In recent weeks, the state of New Mexico announced that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for certain populations will be increased, several months after the federal government terminated the pandemic-era extra benefits of the program.
The New Mexico Human Services Department teamed up with the Aging and Long-Term Services Department to get extra funds and be able to give an important financial boost to SNAP beneficiaries who are over 60 years of age or have a disability. These two populations are getting the extra boost because, currently, they’re getting the lowest amount of benefits possible through the federal government, which is $16 per month.
The SNAP benefits recipients to get an extra payment: Are you getting it?
This is a one-time payment for more than 8,000 New Mexicans who will receive an extra check or deposit of an additional $168. The money was able to be obtained from the state’s general funds, and the authorities have already advanced that it is unlikely that a payment like this will be repeated this fiscal season.
Each month, your SNAP assistance allotment will be deposited into an Electronic Benefits Card, also known as EBT card. You can use it to purchase food items your family needs. Your food stamps can be used to purchase a variety of food items that are meant to sustain and nourish individuals and families.
Access to nutritious food is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. SNAP benefits enable recipients to make healthier food choices by stretching their food budget. This program encourages individuals and families to prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutritious options. By promoting proper nutrition, SNAP contributes to reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving overall health outcomes.
If you feel you’re entitled to receive these extra payments, or have any further questions regarding SNAP benefits, you can call the New Mexico Human Services Department at 1-800-283-4465.
How do I apply for SNAP benefits in New Mexico?
Certain fundamental rules apply to anyone seeking to qualify for SNAP benefits, not only in the state of New Mexico, but also in any other US state or included protectorate. Firstly, one must be either a U.S. Citizen or a lawful resident with the necessary qualifications. Additionally, proper identification is required to proceed with the application process. It is also important to provide accurate information about the household composition, including the individuals who reside and consume meals within the household.
The Human Services Department (HSD) is the office that determine whether you qualify for these benefits or not. Certain circumstances could be considered, like the household’s size, what the household how (property, bank accounts, savings), what your household pays for, including things like rent, utilities, and child care, and more. Also, being enrolled in defined work programs is required for some SNAP recipients.
SNAP benefits limitations: What can you buy with your EBT card and what’s not allowed
EBT cards can be used to buy all kinds of nutritious and fresh food for the family: breads and cereals; fruits and vegetables; meats, fish and poultry; dairy products such as milk and cheeses; and even seeds and plants to grow food at home.
However, there are a number of products that are prohibited. To begin with, beers, wines, and liquors are not food products, so you can’t pay for them with your EBT. You also cannot pay for cigarettes or tobacco products. Any vitamin products, medicines, or food supplements: If it has a “Supplement Facts” label, it is outside the allowed categories. Although we said that you can buy meat, it is not allowed to buy live animals (except shellfish, fish removed from water, and animals slaughtered prior to pick-up from the store).
Lastly, any nonfood items such as: pet foods, cleaning supplies, paper products, and other household supplies, or Hygiene items, cosmetics are prohibited. The USDA has a complete list of what “Staple Foods” are, and you can check it here.