The Propel Guide To EBT In Guam

SNAP, sometimes called food stamps or just EBT, can be an essential tool for low-income households in Guam to help supplement their grocery budget every month.

SNAP is federally funded and operates under national rules, but each state manages its own program under those guidelines. That means application steps, benefit schedules, renewal processes, and customer service details can vary depending on where you live.

Here’s what to know about EBT and SNAP benefits in Guam.

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How does SNAP work in Guam?#how-does-snap-work-in-guam

In Guam, about 43,000 people receive SNAP benefits.

If you’re looking for help covering groceries, SNAP provides monthly support through an EBT card. Your benefits are loaded onto the card each month and can be used at stores that accept food stamps.

After you apply, your SNAP office may contact you for an interview and ask for documents to confirm details like your income and household size. Once your case is approved, benefits continue as long as you remain eligible and complete any required renewals.

How to apply for food stamps in Guam#how-to-apply-for-food-stamps-in-guam

There are several ways to apply for food stamps in Guam.

Apply for SNAP online

You can apply through the official state SNAP website below.

Apply for SNAP by phone or in person

If you need help applying or prefer speaking with someone, you can

• Call the Guam SNAP hotline at 1-671-300-8853 or 1-671-300-8872 for information and guidance on how to apply in your county (some counties may allow you to apply by phone)
• Apply in person at one of the three Bureau of Economic Security of the Department of Public Health & Social Services ((M-F 8a-5p, excluding government holidays) at the:
  • RAN-Care Commercial Center (2nd floor) in Tamuning
  • Southern Public Health Center in Inarajan
  • Northern Public Health Center in Dededo

SNAP application assistance is also available through your local food bank.

What you’ll need to apply for SNAP#what-youll-need-to-apply-for-snap

When you apply, you’ll usually be asked for:

• Proof of identity
• Information about everyone in your household, like birthdays and immigration status
• Income details, like pay stubs or benefit letters
• Housing and utility costs

You may not need every document to start an application; you can often submit missing information later.

Who is eligible for SNAP in Guam?#who-is-eligible-for-snap-in-guam

SNAP eligibility is mostly determined by your household size and income, but some applicants may have to meet additional requirements.

In general, you may qualify for SNAP if:

• Your household income is at or below state limits
• You meet work requirements (if it applies to you)
• You are a U.S. citizen, or you meet immigration requirements

When are SNAP deposits issued in Guam?#when-are-snap-deposits-issued-in-guam

SNAP benefits are sent out once per month in Guam. Your exact deposit date depends on the last digit of your Social Security Number (SSN). For example, if your SSN ends in 1, your deposit will be available on the 1st.

If your SNAP deposit doesn't arrive when expected, review these common reasons why deposits are delayed.

How do I renew my food stamps in Guam?#how-do-i-renew-my-food-stamps-in-guam

SNAP benefits don’t last forever—you’ll need to renew your case (also called recertification) to keep getting them.

When to renew

Most households in Guam must renew every 12 or 24 months.

Your SNAP office should send you a letter in the mail when it’s time to reapply. To be safe, you could also put a note in your calendar or wherever you keep important reminders.

How to renew

You can usually renew:

• Online through the My Benefits client portal
• By phone
• By mail or in person

To find out the easiest way to renew in your area, call your caseworker, local office, or the Guam SNAP hotline: 1-671-300-8853 or 1-671-300-8872

What can I buy with EBT in Guam?#what-can-i-buy-with-ebt-in-guam

Under federal SNAP rules, you can use your EBT card to buy most food items meant to be prepared and eaten at home.

SNAP‑eligible foods in Guam include:

• Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, dried, or canned)
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products, like milk, cheese, and yogurt
• Bread and cereals
• Snack foods, like popcorn, chips, pretzels, and candy
• Seeds and plants that grow food
• Drinks like juice, water, and energy drinks
• Pantry staples like flour, olive oil, and spices
• Infant formula and baby food

What you can’t buy with SNAP in Guam:

• Alcohol, tobacco, or vapes
• Vitamins, supplements, and medicine
• Hot food that is sold prepared and ready to eat, like rotisserie chicken or soup from a deli
• Pet food
• Cleaning supplies and household items
• Diapers and wipes
• Live animals (except certain seafood and animals slaughtered before pickup)

While SNAP benefits are strictly for groceries and related food items, some people also receive TANF, which provides cash on an EBT card for household needs, including rent, bills, and other expenses.

