SNAP and Food Assistance for Single Mothers in Colorado
The Ultimate Guide to SNAP (Food Assistance) for Single Mothers in Colorado
Last updated: August 2025
Quick help (save these)
- Apply online fast using Colorado PEAK: Apply for SNAP on Colorado PEAK — official application portal.
- Need one-on-one help with the application or finding food today? Call the Hunger Free Colorado Food Resource Hotline at 720-382-2920 (Metro Denver) or 855-855-4626 (Toll-free). Details: Hunger Free Colorado Food Resource Hotline.
- Find your county human services office (for in‑person help or to drop off paperwork): Colorado county human services directory (official). Phone numbers and addresses for every county.
- Lost or stolen EBT card? Call 1-888-328-2656 right away (24/7) and visit ebtEDGE cardholder site to check your balance, change PIN, or freeze/unfreeze.
- In a crisis with very little money? Ask for “Expedited SNAP.” If you qualify, benefits must be issued within 7 days. See rules: USDA SNAP expedited service.
- If you’re denied or benefits are wrong, you can appeal (request a fair hearing) within 90 days of the notice. Learn your rights: USDA SNAP rights and responsibilities.
Start here: the fastest way to apply today
The quickest path is online. You can complete everything from your phone.
Do this first
- Go to Colorado PEAK (official benefits portal).
- Create or log into your account. Use “Apply for benefits,” select SNAP (Food Assistance), and complete the application.
- Upload documents (photos are fine) directly in PEAK or the MyCOBenefits app.
- Watch for a phone call/text/mail from your county for your interview appointment.
- If you have almost no money, ask for “Expedited SNAP” on your application.
Other ways to apply
- Paper application: Download from Colorado SNAP program page (CDHS), print, and return to your county office. Use the county human services directory to find drop-off locations and fax numbers.
- In person: Visit your county office. Find addresses and hours in the county directory.
- By phone: Some counties can take an application by phone. Call your county; use the county directory for the correct number.
Realistic timelines
- Standard processing: up to 30 days after you apply.
- Expedited processing: within 7 days if you qualify.
- EBT card mailing: typically 5–10 days by mail once approved (you can also pick up at some county offices).
Official standards: USDA SNAP application processing.
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- Call the Food Resource Hotline at 720-382-2920 or 855-855-4626 for application help and emergency food options. Hunger Free Colorado.
- Apply in person at your county office if online isn’t working. Directory: Colorado county human services (CDHS).
- If you can’t upload documents, take photos and bring them to your county office or ask for a fax number.
Who qualifies in Colorado? (Eligibility at a glance)
SNAP rules are federal, but Colorado runs the program locally through county human services. Colorado uses a policy called “broad-based categorical eligibility,” which generally allows a higher gross income limit (often up to 200% of the poverty level) and no asset test for most households. Exact amounts update each federal fiscal year.
Official program page: Colorado SNAP (CDHS)
Income standards and annual updates: USDA SNAP income eligibility standards
Most important points
- Your household size is the number of people who buy and cook food together. Include children under 22 who live with you.
- Most households must meet a gross monthly income limit (Colorado often uses up to 200% FPL due to state policy) and a net income limit after deductions.
- There’s no asset test for most households in Colorado under broad-based categorical eligibility, but check CDHS if you have significant savings.
- U.S. citizens, certain lawful immigrants, and many mixed-status families can qualify (kids born in the U.S. are citizens and may be eligible even if a parent is not).
- Work rules apply for some adults; different rules apply if you’re pregnant, caring for young children, a student, a veteran, or have a disability.
Eligibility basics in one table
| Area | What matters | Where to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Household | Who buys/cooks together and relationship rules | USDA SNAP household rules |
| Income | Gross and net monthly income limits; Colorado applies broad-based categorical eligibility | USDA SNAP income limits (current year) |
| Deductions | Standard, dependent care, child support paid, medical (for elderly/disabled), shelter/utility costs | USDA SNAP deductions |
| Resources (assets) | Generally not counted for most Colorado households | Colorado SNAP (CDHS) |
| Immigration | Mixed-status families can apply; only eligible members receive benefits | USDA SNAP for non-citizens |
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If your gross income barely exceeds limits, double-check deductions (childcare, legally owed child support, high shelter costs). These can change the outcome. See USDA SNAP deductions.
- Get a pre-screen using PEAK’s screener to see if you’re close to eligible: Colorado PEAK prescreen and apply.
- Call the Food Resource Hotline 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626 for a quick eligibility check and application coaching.
How much could you get each month?
SNAP benefits are calculated using your household’s net income after deductions. There’s also a “maximum benefit” for your household size that changes each year with federal cost-of-living updates.
- Annual benefit updates (maximums and deductions): USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA (official)
- Maximum monthly benefit table (current year): USDA SNAP maximum allotments
- Colorado application and estimator: Colorado PEAK
Important federal rule you can count on:
- If you meet income rules, your benefit depends on your net income. The lower your net income, the higher your SNAP.
- There is a maximum benefit for each household size (updated every October 1).
- If you qualify for Expedited SNAP, you receive benefits faster, not necessarily more money.
A quick example (for understanding the math)
This is only an example to show how deductions change the outcome. Use PEAK for your own estimate.
- Single mom with two kids (household of 3) in Aurora.
- Gross monthly income: $2,900 from work.
- Child care costs: $600/month.
