churches, senior centers, or community centers provide free or low‑cost meals, especially for seniors or people in crisis.

Even if you are not eligible now, you can often apply again later if your income, household size, or other circumstances change.

Tips to Avoid Scams and Make Sure You’re Using Official SNAP Channels

Because SNAP is a government program, it is important to be sure you’re dealing with real state agencies, not impostors.

Here are some ways to protect yourself:

• Check the website address
  • Official North Dakota SNAP information should be on a .gov website linked to the North Dakota state government.
• Be cautious with personal information
  • Do not share your Social Security number, date of birth, or bank details with anyone who contacted you unexpectedly by phone, text, or email claiming to offer SNAP benefits.
• EBT card scams
  • No legitimate worker will ask for your EBT PIN.
  • If someone asks for your PIN, treat it as a red flag.
• When in doubt, call directly
  • Use a phone number listed on an official North Dakota government website, on your EBT card, or on official mail from the state.
• Avoid paid “guarantee” services
  • Be wary of anyone who charges a fee and “guarantees” SNAP approval.
  • Application assistance from official agencies and most community partners is typically free.

If you suspect fraud or misuse of your information, contact your local SNAP office or the state EBT customer service number immediately and ask how to protect your account.

Understanding who qualifies for SNAP in North Dakota often comes down to your household size, income, resources, and specific circumstances like age, disability, student status, and work history. If you think you might be eligible, the next step is to contact the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services or your local county social services office and submit an application through the official state process. They can review your full situation and give you an official decision.