The Food Stamp program is sponsored by the U. S. Department of Agriculture, and is intended to help people with low incomes buy good food by providing food stamp coupons. Here are guidelines to help you determine if you might be eligible for food stamps.

You could be eligible either as an individual or as a member of a group which buys and cooks food together, and which shares expenses. You must apply for benefits in the county where you live. You can receive food stamp benefits even if you are homeless. You can get your application for food stamps at your local Division of Family Services office.

There are certain limits on the amount of property your food stamp group may own. Your food stamp household may not have more than $2,000 in assets. This limit does not, however, include your home, certain insurance, household goods, or personal belongings. If you live with another person in the same house who is applying with you, and one of you is 60 or older, then the two of you can own up to $3,000 together in assets and still be eligible for food stamps.

There are also income limits, adjusted to the number of persons in the household. These limits are usually affected by the deductions which are allowed for taxes, medical costs for persons over age 59 or disabled, some housing costs, and certain expenses for child care.

When you apply for food stamp benefits, you should try to take with you identification, proof of income, any current bank statements, receipts for child care, utility bills and rent receipts, medical bills if you are 60 years of age or older or if you are disabled, and a social security number for each member of your food stamp household.

It will probably take about 30 days for your eligibility to come through. However, if your household is destitute, you may be able to get help sooner. In this case, speak with a caseworker when you apply. You may be able to get your food stamps within 7 days.

Food stamps are issued for a fixed period of time called a certification period, and you must reapply at the end of the period to continue to receive benefits.  Certification may be for 3, 6, or 12 months.

If your application is denied or you question the amount of your food stamp benefits, you can request a fair hearing by calling or writing your caseworker. You can contact the Legal Aid program in your area for free legal assistance in presenting your case.

To obtain food stamps, you or someone in your household must invest the time and effort to apply for them. The return on this investment could be important savings in your food bills. If you are unable to go to your Division of Family Services office because of age or disability, simply call your local Division of Family Services office for assistance.