Once you’re on the AHS website, click anywhere that says “My Benefits,” “Click Here to Log in,” “Apply for Benefits” or “Begin a New Application.” You may have to navigate through multiple pages before you get to the application. Once you get to the application, fill in as much information as you can. When you’re ready to go to the next page, click “Next.”

If you have trouble logging in, try clicking the “Forgot Password?” link on the login page. Follow the steps to reset your password. If you do not get a password reset link or have other problems, you can create a new account with a different email address, or visit: https://info.my.vermont.gov/help-benefits (here you will find instructions on how to email ESD for help with your account). You can also contact our team at Vermont Foodbank for help.

On the “Sign & Submit” page, follow the steps to sign. You will have to click the link to read the “Rights and Responsibilities” before you can check the box that shows you have read them! Next, click “Finish.” When you see a reference number, you have successfully submitted your application.

After you submit your 3SquaresVT application to ESD, you must complete an interview. You can call ESD’s interview hotline at 877-403-7668. Hold times are shortest if you call exactly when they open, usually 8 a.m. on weekdays. The interview is a time for ESD to review your application with you. You can also complete the interview in person by visiting your local ESD District Office.

If you submitted the application online, you can call right after you submitted the application. If you mailed your 3SquaresVT application to ESD, wait 7-10 business days before trying to complete the interview.

You must complete the interview within 30 days of ESD receiving your application. After the interview, check your mailbox for letters from ESD. They may request more information and documents. You can upload clear photos of documents online using the document uploader, or you can mail documents to: DCF – Economic Services Division Application and Document Processing Center, 280 State Drive, Waterbury VT 05676. ESD will mail you a Notice of Decision letter letting you know if you are approved.

ESD may mail you additional forms to fill out. You can find a list of common forms here. You only need to submit forms if ESD asks for them. Here are a few examples of the additional forms many people are asked to submit:

• End of Employment: If you have ended or paused a job in the past 60 days, they may ask you for form 218ET- End of Employment Verification Form.
• Self-Employment: If you are self-employed, ESD will likely ask you for a copy of last year’s taxes. If you don’t have that, they will ask for form  204B- Business Income and Expense Form.
• Students: If you are at least a half-time student, ESD will likely ask you for form 216- Student Self Declaration of Financial Aid and Expenses Form.
• Direct Deposit: If everyone in your household is over 65 and/or receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you can have your 3SVT benefits put directly into your bank account. To enroll, submit form 201DD- Direct Deposit Form.

If you are 60 or older or an adult living with a disability, you can submit medical expenses you pay for out of pocket, and these expenses may help you get a bigger benefit. Many medical expenses can be counted! Here is a list of medical expenses you can claim. If only some people in your household are an adult over 60 or a person living with a disability, those individuals can still submit medical expenses. Have questions or want to learn more? Please contact our team at Vermont Foodbank for help.

• Shop: you will receive your benefits on an EBT card. You can use this card at most grocery stores, convenience stores, and farmers markets in Vermont.
• Submit changes: if your income or expenses change, it is typically important to report changes. If income increases, it’s important to report the change so you don’t risk an overpayment. If income decreases, it’s important to report the change because it could increase your monthly benefit amount!
• Interim Report: approximately 5 months after you’re approved, ESD will send you form 202IR-Interim Report. Be sure you complete the paperwork and upload it to ESD or mail it back to them before the due date.
• Recertification: typically, you’ll need to reapply for benefits every year. ESD will mail you a reminder to reapply. Be sure to follow the timeline they suggest so that your benefits don’t lapse!

If you are eligible for 3SquaresVT, you may also be eligible for WIC (Women Infants and Children), CSFP (a monthly shelf-stable food box for older adults), seasonal Fuel Assistance, a discount on your Green Mountain Power bill or Vermont Gas bill, Crop Cash farmers market coupons, Farm to Family coupons, and more.