What documents do I need for recertification now (income, work, residency, household changes)?

The specific documents needed for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly Food Stamps) recertification can vary slightly by state and your individual situation. However, the most commonly requested verifications for the areas you mentioned are:

Key Recertification Documents (SNAP)

1. Proof of Income

You will generally need to provide documents showing all earned and unearned income for all household members for a specific period (often the last 30 days or four weeks).

• Employment Income:
  • Paycheck stubs (typically the last four consecutive weeks).
  • Statement from your employer on company letterhead.
  • For self-employment, you’ll need tax returns (most recent), business records, or ledgers.
• Unearned Income:
  • Benefit award letters (Social Security, SSDI, Unemployment, Veteran’s Administration, Pension, Worker’s Compensation).
  • Child support or alimony checks/court decrees.

2. Proof of Household/Residency

• Residency: You generally need to prove you live in the state where you are applying.
  • Lease or rental agreement.
  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water) with your name and address.
  • Mortgage statement or property tax bill.
  • Driver’s license or state ID with your current address (though often used for identity, it can also verify residency).
• Household Composition: This is often covered in the recertification form itself, but any recent documentation of a change in who lives with you (e.g., a new birth certificate for a baby) may be helpful.

3. Changes in Work Status

If a household member’s work status has changed (e.g., started a new job, lost a job, or changed hours), you’ll need:

• New job: Recent pay stubs.
• Lost job: A termination letter or proof of application for unemployment benefits.
• Compliance with Work Requirements: Documents proving participation in a work, training, or educational program if required for an able-bodied adult without dependents (ABAWD).

4. Other Important Changes and Expenses

You should report any changes and provide verification for deductions that can increase your benefit amount.

• Shelter/Utility Costs:
  • Rent or mortgage receipts.
  • Utility bills (gas, electric, water, phone) to qualify for utility allowances.
• Dependent Care:
  • Receipts for child care or care for an incapacitated adult (if needed for work, school, or training).
• Medical Expenses (for elderly/disabled members):
  • Bills/receipts for out-of-pocket costs like doctor bills, prescription drugs, dentures, or medical insurance premiums.

The most important next step is to check with your local agency!

Because SNAP is administered at the state or county level, the exact list of documents and the preferred method of submission (online portal, mail, fax) can differ.

1. Look for your recertification notice: This document, which you should have received in the mail, often includes a personalized checklist of the specific items they need from you.
2. Contact your local office: Call the number on your notice or visit your state’s SNAP website to find the most current and specific checklist for your area.