A SNAP award letter, also called a notice of eligibility, is your state's written proof that you receive benefits. Federal rules require this notice when you are approved, listing your allotment amount and certification period. For a later copy, check your state's online account, ask your SNAP office, or request your casefile in writing.
What happened
You need proof of your SNAP benefits. A landlord or lender asked you for it. States use different names for this letter. Some call it an award letter. Some call it a notice of eligibility. It shows your monthly amount. It also shows how long your case lasts.
What usually applies
Federal rules cover what happens when SNAP approves you. Your state must send a written notice. It must state your allotment amount. It must state your certification period dates. The notice must also list the SNAP office phone number. It must state your right to a fair hearing. If you lose your copy, you have options. You can ask, in writing, to review your own case record. The office must let you inspect it. Many states also let you view or print a benefit letter online. Exact names and steps vary by state.
“If an application is approved, the State agency shall provide the household with written notice of the amount of the allotment and the beginning and ending dates of the certification period.”
“The notice shall also advise the household of its right to a fair hearing, the telephone number of the SNAP office (a toll-free number or a number where collect calls will be accepted for households outside the local calling area), and, if possible, the name of the person to contact for additional information.”
“If there is a written request by a responsible member of the household, its currently authorized representative, or a person acting on its behalf to review material and information contained in its casefile, the material and information contained in the casefile shall be made available for inspection during normal business hours.”
What to do
- 1
Check your state's online SNAP account first
Many states let you view or print a benefit letter from your online account. Look for a section called notices, letters, or verification.
- 2
Ask your SNAP office for a copy of your notice of eligibility
This is the letter your state sent when your case was approved. It lists your allotment amount and certification period.
- 3
Put your request in writing if the office needs one
You can ask, in writing, to review the material in your own case record. The office must make it available for you to inspect.
- 4
Keep a copy on hand for landlords or lenders
Agencies use different names for this letter. Some call it a benefit letter. Some call it an award letter. Some call it a notice of eligibility.
If your state cannot locate your notice or takes a long time to respond, legal aid offices and SNAP outreach groups can help you follow up. Your local 211 line can also point you toward help if you need this proof quickly.
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Sources
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR), 7 CFR 273.10(g)(1)(i)Retrieved 2026-07-18
- U.S. Government Publishing Office (govinfo.gov), Code of Federal Regulations, 7 CFR 272.1(c)(3)Retrieved 2026-07-18
Last reviewed 2026-07-18