SNAP Benefits in Arkansas: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Arkansas. Learn about income limits, how to apply, and manage your benefits.
Oct 4, 2025
Steve Austin
SNAP Benefits in Arkansas: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Arkansas. Learn about income limits, how to apply, and manage your benefits.
Oct 4, 2025
Steve Austin
SNAP Benefits in Arkansas: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Arkansas. Learn about income limits, how to apply, and manage your benefits.
Oct 4, 2025
Steve Austin
SNAP Benefits in Arkansas: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Arkansas. Learn about income limits, how to apply, and manage your benefits.
Oct 4, 2025
Steve Austin
SNAP Benefits in Arkansas: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Arkansas. Learn about income limits, how to apply, and manage your benefits.
Oct 4, 2025
Steve Austin
SHARE
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. This program provides monthly funds to low-income households in Arkansas for purchasing nutritious food.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Arkansas
SNAP income limits and benefit amounts are updated every October based on the USDA’s annual Cost-of-Living Adjustments. Arkansas follows federal guidelines, which generally cap your household's gross monthly income at 130% of the federal poverty level.
The maximum benefit is tied to the USDA Thrifty Food Plan. Below are the current income limits and maximum benefit amounts for different household sizes in Arkansas, based on federal eligibility data.
Household Size 1: $1,632 gross monthly income limit, $292 maximum benefit
Household Size 2: $2,215 gross monthly income limit, $535 maximum benefit
Household Size 3: $2,798 gross monthly income limit, $766 maximum benefit
Household Size 4: $3,380 gross monthly income limit, $975 maximum benefit
Household Size 5: $3,963 gross monthly income limit, $1,155 maximum benefit
Household Size 6: $4,546 gross monthly income limit, $1,386 maximum benefit
Household Size 7: $5,129 gross monthly income limit, $1,532 maximum benefit
Household Size 8: $5,712 gross monthly income limit, $1,751 maximum benefit
For each additional person: Add $583 to the income limit and $219 to the maximum benefit
Your income limit may be higher if your household includes an elderly or disabled member. For the most current information, you should check with the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Federal guidelines on categorical eligibility provide more detail on these rules.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Arkansas
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Arkansas, your household must meet several requirements related to income, residency, and other factors.
Income Limits: Your household's gross and net monthly income must fall below certain thresholds, though the gross income test is waived for households with an elderly or disabled member.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Arkansas to apply for benefits, and you can find more information through the Arkansas DHS.
Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens, such as lawful permanent residents who meet certain conditions.
Resource Limits: Your household's countable assets must not exceed $2,750, though this limit increases to $4,250 if a member is age 60 or older or has a disability.
Work Requirements: Most adults must register for work and accept suitable employment, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents.
Special Conditions: Students, seniors, and people with disabilities may face different eligibility rules or exemptions from work requirements.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Arkansas
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Arkansas online, in person at a local DHS office, or by mailing in an application.
Online Application
The quickest way to apply is through the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) online portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload required documents from home at any time.
Visit the Arkansas DHS SNAP page to start.
Create an account to access the application.
Fill out the form with your household, income, and expense details.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can apply at your county's DHS office. Staff can help you fill out the form and answer questions about the process or your eligibility requirements.
Find your local DHS office through the official DHS website.
Bring documents like proof of identity, income, and residency.
Mail-In Application
For those who cannot apply online or in person, a paper application can be completed and mailed. This method is a reliable alternative, though processing may take longer than online submissions.
Download the application form from the DHS SNAP webpage.
Complete all sections of the form to avoid delays.
Mail the finished application to your local county DHS office.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Arkansas
For application help, call the Access Arkansas Call Center at 1-855-372-1084.
They are open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Services include assistance with online applications, renewals, and uploading documents through the Access Arkansas portal.
See Arkansas EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Arkansas
Once you are approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card holds your monthly SNAP funds. Think of it like a debit card, but specifically for buying eligible food items. You will receive it in the mail after your application is approved, along with instructions on how to set up your PIN.
Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout in an authorized store, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your private PIN. The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are meant to help you purchase staple food items for your household. This includes a wide variety of groceries to keep your kitchen stocked with healthy options.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat
It's also helpful to know what you can't buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits are strictly for food items, so several categories of products are not covered under the program.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods prepared and sold to be eaten on-site
Nonfood items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food budget. Knowing your balance and important dates is simple.
How to Check Your EBT Balance
You can check your Arkansas EBT card balance in several ways. After a purchase, your remaining balance is usually printed on your receipt.
You can also call the EBT customer service line at 1-800-997-9999 or log into your account on the Access Arkansas portal. For a real-time balance check on your phone, you can use the Benny app, which shows both your SNAP and cash balances.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits are deposited onto your EBT card from the 4th to the 13th of each month. Your specific deposit date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number (SSN).
For example, if your SSN ends in 0, you will receive your benefits on the 4th of the month. If it ends in 9, your benefits will be available on the 13th.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
Your SNAP benefits are not permanent and must be renewed periodically. The Arkansas DHS will mail you a renewal notice before your certification period ends, so be sure to watch your mail.
The renewal process is similar to your first application. You will need to provide updated information about your household's income, expenses, and living situation to confirm you are still eligible.
You can complete your renewal online through the Access Arkansas portal, by mail, or at a local DHS office. Submitting it on time prevents any interruption in your benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 4th and 13th of the month. Your specific date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number, which helps you plan your monthly food budget.
You can find your specific payment date in our Arkansas deposit schedule.
See Arkansas EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You have several ways to check your balance. You can use the ConnectEBT online portal, call the number on your card, or look at your latest store or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your real-time balance on your phone.
Our guide covers each of these balance-checking methods in more detail.
Check Your Arkansas EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app to track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Arkansas, you typically need to renew your SNAP benefits every six to twelve months. The Department of Human Services (DHS) will mail you a recertification packet before your renewal date. Be sure to watch for this packet in the mail.
You must submit the completed packet with current proof of income, household expenses like rent and utilities, and any changes in your family size. Submitting everything on time is the only way to prevent a gap in your monthly benefits.
Special SNAP Services in Arkansas
Arkansas provides special SNAP services for urgent needs. These include emergency food stamps for households with very little money and various forms of disaster assistance.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency Food Stamps)
For households with little cash, expedited SNAP provides benefits within five days. You may qualify if your income is under $150 with limited resources. Apply online or at a DHS office and request expedited service with your ID.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP offers food aid to households not on SNAP. To qualify, you must live in a declared disaster county and have disaster-related losses. Apply in person at special sites when DHS announces an event.
Replacement SNAP Benefits For Food Lost In A Disaster
If you lose food bought with SNAP due to a disaster like a power outage, you can get replacement benefits. Submit a signed statement to your local DHS office within 10 days to have the funds reissued. More information is available online.
Hot Foods Waiver After A Disaster
When a disaster leaves you without power, a hot foods waiver may let you buy prepared meals with your EBT card. If you live in a county covered by the waiver, no application is needed. Just use your card at approved stores.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. This program provides monthly funds to low-income households in Arkansas for purchasing nutritious food.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Arkansas
SNAP income limits and benefit amounts are updated every October based on the USDA’s annual Cost-of-Living Adjustments. Arkansas follows federal guidelines, which generally cap your household's gross monthly income at 130% of the federal poverty level.
The maximum benefit is tied to the USDA Thrifty Food Plan. Below are the current income limits and maximum benefit amounts for different household sizes in Arkansas, based on federal eligibility data.
Household Size 1: $1,632 gross monthly income limit, $292 maximum benefit
Household Size 2: $2,215 gross monthly income limit, $535 maximum benefit
Household Size 3: $2,798 gross monthly income limit, $766 maximum benefit
Household Size 4: $3,380 gross monthly income limit, $975 maximum benefit
Household Size 5: $3,963 gross monthly income limit, $1,155 maximum benefit
Household Size 6: $4,546 gross monthly income limit, $1,386 maximum benefit
Household Size 7: $5,129 gross monthly income limit, $1,532 maximum benefit
Household Size 8: $5,712 gross monthly income limit, $1,751 maximum benefit
For each additional person: Add $583 to the income limit and $219 to the maximum benefit
Your income limit may be higher if your household includes an elderly or disabled member. For the most current information, you should check with the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Federal guidelines on categorical eligibility provide more detail on these rules.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Arkansas
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Arkansas, your household must meet several requirements related to income, residency, and other factors.
