We hear the question “what is 3SquaresVT, and can you help me apply?” often. At Vermont Foodbank, we are here to answer your questions and assist with the application process. We aim to connect with you on a personal level—and even share moments of joy—as we navigate the application together. After assisting one Vermont neighbor with an application, we received this message: “Thank you. Your assistance made the experience with 3SquaresVT so much easier. It is people like you that make Vermont home.” Ultimately, that’s our goal, to make 3SquaresVT feel easier to navigate so that neighbors have the food they need.
What is 3SquaresVT?
3SquaresVT is a food benefit program, known nationally as SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), that provides monthly benefits to help people buy food. Benefits come on an EBT (electronic benefits transfer) card, which looks and works like a debit card. At the beginning of each month, a household’s benefit amount is loaded onto the card.
3SquaresVT has been in the news quite a bit recently. It was impacted by the US government shutdown in November 2025, and the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” passed by US Congress in summer 2025 included changes to some of the program’s rules.
How Does It Work—Who’s Eligible, Who Funds It, and Who Runs It?
3SquaresVT eligibility is based on household size and gross monthly income (before taxes and deductions). You can find current income limits here. Households receive different benefit amounts depending on income, how many people are in the household, and certain expense deductions. About 64,000 households in Vermont receive benefits.
We all contribute to the funding pot for 3SquaresVT—as individuals and families—so it is here for us when we are eligible. There is no cap on the number of people who can receive benefits. 3SquaresVT also brings federal funds into Vermont, helping boost business for local stores and farmers.
The program is funded, in part, by the US federal government. The US federal government also sets the program’s rules.
3SquaresVT is administered by the State of Vermont’s Economic Services Division (VT-ESD), which is a division within Vermont’s Agency of Human Services. VT-ESD works to administer 3SquaresVT accurately and in compliance with the US federal government rules. As part of this process, VT-ESD may ask for detailed personal information, request additional verification documents, and require a phone interview. During the interview, a state worker reviews application details with the applicant over the phone to ensure they have all the information needed to process it. These steps are required as part of the application process, and VT-ESD must follow US federal government program rules.
VT-ESD recognizes that the application process can be complex. It collaborates with local organizations like Vermont Foodbank by providing resources and training so we, and others around the state, can provide application assistance.
How Can Vermont Foodbank Help?
Our team at Vermont Foodbank can answer general questions, offer tips and tricks for applying, or guide you through the entire application process. We can connect you with additional resources, too. We are even able to help you submit verification documents, assist with calling in for the required interview, or contact VT-ESD on your behalf to check on the status of your application and benefits! Our four-person team brings care and patience to every application.
“I just want to say Sarah is amazing! Not only does she know her way around state systems, she’s very kind, compassionate, and patient. I would also like to say that I’m extremely grateful for the Foodbank’s stepping up to help people file 3SquaresVT applications when [the state can be difficult]…to get through to with questions or concerns”
“Ariana was FANTASTIC! She treated me with kindness and respect and truly helped me through every process. She was quick and communicative and I feel like she truly cares about my ability to get what I need”
If you have questions or would like help applying for 3SquaresVT, you can contact Vermont Foodbank’s team on the web or call (855) 855-6181, text VFBCHAT to 61222, or email 3svt@vtfoodbank.org.
February 5th, 2026 is 3SquaresVT Awareness Day! Join us virtually as we celebrate, educate, and share the ways this critical program supports people, farms, and businesses across Vermont.
Glenn is one of Vermont Foodbank’s all-star drivers, and for him, work is personal. Having faced hard times himself, Glenn brings empathy and care that resonate with every neighbor he meets. Watching him work, it’s clear—he doesn’t just deliver food. He delivers connection and hope, with a side of humor that lightens the mood and makes every interaction genuine.
Welcome back, Advocates! Wishing you all a very happy New Year and a happy start to the 2026 Vermont legislative session! This is the second year of the legislative biennium. We have been working throughout the summer and fall to keep legislators updated on the impacts of federal changes and to insist that our leaders prioritize the basic needs of all Vermonters.
