SNAP Re-Certification: What to Expect

If you receive SNAP benefits, you'll need to recertify periodically to continue receiving assistance. Missing your recertification deadline can result in losing your food stamps—so it's important to know what to expect.

In this article, we'll cover:

1. What SNAP recertification is
2. When you need to recertify
3. Documents you'll need
4. How to complete recertification
5. What happens if you miss the deadline

1. What SNAP Recertification Is

SNAP recertification (also called renewal) is the process of proving you still qualify for food assistance. Your state needs to verify that your income, household size, and other circumstances still meet eligibility requirements.

Think of it as a check-in. The state wants to make sure your situation hasn't changed significantly since you first applied.

2. When You Need to Recertify

Recertification periods vary by state and your circumstances:

Typical timeframes:

• Every 6 months
• Every 12 months
• Every 24 months (for some households)

Factors that affect timing:

• Your state's policies
• Whether you have earned income
• Your age and disability status
• Household composition

How you'll be notified:

• Mail notice from your SNAP office
• Usually arrives 30-60 days before deadline
• May include a recertification form to complete

Important: Mark your recertification date on your calendar. Don't rely solely on the mail notice—it could get lost or delayed.

3. Documents You'll Need

Gather these documents before your recertification:

Identity verification:

• Driver's license or state ID
• Social Security cards for household members

Income documentation:

• Pay stubs (last 30 days)
• SSI/SSDI award letters
• Self-employment records
• Any other income sources

Expense documentation:

• Rent or mortgage statements
• Utility bills
• Medical expenses (if applicable)
• Child care costs
• Child support payments

Household information:

• Proof of residence
• Information about everyone living in your home

4. How to Complete Recertification

You have several options for completing recertification:

Online (if available in your state):

1. Log into your state's SNAP portal
2. Update your information
3. Upload required documents
4. Submit before the deadline

By mail:

1. Complete the recertification form
2. Attach copies of required documents
3. Mail to your local SNAP office
4. Keep copies of everything you send

In person:

1. Visit your local SNAP office
2. Bring all required documents
3. Complete the interview if required
4. Get a receipt confirming submission

By phone (some states):

1. Call your local SNAP office
2. Complete the interview over the phone
3. Submit documents by mail, fax, or online

5. What Happens If You Miss the Deadline

If you don't recertify on time:

Your benefits will stop at the end of your certification period

You'll need to reapply as a new applicant

There may be a gap in your benefits

You may lose back benefits you would have received

To avoid this:

• Submit recertification early (as soon as you get the notice)
• Follow up to confirm receipt
• Respond promptly to any requests for additional information

Important: If you miss your deadline by accident, contact your SNAP office immediately. Some states allow late submissions within a grace period.

How Purple Helps

While Purple doesn't manage your SNAP benefits directly, we help you:

• Track when your EBT balance updates
• See all your income and benefits in one place
• Budget across SNAP and your other funds
• Stay organized with your overall finances