Myths about The Food Stamp Program  

 

I can't own a car and receive food stamps.

One licensed vehicle per adult household member is allowed in New York State. Also, vehicles that are used by children under 18 to get to school or work are allowed.  

                                               

 I'll only receive $10 a month, so what's the point?

The average monthly benefit in New York State is $132 according to the USDA.  In a year that means over $1500 in benefits!

           

It’s embarrassing to use food stamps at the grocery store.

Paper stamps have been replaced with the EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card.  EBT makes using food stamps much easier.  It works just like an ATM card.  Each account has a pin number and can be swiped through the machine at the grocery store just like a credit card.

 

If I get Food Stamp Program then I can't get  WIC or meals-on-wheels.

Households that participate in the Food Stamp Program can still get programs such as meals-on-wheels and WIC.  

 

I can't own my home and receive food stamps.

The property you live on does not count against you. Also, the Food Stamp Program does not require you to sign away your property or place liens on your home.

 

If I receive food stamps then I am taking benefits away from people who really need them.

The Food Stamp Program is an entitlement program.  That means that everyone who applies and is eligible will receive food stamp benefits.

 

You have to be a U.S. citizen to get Food Stamps.

Many immigrants who are not citizens can get food stamps or food stamps for their children.                                              

 

If I have an emergency food stamps can't help because they take a long time to get.          

Most food stamp applications take thirty days to process but in some emergency situations you can receive food stamp benefits in five days.  This service is called expedited food stamps and is available to people who are in specific emergency situations.

                                                                                                                       

For more information about food stamps or for help with your application call The Legal Aid Society at (518) 462-6765 ext 327 or (800) 462-2922 ext. 327.

 

In accordance with Federal law and the U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political belief, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W  Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Prepared by a project of the Nutrition Consortium of New York State. Funding provided by the NYS Department of Health, NYS Office of Temporary Disability Assistance, and the USDA/FNS. 6/03.