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Washington Basic Food Program offered at DSHS Community Services Office in Alderwood/Lynnwood

Helps low-income individuals and families obtain a more nutritious diet by supplementing their income with Basic Food benefits. Monthly benefit amounts vary based on the number of people living in the household, income, and living expenses such as rent, mortgage, utilities, childcare and child support. Provides an ATM/debit-like card used to access food benefits to eligible low-income households.   Food Stamp guidelines are as follows:   1. Exempt goods that may not be purchased with food stamps: -  Cigarettes -  Pet food -  Non-edible household items -  Alcoholic beverages   - Food purchased at a restaurant 2. Time limits: Benefits do not expire and may be used at any time.   3. Expedited service: Households defined as destitute and having little net monthly income or resources may be eligible for expedited service, i.e. they may be able to pick up their benefits no later than the fifth day following application if they are eligible for benefits.   Disaster Food Benefits: DSHS can replace EBT benefits for recipients of Washington's Basic Food program if food was lost due to a declared disaster. For DSHS to replace the benefits, the customer must report the loss within 10 days from the date the loss occurred. DSHS will replace the value of the amount of food lost in the disaster, up to the total amount of the customer's monthly allotment of Basic Food.

Location

20311 52nd Ave W, Lynnwood, WA 98036

Hours

M-F, 8am-5pm. Hours for application eligibility interviews are 8am-2pm.

Application process

Call, go to website or visit any CSO to obtain an application.   After online or paper application is received, a letter will be sent regarding interview requirements. Must be able to provide a Social Security number for everyone on the application.

Eligibility

Individuals residing in Washington state who meet income, resource and citizenship/alien status requirements. Income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.

Fee

None.

Languages

Interpreter services

Agency info

DSHS Community Services Offices

Helps people achieve and maintain self-sufficiency by providing financial assistance for food, medical expenses and ID cards to those who are eligible. Also provides limited cash assistance. Additional programs available for refugees, families and people with disabilities.