Documents that Maybe Requested from You

2. If I apply in person, what do I need to bring with me?
DHHS requires you to present only identification to initiate an application. At your interview, you will be assigned an intake worker who will provide you with a list of required verifications and a return envelope with the worker's name on it. However, it can be helpful to begin gathering the documents listed below. More information may be required from you based on the interview!

• Identification: You must provide identification (ID). The ID does not have to be a photo ID, but that is preferable. The ID does not have to be government-issued either. Generally, some form of paper identification that can be copied for the record is sufficient. The ID also does not need to show a current Montgomery County address. (Verification of address is always requested at the interview however.)

• Proof of Residency: You must prove that you live in Montgomery County and account for your rent/mortgage costs. You can bring a rent receipt, copy of your lease, mortgage payment, your landlord's name and phone number, or a signed statement from someone you live with or who provides you with a mailing address.

• Proof of Income: Proof of income from ALL sources, including public benefits, for ALL members of the household (alimony; child support; Social Security; SSI; Railroad Retirement; veteran’s pension/benefit; Unemployment Benefits, education Grants or Loans; worker’s compensation; pension or retirement; union benefits; disability/sick. maternity benefits; military allotment; money from rental income; Black Lung Benefits; money from friends or relatives; lump sum cash amounts; civil service annuity; Temporary Cash Assistance; TEMHA; Social Security Disability; interest dividends from stocks, bonds, savings or other investments; etc..).

• Statement of Utility Payments:Utility costs are normally estimates. The program provideds a blanket deduction for utilities if they are paid by the customer. DHHS needs to know how much you pay for utilities on average and how you pay for it.

• Bank Statement: For verification of any saved money. Bring bank statement or bankbook, if you have an account.

• Income Deductions: You may claim child care or tuition costs.

• Social Security Number (SSN): Bring your Social Security Card and if you do not have your card you can also bring a drivers license, pay stub, unemployment statement, or Social Security Income Award Letter as long at is has your SSN on it. If you do not have a SSN bring the number of whomever you are applying for. Eventually must show proof of your SSN.

• Proof of Immigration Status: Bring your immigration and naturalization papers (not required if you are applying for your children who were born in the United States).

• Statement of Medical Expenses: If you are 60 years or over, or receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits or Social Security Disability payments, bring proof of any medical or dental expenses you might have, including health/Medicare insurance, medical/dental insurance, dentures/glasses/hearing aids, transportation costs, hospital, nursing, attendant care, pharmacy expense, etc...

• Proof of Educational Assistance: Bring statements of any scholarships, grants or loans.

• Proof of any Assets: Bring proof of ownership for second homes, land, or buildings you own, but don't live in.

(Back to Top)

Applying in Virginia or DC

3. Where do I apply if I live in Virginia or DC?
Visit the DC Income Maintenance Administration (IMA) Benefits Application page to download an application and see a list of local offices where you can apply for food stamps in person. Alternatively, visit the DC Hunger Solutions Food Stamps Center for all your questions regarding food stamps in DC.

Visit the Virginia Department of Social Services to apply online for food stamps or see a list of local offices where you can apply in person.