How to Renew or Recertify SNAP Benefits in Wyoming

Renewing SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) in Wyoming is an important step to keep your food benefits from stopping. This process is often called recertification or redetermination.

This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains how SNAP renewal in Wyoming typically works, what to expect, and how to move forward through official state channels. This site is informational only—it is not a government office, and you cannot renew or manage benefits here.

Understanding SNAP Recertification in Wyoming

SNAP in Wyoming is run by the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS). When you first apply, you are usually approved for benefits for a specific certification period (often several months).

Before that period ends, you must renew (recertify) to show that you still meet the program’s rules.

If you do not complete recertification by the deadline:

• Your benefits may stop, and
• You may need to reapply as a new applicant.

Because timelines and procedures can change, always double-check details with your local DFS office or the official Wyoming benefits portal.

When and How You’ll Be Notified to Renew

Typical Renewal Timeline

Most Wyoming SNAP households receive a recertification notice:

• Several weeks before their current certification period ends.
• The notice usually includes:
  • Your due date to submit the renewal form
  • Instructions on how to complete and return it
  • Whether an interview is required

It’s important to watch your mail and any online account messages for this notice.

If You Didn’t Receive a Notice

If you think your renewal date is close but haven’t received anything:

• Call your local DFS office, or
• Log in to the official Wyoming benefits portal (if you use it) to check your case, or
• Call the SNAP customer service/benefits hotline listed on your previous approval letter or EBT paperwork.

Ask them directly:
“When is my SNAP recertification due, and how do I complete it?”

Ways to Renew SNAP in Wyoming

Wyoming generally offers several ways to complete your SNAP recertification. Exact options may vary by area, so confirm with your local DFS office.

Here is a general comparison:

1. Renewing Online

Many Wyoming households can renew SNAP through the official state benefits website. Typical steps:

1. Log in to your online account (or create one, if allowed).
2. Find your SNAP case and look for a recertification or renewal option.
3. Update your information:
   • Household members
   • Income
   • Expenses
   • Address and contact info
4. Upload or send required documents as instructed.
5. Submit before your deadline.

If you are unsure about the official website, call your local DFS office and ask for the correct web address. Avoid websites that charge fees or ask for payment to “process” your SNAP renewal.

2. Renewing by Mail

If you receive a paper recertification form:

1. Carefully read the instructions on the form.
2. Complete all sections, even if nothing has changed.
3. Attach copies (not originals) of required proof documents.
4. Mail the packet back to the address listed on the form.

Try to mail it at least 7–10 days before your due date so it arrives on time. If you can, use a method where you can confirm it was delivered.

3. Renewing In Person

You can often renew at your local DFS office:

1. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment.
2. Bring your recertification form (if you have it) and supporting documents.
3. Ask staff if you can complete the recertification on-site and whether an interview can be done the same day.

This option can help if:

• You find the forms confusing
• You have serious changes to explain (loss of job, new household member, etc.)
• You need to confirm what documents are acceptable

4. Phone-Based Renewal (When Allowed)

In some situations, DFS may handle parts of your recertification by phone, especially the interview portion. You may still need to:

• Mail, fax, or upload proof documents
• Return a signed form, depending on the rules at that time

Ask the DFS representative if phone interviews are available for your case.

Documents You May Need for SNAP Recertification

During recertification, Wyoming DFS will want to confirm that you still meet income, household, and residency rules. You may be asked for updated versions of many of the same documents you used when you first applied.

Common documents include:

Identity and Residency

• Photo ID (for the head of household, if required)
• Social Security numbers (or proof of application) for household members
• Proof of Wyoming residency, such as:
  • Lease or rental agreement
  • Utility bill with your name and address
  • Official mail from a government agency

Income

For everyone in the household who works or receives income, gather:

• Pay stubs (often from the last 30 days or more)
• Employer letter stating hours and pay (if pay stubs are not available)
• Proof of self-employment income (invoices, ledgers, bank statements)
• Benefit award letters for:
  • Social Security
  • SSI
  • Unemployment compensation
  • Retirement or pensions
• Proof of other income, such as:
  • Child support received
  • Alimony
  • Regular financial support from someone outside the household

Expenses (Can Help Increase Your Benefit)

You may be asked for updated proof of expenses, especially if they are high. These can sometimes increase your SNAP benefit amount:

• Rent or mortgage statement
• Property tax and homeowner’s insurance (if not included in mortgage)
• Utility bills (electric, gas, water, sewer, trash, heating fuel)
• Childcare or adult care costs you pay so you can work or attend school
• Medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members (if allowed), such as:
  • Prescription receipts
  • Medical bills
  • Health insurance premiums

Changes in Your Household

Provide proof for any new or changed household members, such as:

• Birth certificates (if requested)
• Proof of someone moving in or out
• Marriage or divorce documents (if relevant to your case)

If you’re not sure what documents are needed, call your local DFS office and ask what to bring for your SNAP recertification appointment or form.

What Happens After You Submit Your Renewal

1. Your Case Is Reviewed

A DFS caseworker will review:

• Your recertification form
• All supporting documents
• Any changes you reported

They will decide whether:

• You still qualify for SNAP
• Your benefit amount should go up, down, or stay the same
• You need to provide more information

2. You May Need an Interview

Wyoming usually requires a recertification interview for SNAP, but there can be exceptions depending on your situation and current policies.

