Food Stamps

Union County Job and Family Services is working to fight hunger in our county.  Many families, seniors, and children struggle with hunger every day.  Unemployment, underemployment, low wages, and rising utility, housing, gas and food costs make it difficult to make ends meet.  

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) formerly Food Assistance and Food Stamps is designed to supplement the buying powers of low income individuals and families so they can better meet their nutrition needs.  Benefits are issued by an electronic benefit card called the Ohio Direction Card and can be used at any retail store that accepts Visa or MasterCard to purchase food.  The program goal is to promote better health and nutrition.

In order to qualify for the Food Assistance Program, households must meet several requirements based on income and household size. 

What is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)?

SNAP is a monthly benefit given to eligible Ohioans to help them buy food.  The program is designed to increase nutritional levels and expand buying power for residents living in low-income households.

Who is eligible?

Families and individuals can receive this benefit.  Eligibility is based on factors such as family size, income, and some expenses.  To find out if you may be eligible, enter your information into the Eligibility Self Assessment.

What verification is needed to apply for SNAP?

• Social security number
• Proof of income
• Proof of identity
• Child care/dependent care coss
• Child support paid for children not living with you
• Housing and utility costs
• Any medical expenses for those with disabilities or for those over 60 years of age

Applying or Reapplying for SNAP Benefits

You may apply or reapply for SNAP benefits online at https://benefits.ohio.gov.

You can apply in person, or download and print paper applications.  Completed forms can be dropped off in our lobby or in the drop box outside our door.  You may also mail or fax them.

Union County Job and Family Services

940 London Ave., Suite 1800

Marysville, Ohio 43040

Fax: 937-644-8700

Lobby Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Application for Benefits (JFS7200) | Reapplication for Benefits (JFS7204) | Interim Report (JFS7221)

Available in multiple languages.

How does the Ohio Direction Card Work?

The card looks similar to and works like a credit or debit card.  When users make eligible grocery purchases, they simply swipe the card through a reader at the register.  The amount is then deducted from the total benefit balance.

Food assistance account balance and transaction history can be viewed online at Ohio Benefits or by downloading the ConnectEBT app.  If your Ohio Direction card has been lost or stolen, someone has learned your pin number, or there has been an inaccurate transaction made to your account, call customer service immediately at 1.866.386.3071.

Items not permitted to be purchased with SNAP:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Tobacco
• Vitamins and/or medicine
• Hot food products that are prepared to be eaten immediately
• Non-food items (pet food, paper products, soaps, and household supplies)