Income Limits: Your household's gross and net monthly income must fall below certain thresholds, though the gross income test is waived for households with an elderly or disabled member.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Arkansas to apply for benefits, and you can find more information through the Arkansas DHS.
Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens, such as lawful permanent residents who meet certain conditions.
Resource Limits: Your household's countable assets must not exceed $2,750, though this limit increases to $4,250 if a member is age 60 or older or has a disability.
Work Requirements: Most adults must register for work and accept suitable employment, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents.
Special Conditions: Students, seniors, and people with disabilities may face different eligibility rules or exemptions from work requirements.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Arkansas
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Arkansas online, in person at a local DHS office, or by mailing in an application.
Online Application
The quickest way to apply is through the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) online portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload required documents from home at any time.
Visit the Arkansas DHS SNAP page to start.
Create an account to access the application.
Fill out the form with your household, income, and expense details.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can apply at your county's DHS office. Staff can help you fill out the form and answer questions about the process or your eligibility requirements.
Find your local DHS office through the official DHS website.
Bring documents like proof of identity, income, and residency.
Mail-In Application
For those who cannot apply online or in person, a paper application can be completed and mailed. This method is a reliable alternative, though processing may take longer than online submissions.
Download the application form from the DHS SNAP webpage.
Complete all sections of the form to avoid delays.
Mail the finished application to your local county DHS office.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Arkansas
For application help, call the Access Arkansas Call Center at 1-855-372-1084.
They are open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Services include assistance with online applications, renewals, and uploading documents through the Access Arkansas portal.
See Arkansas EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Arkansas
Once you are approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card holds your monthly SNAP funds. Think of it like a debit card, but specifically for buying eligible food items. You will receive it in the mail after your application is approved, along with instructions on how to set up your PIN.
Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout in an authorized store, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your private PIN. The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are meant to help you purchase staple food items for your household. This includes a wide variety of groceries to keep your kitchen stocked with healthy options.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat
It's also helpful to know what you can't buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits are strictly for food items, so several categories of products are not covered under the program.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods prepared and sold to be eaten on-site
Nonfood items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food budget. Knowing your balance and important dates is simple.
How to Check Your EBT Balance
You can check your Arkansas EBT card balance in several ways. After a purchase, your remaining balance is usually printed on your receipt.
You can also call the EBT customer service line at 1-800-997-9999 or log into your account on the Access Arkansas portal. For a real-time balance check on your phone, you can use the Benny app, which shows both your SNAP and cash balances.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits are deposited onto your EBT card from the 4th to the 13th of each month. Your specific deposit date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number (SSN).
For example, if your SSN ends in 0, you will receive your benefits on the 4th of the month. If it ends in 9, your benefits will be available on the 13th.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
Your SNAP benefits are not permanent and must be renewed periodically. The Arkansas DHS will mail you a renewal notice before your certification period ends, so be sure to watch your mail.
The renewal process is similar to your first application. You will need to provide updated information about your household's income, expenses, and living situation to confirm you are still eligible.
You can complete your renewal online through the Access Arkansas portal, by mail, or at a local DHS office. Submitting it on time prevents any interruption in your benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 4th and 13th of the month. Your specific date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number, which helps you plan your monthly food budget.
You can find your specific payment date in our Arkansas deposit schedule.
See Arkansas EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You have several ways to check your balance. You can use the ConnectEBT online portal, call the number on your card, or look at your latest store or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your real-time balance on your phone.
Our guide covers each of these balance-checking methods in more detail.
Check Your Arkansas EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app to track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Arkansas, you typically need to renew your SNAP benefits every six to twelve months. The Department of Human Services (DHS) will mail you a recertification packet before your renewal date. Be sure to watch for this packet in the mail.
