Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to receive SNAP benefits?

unemployed_questionQ) Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to receive SNAP benefits?

A) No, you do not need to be a U.S. citizen to receive SNAP benefits. Certain lawfully present non-citizens are eligible for SNAP benefits, including:

  • Lawful permanent residents (LPRs) who have been living in the United States for at least five years
  • LPRs who are receiving government payments for disability or blindness
  • LPRs who are veterans, on active duty, or the spouse or child of a veteran or active duty service member
  • Children who are not U.S. citizens but who are legally present in the United States

To be eligible for SNAP benefits, you must also meet certain income and resource requirements. You can find more information about SNAP eligibility requirements on the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website.

It is important to note that applying for or receiving SNAP benefits will not affect your immigration status.

Certain legal, qualified aliens may be eligible for SNAP benefits. They must meet the same eligibility requirements as U.S. citizens. An example of a non-citizen who may qualify is someone who has been a lawful permanent resident (LPR, i.e. aliens with green cards) for 5 years. Other immigrants, such as children and refugees, may also be eligible. Eligible household members can get SNAP benefits even if other members of the household are not eligible.

Receiving SNAP benefits does not make an immigrant a “public charge.” An immigrant to the United States will not be deported, denied entry to the country, or denied permanent status because he or she receives SNAP. Receiving SNAP will not affect an immigrant’s ability to become a citizen.

Add a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *