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Dear student,
This past year has been financially challenging for many college students, especially given the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are reaching out because you may be eligible for some additional help paying for food, which may make staying in college a little bit easier.
In response to COVID-19, the federal government has expanded access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP benefits (formerly called Food Stamps) for college students like you. The federal government has also increased the amount of SNAP benefits those eligible can receive. The amount of SNAP benefits varies by size of household. The average monthly benefit amount per person in Minnesota is $109.
You are receiving this email and may qualify for SNAP because you have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $0 on your FAFSA application for this year (2021-2022).
Eligible students can use SNAP benefits to buy food through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which functions like a debit card. SNAP can be used to buy eligible food items at supermarkets, local groceries, corner stores, farmers markets and select online retailers such as ALDI, Amazon, Hugo’s Family Marketplace, and Walmart (through Instacart).
SNAP is an entitlement program, which means that every single person eligible for the program will get benefits. SNAP is how many Minnesotans are feeding their families and surviving the pandemic. Access to this benefit has expanded because the federal government understands how critical food access is for college students, so we encourage you to pursue this program if you are eligible.
To learn more, visit the Minnesota SNAP website, or see a list of frequently asked questions.
IMPORTANT NOTE: To be eligible for SNAP, you must also meet additional SNAP rules and income eligibility criteria. For example, if you receive more than half of your meals from a meal plan at your college or University, you are not eligible for SNAP. The table below outlines the income eligibility and monthly maximum benefit for students and families who receive SNAP.
You may need to apply for SNAP with other people you live with, including:
- Your parents - if you are under 22 years old
- If you are parent, your children who are under age 22
- Your spouse
- Anyone else you live with and you share most (2/3 or more) of your meals with them.
Below are the current SNAP eligibility income limits and monthly benefit amounts:
| Household Size |
Monthly Gross Income |
Monthly Maximum SNAP Benefit Amount |
| 1 |
$0 - $1,771 |
$250 |
| 2 |
$0 - $2,396 |
$459 |
| 3 |
$0 - $3,020 |
$658 |
| Each additional member |
+$625 |
+$188 |
Here's how to apply for SNAP:
Option 1. Apply online at mnbenefits.mn.gov. You must create an account to apply. Required documents can be uploaded at the end of your application.
Option 2. You can also print, fill out, and mail a paper form. Applications must be sent to the county or tribe you live in. Addresses can be found here.
If you need one-on-one application assistance, there are community partners who can assist you. You can contact one of many local community partners who serve your area or demographic. Or, you can submit a referral for application assistance using MN Food Helper and a community SNAP specialist will reach out to you.
If you are a member of a household already receiving SNAP, please contact your county or tribal worker to assess your student eligibility. You will need to submit documentation that you meet one of the new temporary exemptions, which may include financial aid notices, the expected family contribution determined by your FAFSA, and other forms from your college with your name on it. You can also bring this DHS-2646-ENG-dform to your financial aid office to fill out on your behalf.
College tuition, rent, and food costs can add up quickly. I urge you to see if you qualify for SNAP. You don't have to choose between paying for tuition and food.
Sincerely,
Commissioner Dennis Olson
Minnesota Office of Higher Education
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