SNAP for self-employed and gig workers

Online: The fastest way to apply is online through DTA Connect.

Phone: You can apply by calling the DTA Assistance Line at 1-877-382-2363 (press 7). Or call a community organization like the Project Bread FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333.

Mail or fax: You can also apply by filling out a paper application to mail or fax to DTA.

The monthly SNAP benefit amount is based on:

• how many people you get SNAP with,
• countable income, and
• living expenses such as rent or childcare.

See DTA's maximum benefits amounts here.

Most delivery and rideshare drivers are independent contractors, not employees. This includes drivers with Uber, Lyft, UberEats, GrubHub, DoorDash, InstaCart, and many other app-based platforms. As an independent contractor, you get a tax form called a 1099 (such as a 1099-K, 1099-MISC, or 1099-NEC) instead of a W2.

Independent contractors are considered self-employed for public benefits like SNAP. The DTAConnect.com SNAP application asks for your “type” of income. For rideshare/delivery work, check off “self-employment.” Then list your estimated pre-tax net income in the field that asks for your "gross income.”

Pre-tax net income is what you make after taking out the costs of doing your work (business expenses), but before your income taxes and other pay deductions. You will need to prove your income and business expenses with DTA. But it is okay to put an estimate on the application if you need time to collect proofs! See below for more information.

You can claim all work-related expenses that you are not reimbursed for. This includes:

• Car mileage or vehicle costs (**see below).
• Tolls and parking (you can claim this in addition to mileage).
• Platform/App related fees and commissions.
• Cell phone and phone plan costs — but just the part used for business (e.g. a percent of your total bill). You can get an itemized phone bill from your provider to help you figure out what part of your phone expenses went toward your job.
• Supplies like food and drinks for passengers, phone chargers and mounts, and mileage tracking software.

** You have 2 options for how to claim your vehicle expenses:

1. You can claim miles you drive for work at the federal mileage rate. The federal mileage rate covers your gas, car payments or leasing fees, car insurance, repairs, maintenance, and all other car-related costs. OR
2. You can claim actual car expenses. Be sure to track miles you drive for work vs. personal use to figure out what portion of your car expenses were for your job.

Send DTA any of the following:

• A detailed, signed statement of your most recent monthly or quarterly income and itemized expenses. This is known as a “Profit/Loss Statement.” 
• A copy of your “Schedule C” tax record. Your Schedule C is usually from last year’s tax return. Submit the Schedule C only if your current income/expenses are similar to last year’s; or
• A statement from an accountant or any other proof of your current income.

You can send DTA proofs on the DTA Connect mobile app after you apply for SNAP, or through DTAConnect.com. You can also fax or mail them. DTA will mail you a notice if they think you need to send in more proofs. 

Sample Profit/Loss Statement
 

If you do not have a recent Schedule C — or if your Schedule C is out of date — you can create a Profit/Loss Statement. Below is a sample Profit/Loss Statement for a 3 month period. You can write this by hand, use an online spreadsheet, or fill out a free template.
 

Be sure to give as much detail as you can about your income and expenses. Sign and date the Profit/Loss Statement and send it to DTA. You do not have to submit more proof of your income or expenses unless DTA has questions about the information you gave.

Sample Profit/Loss Statement

Look at DTA Connect to learn about your application status or to see copies of notices DTA mailed you. If you disagree with DTA’s decision, you can:

• Call the DTA Assistance Line at 1-877-382-2363 to talk with a SNAP worker or supervisor to ask why you were denied. Ask them what you need to do to get your case approved.
• Call the DTA Ombuds’ office at 617-348-5354 and ask them to review your case. 
• Request a hearing if you disagree with DTA’s decision. You can fill out the appeal form on the back of the DTA denial notice or call the Division of Hearings to make a verbal request for a hearing at 617-348-5321. Your hearing will be with an independent hearing officer by phone.
• Contact your local legal services office for legal advice or representation.