NJ SNAP, New Jersey’s supplemental nutrition assistance program, provides monthly food benefits to eligible households. SNAP is a federal program, but is administered at the state level by the New Jersey Department of Social Services (DHS). NJ SNAP benefits follow the same monthly deposit schedule based on the 7th digit of the SNAP case number.
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According to the New Jersey DHS, SNAP eligibility varies based on income, household size, resources, and more. You can apply for an NJ SNAP at your county department of welfare or online. Click here to check your eligibility and apply online, download the application form and apply in person or mail it to your nearest office.
If you are deemed eligible, DHS will send you a Families First card (New Jersey’s version of an EBT card).
NJ SNAP benefits are credited over the first five days of the month based on the 7th digit of your case number. The only exception is Warren County, where all perks go out at the beginning of the month. NJ SNAP’s February 2023 deposit schedule is as follows:
|
Case number suffix: |
Perks: |
|
1 or 2 |
February 1 |
|
3 or 4 |
February 2 |
|
5 or 6 |
February 3rd |
|
7 or 8 |
February 4th |
|
9 or 0 |
February 5th |
Families First EBT cards are accepted at most grocery stores, select retailers and participating farmers markets. You can also use your rewards online, but make sure you can use his EBT card for payment.
Check the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator to see where you can take advantage of NJ SNAP benefits. See here for a list of markets that accept NJ SNAP benefits. USDA’s Food Nutrition Service (FNS) provides a monthly list of the names and locations of farmers’ markets nationwide that are currently authorized to accept SNAP benefits.
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According to the New Jersey Department of Human Services, NJ SNAP benefits can be used to purchase:
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fruits and vegetables
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beans, fish, chicken, meat
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rice, bread, tortillas, cereal
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milk and cheese
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seeds and plants that produce food
NJ SNAP has additional benefits. His SNAP recipients in New Jersey can sign up for a 50% off Amazon Prime EBT discount subscription or get free or low-cost landline or cell phone service through the Federal Lifeline Program. Don’t forget your EBT card for free or discounted admission the next time you visit a museum, aquarium or zoo.
If you receive NJ SNAP benefits and have children, you may be eligible for free or discounted school breakfasts, lunches and snacks. For more information, look online for discounts or free services available to NJ SNAP recipients.
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However, the USDA places limits on what you can buy. NJ SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase alcohol, tobacco, tobacco, non-food, vitamins and medicines. In New Jersey, SNAP benefits also prohibit the purchase of hot prepared food and meals.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: New Jersey Food Stamps (NJ SNAP): Schedule for February 2023