12/08/2022
Please be advised that non-essential staff located at One Commerce Plaza in Albany are not to report to work on Monday March 7th due to a power issue. To the extent possible, all staff that have telecommuting capabilities are expected to work at home unless use of leave accruals are requested and approved. All employees are reminded to call the OTDA emergency phone number, 1-866-OTDA-911 (1 866-683-2911) or check back here for updates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to many commonly asked questions about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), can be found in this section. Click on each of the questions below to learn more about SNAP.
Probably, the quickest way is to apply for SNAP online at myBenefits.ny.gov or if you live in New York City. After your application is filed, the SNAP office will review your information, conduct an interview, and determine your household’s eligibility for SNAP.
You may also apply in person, by mail, or fax. To find the address and phone number of the SNAP office nearest you, call the toll-free New York State Temporary Assistance Hotline at 1-800-342-3009. By following the prompts on the automated caller response system, you can find the address and phone number of the SNAP office for where you live.
You can also choose the option to speak to an operator, and they will give you the information about the SNAP office for where you live. You may also find a listing for your county Department of Social Services in the blue pages of government office listings in your phone book. If you live in New York City, you should look for the listings of the Human Resources Administration. You may also visit the following websites: Local Departments of Social Services or New York City SNAP Centers.
In many locations throughout New York State, there are community organizations that can help you get and complete an application for the SNAP Program. Most of these iamnaughty organizations can also screen you to see if you might be eligible. For a list of these organizations visit the Nutritional Outreach Educational Providers website. The current SNAP/Food Stamp Application is also available from this site in English, Arabic, Chinese, Haitian/Creole, Korean, Russian and Spanish.
How do I go about getting SNAP?
If you want to find out if you may be eligible to receive SNAP, visit myBenefits.ny.gov and click on Am I Eligible? to use the SNAP pre-screening eligibility tool. Please note: This pre-screening tool is not an application for SNAP.
In order to apply for SNAP, you need to file an electronic or paper application with your local county Department of Social Services, or, if you live in one of the five boroughs of New York City, with your local SNAP Center.
If you decide to submit a paper application, the SNAP office must give you an application form on the same day you ask for one. The office also must accept and register your application on the same day you turn it in.
You may submit, and the SNAP office must accept, your application as long as you have filled in your name, address and telephone number (if you have one) and signed the application. However, you should try to provide as much information as you can. Whatever information you cannot provide, a SNAP worker can help you complete at your eligibility interview.