Background: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP provides food benefits to low-income families to  supplement their grocery budget so they can afford the nutritious food essential to health and well-being. Every  state has different forms and procedures for SNAP applications. However, the process is very similar. As an  example, for Colorado:  

1. 1. Check Eligibility: Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for SNAP in Colorado.  Eligibility is based on factors such as income, household size, citizenship status, and other criteria. You can  use the pre-screening tool on the Colorado PEAK website (https://coloradopeak.secure.force.com/) to  check if you might be eligible. 
   2. Gather Required Information: Before starting the application, gather the necessary information, which  may include identification documents, proof of income, expenses, and other details about your household  members. 
   3. Access the Colorado PEAK Website: Go to the Colorado PEAK website (https://coloradopeak.secure.force.com/), which is the online platform for accessing and applying for  various public assistance programs, including SNAP.
   4. Create an Account: If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to create an account on the Colorado PEAK  website. This account will allow you to apply for benefits and manage your benefits online. 5. Complete the Application: Log in to your Colorado PEAK account and fill out the SNAP application. Provide  accurate and complete information about your household and financial situation.
   5. Submit Required Documents: After completing the application, you may need to submit certain  documents to support your eligibility. These documents can be uploaded through the PEAK website or  submitted in person at a local county human services office.
   6. Interview (if required): In some cases, you may be required to participate in an interview as part of the  application process. If so, the Colorado Department of Human Services will contact you to schedule the  interview.
   7. Application Review: The Colorado Department of Human Services will review your application, along with  any submitted documents and interview information, to determine your eligibility for SNAP. 9. Receive Notice of Decision: Once your application is reviewed, you will receive notice of the decision,  either approving or denying your SNAP benefits. If approved, the notice will also indicate the amount of  benefits you will receive and the duration of your eligibility.
   8. Use Your EBT Card: If approved, you will receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, similar to a  debit card, which can be used to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers.
   9. If you encounter any difficulties during the application process or have specific questions, you can contact  your local county human services office or the Colorado PEAK helpline at 1-800-536-5298 for assistance.

Related Websites 

1. 1. 1. 1. USDA, Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program
         2. Find your SNAP Office, https://www.usa.gov/food-stamps
         3. Colorado PEAK is the place to apply for and manage benefits online. Use PEAK to apply for or manage  your medical, SNAP, cash or other State of Colorado benefits. https://peak–coloradopeak.force.com/peak/s/peak-landing-page?language=en_US
         4. SUBJECT: SNAP – Fiscal Year 2023 Cost-of-Living Adjustments, https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/fy-2023- cola