If I am a disabled immigrant, do I need to wait five years for SNAP?

Produced by Massachusetts Law Reform Institute
Reviewed March 2023

You do not need to wait five years if you are a lawful permanent resident adult and you receive a disability-based benefit because of a severe disability. 106 C.M.R.§362.220 (B)(7)(e). This policy also applies to battered immigrants and humanitarian parolees. If you are under age 18, you do not need to get a disability-benefit and there is no 5-year wait.

How do I show DTA I am disabled? explains the disability rules for SNAP and multiple ways you can qualify as receiving a "disability based-benefit" including through EAEDC or MassHealth.

Show DTA Policy Guidance

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