You must submit the completed packet with current proof of income, household expenses like rent and utilities, and any changes in your family size. Submitting everything on time is the only way to prevent a gap in your monthly benefits.
Special SNAP Services in Arkansas
Arkansas provides special SNAP services for urgent needs. These include emergency food stamps for households with very little money and various forms of disaster assistance.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency Food Stamps)
For households with little cash, expedited SNAP provides benefits within five days. You may qualify if your income is under $150 with limited resources. Apply online or at a DHS office and request expedited service with your ID.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP offers food aid to households not on SNAP. To qualify, you must live in a declared disaster county and have disaster-related losses. Apply in person at special sites when DHS announces an event.
Replacement SNAP Benefits For Food Lost In A Disaster
If you lose food bought with SNAP due to a disaster like a power outage, you can get replacement benefits. Submit a signed statement to your local DHS office within 10 days to have the funds reissued. More information is available online.
Hot Foods Waiver After A Disaster
When a disaster leaves you without power, a hot foods waiver may let you buy prepared meals with your EBT card. If you live in a county covered by the waiver, no application is needed. Just use your card at approved stores.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. This program provides monthly funds to low-income households in Arkansas for purchasing nutritious food.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Arkansas
SNAP income limits and benefit amounts are updated every October based on the USDA’s annual Cost-of-Living Adjustments. Arkansas follows federal guidelines, which generally cap your household's gross monthly income at 130% of the federal poverty level.
The maximum benefit is tied to the USDA Thrifty Food Plan. Below are the current income limits and maximum benefit amounts for different household sizes in Arkansas, based on federal eligibility data.
Household Size 1: $1,632 gross monthly income limit, $292 maximum benefit
Household Size 2: $2,215 gross monthly income limit, $535 maximum benefit
Household Size 3: $2,798 gross monthly income limit, $766 maximum benefit
Household Size 4: $3,380 gross monthly income limit, $975 maximum benefit
Household Size 5: $3,963 gross monthly income limit, $1,155 maximum benefit
Household Size 6: $4,546 gross monthly income limit, $1,386 maximum benefit
Household Size 7: $5,129 gross monthly income limit, $1,532 maximum benefit
Household Size 8: $5,712 gross monthly income limit, $1,751 maximum benefit
For each additional person: Add $583 to the income limit and $219 to the maximum benefit
Your income limit may be higher if your household includes an elderly or disabled member. For the most current information, you should check with the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Federal guidelines on categorical eligibility provide more detail on these rules.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Arkansas
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Arkansas, your household must meet several requirements related to income, residency, and other factors.
Income Limits: Your household's gross and net monthly income must fall below certain thresholds, though the gross income test is waived for households with an elderly or disabled member.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Arkansas to apply for benefits, and you can find more information through the Arkansas DHS.
Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens, such as lawful permanent residents who meet certain conditions.
Resource Limits: Your household's countable assets must not exceed $2,750, though this limit increases to $4,250 if a member is age 60 or older or has a disability.
Work Requirements: Most adults must register for work and accept suitable employment, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents.
Special Conditions: Students, seniors, and people with disabilities may face different eligibility rules or exemptions from work requirements.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Arkansas
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Arkansas online, in person at a local DHS office, or by mailing in an application.
Online Application
The quickest way to apply is through the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) online portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload required documents from home at any time.
Visit the Arkansas DHS SNAP page to start.
Create an account to access the application.
Fill out the form with your household, income, and expense details.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can apply at your county's DHS office. Staff can help you fill out the form and answer questions about the process or your eligibility requirements.
Find your local DHS office through the official DHS website.
Bring documents like proof of identity, income, and residency.
Mail-In Application
For those who cannot apply online or in person, a paper application can be completed and mailed. This method is a reliable alternative, though processing may take longer than online submissions.
Download the application form from the DHS SNAP webpage.
Complete all sections of the form to avoid delays.
