Basic Requirements

• In order to be eligible for the Basic Food Program, your total household income must be below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline. This is revised every year and depends on the household size. As of 2011, a family of four can have monthly income up to $3,675 and still be eligible for the Basic Food Program. There are no asset restrictions, and you could own a house and a car and still be eligible for the program. Certain legal immigrants who meet specific program rules for immigrants also may be eligible for the program.
  
  

Benefit Amount

• The benefits you receive are calculated using the limits set by the federal government. First, deductions such as rent, mortgage, utilities, childcare and child support are subtracted from your monthly income. The benefit is calculated by subtracting 30 percent from the remaining income. According to these calculations, some families could be eligible to receive zero dollars of benefit. The family could still qualify to receive other benefits such as free school meals and low-cost phones.
  
  

Receiving the Basic Food Benefits

• Once your application is approved, you will be issued an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. The card is credited with your benefit amount at the beginning of each month. You can use the card to buy food items in grocery stores, convenience stores and discount stores. You can buy most food items and seeds that can help grow food. You cannot use the EBT card to buy household supplies, medicines, liquor, cigarettes and other nonfood item. If you do not use all the benefits in a month, they can be carried over to the next month.
  
  

Application Procedure

• If you believe that you are eligible for the Basic Food Program, you can complete the application and submit it to your local Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Community Services Office (CSO) by mail or online through the Washington Connection website (see Resources). After you submit the application, you will be required to appear for an interview, either in person or by telephone. You also will need to provide your Social Security number, proof of identity, proof of income and proof of living expenses of your household. You also may need to participate in the Food Stamp Employment and Training Program and cooperate with Quality Assurance, if contacted.