UPDATE 2026: The state is transitioning to a new EBT card vendor to improve security and accessibility starting May 15. New EBT cards with EMV chip and tap technology will be issued this summer.

Updates: https://dhs.maryland.gov/ebt-updates

All SNAP recipients in all of Maryland between 18 and 64 years old who do not have an dependent or have a older teen dependent, veterans, people who are homeless, and young adults who recently aged out of foster care will be considered an Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD).

They will need to meet specific work requirements such as working, volunteering or attending a job training program for 20 hours a week to keep getting SNAP benefits.

General info: https://dhs.maryland.gov/important-changes-snap-benefits/

Requirements and Exemptions: https://dhs.maryland.gov/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program/able-bodied-adults-without-dependents-abawds/

JOB TRAINING: To find more information about work programs, visit here: https://dhs.maryland.gov/documents/SNAP/FFY%2024-26%20E&T%20Partner%20Database%20Public.pdf .

SUMMER EBT: Provides families with school-aged children who receive free or reduced-price meals buy groceries during the summer break when school meals are unavailable. Families who qualify for the Maryland SUN Bucks program will receive $40 for June, July, and August a total of $120 for each eligible student. For more information visit https://dhs.maryland.gov/sunbucks/

SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD: Offers free food benefits provided monthly to eligible low-income households that allow them to purchase food from participating stores. Customers are given an Independence Card similar to a bank debit card to access benefits. SNAP benefits are calculated based on household size, income & expenses, and assets. See below for chart.

EXPEDITED BENEFITS: Applicants may be eligible for expedited SNAP benefits if their resources are less than $100 and gross monthly income is less than $150 for the past month, or if their income and resources are less than their monthly housing cost. Eligible applicants may receive benefits within seven days.

MIGRANT/SEASONAL WORKERS: Migrant/seasonal workers and qualified immigrants may be eligible for SNAP benefits and should contact DSS for more information on eligibility requirements.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applicants must file an application, be interviewed, and meet all financial and technical eligibility factors prior to issuance of SNAP benefits. Applicants may be required to provide the following verification: the last 2 or 4 pay stubs; Social Security Numbers for the entire household; bank account statements; utility bills; verification of rent or mortgage payments; birth certificates; unemployment compensation receipts; and/or their award letter from SSI, Social Security, or V.A. Applications can take 30-60 days to be processed.

APPLY: Customers are strongly encouraged to submit applications online via the myMDTHINK consumer portal: https://mymdthink.maryland.gov. Paper applications may be picked up from the lobby or from the vestibule just inside the office entrance, downloaded from the DHS website, or requested to be mailed by calling 1-800-332-6347. [email protected]. Completed paper applications can be mailed, faxed or emailed to the local department of social services office. Paper applications can take longer to be processed than applying online through the portal.

myMDTHINK Account: With a myMDTHINK account (mymdthink.maryland.gov), customers can see the status of applications, access notices that the local department of social services has sent, view documents submitted, apply for new programs, renew benefits, report a change, and much more.

ELIGIBILITY: Persons or families may be eligible if they meet the income requirements listed below.