Where are EBT cards accepted in Guam?#where-are-ebt-cards-accepted-in-guam

You can use your EBT card at:

• Grocery stores
• Convenience stores
• Farmers markets
• Some online retailers

What SNAP changes do I need to report?#what-snap-changes-do-i-need-to-report

You may be required to report changes to your SNAP case.

In Guam, most changes are reported during your regular SNAP recertification or renewal, but some changes must be reported sooner to help avoid delays or issues with your benefits.

Changes you should report within 10 days:

• Income goes over your limit: If your household's total monthly gross income exceeds 130% of the federal poverty limit.
• Work hours drop: If anyone in your household who is subject to ABAWD time limits works less than 80 hours per month.
• Substantial lottery or gambling winnings: If your household receives substantial lottery or gambling winnings in a single game.

Changes that can be reported during recertification:

• Changes to your household, like a new baby or someone moving in or out
• Changes to housing costs, including rent, mortgage, or utility expenses

How to report changes

To report a change, you can do one of the following:

• Use the My Benefits client portal
• Call your local SNAP office
• Call your caseworker

If you’re unsure whether a change needs to be reported right away, contacting your SNAP office is the safest option.

How do I report a lost or stolen EBT card in Guam?#how-do-i-report-a-lost-or-stolen-ebt-card-in-guam

If your EBT card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you should report it as soon as possible so you can get a new one and protect yourself from EBT theft.

Here's what to do:

• Call 1-866-937-4826
• Follow the prompts to cancel your card or request a replacement

Frequently asked questions#frequently-asked-questions

Can I get any discounts with my EBT card?#can-i-get-any-discounts-with-my-ebt-card

Yes, your EBT card can get you more than just groceries. With an EBT card, you can get discounted or free admission to museums, theme parks, zoos, aquariums, and more.

You can even qualify for low–cost internet and discounted memberships to online retailers, like Amazon or Walmart.

Can I use my SNAP benefits at restaurants in Guam?#can-i-use-my-snap-benefits-at-restaurants-in-guam

No, in Guam, you cannot use SNAP benefits to buy hot, prepared food or to eat at restaurants.

While some states have a Restaurant Meals Program for the elderly, disabled, or those experiencing homelessness, Guam does not participate in this program.

You can only use your EBT card at authorized retailers (like grocery stores and farmers markets) for food items intended to be prepared and eaten at home.

Can I get more food stamps if I’m pregnant or a new parent?#can-i-get-more-food-stamps-if-im-pregnant-or-a-new-parent

Being pregnant or a new parent doesn’t automatically increase your SNAP benefits. Once your baby is born, you should report them as a new household member to your county through the portal. More household members generally mean more benefits.

If you're pregnant or have a child under five years old, consider applying for the WIC program, which gives you extra benefits on top of food stamps—including things like support with breastfeeding and extra grocery benefits.

Can I use my Guam EBT card outside of Guam?#can-i-use-my-guam-ebt-card-outside-of-guam

Yes, federal rules guarantee you can use your SNAP in US states. Look for stores displaying the Quest® symbol, or a EBT/SNAP/food stamps accepted sign.

Keep in mind that while your card will work nationwide, some states have restrictions that may prevent you from using SNAP for items like soda or candy at their local stores.

Using your card exclusively outside of Guam for an extended period may trigger a residency review by your state SNAP agency. If you move to another state permanently, you must close your Guam case and reapply in your new state to keep receiving benefits.

Do food stamps roll over in Guam?#do-food-stamps-roll-over-in-guam

EBT cards do not have expiration dates.

However, if you don't use your EBT card for about 9 months, your remaining benefits will be removed from your account. To avoid losing your benefits, make at least one purchase with your card every couple of months.

What other benefits are available to me in Guam?#what-other-benefits-are-available-to-me-in-guam

If you qualify for SNAP, you likely qualify for other state support:

• Medicaid: Free or low-cost health coverage for kids and adults.
• TANF: Monthly cash assistance for pregnant women and families with dependent children to help pay for basics like housing, utilities, and clothing
• LifeLine: A discount on your home phone or cell phone service.
• LIHEAP Guam: Discounts on your monthly gas and electric bills.
• Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): Extra food assistance, breastfeeding support, and nutrition or health screenings for pregnant women, new moms, and children under age five.

Use this benefit finder tool to see what other support you and your family might be eligible for.