2. What happens after I apply?

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Massachusetts Law Reform Institute
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Signing a SNAP application is the first step! There are two more steps:

Note

If you would prefer to have your SNAP interview in person, you have a right to have an interview at a DTA office. See DTA interviewing you.

Getting an EBT card

Once DTA verifies your identity, DTA should also send you an EBT card and PIN in the U.S. mail. These come in two separate envelopes and can take about 5-10 days to arrive in the mail.

Here’s what to know about the EBT card:

  • Your EBT card has no benefits on it until DTA approves your SNAP case.
  • DTA will not send you an EBT card if you tell them on the SNAP application that you have one.
  • If you would rather go in person to get a card (for example, because you want an EBT card more quickly or do not have a reliable address), you have the right to visit a local DTA office to get one in person.
  • Contact the DTA Ombuds Office if you need help getting a card by overnight mail or need to problem solve getting a card. See how can the DTA Ombuds Office help.

See what is an EBT card, how to use SNAP benefits, and where you can shop on how to access your EBT benefits.
To learn more from DTA about EBT cards, visit Mass.gov/guides/using-your-ebt-card#-get-a-new-card-

DTA Online Guide

See Appendix G for links to the DTA’s BEACON 5 Online Guide for this section.

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