(TheDailyCurrents.com) – If you’re living on a tight budget, you know that every dollar matters.

Fortunately, programs like SNAP help those in need with funds for food. In addition to governmental-based programs, many corporations offer aid to low-income families and individuals.

What is SNAP, and How Do You Qualify?

SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. This government-supported program provides a monetary allowance for nutritious food to low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. A sliding income scale determines the allotted amount, but the average benefit per household is $129.00.

The idea behind SNAP involves ensuring proper nutrition for those in need, which frees up funds for other essentials such as rent, utilities, and transportation.

Checkout These Worthwhile Benefits for SNAP Recipients

Many people who qualify for SNAP benefits qualify for private and other governmental discounts and programs. Check out the examples below to see if you or a loved one should apply for any of these offers.

Discounts:

• Free Amazon Fresh Delivery & Discounted Amazon Prime: Free Amazon Fresh grocery delivery (if available in your area) and discounted access to Amazon Prime. When grocery shopping on Amazon Fresh, you may use your EBT card and automatically receive 15% off Happy Belly (Amazon brand) products. This Amazon Fresh delivery benefit especially helps carless households.
• Low-cost or free internet services: Many internet providers offer discounted plans for SNAP recipients starting at $10 per month. Check this website to see if you qualify for a discount on your internet services. 
• Discounts on Museums, Aquariums, and Zoos: SNAP recipients and other EBT cardholders may receive free or discounted admission to museums, aquariums, and zoos. Take a look at this website for a family-friendly and affordable event.
• Get 50% off on healthy foods like fruits and vegetables: The double-up food bucks program matches your SNAP EBT dollars on fruits and vegetables. Check with local grocery stores and farmers’ markets to see if they support the program.
• Discounted Bike Share and Transit Passes: SNAP recipients and other EBT cardholders qualify for discounted bike share subscriptions and transit passes in selected urban areas. Contact your local transit authority for more information.

Government Assistance Programs:

• Phone or Internet Assistance. The Lifeline program provides free or discounted phone or internet assistance. SNAP recipients automatically qualify to receive a discount toward their monthly bill.
• Utility and Home Weatherization Assistance:  Many SNAP recipients qualify for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and related programs provide federally funded assistance with home energy bills, emergency assistance to avoid shutoff, and help with home weatherization and home repairs.
• Medicaid:  If you qualify for SNAP, you’re most likely eligible for full or partial medical assistance through Medicaid. Check with your state’s Medicaid agency to see if you are eligible for this health insurance.
• Free Tax Filing and Credits for Filing a Tax Return: Check with an IRS partner site to see if you qualify for free tax filing services. On the IRS website, you will also want to know if you are eligible for different credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.
• Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): Pregnant women and households with children under five who qualify for SNAP will probably also qualify for the WIC program. WIC provides nutrition assistance much like and usually loads onto your existing EBT card.
• National School Lunch Program: The National School Lunch Program provides free lunches for children of SNAP recipient households. Contact your child’s school to learn more.

If you qualify for SNAP, applying for these programs and services is well worth your time. Check with your social worker for more information on discounted services.

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