How do I apply for SNAP and/or Temporary Cash Assistance?
You must complete an application for SNAP (Food Stamps), TCA (Temporary Cash Assistance), or Medicaid. Each program has its own eligibility criteria, but you can use the same application to apply for one or all of these programs.
The fastest way to apply for programs, including TCA, SNAP, or Medicaid is online. If you have problems, you can get help from a Community Partner. Contact the customer call center 1.866.762.2237.
You can also go to a Community Partner ACCESS site in your area. You can search for a Community Partner near you on the ACCESS Florida website. Community Partners have computers and staff available to help you. You can also click on the Community Partner Link on most of the DCF ACCESS websites.
The Department of Children and Families also has Customer Service Centers. You can find the DCF Service Center nearest you and apply there.
If you do not want to complete an application over the internet, you can complete a paper application. The Customer Service Center should have these forms available for you to complete and mail, fax, or hand-deliver.
If you have little or no income, you should request expedited SNAP. This means that DCF must make an eligibility determination within seven days instead of 30 days.
If you want to check on the status of your application, you can create an online account on the Florida ACCESS website. If you have an online ACCESS account, you can report changes, request additional benefits, and check on the status of your application 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Upcoming Legal Clinics
Apply for Services
Apply by phone Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., or apply online anytime for non-emergency legal matters. Language interpreters are available to you at no cost.
Bay Area Legal Services
If you live or have a case in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Manatee, or Sarasota counties, we may be able to help.
Statewide Legal Helplines
If you live or have a case in Florida, we may be able to help.