Mail the finished application to your local county DHS office.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Arkansas
For application help, call the Access Arkansas Call Center at 1-855-372-1084.
They are open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Services include assistance with online applications, renewals, and uploading documents through the Access Arkansas portal.
See Arkansas EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Arkansas
Once you are approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card holds your monthly SNAP funds. Think of it like a debit card, but specifically for buying eligible food items. You will receive it in the mail after your application is approved, along with instructions on how to set up your PIN.
Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout in an authorized store, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your private PIN. The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are meant to help you purchase staple food items for your household. This includes a wide variety of groceries to keep your kitchen stocked with healthy options.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat
It's also helpful to know what you can't buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits are strictly for food items, so several categories of products are not covered under the program.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods prepared and sold to be eaten on-site
Nonfood items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food budget. Knowing your balance and important dates is simple.
How to Check Your EBT Balance
You can check your Arkansas EBT card balance in several ways. After a purchase, your remaining balance is usually printed on your receipt.
You can also call the EBT customer service line at 1-800-997-9999 or log into your account on the Access Arkansas portal. For a real-time balance check on your phone, you can use the Benny app, which shows both your SNAP and cash balances.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits are deposited onto your EBT card from the 4th to the 13th of each month. Your specific deposit date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number (SSN).
For example, if your SSN ends in 0, you will receive your benefits on the 4th of the month. If it ends in 9, your benefits will be available on the 13th.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
Your SNAP benefits are not permanent and must be renewed periodically. The Arkansas DHS will mail you a renewal notice before your certification period ends, so be sure to watch your mail.
The renewal process is similar to your first application. You will need to provide updated information about your household's income, expenses, and living situation to confirm you are still eligible.
You can complete your renewal online through the Access Arkansas portal, by mail, or at a local DHS office. Submitting it on time prevents any interruption in your benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 4th and 13th of the month. Your specific date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number, which helps you plan your monthly food budget.
You can find your specific payment date in our Arkansas deposit schedule.
See Arkansas EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You have several ways to check your balance. You can use the ConnectEBT online portal, call the number on your card, or look at your latest store or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your real-time balance on your phone.
Our guide covers each of these balance-checking methods in more detail.
Check Your Arkansas EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app to track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Arkansas, you typically need to renew your SNAP benefits every six to twelve months. The Department of Human Services (DHS) will mail you a recertification packet before your renewal date. Be sure to watch for this packet in the mail.
You must submit the completed packet with current proof of income, household expenses like rent and utilities, and any changes in your family size. Submitting everything on time is the only way to prevent a gap in your monthly benefits.
Special SNAP Services in Arkansas
Arkansas provides special SNAP services for urgent needs. These include emergency food stamps for households with very little money and various forms of disaster assistance.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency Food Stamps)
For households with little cash, expedited SNAP provides benefits within five days. You may qualify if your income is under $150 with limited resources. Apply online or at a DHS office and request expedited service with your ID.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP offers food aid to households not on SNAP. To qualify, you must live in a declared disaster county and have disaster-related losses. Apply in person at special sites when DHS announces an event.
Replacement SNAP Benefits For Food Lost In A Disaster
If you lose food bought with SNAP due to a disaster like a power outage, you can get replacement benefits. Submit a signed statement to your local DHS office within 10 days to have the funds reissued. More information is available online.
Hot Foods Waiver After A Disaster
When a disaster leaves you without power, a hot foods waiver may let you buy prepared meals with your EBT card. If you live in a county covered by the waiver, no application is needed. Just use your card at approved stores.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. This program provides monthly funds to low-income households in Arkansas for purchasing nutritious food.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Arkansas
SNAP income limits and benefit amounts are updated every October based on the USDA’s annual Cost-of-Living Adjustments. Arkansas follows federal guidelines, which generally cap your household's gross monthly income at 130% of the federal poverty level.
The maximum benefit is tied to the USDA Thrifty Food Plan. Below are the current income limits and maximum benefit amounts for different household sizes in Arkansas, based on federal eligibility data.
