Food Stamps
The Food Stamp Program helps individuals and families eat well and stay healthy. You don't need to be unemployed or on other assistance programs to qualify for food stamps. Even if you or someone in your household is working, you may still be eligible. The amount of help received is mostly determined by household income.
If you have questions about the program, Oregon SafeNet can explain how and where to apply, just call 1-800-723-3638 (SAFENET) Monday-Friday 8 am-8 pm.
Am I eligible for Food Stamps?
The first step is to determine if your household income meets the Food Stamp guidelines. For most Oregonians, assets like a house, car or money in the bank won't count. Check the eligibility chart to see if you might qualify.
You may be able to get Food Stamps even if:
- You own your own home
- You are working
- You get unemployment
- You have a car
- You go to school
How do I apply?
Click this link for the application and print it out or pick up a copy at any food stamp office. Fill in the information and turn it in at your local food stamp office.
Next steps
Once you mail in or drop off the application, the DHS office will have you talk to a caseworker. Documentation you may need to have with you includes:
- Driver's license or other photo ID if available
- Social Security numbers for everyone in the household included in the application
- Rent or utility bills or receipts or other proof of housing costs
- Paycheck stubs or other proof of income
- For non-citizens, proof of lawful immigrant status for household members seeking benefits.
You can apply for just those in your family who have proof of lawful status!
Seniors & Disabled
Older adults and persons with disabilities have other options. You can apply at your local Senior and Persons with Disabilities or Area Agency on Aging office.
If you cannot go to an office, you can have another adult apply for you or ask for a home visit or a telephone interview.
Call 1-800-723-3638 (SAFENET) to find the office nearest you
or check the
Resource Directory
Once on the program…
You will receive an Oregon Trail EBT Card which you can use just like a bank debit card at your grocery check out.
Are there other benefits?
If you get food stamps, you may also be eligible for
- Free school meals for your children
- Oregon Telephone Assistance Program and Link-Up American to cut your phone bill
- WIC – see WIC page for more details
- Economic deferral of school loans.
Other Resources
Oregon Department of Human Services Food Stamp Program: Loads of information about the food stamp program.
Oregon Helps: Confidential self-screening tool to find out about food stamps and other benefits you might be eligible for.
Oregon Food Bank: List of food pantries for immediate food needs.
Oregon Hunger Relief Task Force: Working to eliminate hunger.
This website page was partially funded by USDA’s Food Stamp program. In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs or disability.