The SNAP Employment and Training program, often called SNAP E&T, helps people who receive food assistance prepare for work, build job skills and find employment. It does not provide an extra monthly SNAP payment, but eligible participants may receive free training and help with certain costs tied to education or employment.
Every state operates a SNAP E&T program, though the services, training providers and participation rules can differ. Contact your state SNAP agency or your caseworker to find out what is available near you.
What is SNAP E&T?
SNAP E&T is an employment-support program funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service. Its goal is to help SNAP participants build skills, complete job training and move toward stable work.
The program may help people earn a certificate, improve workplace skills, gain work experience or connect with employers. Depending on the state, services can include job-search support, career counseling, education, training programs, resume assistance and job-placement help.
How much money will you get?
There is no flat monthly SNAP E&T payment. Participating in the program does not automatically raise the amount of food benefits loaded onto your EBT card.
Instead, eligible participants may receive reimbursement or direct support for reasonable costs that are necessary to complete approved employment or training activities. The amount and type of help depend on the state and local program provider.
Possible SNAP E&T support includes:
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Transportation assistance, such as bus passes, mileage reimbursement or gas support.
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Books, school supplies and training materials.
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Work uniforms, tools or safety equipment.
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Fees for approved certifications, classes or job training.
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Career counseling, resume support and job-search help.
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Childcare assistance in some states.
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Case management and employer referrals.
For example, a SNAP recipient enrolled in an approved certified nursing assistant course may be able to get help with transportation, textbooks, uniforms or required work equipment.
Who can qualify?
Requirements vary by state. In general, SNAP E&T participants must receive SNAP benefits, not be receiving TANF cash assistance and be able to work after finishing the program.
Some SNAP recipients may be required to participate in work registration, employment and training activities or other work-related requirements. If participation is mandatory for you, your state agency should send a notice explaining your responsibilities, deadlines and possible exemptions.
You may qualify for an exemption in certain situations, including illness, caregiving duties, a household emergency or a serious transportation barrier. Check with your SNAP caseworker before missing an assigned appointment or activity.
How to apply for SNAP E&T
Start by contacting your SNAP caseworker, local SNAP office or state agency. The USDA’s SNAP E&T participant page can help you locate your state program and available providers.
You can also use the USDA state SNAP directory to find the agency that manages benefits where you live.
Before enrolling, ask whether SNAP E&T is voluntary or required for your case, what training providers are available, and whether the program can cover transportation, childcare, certification fees, uniforms, supplies or work tools.
Important to remember
SNAP E&T is not an extra cash benefit or a separate food-stamp payment. It is a job-training and employment-support program for eligible SNAP recipients.
The support you can receive depends on your state and the specific program you join. For information about applying for SNAP or maintaining your food benefits, visit USA.gov’s SNAP guide or contact your local benefits office.
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