Household Size 1: $1,632 gross monthly income limit, $292 maximum benefit
Household Size 2: $2,215 gross monthly income limit, $535 maximum benefit
Household Size 3: $2,798 gross monthly income limit, $766 maximum benefit
Household Size 4: $3,380 gross monthly income limit, $975 maximum benefit
Household Size 5: $3,963 gross monthly income limit, $1,155 maximum benefit
Household Size 6: $4,546 gross monthly income limit, $1,386 maximum benefit
Household Size 7: $5,129 gross monthly income limit, $1,532 maximum benefit
Household Size 8: $5,712 gross monthly income limit, $1,751 maximum benefit
For each additional person: Add $583 to the income limit and $219 to the maximum benefit
Your income limit may be higher if your household includes an elderly or disabled member. For the most current information, you should check with the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Federal guidelines on categorical eligibility provide more detail on these rules.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Arkansas
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Arkansas, your household must meet several requirements related to income, residency, and other factors.
Income Limits: Your household's gross and net monthly income must fall below certain thresholds, though the gross income test is waived for households with an elderly or disabled member.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Arkansas to apply for benefits, and you can find more information through the Arkansas DHS.
Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens, such as lawful permanent residents who meet certain conditions.
Resource Limits: Your household's countable assets must not exceed $2,750, though this limit increases to $4,250 if a member is age 60 or older or has a disability.
Work Requirements: Most adults must register for work and accept suitable employment, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents.
Special Conditions: Students, seniors, and people with disabilities may face different eligibility rules or exemptions from work requirements.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Arkansas
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Arkansas online, in person at a local DHS office, or by mailing in an application.
Online Application
The quickest way to apply is through the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) online portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload required documents from home at any time.
Visit the Arkansas DHS SNAP page to start.
Create an account to access the application.
Fill out the form with your household, income, and expense details.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can apply at your county's DHS office. Staff can help you fill out the form and answer questions about the process or your eligibility requirements.
Find your local DHS office through the official DHS website.
Bring documents like proof of identity, income, and residency.
Mail-In Application
For those who cannot apply online or in person, a paper application can be completed and mailed. This method is a reliable alternative, though processing may take longer than online submissions.
Download the application form from the DHS SNAP webpage.
Complete all sections of the form to avoid delays.
Mail the finished application to your local county DHS office.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Arkansas
For application help, call the Access Arkansas Call Center at 1-855-372-1084.
They are open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Services include assistance with online applications, renewals, and uploading documents through the Access Arkansas portal.
See Arkansas EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Arkansas
Once you are approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card holds your monthly SNAP funds. Think of it like a debit card, but specifically for buying eligible food items. You will receive it in the mail after your application is approved, along with instructions on how to set up your PIN.
Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout in an authorized store, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your private PIN. The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are meant to help you purchase staple food items for your household. This includes a wide variety of groceries to keep your kitchen stocked with healthy options.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat
It's also helpful to know what you can't buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits are strictly for food items, so several categories of products are not covered under the program.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods prepared and sold to be eaten on-site
Nonfood items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food budget. Knowing your balance and important dates is simple.
How to Check Your EBT Balance
You can check your Arkansas EBT card balance in several ways. After a purchase, your remaining balance is usually printed on your receipt.
You can also call the EBT customer service line at 1-800-997-9999 or log into your account on the Access Arkansas portal. For a real-time balance check on your phone, you can use the Benny app, which shows both your SNAP and cash balances.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits are deposited onto your EBT card from the 4th to the 13th of each month. Your specific deposit date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number (SSN).
For example, if your SSN ends in 0, you will receive your benefits on the 4th of the month. If it ends in 9, your benefits will be available on the 13th.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
Your SNAP benefits are not permanent and must be renewed periodically. The Arkansas DHS will mail you a renewal notice before your certification period ends, so be sure to watch your mail.
The renewal process is similar to your first application. You will need to provide updated information about your household's income, expenses, and living situation to confirm you are still eligible.
You can complete your renewal online through the Access Arkansas portal, by mail, or at a local DHS office. Submitting it on time prevents any interruption in your benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 4th and 13th of the month. Your specific date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number, which helps you plan your monthly food budget.