Interviews may happen:

• By phone, or
• In person at a DFS office

During the interview, be prepared to discuss:

• Who lives in your household
• How much everyone earns
• Your regular expenses
• Any recent or upcoming changes (job loss, moving, etc.)

If you miss a scheduled interview, your recertification may be delayed or denied, so call right away if you need to reschedule.

3. You Receive a Decision Notice

After your review is complete, DFS will send you a written notice (by mail and/or through your online account) stating:

• Whether your benefits are renewed
• Your new certification period
• Your monthly benefit amount
• The effective date of any change
• What to do if you disagree with the decision

If you’re approved without a gap, your EBT card will usually keep working as before, with new benefits added on your regular schedule.

Common Reasons SNAP Renewals Get Delayed or Denied in Wyoming

Renewal problems often come from missing information or missed deadlines. Some frequent issues include:

• Recertification form not returned on time
• Required interview not completed
• Missing or incomplete documents, such as:
  • No proof of income
  • No proof of rent or utilities
• Unreported changes that cause confusion (for example, new job or move not explained clearly)
• Information on the form not matching other records

📝 Tip:
If you’re not sure something “counts” as a change, ask your caseworker or local DFS office. It’s usually better to over-report than under-report.

If Your Wyoming SNAP Renewal Is Denied or Your Benefits Stop

If your recertification is denied or your benefits end, the notice from DFS should explain:

• The reason for the denial or closure
• The date your benefits ended or will end
• Whether you can appeal and how to do it
• The deadline to appeal

Appealing a Decision

Wyoming SNAP recipients usually have the right to request a fair hearing if they disagree with a decision. While details can vary, the general steps often include:

1. Read your notice carefully for appeal instructions.
2. Request a hearing before the deadline listed on your notice (often by mail, phone, in person, or through the online portal).
3. Consider gathering:
   • Copies of your recertification form
   • Pay stubs and other income proof
   • Expense proof and any other documents you submitted

You can ask your local DFS office or the number on your notice how to file an appeal, and if any local legal aid organizations can help you.

Reapplying If You Missed the Renewal Deadline

If you completely miss your recertification window, you may have to submit a new SNAP application. This can sometimes mean:

• A gap in benefits
• Possibly a new interview
• Having to submit full documentation again

To avoid this, start your recertification as soon as you get the notice.

Who Typically Qualifies for SNAP in Wyoming (At Recertification)

When you renew, DFS checks many of the same factors as your original application. While exact rules are set by federal law and state policy, they usually consider:

• Household size
• Gross and net income (from work, benefits, and other sources)
• Citizenship or eligible immigration status (for each member)
• Wyoming residency
• Expenses such as housing, utilities, and in some cases medical and childcare costs

If something has changed (for example, you lost a job or your rent went up), your benefit amount could increase. If your income rose significantly or your household changed, your benefit amount could decrease or you could become ineligible.

How to Make Sure You’re Using Official SNAP Channels

Because SNAP deals with your personal and financial information, it’s important to avoid scams or unofficial services.

Signs You’re on an Official Wyoming SNAP Channel

• The agency name is the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) or similar.
• Web addresses, forms, or notices clearly indicate a state of Wyoming or official government source.
• Staff answer the phone using an official agency name.
• You are not being asked to pay a fee to apply, renew, or get more benefits.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Websites or people that charge money to “guarantee approval” or “speed up” your SNAP renewal
• Anyone asking for your EBT card PIN
• Messages or calls from unknown numbers demanding payment or threatening arrest related to SNAP
• Social media pages or messages that do not list an official government office but ask for sensitive data

If you’re unsure, you can:

• Call your local DFS office directly using a number from the phone book or an official state directory
• Call 211, where available, and ask to be connected to the Wyoming SNAP/food assistance office

Other Food Resources If You Don’t Qualify or There’s a Gap

If your SNAP benefits are reduced, delayed, or denied, you may still be able to get help with food.

Common options include:

• Local food banks and food pantries
• Community meal programs or soup kitchens
• Faith-based organizations providing groceries or meals
• School meal programs for children
• Senior meal sites or home-delivered meals for older adults

To find these:

• Call 211 and ask for food assistance resources in Wyoming
• Ask your local DFS office or community action agency for a list of food programs
• Check with local churches, community centers, or shelters

These programs are separate from SNAP and have their own rules and processes.

Key Takeaways for Renewing SNAP in Wyoming

• Watch your mail and online messages for a recertification notice from Wyoming DFS.
• Start early—do not wait until the last few days before your deadline.
• You can usually renew online, by mail, in person, and sometimes with a phone interview, depending on current state procedures.
• Gather proof of income, housing, utilities, and other expenses before you fill out your form or attend an interview.
• If you miss your deadline, your benefits may stop and you may need to reapply.
• If you think a decision is wrong, use the appeal or fair hearing process described in your notice.
• Always go through official Wyoming DFS channels for any changes, renewals, or questions about your case.

For the most accurate and up-to-date instructions about renewing SNAP in Wyoming, contact your local Department of Family Services office or use the official state benefits portal or hotline listed on your previous SNAP or EBT paperwork.