1. To apply for Medicaid or Food and Nutrition Services go to https://www.nc.gov/services/e-pass North Carolina ePASS is a quick and easy way for individuals and families to apply inform and advertise available benefits and services. Online applications are available for food and nutrition services (formerly food stamps) and medical assistance (Medicaid and NC Health Choice or CHIP). You can find out if you may be eligible for medical assistance by completing an electronic pre-check.
2. You can also apply for Medicaid or Food and Nutrition Services by phone, mail, or fax. You can contact our office to request a paper application by mail. Applications can be picked up in our foyer Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. m., unless the office is closed for a public holiday.
Who’s in my house?
If you indicate “your household” in your application, you may not know who to indicate. Essentially, your household consists of all the people who shop, prepare and eat together. This includes spouses, children under the age of 22 and co-parents (single) living in the same household.
You can N.C. SNAP online, in person, or by mail. After submitting your application, wait for updates on your next interview. The head of household usually applies for benefits, but can also appoint an authorized representative.
“Harvest boxes” for recipients
Another addition to the 2020 budget proposal is that recipients could receive “harvest boxes” filled with food. According to ABC News, those boxes would be delivered to SNAP recipients and filled with canned and prepackaged foods. This would be a significant change from the current food stamp agreement. Today, beneficiaries receive coupons that they can use to buy their own groceries.
One of the potential downsides to this harvest box initiative is that fresh fruit and veg would not be readily available. Additionally, members cannot receive fresh meat or dairy in their packages either. One benefit of this proposal, however, is that the food that comes in the harvest crates is grown in the United States. This would help the national economy by supporting the country’s agricultural industry.
Why will FNS benefits increase in October 2022?
Almost all FNS households will see an increase in their FNS benefits to accommodate changes in the cost of living. Maximum FNS benefits linked to food inflation will increase by approximately 12% effective October 1, 2022. This increase is about $26 to $31 per person per month.
The following table shows the maximum FNS benefits for households ending on September 30, 2022) and the new maximum benefit from October 2022: