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Basic Food – Food Stamps

Basic Food is also called Food Stamps.

Income Rules Have Changed! As of October 1, 2008, more families will potentially be eligible for Basic Food in Washington! (see income guidelines below)

Basic Food provides money to buy food using an Electronic Benefits Transfer Card (EBT). EBT cards work like debit cards. You can spend your monthly benefits in participating grocery stores.

Eligibility is based on gross monthly income (before taxes) and household size. The amount of food assistance a family receives depends on different living expenses like childcare, child support paid out, utilities and rent or mortgage. The average monthly benefit families received in 2007 was $181.18 per month. Some families receive more, some families receive less.

In families of 3 or more it is possible to receive a zero-dollar monthly benefit. To find out how much your family’s monthly benefit could potentially be call the Family Food Hotline at 1-888-436-6392.

What are the benefits of applying if my monthly amount is low or even zero?

Being enrolled in Basic Food has other benefits such as:

• Enrollment in free school meals for school-aged children;
• Qualification for low-cost local phone service and
• Shows your family meets the income guidelines for Women, Infants and Children.

Also, if approved for zero benefits you can contact DSHS any time you have a change in expenses or income and they can re-determine your food benefit amount without you having to reapply for the program.

Use the Benefit Finder to see if you may be eligible and apply online.

Income Guidelines

200% Federal Poverty Level

Family Size	Monthly Income
1	$1,734
2	$2,334
3	$2,934
4	$3,534
5	$4,134
6	$4,734
7	$5,334
8	$5,934
9	$6,534
10	$7,134
11+	$600 each