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3SquaresVT2025-03-18T08:09:28-04:00

3SquaresVT

3SquaresVT provides money to buy food each month and can give you flexibility to buy the types of food you need and want. Anyone can apply. If you’re a student, an older Vermonter, working, unemployed, or receiving WIC, CSFP, disability insurance, or other benefits, you may be eligible.

You can work directly with our application assistance team for questions or to apply.

Last updated: March 18, 2025

3SquaresVT is Vermont’s name for the federal food assistance program called SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). 3SquaresVT benefits are accepted at grocery stores, convenience stores, and many farmers markets. Benefits are distributed on an EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card, which works just like a debit card.

Did you know:

  • There are enough 3SquaresVT benefits for everyone who qualifies, so you would not be taking benefits away from anyone else.
  • There is no limit to the number of people living in Vermont who can receive benefits.
  • 3SquaresVT benefits bring federal tax dollars into our state. When you spend your benefits in Vermont you are supporting jobs and businesses. Every $1 in 3SquaresVT benefits generates about $2 in economic activity.
  • Income eligibility guidelines change annually. A change in your household circumstances may help you get 3SquaresVT now, even if you couldn’t before.
  • Interpretation services are available to support with 3SquaresVT general questions and application assistance.
  • You have paid into this program with your tax dollars!

To receive 3SquaresVT benefits, you need to meet certain income and other guidelines. If your household earns less than the gross monthly income listed below, then you may be eligible for benefits.

Gross Monthly Income Limit Based on Household Size*

Household Size Gross Monthly Income Limit
1 Person $2,322
2 People $3,152
3 People $3,981
4 People $4,810
5 People $5,640
6 People $6,469
7 People $7,299
For each additional person, add $830.

If your household earns more than the gross monthly income limits listed above, you still may be eligible if you received the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) last year or are 60+ or are receiving disability benefits.

* These limits increase every October

We're Here to Help!

If you would like more information about 3SquaresVT or help applying, we can answer questions, help you fill out the application over the phone, and support you through the process. Free communication services such as qualified sign language interpretation, phone interpretation in many spoken languages, and large print documents are also available; just ask us using the contact information below.

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Want to Apply for 3SquaresVT on Your Own?

You can apply for 3SquaresVT yourself either online, using a paper application, or in person at your local Vermont Economic Services Division (ESD) district office. Before you do so, we strongly encourage you to read through these steps, then read through our Helpful Tips and FAQ sections to make the process as smooth as possible.

  1. Submit an application: Answer as many questions as you can before signing and either submitting electronically, mailing, or dropping off the application to an ESD district office.
  2. Complete the required interview: You'll need to complete a required interview by calling the ESD interview line at 877-403-7668 or visiting a district office. Wait times are usually shortest if you call or visit exactly when they open: typically 8 a.m. on weekdays. You have 30 days from the date ESD received your application to complete the interview.
  3. Submit additional documents or forms: ESD may ask for additional documents from you like pay stubs, a copy of your ID, etc. You can upload a photo of a document using the document uploader. ESD will process your case only after you submit requested documentation. Here is a list of common forms.
  • Submit your application as soon as possible! Often, your benefits will be backdated to the date ESD received your application.
  • If you do not know the answer to a question on the application, it’s okay! After you apply, you will have time to explain in the interview or send more information.
  • Before submitting your application, save a copy (if possible)! It might be helpful during the interview.
  • Call for the interview as soon as possible! ESD will not process your application before the interview.
  • Check your mailbox! ESD will usually only contact you through paper mail (never email).
  • When in doubt, call ESD! If you think there has been a mistake or if you have not heard back about your application, call ESD: 1(800) 479-6151.
I created an online account on the AHS website, but can’t find the application. Where do I click?2025-02-27T10:59:04-05:00

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.”

I’m having trouble accessing my online account. What’s next?2025-02-27T11:01:04-05:00

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.

How do I know I have successfully submitted the application to ESD?2025-02-27T11:14:43-05:00

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.

I have submitted my 3SquaresVT application. What’s next?2025-03-11T10:34:01-04:00

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.

What additional forms might ESD ask for?2025-03-11T10:37:14-04:00

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.
What about medical expenses?2025-02-27T12:04:27-05:00

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.

Once I’m enrolled, what’s next?2025-03-11T10:40:52-04:00
  • 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!
What other benefits may I be eligible for?2025-03-11T10:50:33-04:00

60 or Over, or Receiving Disability Benefits?

If you are 60+ or a person receiving disability benefits and have no income from a job or self-employment, you can apply using a shorter application called 3SquaresVT in a SNAP. When you qualify to complete this shorter application, there are some additional supports and advantages.

I have submitted my 3SquaresVT in a SNAP application. What’s next?2025-03-11T10:44:32-04:00

After you submit your 3SquaresVT in a SNAP application to ESD, you must complete an interview. You will be assigned a specific caseworker who may call you. Or, 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 mailed your 3SquaresVT in a SNAP application to ESD, wait 7-10 business days before trying to complete the interview. If you submitted the application online, you can call right after you submitted the application.

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.

I would rather apply online. How do I do that?2025-03-11T11:44:57-04:00

The shorter 3SquaresVT in a SNAP application is not online. You can still apply online using the regular application. Or, you can fill out an electronic copy (PDF, etc.) of the 3SquaresVT in a SNAP application and upload it using the document uploader. Scroll up to Want to Apply for 3SquaresVT on Your Own?.

Can I get my benefits directly deposited into a bank account?2025-03-11T10:52:46-04:00

If you and everyone you are applying with are 65+ or receive SSI, yes! Just complete and submit this Direct Deposit Request form to ESD to enroll in direct deposit. If you enroll in direct deposit, your monthly benefit amounts will appear in your bank account. If you do not enroll in direct deposit, you will receive monthly benefits on an EBT card.

Can I submit medical expenses for expense deductions?2025-03-11T10:53:16-04:00

If you are 60+ or receiving disability benefits, you can submit medical expenses you pay for out of pocket, and these expenses may help you get more 3SquaresVT benefits. Many medical expenses can be counted! Here is a list of medical expenses you can claim. If only some people in your household are 60+ or receiving disability benefits, those individuals can submit medical expenses.

Do I need to report income changes?2025-03-07T10:33:18-05:00

If you start earning income from a job or self-employment, you typically need to report that income change. And, if you start collecting a new type of unearned income like money from a retirement account or child support, you typically need to report that income change, too.

Who do I contact for help if I have a problem with my benefits or to report changes?2025-03-07T10:33:48-05:00

Once you are approved for benefits, you will be assigned a 3SquaresVT in a SNAP caseworker who you can call directly. You can find the caseworker contact information on your benefits approval letter. You can always leave your caseworker a voicemail! Or you can call the general ESD number: 800-479-6151. Hold times are shortest if you call exactly when they open, usually 8 a.m. on weekdays.

Do I have to complete an Interim/6-month Report?2025-03-07T10:35:51-05:00

No, you don’t have to complete an Interim Report as long as you applied with the 3SquaresVT in a SNAP application and continue to have no earned income.

How often do I need to reapply?2025-03-07T10:35:01-05:00

As long as you do not start earning any income, you only have to reapply for 3SquaresVT in a SNAP every three years!

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Photo of a woman and child cooking together. 3SquaresVt can help you boost your food budget.

I receive 3SquaresVT and I am thankful that this program exists because it helps put food on my table. I can purchase my own food and feel comfortable doing so. I never have to worry if I will have enough food for my family.”

~ Shaline