The Propel Guide To EBT In Michigan

SNAP, sometimes called food stamps, food assistance, or just EBT, can be an essential tool for low-income households in Michigan 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 Michigan.

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How does SNAP work in Michigan?#how-does-snap-work-in-michigan

In Michigan, about 1.49 million people receive SNAP benefits.

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

After you apply, a caseworker from your local county office will typically contact you for a phone interview to verify details like your household size, income, and expenses. Once your case is approved, benefits continue as long as you remain eligible and complete any required reporting.

How to apply for food stamps in Michigan#how-to-apply-for-food-stamps-in-michigan

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

Apply for SNAP online

You can apply through MI Bridges, 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 Michigan SNAP hotline at 1-844-464-3447 for information and guidance on how to apply in your county (some counties may allow you to apply by phone)
• Apply in person at a county or local benefits office

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 from SSI, SSDI, or Social Security Retirement
• Housing and utility costs

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

Who is eligible for SNAP in Michigan?#who-is-eligible-for-snap-in-michigan

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 Michigan?#when-are-snap-deposits-issued-in-michigan

SNAP benefits are sent out once per month in Michigan. Your exact deposit date depends on the last digit of your Client ID number, with benefits loaded on specific, odd-numbered days between the 3rd and the 21st of the month.

For example, if your Client ID ends in 0, your benefits are loaded on the 3rd of the month; if it ends in 5, they are loaded on the 13th.

Need to find your Client ID or case number? Check your SNAP approval letter sent by your county, or log into your MI Bridges account to find it under your case details.

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 Michigan?#how-do-i-renew-my-food-stamps-in-michigan

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 Michigan must renew their SNAP benefits every 12 months to continue receiving assistance. However, some households may have shorter certification periods (around 6 months), especially if their income or household situation changes more frequently.

Households where all members are elderly (60+) or have a disability and no earned income may qualify for a longer certification window of up to 24 months.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) should send you a letter in the mail when it’s time to renew. 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 your MI Bridges account
• 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 Michigan SNAP hotline:1-844-464-3447.

What can I buy with EBT in Michigan?#what-can-i-buy-with-ebt-in-michigan

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 Michigan 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 Michigan:

• 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 Michigan?#where-are-ebt-cards-accepted-in-michigan

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

In Michigan, you must report changes that might affect your eligibility or benefit amount within 10 days of when the change happens. Reporting promptly helps prevent issues like overpayments or case closures.

Changes you should report within 10 days:

• Income goes over the limit: If your household’s total gross monthly income (earned and unearned) increases above the eligibility limit for your household size.
• Income decreases significantly: If your household’s income decreases in a way that could affect your benefits.
• Job changes: If someone in your household starts a job, stops working, or has a change in income or hours that affects income.
• Household size changes:
  • Someone moves into or out of your home
  • A child is born or passes away
  • A household member gets married, separated, or divorced
• Change of address: If you move to a new residence.
• Housing cost changes: If your rent, mortgage, utilities, or other home expenses change.
• Asset changes: If you buy, sell, or transfer assets like vehicles or bank accounts.
• Change in child or disabled adult care: If the need for care changes, if your provider changes, or if the schedule/location of care changes.

How to report changes

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

• Use your MI Bridges account
• Call your local SNAP office
• Call your caseworker
• Fill out a change report form and send it by mail to your local SNAP office

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 Michigan?#how-do-i-report-a-lost-or-stolen-ebt-card-in-michigan

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 the Michigan EBT customer service phone number at 1-888-678-8914
• 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.

Here's a full list of freebies and discounts you may be able to get as a SNAP recipient.

Can I use my SNAP benefits at restaurants in Michigan?#can-i-use-my-snap-benefits-at-restaurants-in-michigan

If you’re 60 or older, disabled, or homeless, you may qualify for the Restaurant Meals Program, which allows recipients to use EBT at some Michigan restaurants.

Check for the official RMP sign at the restaurant before ordering, or verify participating locations online.

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 does not automatically increase your SNAP benefits. Once your child is born, however, you should report the new household member to your county on MI Bridges. 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 Michigan EBT card in another state?#can-i-use-my-michigan-ebt-card-in-another-state

Yes, your Bridge Card works in all 50 states, as well as most U.S. territories, at any store displaying the Quest® symbol or 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 Michigan 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 Michigan case and reapply in your new state to keep receiving benefits.

Can a person have more than one Michigan EBT card?#can-a-person-have-more-than-one-michigan-ebt-card

No, a person can only have one Michigan EBT card issued in their name at a time.

However, multiple people in a household can each have their own EBT card if they are included in the same case. All cards would be linked to the same SNAP benefits account.

In some situations, you can also request a card for an authorized representative—a trusted person who is allowed to shop for groceries on your behalf.

Do food stamps roll over in Michigan?#do-food-stamps-roll-over-in-michigan

Yes, unused SNAP benefits roll over from month to month. If you don’t use all your benefits, the remaining balance will stay on your EBT card and be available the next month.

However, if you don’t use your EBT card for an extended period of time (typically 9 months or more), your benefits may be removed. To avoid losing your benefits, try to use your card at least once every few months.

How do I activate an EBT card in Michigan?#how-do-i-activate-an-ebt-card-in-michigan

To activate your EBT card, call the number on the back of the card and follow the prompts to set your PIN. You will need your card number and some identifying information to complete the process.

You can also activate your card online using your MI Bridges portal.

How do I cancel my Michigan food stamps?#how-do-i-cancel-my-michigan-food-stamps

If you no longer want to receive SNAP benefits, you can close your case by contacting the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services or by submitting a request through MI Bridges.

You may be asked to confirm your request in writing. Keep in mind that if you decide you need benefits again later, you will need to submit a new SNAP application.

What other benefits are available to me in Michigan?#what-other-benefits-are-available-to-me-in-michigan

If you qualify for SNAP in Michigan, you may also qualify for these state and federal programs:

• Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit: A refundable state tax credit for working households who qualify for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Michigan provides an additional percentage of your federal credit, which can increase your tax refund.
• Family Independence Program (FIP): Michigan’s TANF cash assistance program. It provides monthly payments to eligible families with children to help pay for essentials like housing, utilities, clothing, and transportation.
• Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP): Helps households pay heating and utility bills. Assistance may include bill payment help, crisis support to avoid shutoffs, or services to improve home energy efficiency.
• Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC): Provides extra food benefits, breastfeeding support, nutrition education, and health screenings for pregnant people, new parents, and children under age five.
• Emergency Relief Program: Offers assistance for urgent needs like utility shutoffs, relocation help, home repairs, burial services, or mortgage payments to prevent foreclosure.

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