Recent floods in Texas have left thousands of families struggling to rebuild their lives. Many are facing financial hardships while trying to replace lost essentials. During these tough times, SNAP benefits have become a lifeline for many households.
Here’s what you need to know about how the program works and how you can access these benefits quickly.
What is the Lone Star Card?
Texas uses the Lone Star Card system for food assistance. The Lone Star Card is an EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card that functions just like a regular debit card but holds food benefits (SNAP) and cash assistance.
You can use it to shop at any store that accepts EBT across the state, which is especially helpful when you’re trying to get back on your feet after a disaster.
How to Check Your Balance
Once you’ve received your SNAP benefits on the Lone Star Card, it’s a good idea to track your balance. You can use the Propel mobile app to check your EBT balance instantly.
This app helps you keep track of your grocery spending and transactions. If you have any issues with your card, you can contact customer service at 1-800-777-7328.
Applying for SNAP Benefits in Texas
In Texas, most people apply for food stamps online through the Your Texas Benefits website. However, if you prefer in-person help, you can contact your local office. You can also call the SNAP hotline at 1-877-541-7905 anytime, as it’s available 24/7.
To qualify for SNAP, you need to meet certain income limits, but there’s some flexibility during emergencies, like natural disasters. You can check your eligibility by visiting the official Texas benefits website. If you need help filling out the paperwork, local food banks can assist with the process.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
It’s important to remember that you need to renew your SNAP benefits before your certification period ends, which is usually every six months. You’ll get a reminder letter when it’s time to renew. To avoid forgetting, mark the date on your calendar. Renewing online through the Your Texas Benefits portal is quick and easy.
You can check your case status online to see where you are in the renewal process:
Started: Renewal process has started but not yet submitted
Submitted: Application has been sent for review
In review: Your application is being checked
Reviewed: The review has been completed
Approved: Your benefits have been extended
If you prefer face-to-face renewal, contact your caseworker or call your local office at 1-877-541-7905 for help.
SNAP Payment Dates in Texas
Texas distributes SNAP benefits during the first 15 days of each month, but the exact date depends on the last digit of your Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number. Here’s the schedule:
Benefits ending in 0: 1st of the month
Benefits ending in 1: 3rd of the month
Benefits ending in 2: 5th of the month
Benefits ending in 3: 6th of the month
Benefits ending in 4: 7th of the month
Benefits ending in 5: 9th of the month
Benefits ending in 6: 11th of the month
Benefits ending in 7: 12th of the month
Benefits ending in 8: 13th of the month
Benefits ending in 9: 15th of the month
What to Do If Your SNAP Deposit Is Missing
If your SNAP benefits didn’t show up this month, there could be a few reasons:
- Missing Renewal: If you didn’t submit your annual renewal or six-month report on time, that could be the issue. Log into your benefits portal and check the “Notices” or “Messages” sections for any alerts.
- Renewal Interview Missed: If you didn’t complete your renewal interview (usually by phone), your benefits may not be processed. Check for any notices that explain how to reschedule or provide additional documents, like pay stubs or updates on household changes.
- Eligibility Changes: If your eligibility has changed, you’ll receive a letter explaining why. Processing delays can happen, especially after disasters, and it may take up to 30 days to resolve. If more than 30 days have passed and you still haven’t received your benefits, call your agency immediately.
- System Delays: Sometimes, payment dates can shift unexpectedly due to system updates. If this happens, it’s rare but worth checking.
