How to Renew or Recertify SNAP Benefits in Ohio

Renewing, or recertifying, your SNAP (food stamp) benefits in Ohio is how you show the state that you still qualify for help. If you do not complete recertification on time, your Ohio SNAP benefits can stop, even if you are still eligible.

This guide explains how SNAP renewal in Ohio typically works, what to expect, and how to move forward through official state and county offices. HowToGetAssistance.org is an informational site only—it is not a government agency and cannot process SNAP applications or renewals.

SNAP Renewal in Ohio: The Basics

In Ohio, SNAP is managed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) and your county Job and Family Services (JFS) office.

When you first get approved for SNAP, you receive benefits for a set certification period (for example, 6, 12, or 24 months). Before that period ends, you must renew/recertify.

Key points:

• Recertification is required to keep getting SNAP.
• You must complete and submit a renewal form and usually do an interview.
• If you miss the deadline, your benefits can end.
• Renewal can often be done online, by mail, by fax, or in person, depending on your county.

Your exact dates, forms, and options can vary by county, so it’s important to check instructions from your local JFS office or the official Ohio benefits portal.

How Often You Need to Renew SNAP in Ohio

Your certification period is how long your case stays open before you must recertify.

Typical examples (these can vary by household):

• 6 months – Many working-age adults, especially if income is unstable
• 12 months – Some households with stable income or certain circumstances
• Up to 24 months – In some cases, for seniors or people with stable disability income

You can usually find your recertification due date:

• On notices mailed by your county JFS office
• In your online account (through the official Ohio benefits portal, if you use it)
• By calling your county JFS office and asking a caseworker

If you’re unsure, contact your county Job and Family Services office right away so you don’t miss your deadline.

How You’ll Know It’s Time to Renew

Typically, your county JFS office will send you a recertification notice before your certification period ends. This may include:

• A renewal/recertification packet or form
• A deadline to return the form
• Instructions for how to submit (online / mail / fax / in person)
• Information about your interview

⚠️ Important: Not getting a letter does not always stop your deadline. If you think you’re close to the end of your certification period, contact your local JFS office or check the official benefits portal to confirm.

Ways to Renew SNAP in Ohio

Ohio usually gives several ways to complete your renewal. The exact options and forms can vary by county, but commonly include:

1. Online (Through the Official Ohio Benefits Portal)

Many Ohio SNAP households can complete recertification online through the state’s official benefits website.

You can often:

• Fill out and submit your renewal application
• Upload verification documents
• Check for messages or notices from your county

To use this option, you typically need:

• An online account linked to your SNAP case, and
• Access to the internet (via computer or smartphone)

If you have trouble with login or navigation, you can contact the help number listed on the portal or ask your local JFS office for guidance.

2. By Mail or Fax

Many people in Ohio still renew by filling out a paper renewal form and returning it.

Typical steps:

1. Complete all pages of the recertification form sent by mail or picked up from your county JFS office.
2. Attach copies of required documents (not originals, if possible).
3. Send it back by mail to the address on the form or fax to your county office’s fax number.

Tip:
Mail the form well before the due date to allow for delivery time. If you fax it, keep the confirmation page as proof that it was sent.

3. In Person

You can usually renew by visiting your county Job and Family Services office.

This can be helpful if:

• You are unsure how to fill out the forms
• You do not have reliable internet, printer, or fax access
• You want to turn in documents and ask questions at the same time

Before going, check:

• Office hours
• Whether your county recommends or requires an appointment

What You Typically Need to Provide at Renewal

During recertification, Ohio asks for updated information to confirm you still qualify. Plan to provide current details about your:

• Identity
• Household members
• Income
• Expenses
• Living situation

Here are common documents that are often requested. Your exact list may be different based on your situation and your county.

Identity & Household

• Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or other government ID)
• Social Security numbers (or proof of application) for each person applying
• Birthdates for everyone in the SNAP household
• Immigration documents, if anyone in the household is not a U.S. citizen and is applying for benefits

Income

• Recent pay stubs (usually from the last 30 days)
• Employer statement or letter if pay stubs are not available
• Proof of self-employment income (such as ledgers, invoices, or tax forms)
• Benefit award letters:
  • Social Security
  • SSI
  • Veterans benefits
  • Unemployment
• Proof of child support received, if applicable

Expenses

• Rent or mortgage statement
• Property tax and homeowner’s insurance (if you own your home)
• Utility bills (electric, gas, water, sewer, trash)
• Child care or adult care payments, if you pay for care so someone can work or attend training/school
• Child support paid (court orders and proof of payment)

Special Situations

If someone in your household is older (60+) or has a disability, it can be helpful to gather:

• Medical expense records:
  • Pharmacy printouts
  • Health insurance premiums
  • Co-pay receipts
  • Bills for medical equipment or transportation to medical appointments

These can sometimes increase SNAP benefits for eligible households. Ask your caseworker what is needed.

Quick Reference: What You’ll Likely Need

Below is a simple summary to help you get organized. Your county may ask for more or fewer items based on your case.

If you’re missing something, don’t ignore the renewal. Submit what you have, then talk to your county JFS office about how to provide the rest.

The SNAP Recertification Interview in Ohio

Most Ohio SNAP households must complete an interview as part of renewal. This is usually similar to the interview you had when you first applied.

