Recent flooding across Texas has left thousands of families facing significant challenges as they work to rebuild their lives. With unexpected financial strain during recovery, SNAP benefits (food assistance) are becoming an essential lifeline for many households.
Understanding how the Texas Lone Star Card system works can make a crucial difference in accessing these benefits quickly.
Texas’ Lone Star Card: A Quick Overview
The Lone Star Card is Texas’ version of the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, used to provide food assistance through SNAP and cash assistance funds. It works just like a regular debit card and can be used at approved stores across the state.
The card is especially important for flood-impacted families who are restocking groceries and essential supplies during their recovery.
To keep track of your benefits, you can download mobile apps like Propel to check your EBT balance instantly and monitor your spending. If you run into any issues, customer service can be reached at 1-800-777-7328.
Applying for SNAP in Texas
These days, most Texans apply for food stamps online via Your Texas Benefits. However, if you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can contact your local office or the SNAP hotline at 1-877-541-7905 (available 24/7).
To qualify, your household must meet certain income limits, though there is typically some flexibility following disasters, such as recent floods.
Additionally, remember that SNAP benefits must be renewed every six months. The state will send you a reminder letter, but it’s a good idea to mark that renewal date on your calendar to avoid any issues.
Understanding Case Status in Your Texas Benefits
Your Texas Benefits portal will show the status of your case, which can include the following stages:
Started: Renewal process has begun but not yet submitted.
Submitted: Your renewal has been sent for review.
In review: The case is currently being evaluated.
Reviewed: The evaluation is complete.
Approved: Your benefits have been extended.
If you prefer to renew in person, you can contact your caseworker or call the SNAP line for assistance.
Upcoming Texas SNAP Payment Dates
Texas distributes SNAP benefits between the 1st and 15th of each month, depending on your Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number. The last digit of your EDG number determines your payment date, as shown below:
EDG ending in 0: 1st of the month
EDG ending in 1: 3rd of the month
EDG ending in 2: 5th of the month
EDG ending in 3: 6th of the month
EDG ending in 4: 7th of the month
EDG ending in 5: 9th of the month
EDG ending in 6: 11th of the month
EDG ending in 7: 12th of the month
EDG ending in 8: 13th of the month
EDG ending in 9: 15th of the month
Troubleshooting Missing SNAP Deposits
If you didn’t receive your food stamps this month, there are a few potential causes:
Pending renewal or report: Log into your Your Texas Benefits portal to check for any missed reports or renewal submissions.
Missing renewal interview: If you submitted your renewal but didn’t receive benefits, you may have missed a required phone interview. Check your mail and online portal for any notices explaining rescheduling options.
Eligibility issues: If you’re no longer eligible, the state will mail an explanation, but processing delays can occur—especially after disasters. If it’s been more than 30 days, call your agency for an update.
Shifting deposit dates: In rare cases, system updates or errors can cause unexpected shifts in deposit dates. If you see discrepancies, reaching out to your agency directly is the best way to get clarity.