You can find your specific payment date in our Arkansas deposit schedule.
See Arkansas EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You have several ways to check your balance. You can use the ConnectEBT online portal, call the number on your card, or look at your latest store or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your real-time balance on your phone.
Our guide covers each of these balance-checking methods in more detail.
Check Your Arkansas EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app to track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Arkansas, you typically need to renew your SNAP benefits every six to twelve months. The Department of Human Services (DHS) will mail you a recertification packet before your renewal date. Be sure to watch for this packet in the mail.
You must submit the completed packet with current proof of income, household expenses like rent and utilities, and any changes in your family size. Submitting everything on time is the only way to prevent a gap in your monthly benefits.
Special SNAP Services in Arkansas
Arkansas provides special SNAP services for urgent needs. These include emergency food stamps for households with very little money and various forms of disaster assistance.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency Food Stamps)
For households with little cash, expedited SNAP provides benefits within five days. You may qualify if your income is under $150 with limited resources. Apply online or at a DHS office and request expedited service with your ID.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP offers food aid to households not on SNAP. To qualify, you must live in a declared disaster county and have disaster-related losses. Apply in person at special sites when DHS announces an event.
Replacement SNAP Benefits For Food Lost In A Disaster
If you lose food bought with SNAP due to a disaster like a power outage, you can get replacement benefits. Submit a signed statement to your local DHS office within 10 days to have the funds reissued. More information is available online.
Hot Foods Waiver After A Disaster
When a disaster leaves you without power, a hot foods waiver may let you buy prepared meals with your EBT card. If you live in a county covered by the waiver, no application is needed. Just use your card at approved stores.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. This program provides monthly funds to low-income households in Arkansas for purchasing nutritious food.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Arkansas
SNAP income limits and benefit amounts are updated every October based on the USDA’s annual Cost-of-Living Adjustments. Arkansas follows federal guidelines, which generally cap your household's gross monthly income at 130% of the federal poverty level.
The maximum benefit is tied to the USDA Thrifty Food Plan. Below are the current income limits and maximum benefit amounts for different household sizes in Arkansas, based on federal eligibility data.
Household Size 1: $1,632 gross monthly income limit, $292 maximum benefit
Household Size 2: $2,215 gross monthly income limit, $535 maximum benefit
Household Size 3: $2,798 gross monthly income limit, $766 maximum benefit
Household Size 4: $3,380 gross monthly income limit, $975 maximum benefit
Household Size 5: $3,963 gross monthly income limit, $1,155 maximum benefit
Household Size 6: $4,546 gross monthly income limit, $1,386 maximum benefit
Household Size 7: $5,129 gross monthly income limit, $1,532 maximum benefit
Household Size 8: $5,712 gross monthly income limit, $1,751 maximum benefit
For each additional person: Add $583 to the income limit and $219 to the maximum benefit
Your income limit may be higher if your household includes an elderly or disabled member. For the most current information, you should check with the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Federal guidelines on categorical eligibility provide more detail on these rules.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Arkansas
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Arkansas, your household must meet several requirements related to income, residency, and other factors.
Income Limits: Your household's gross and net monthly income must fall below certain thresholds, though the gross income test is waived for households with an elderly or disabled member.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Arkansas to apply for benefits, and you can find more information through the Arkansas DHS.
Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens, such as lawful permanent residents who meet certain conditions.
Resource Limits: Your household's countable assets must not exceed $2,750, though this limit increases to $4,250 if a member is age 60 or older or has a disability.
Work Requirements: Most adults must register for work and accept suitable employment, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents.
Special Conditions: Students, seniors, and people with disabilities may face different eligibility rules or exemptions from work requirements.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Arkansas
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Arkansas online, in person at a local DHS office, or by mailing in an application.
Online Application
The quickest way to apply is through the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) online portal. This method allows you to submit your application and upload required documents from home at any time.
Visit the Arkansas DHS SNAP page to start.
Create an account to access the application.