How Interviews Are Usually Done

• Often conducted by phone
• Sometimes in person at the county office
• Scheduled for a specific date and time, which will be listed on your notice

During the interview, a caseworker typically:

• Reviews your renewal form
• Asks about any changes in:
  • Income or jobs
  • Household members
  • Address or rent/mortgage
  • Child care or medical expenses
• Explains any missing documents they still need

If you can’t make your scheduled interview, contact your county JFS office as soon as possible to reschedule. Missing the interview without rescheduling can cause delays or closure of your case.

Important Deadlines and Timing

Your recertification notice should clearly list due dates. These deadlines matter.

Typical timing:

• You may receive a renewal notice about 1–2 months before your certification period ends.
• You are usually asked to submit your renewal before the period ends, often by a specific date in the month.
• If you submit everything on time and cooperate with the interview, your county will try to process your recertification so benefits continue without a break.

If you miss the deadline:

• Your SNAP case may close.
• You might have to reapply as a new applicant, which can cause a gap in benefits.
• Depending on how late you are, your county may still be able to treat it as a recertification if you respond quickly. Contact them as soon as possible to ask.

What Happens After You Renew

Once you submit your recertification and complete the interview:

1. Your county JFS office reviews your case.
   They compare your current information to the program rules.

2. You receive a notice of decision:

   • Approved – Your benefits continue, possibly at the same or a new amount.
   • Denied/Closed – Your case ends, and the notice should list the reasons.
   • Pending – They might ask you for more information or documents.

3. If approved:

   • Your Ohio Direction Card (EBT card) will typically keep working.
   • You’ll receive a new certification period end date.

4. If denied:

   • The notice will usually explain:
     • When your benefits stop
     • Why they were denied or closed
     • How to appeal if you disagree

Common Reasons SNAP Recertification Gets Delayed or Denied in Ohio

Understanding frequent issues can help you avoid problems.

Typical causes of delay or denial:

• Missed deadlines for returning the renewal form
• Not completing the interview
• Missing or incomplete verification documents
• Unreported changes (example: new job or higher income that affects eligibility)
• Providing inconsistent information that the county can’t verify

If you receive a notice saying more information is needed, respond as quickly as possible and keep copies of anything you submit.

If You Disagree With a Decision (Appeals)

If your renewal is denied or your benefits are lowered and you disagree, you usually have the right to request a state hearing (appeal).

The notice from your county should explain:

• How long you have to request a hearing
• How to file the request (often by mail, fax, or at your county office)
• Where to send the request

During an appeal, you may be able to:

• Present documents or information
• Explain why you believe the decision is wrong

Some people choose to ask for help from:

• Legal aid organizations
• Community advocacy groups
• Local nonprofits familiar with SNAP in Ohio

They may be able to explain the process further or help you prepare.

If Your SNAP Case Closed Because You Missed Recertification

If you miss the deadline and your case closes:

1. Contact your county JFS office right away to find out:

   • The exact status of your case
   • Whether they can still treat your paperwork as a late recertification or if you must reapply

2. Ask whether:

   • You can submit anything that’s missing to fix the issue, or
   • You must complete a new application.

3. If you must reapply:

   • You’ll need to go through the application and interview process again.
   • Benefits will not usually be retroactive for the gap period, so acting quickly can help reduce how long you go without help.

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

If your SNAP benefits stop, are reduced, or you don’t qualify after renewal, there may be other resources to help with food:

• Food pantries and food banks – Local nonprofits and churches often provide free groceries.
• Soup kitchens and community meals – Some community centers or charities offer hot meals.
• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) – For pregnant/postpartum women, infants, and young children who qualify.
• School meals – Free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch for eligible students.
• 211 – You can dial 2-1-1 in most of Ohio to reach a referral line that helps locate local food resources and other assistance.

These programs have their own eligibility rules. Contact each program directly or call 211 to explore options near you.

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

Because SNAP deals with personal and financial information, it’s important to be sure you are working with official offices and websites.

Here are some practical tips:

• Official websites for Ohio benefits usually:
  • End in “.gov”.
  • Refer clearly to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services or your county Job and Family Services.
• Official documents:
  • Are mailed from your county JFS office or ODJFS.
  • Include official seals, logos, or return addresses.
• Phone calls and texts:
  • County staff typically identify themselves and may verify your name or case number, but you should be cautious about sharing full Social Security numbers or other sensitive details unless you initiated the call to a published official number.
• Avoid:
  • Websites that ask for payment to apply or renew SNAP.
  • People who guarantee approval or faster processing in exchange for money.
  • Sharing your EBT card PIN with anyone.

If you’re unsure whether you’re on an official channel, you can:

• Call your county Job and Family Services office directly using a number printed on prior notices or listed in government directories.
• Ask the person you’re speaking with to confirm your case details that only the agency should know (without giving new sensitive information first).

Remember: HowToGetAssistance.org is not an official benefits portal and cannot access your case, process renewals, or check application status. All renewals must go through Ohio’s official SNAP agency channels.

By understanding Ohio’s SNAP recertification process, gathering documents early, and watching your deadlines, you can reduce interruptions in your food benefits and stay connected to the help you qualify for through your county Job and Family Services office and the state’s official systems.