Getting and Using Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits

How do I get SNAP/food stamp benefits?

SNAP/Food stamp benefits are no longer "stamps" or coupons used to buy food. This is one of the reasons Congress changed the name to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) in the 2008 Farm Bill. SNAP/Food stamp benefits are kept in a special account for you until you want to use them at the store. You get your benefits with your Bay State Access card or EBT (electronic benefits transfer) card at any grocery or convenience store that has the Quest logo. 106 C.M.R. §§ 364.900, 364.910.

How to get your Bay State Access card and PIN

DTA will issue you a Bay State Access card. DTA should request the card on the day you file your application and send it to you as soon as your identity is verified. However, there will not be any benefits on your EBT card until your case is approved. You also have the option to pick up the card at your local DTA office. To use the card you need to have a Personal Identification Number (PIN). The PIN is the key that unlocks your account. Choose a PIN that is easy for you to remember but hard for other people to guess.

Applicants who do not have to go to the local DTA office for an interview, including people receiving SNAP/food stamp benefits through Bay State CAP, can get their Bay State Access card and PIN by mail. The card is mailed from a vendor out of state and comes in an envelope separate from the PIN. DTA will automatically assign a PIN. But you can change your PIN by telephone by calling the EBT Customer Service number, 800-997-2555.

• Keep your PIN a secret.
• Never write your secret PIN on your card.

How to use your Bay State Access card

• Before you shop, check your last receipt to find out how much SNAP/food stamp benefits are in your account, or call 800-997-2555 for your balance.
• Look for the Quest mark on the door or window of the store.
• At check-out, swipe your card (or ask the clerk to swipe it for you).
• Enter your secret PIN on the number pad and then press enter.
• Tell the clerk how much money to enter or enter the amount yourself. Remember, you can only buy eligible food items with your SNAP/food stamp benefits.
• Always check your receipt to be sure that the amount on the Bay State Access receipt is the same as the grocery receipt. Save your receipts.

What to do if the system is not working or the store does not have a card reader

• The clerk should complete a manual voucher.
• Make sure the amount on the voucher is correct before you sign it and keep a copy.

Call customer service at 800-997-2555

• If you have questions or problems using your card or secret PIN.
• If your card is lost or stolen or does not work. Report this right away. DTA will replace the card.
• To find out your SNAP/food stamp account balance.
• To find out where you can use your card.

There is no limit on the number of times per month you can use your Bay State Access card to buy food. There is no charge or fee when you use your Bay State Access card to buy food.