You may apply for food stamps in Wyoming through the state Department of Family Services (DFS). Note that, at the federal level, this program is known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). A food stamp application can be submitted to the DFS using several different methods.
After you apply for SNAP, you will need to complete a few steps to finalize the process. Generally, the DFS will determine if you meet the eligibility requirements within 30 days. However, if you are qualified for emergency assistance, you may get a response within seven days of applying.
It is recommended that you sign up for food stamps as soon as you realize you will need assistance. That is because your benefit start date is based on when you submit your form. Read below to learn about all of the WY SNAP benefits application methods you can use and discover what information you may need to provide.
What do you need to apply for food stamps in Wyoming?
When you apply for SNAP benefits in Wyoming, you must provide information on each household member who wants to receive assistance. Overall, a household is defined as any group of people, regardless of their relationship to one another, who live together and share meals.
If there is anyone in your household who is ineligible for assistance, you do not need to include him or her as a petitioner on your application. However, your WY food stamp application form may still need to include the income and resources of every household member.
A food stamp application form requires that you enter various information that the DFS uses to determine your eligibility. Details you may need to provide include:
- The name, date of birth and Social Security number (SSN) of each household member.
- Proof of identity and residency.
- Your mailing address and street address, if different.
- A list of your income and resources.
- Proof of income, employment and resources.
- School enrollment or employment status information.
- Disability status information.
- Receipts, bills and other paperwork to verify your expenses.
You have the right to apply for food stamps without providing all of this information at once. At a minimum, your form must include your name, address and signature. Then, you can provide any other missing details at a later date. Learn more about the information and documents you may need to have by downloading our free guide.
Applying for Wyoming Food Stamps Online
The option to fill out a food stamp application online is not currently available in Wyoming. The DFS website only provides a PDF version of the application form, which you can download, print and submit using a different application method.
Submitting a Wyoming Food Stamp Application by Mail
In order to apply for food stamps by mail, you will need to access the PDF application form found on the DFS website. If you do not have access to a printer, you may contact the DFS to receive a paper copy in the mail. This form is available in English or Spanish. Once completed, mail the application form to your county DFS office or send it via fax.
Applying for SNAP In-Person in Wyoming
You can also apply for food stamps in Wyoming by visiting a DFS office in person. These local offices can be found in most counties throughout the state.
To save time at the office, you may print and fill out an application ahead of time. Forms can also be picked up and completed at the office. Once your form is finished, simply submit it to a DFS worker.
Checking Your SNAP Application Status in Wyoming
After you sign up for food stamps, it helps to know that most cases are processed within 30 days. It is recommended that you look at your food stamp application status if you have not received a response within this timeframe.
Moreover, you can check your application at any other time if you want to assess its current status. To do so, simply contact the DFS and provide any requested information such as your name or case number.
Wyoming Food Stamp Interview Process
After you send in your form, a food stamp interview is the next step in the process of getting SNAP benefits. A DFS worker will contact you after your form is received to set up an interview. In most cases, it is possible to have a food stamp phone interview. When a phone interview is not an option, you may need to visit a DFS office in person instead.
The purpose of this SNAP interview is to verify the information on your application. To do so, you may need to provide documentation that backs up your details. For example, pay stubs or bank statements may be required to verify your income or resources.
During the interview, you can also provide any information that may have been missing from your original application. A benefits specialist can oftentimes help you track down any missing details if you are having trouble locating documents or information.
About SNAP Recertification in Wyoming
After your Wyoming food stamp application is approved, you will get benefits for a certain period of time known as a benefit period. You need to complete a food stamp renewal at the end of this period in order for your assistance to continue.
Overall, the SNAP recertification steps are somewhat similar to the original application process. Moreover, you must provide any updated information that may affect your benefit amount.
After completing a food stamp renewal, it is possible that your benefit amount may change. You may also lose your benefits if you are no longer deemed eligible for this type of assistance. In that case, the DFS will provide a notification explaining any changes.
About Appealing a Food Stamps Denial in Wyoming
If you have your food stamps denied in Wyoming, you have the right to appeal the decision. You can also request a hearing if the DFS makes any other decisions that you disagree with.
For example, you can appeal a change to your benefit amount. The DFS will provide instructions for requesting an appeal when it notifies you of any changes. Learn more about the denial and appeal process by downloading our free guide.
Last Updated: February 27, 2023