Newsbreak: Ohio SNAP Recipients Rejoice as Discounts and Perks on Groceries, Amazon Prime, and More Roll In

Ohio residents who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, also known as food stamps, can expect their monthly payments from the 2^nd to the 20^th of every month based on the last digit of their case number. The Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services (DJFS) administers SNAP benefits in Ohio, which are based on household size and income.

Once approved for SNAP benefits, they are deposited into SNAP accounts linked to Ohio Direction Cards, similar to electronic benefits transfer (EBT) cards. These cards can be used like debit cards and can be swiped at most grocery stores, some retailers, and online.

Ohio SNAP recipients can also receive discounts on certain products and services, such as Amazon Prime EBT discounted subscriptions for $6.99 monthly. Other perks include free or discounted admission to hundreds of museums, aquariums, and zoos in Ohio and nationwide, as well as free or low-cost landline or cell phone service through the federal Lifeline program, as reported by Josephine Nesbit of GOBankingRates on February 21, 2023.

SNAP benefits can be used to purchase most food items except for alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, vitamins, medicines, supplements, live animals, and other non-food items. Based on a republished report by Yahoo on February 21, 2023, Ohio SNAP customers can receive up to $25 per visit in free fruits and vegetables through Produce Perks, which matches SNAP benefits dollar-for-dollar.

Emergency SNAP funding will end in March, leading to fewer benefits. Ohio Direction Cards can be used at various locations, including farmers’ markets. New Ohio Direction Card holders will receive their issuance dates and can call customer service for benefit availability.