Eligibility criteria
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Montana and fall into one of two groups: (1) those with a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $2,001, or (2) those with a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $3,001 who share their household with a person or persons age 60 and over, or with a person with a disability. For either group, you must also have an annual household income of less than $11,677 if one person lives in the household; $15,757 if two people live in the household; $19,849 if three people live in the household; $23,929 if four people live in the household; $28,009, if five people live in the household; $32,089 if six people live in the household; $36,169 if seven people live in the household; or $40,249 if more than seven people live in the household.

Description
Congress passed the Food Stamp Act of 1977 in order to provide eligible households an opportunity to obtain a more nutritious diet by supplementing their food budget. Income, resources, and household size determine the amount of food stamps a household receives. The program is administered both by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the State of Montana. Generally, residents of Montana who are eligible to receive benefits include: People who live together and buy food and prepare meals together are grouped as a ?household? for the Food Stamp Program. Husbands and wives, and children under 22 years old living with their natural, adoptive or stepparents must be considered as one household. Household members that wish to be included must be U.S. citizens or legal aliens. Household members that wish to be included must furnish or apply for a social security number. Income and resource guidelines listed in this overview must be met. Able-bodied household members who are age 16 through 59 must register for work, and may be required to participate in a Food Stamp Employment and Training Program unless a specified exemption is met. Additional eligibility criteria exist so you will need to work with your local County Public Assistance Office to determine whether you are eligible for benefits. Note than an interview will be required to confirm your eligibility in addition to completing an application for benefits.

Managing organization
Montana http://www.discoveringmontana.com

Program contact information & web resources
To apply for Montana Food Stamp benefits, contact your local County Public Assistance Office. Generally, the phone number and address can be found in the government section of your phone book under Public Health and Human Services. If the number cannot be located, contact us to find a phone number of an office in your area:
800-332-2272

You can also learn more about benefits in Montana and the requirements for eligibility on our Web site at:
http://www.dphhs.state.mt.us/services/programs_available/foodstamp_overview.htm