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You are here: Home > SNAP > Contact Information
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

Retailers Can Call the SNAP Retailer Service Center Toll Free 1-877-823-4369 to Request a Retailer Application Package

Any retailer that would like to accept SNAP benefits (EBT) must be licensed to participate in SNAP. You can call our toll free telephone number at 1-877-823-4369 to have an application package mailed to you.

If I call the 877 (toll free) number, what can I expect?

If you call between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) you will speak to one of our representatives who will process your request for an application package. If you call after hours, on the weekend, or a Federal holiday, you will reach a voice mailbox and callers will be prompted to provide information such as their name and mailing address to have an application package mailed to them on the next business day.

If I call, how long does it take to get the application package?

Customers calling the toll free number usually receive the application package within 3-5 business days. Trained personnel mail out the informational materials Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays.

What do I do once I receive the application package?

You will need to return the completed application form to the FNS Work Center provided in your application package.

How long will it take to become authorized?

The FNS Work Center have up to 45 days from the date they receive a completed application to approve or deny your application. As part of the application process, you may be asked to answer additional questions regarding your application, or to provide additional documentation. Your firm may also be visited by FNS representative or private contractor.

Contact the SNAP Retailer Service Center 1-877-823-4369 to find out the status of your application.

Important things to know:

The FNS Work Centers are responsible for the licensing and monitoring of retail food stores participating in SNAP. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Application for Stores, Form FNS-252, should be filled out completely and accurately, as well as signed and dated. The FNS Cover Letter provides specific information on how and where to return the completed application.
If you have any questions regarding the application process you should contact the SNAP Retailer Service Center 1-877-823-436. Failure to properly follow the instructions contained in the application package could result in a delay in processing your application.

The majority of applicants will be asked to provide the following documentation with a completed application:

  • Copy of one current license in your name and required to operate your business (e.g., health permit or food inspection permit; sales tax permit; sellers permit; business license; lottery license; beer or wine license; etc.). If you do not have a license, please contact your local field office.

  • Photo Identification [e.g., driver's license (front), passport, military ID] for all owners, partners, corporate officers, shareholders and their spouses, if applicable.

  • Copy of Social Security card or acceptable verification of Social Security Number (e.g., tax forms, insurance card, etc.) for all owners, partners, corporate officers, shareholders and their spouses, if applicable.

Some applicants may be required to submit additional information. Your FNS Work Center will let you know if you need to submit additional paperwork.

Under no circumstances can you accept any SNAP benefits - until your store has been licensed under your ownership.


Last modified: 10/11/2012