Basic Food Application Assistance
By Erin Trivelas ‐ April 3, 2026
MSC can provide information, pre-screening, and assistance with completing an application for Washington State’s Basic Food Program. Basic Food is what Washington calls the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a USDA program that helps people make ends meet and improve their diet. Eligible households receive an electronic benefits (EBT) card with monthly benefits to buy food at participating grocery stores. MSC does not provide cards, but will help you apply for one.
Eligibility
You don’t have to be a U.S. Citizen to receive food benefits. Immigrants who meet specific program rules under the Federal Supplemental Nutrition Program may be eligible for food benefits. Undocumented immigrants, tourists, and other non-immigrants aren’t eligible for Food Benefits.
You don’t have to have children to be eligible. Households of any size may be eligible to receive Basic Food.
To qualify for the Basic Food program, a household’s income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Income Eligibility:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Income Guidelines as of 04/1/2025 |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,510 |
| 2 | $3,407 |
| 3 | $4,303 |
| 4 | $5,200 |
| 5 | $6,097 |
| 6 | $6,993 |
| 7 | $7,890 |
| 8 | $8,787 |
| Additional | +$897 |
There are no resource or net income limits for most people. Monthly benefits are based on how many people live in your household, your income and living expenses. If you are income eligible, any other resources such as vehicles, retirement accounts, your home, and other assets are not considered.
How to get help
For assistance completing your Basic Food application, schedule an appointment by using the contact information above. You will need to provide your social security number, proof of identity, and proof of income and living expenses for the household you are applying for.
What to expect
If you receive Basic Food benefits:
- School children are automatically enrolled in the free school meal program.
- Your family meets the Woman Infants and Children (WIC) income test.
- DSHS determines the amount you are eligibile for in food benefits and the date that you receive your benefits
- A MSC staff member will review your documents and assist you in filling out the application and submitting through the online DSHS portal
FAQ
What is Basic Food?
Basic Food is Washington’s name for our food assistance program, which includes the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the Food Assistance Program. This program provides food benefits to low-income households to supplement their grocery budget.
After I’m approved, when do I get my benefits?
Once approved, benefits are typically available the following morning. Your approval letter will have the date each month your Basic Food benefits will be deposited to your EBT card.
How do I access my Basic Food benefits?
Basic Food benefits are loaded onto a Washington Quest EBT card. The EBT card works similar to a debit card but the food benefits on it can only be used to buy food approved by the USDA.
How long will I get Basic Food benefits?
Basic Food benefits are generally approved for 12 months.
Related Programs
Food Bank
MSC’s Market at Redondo Heights Food Bank provides supplemental and emergency food for Washington residents. The Food Bank is by appointment only and serves clients in market style with a variety of fresh and shelf stable foods that are culturally relevant.
To learn more and visit the Food Bank click here.
Employment
MSC provides employment readiness training, job search assistance, and career planning support for people who already receive Basic Food assistance.
To learn more click here.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.