Need help with SNAP? Our team can guide you through the process—whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing, or checking your case status.
If you’re struggling to afford groceries, you’re not alone. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, helps individuals and families buy food so they can focus on what matters most—living healthy and fulfilling lives.
In Alaska, SNAP provides monthly benefits on an Alaska Quest Card (like a debit card) to purchase groceries at participating stores and farmers’ markets. Whether you’re a family with children, a senior on a fixed income, a working individual, or between jobs, SNAP is here to help.
Who Qualifies for SNAP?
SNAP eligibility is based on household size, income, and expenses. To qualify, you must:
Be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
Live in Alaska
Meet work requirements (some adults without dependents must work, train, or volunteer to receive benefits)
Many working households, seniors, college students, and families qualify—even if they don’t realize it. Don’t assume you’re ineligible—apply to find out!
To see if you qualify, text SNAP to 907-891-8913. You'll answer a few quick automated questions, and we'll guide you through the process.
Understanding Your Rights & Responsibilities for SNAP
Knowing your rights and responsibilities as a SNAP participant helps ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to while following program guidelines.
What are my rights as a SNAP recipient?
You have the right to:
Apply for SNAP and receive a timely decision on your application.
Be treated with dignity and respect by all SNAP representatives.
Request a fair hearing if you disagree with a decision about your benefits.
Use your SNAP benefits at authorized stores and farmers’ markets to buy eligible food items.
Report changes in your income, household size, or expenses to ensure you receive the correct benefit amount.
What are my responsibilities as a SNAP recipient?
To stay eligible for SNAP, you must:
Provide accurate information on your application and report changes promptly.
Use benefits only for approved food items. SNAP cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, hot/prepared foods, or non-food items.
Meet work requirements (if applicable) by working, training, or volunteering, unless exempt.
Avoid fraud or misuse of benefits, which can result in penalties or disqualification.
What happens if I don’t follow the rules?
SNAP has strict policies to prevent fraud and misuse. Violations, such as selling benefits or providing false information, can lead to warnings, benefit reductions, or disqualification from the program.
Where can I find more information about SNAP rights and responsibilities?
Struggling to find food? Use our food pantry locator to find a nearby food distribution site for free groceries or a hot meal.
Need help beyond food?Alaska 2-1-1 connects you with local services for housing, utilities, healthcare, and more. It’s free, confidential, and available in multiple languages—just dial 2-1-1 to get started.
Seniors 60+ or living with a disability? You may qualify for a higher SNAP benefit by deducting medical expenses. Use our Medical Deduction Worksheet to check your eligibility and maximize your benefits.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), formerly known as food stamps, is a federal program that provides financial assistance to low-income individuals and families to purchase nutritious food. Benefits are loaded onto an Alaska Quest Card, which works like a debit card at approved grocery stores and markets.
How does Food Bank of Alaska support SNAP?
Food Bank of Alaska’s SNAP Outreach Team helps Alaskans by:
Answering questions about eligibility and benefits
Assisting with SNAP applications and required documentation
Advocating for better access to food assistance across the state
Why is SNAP important?
SNAP helps more families than any other food program in Alaska. In FY22 alone, it provided over $348 million in food assistance, supporting both households in need and the local economy. However, about 20% of eligible Alaskans don’t use their benefits, often due to stigma, transportation barriers, or application challenges.
Who qualifies for SNAP?
Eligibility is based on household income, size, and certain expenses. Many working families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities qualify.
How do I apply for SNAP?
You have multiple options:
Online: Apply through Food Bank of Alaska or through MyAlaska
Paper Application: Download a fillable PDF or request a mailed application with return postage
Phone Assistance: Request an appointment to complete your application over the phone
Where do I submit my application?
You can submit your completed application in the following ways:
Call 2-1-1: A United Way resource connecting you to local support services
I have medical expenses—can I get extra SNAP benefits?
If you’re 60+ or have a disability, you may qualify for a higher benefit amount by deducting certain medical expenses. Use our Medical Deduction Worksheet to see if you qualify.
How do I protect my SNAP benefits from scams?
⚠ Never give out your PIN or personal information to unexpected callers or texts. The Division of Public Assistance (DPA) and Food Bank of Alaska will never call or email asking for your card number or PIN.
🚨 Beware of spoofing: Scammers may fake caller ID numbers to look like official agencies.
What should I do if I suspect fraud?
Hang up immediately if a caller asks for your PIN, Social Security number, or Alaska Quest Card details.
Call the number on the back of your Alaska Quest Card to verify any unusual requests
Report fraud to the Division of Public Assistance at 800-478-7778 and notify your local police department
