Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) is a federal program that provides low-income families with assistance to pay for food. Benefits are dispersed each month through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.
Who is eligible for FNS?
You may be eligible for FNS if you are a U.S. citizen whose income falls below the gross income limits for your household size. Visit the NCDHHS website to determine which income limit applies to your household.
How can I apply for FNS?
- Apply online with ePass
- Apply in person at your local Department of Social Services office
- Fill out a paper application and mail or drop off at your local Department of Social Services office
The Simplified Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) is a simplified version of Food and Nutrition Services, administered by the state.
Who is eligible for SNAP?
You may be eligible for SNAP benefits if you meet the following criteria:
- Receive SSI
- Age 65 or older
- Not living in an institution
- Residing in North Carolina
- Purchasing and preparing food separately from other people living in the home
- Not receiving Food and Nutrition Services or SNAP benefits in another state
- Not disqualified from regular Food and Nutrition Services programs
How can I apply for SNAP?
Individuals applying for FNS will automatically be evaluated for SNAP eligibility. If you are approved, you will automatically be sent an EBT card with pin instructions. Learn more here.
Need more information?
If you are not qualified for either of these programs, other resources are available. For more information on food assistance, call 2-1-1 or 888-892-1162. Our call specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Last updated 9/29/2022