Fill out the form with your household, income, and expense details.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can apply at your county's DHS office. Staff can help you fill out the form and answer questions about the process or your eligibility requirements.
Find your local DHS office through the official DHS website.
Bring documents like proof of identity, income, and residency.
Mail-In Application
For those who cannot apply online or in person, a paper application can be completed and mailed. This method is a reliable alternative, though processing may take longer than online submissions.
Download the application form from the DHS SNAP webpage.
Complete all sections of the form to avoid delays.
Mail the finished application to your local county DHS office.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Arkansas
For application help, call the Access Arkansas Call Center at 1-855-372-1084.
They are open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Services include assistance with online applications, renewals, and uploading documents through the Access Arkansas portal.
See Arkansas EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Arkansas
Once you are approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card holds your monthly SNAP funds. Think of it like a debit card, but specifically for buying eligible food items. You will receive it in the mail after your application is approved, along with instructions on how to set up your PIN.
Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout in an authorized store, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your private PIN. The purchase amount is then deducted from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are meant to help you purchase staple food items for your household. This includes a wide variety of groceries to keep your kitchen stocked with healthy options.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat
It's also helpful to know what you can't buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits are strictly for food items, so several categories of products are not covered under the program.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods prepared and sold to be eaten on-site
Nonfood items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food budget. Knowing your balance and important dates is simple.
How to Check Your EBT Balance
You can check your Arkansas EBT card balance in several ways. After a purchase, your remaining balance is usually printed on your receipt.
You can also call the EBT customer service line at 1-800-997-9999 or log into your account on the Access Arkansas portal. For a real-time balance check on your phone, you can use the Benny app, which shows both your SNAP and cash balances.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits are deposited onto your EBT card from the 4th to the 13th of each month. Your specific deposit date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number (SSN).
For example, if your SSN ends in 0, you will receive your benefits on the 4th of the month. If it ends in 9, your benefits will be available on the 13th.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
Your SNAP benefits are not permanent and must be renewed periodically. The Arkansas DHS will mail you a renewal notice before your certification period ends, so be sure to watch your mail.
The renewal process is similar to your first application. You will need to provide updated information about your household's income, expenses, and living situation to confirm you are still eligible.
You can complete your renewal online through the Access Arkansas portal, by mail, or at a local DHS office. Submitting it on time prevents any interruption in your benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 4th and 13th of the month. Your specific date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number, which helps you plan your monthly food budget.
You can find your specific payment date in our Arkansas deposit schedule.
See Arkansas EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You have several ways to check your balance. You can use the ConnectEBT online portal, call the number on your card, or look at your latest store or ATM receipt. The Benny app also shows your real-time balance on your phone.
Our guide covers each of these balance-checking methods in more detail.
Check Your Arkansas EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app to track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Arkansas, you typically need to renew your SNAP benefits every six to twelve months. The Department of Human Services (DHS) will mail you a recertification packet before your renewal date. Be sure to watch for this packet in the mail.
You must submit the completed packet with current proof of income, household expenses like rent and utilities, and any changes in your family size. Submitting everything on time is the only way to prevent a gap in your monthly benefits.
Special SNAP Services in Arkansas
Arkansas provides special SNAP services for urgent needs. These include emergency food stamps for households with very little money and various forms of disaster assistance.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency Food Stamps)
For households with little cash, expedited SNAP provides benefits within five days. You may qualify if your income is under $150 with limited resources. Apply online or at a DHS office and request expedited service with your ID.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a major disaster, D-SNAP offers food aid to households not on SNAP. To qualify, you must live in a declared disaster county and have disaster-related losses. Apply in person at special sites when DHS announces an event.
Replacement SNAP Benefits For Food Lost In A Disaster
If you lose food bought with SNAP due to a disaster like a power outage, you can get replacement benefits. Submit a signed statement to your local DHS office within 10 days to have the funds reissued. More information is available online.
Hot Foods Waiver After A Disaster
When a disaster leaves you without power, a hot foods waiver may let you buy prepared meals with your EBT card. If you live in a county covered by the waiver, no application is needed. Just use your card at approved stores.
