Non-Public Assistance SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), formerly called Food Stamps, helps low-income households by supplementing their monthly food budget. Eligible households use an electronic benefit card and PIN (personal ID number) to access their benefits at the supermarket checkout counter the same way a debit card is used. There are many supermarkets throughout the county where recipients can use their benefit card.
SNAP Emergency Allotments Have Ended
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Emergency Allotment (EA) benefits issued throughout the pandemic ended February 2023 due to federal rules. The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) and your local social services district do not have control over this change. Households cannot request a Fair Hearing for the elimination of these extra benefits. More information is availble online from the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.
How to Apply for SNAP
Westchester County residents can apply online at the My Benefits New York web site. Applicants may also mail an application, obtained by calling (914) 995-3333. Residents may also apply during regular business hours at any District Office.
Income Guidelines
Income eligibility information is available online from the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. Households containing an individual age 60 or over, or one who is permanently disabled, do not have to meet the gross monthly income test.
Expedited SNAP Benefits
If your household has little or no money and requires help right away, you may be able to receive expedited benefits to meet your food needs under SNAP. You must submit an application and be interviewed first in order to determine eligibility. If you qualify, you will receive your initial benefit within five days of application. You will still have to complete the eligibility process and supply all necessary and requested documentation within 30 days for continued eligibility.
Related Links
Further information
Further information on eligibility for SNAP (food stamp) and other public assistance benefits can be accessed at My Benefits New York or by calling the Westchester County Department of Social Services Case Management Information Center at (914) 995-3333.
Watch Out for EBT Card Skimming
The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance is warning customers to watch out for Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Card skimming. Find out how to protect yourself (in English and Spanish).
Nondiscrimination statement
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, religious creed, disability, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.
To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) which can also be found online at www.ascr.usda.gov, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by one of the following:
- mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410
- fax: (202) 690-7442
- e-mail:
This institution is an equal opportunity provider. With respect to public accommodations, New York State additionally prohibits discrimination based on gender identity, transgender status, gender dysphoria, sexual orientation, marital status, and military status.
Eat Smart New York
In partnership with Westchester County Department of Social Services, the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Westchester provides nutrition education to SNAP participants under the Eat Smart New York Program. The program enables participants with limited budgets to make healthier food choices. The ESNY classes meet in convenient places such as schools, senior centers and other community based locations.
Learning through ESNY is hands-on. Program participants prepare, cook and taste a variety of different foods and everyone who participates in a series of classes receives a certificate. To learn more or enroll in ESNY classes, call (914) 285-4630 or visit the Eat Smart New York Program.