- Rent: $1,600; utilities: high.
- After allowable deductions (standard deduction, 20% earned income deduction, dependent care, and shelter/utility), her net income may drop enough to qualify and receive a meaningful benefit.
Check current maximums and final amounts on:
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If your benefit is lower than expected, submit updated expenses (childcare, rent, utilities). Even a small change can raise benefits.
- If you were denied, ask for a case explanation and consider an appeal within 90 days of the notice: USDA fair hearing rights.
- Call 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626 for a benefit check and help spotting missed deductions: Hunger Free Colorado.
Documents you’ll need (and what counts as proof)
Bring or upload clear photos. If you don’t have a document, ask your county for other ways to verify (a statement, employer contact, etc.).
Common documents that work
- Identity: Driver’s license, state ID, school ID, or other government photo ID.
- Social Security number (SSN) for those applying (not required for non-applicant household members).
- Colorado residency: Lease, mail with your name and address, utility bill.
- Income: Recent pay stubs, employer letter, gig earnings logs, benefits letters (child support, unemployment).
- Expenses: Rent/lease, mortgage, property tax, utilities (electric, gas, water, sewer, trash), childcare receipt or statement, child support paid.
- Immigration: Green card, work authorization, lawful status documents (only if you’re applying for yourself).
Document checklist table (keep it handy)
| Need to verify | Examples of proof | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | State ID, driver’s license, passport, school ID | Any one of these is fine |
| SSN (for applicants) | SSN card, official letter with SSN | Non-applicant parents don’t have to provide SSN |
| Colorado address | Lease, utility bill, official mail | Shelter letter works if experiencing homelessness |
| Income | Pay stubs, employer letter, self-employment ledger | Provide last 30 days of pay stubs if paid regularly |
| Childcare costs | Receipts, provider letter, contract | SNAP allows full deduction of necessary dependent care |
| Rent/Utilities | Lease, bills, landlord letter, utility allowance | Utilities can be deducted via standard allowances |
| Medical costs (elderly/disabled) | Bills, receipts, pharmacy printouts, proof of insurance premiums | Deduct the portion over $35/month |
Sources: USDA SNAP deductions, Colorado SNAP (CDHS)
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If you can’t get a document, ask your county for “collateral contact” (they call your employer/landlord) or to accept a written statement.
- If uploading fails, take your phone to the county office for help scanning or get a fax number from the office directory: County human services directory (CDHS).
- Ask for more time if you need it; don’t miss deadlines—tell your worker right away.
The interview (what to expect and how to prepare)
The interview can be by phone or in person. Watch your phone for unknown numbers around your appointment time.
Do this to avoid delays
- Keep your phone on and answer unknown calls on interview day.
- Have your documents in front of you: pay stubs, rent, utilities, childcare.
- If you missed your interview, call your county right away to reschedule (find your county’s number here: Colorado county directory (CDHS)).
Timelines and rights
- Counties must process your case within 30 days (or 7 days for expedited) once you submit your application: USDA SNAP processing standards.
- If you need language interpretation or disability accommodations, tell the county. You have the right to free interpretation and accessible services: USDA SNAP nondiscrimination and access.
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If you can’t reach your worker, call the county main line from the directory and ask for the SNAP unit supervisor: County human services directory.
- Ask Hunger Free Colorado to help escalate: 720-382-2920 or 855-855-4626.
- If your case is stuck past 30 days without a decision, you can file a fair hearing request: USDA fair hearing rights.
Work rules, ABAWD, and exemptions
SNAP has work requirements for some adults. Colorado also offers SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) help.
- Colorado E&T overview: SNAP Employment and Training (CDHS)
- Federal ABAWD policy: USDA SNAP ABAWD
Key facts (as of August 2025)
- ABAWD time-limit rules apply to Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents ages 18–52 (the age increases to 54 on Oct 1, 2025). If ABAWD rules apply and you don’t meet work requirements, SNAP is limited to 3 months in a 3‑year period.
- ABAWD work standard: 80 hours per month through employment, qualifying programs, or a mix.
- Many people are exempt: pregnant, caring for a child under 18 in your SNAP household, veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and others per federal rules.
- Students have separate rules (see next section).
Official source: USDA SNAP ABAWD
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If ABAWD rules are blocking your case, ask your county about a qualifying work or training activity through SNAP E&T: Colorado SNAP E&T (CDHS).
- If you believe you’re exempt (pregnancy, caretaker, disability), provide proof and ask for a review.
- Call 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626 to identify an exemption or program slot near you.
College and training students
The SNAP student rule is specific. If you’re enrolled at least half-time in college and ages 18–49, extra eligibility conditions apply. If you don’t meet an exemption, you may be ineligible even if income is low.
Student rules and exemptions: USDA SNAP Students
Common student exemptions
- Working 20 hours/week on average.
- Responsible for a child under 6 (or child 6–11 with no childcare available).
- Receiving TANF-funded support services.
- Enrolled in certain employment/training programs.
- Physically or mentally unfit for work.
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- Consider part-time work at 20 hours/week or enrollment in an eligible training program to meet an exemption.
- Parents in college: If you have a child under 12, discuss childcare availability and dependent care deduction with your county.
- Ask your college Basic Needs office for help verifying an exemption and finishing your application.
Expedited SNAP: get food money within 7 days if you qualify
You may qualify if you have very little income and cash on hand.
Federal expedited criteria (any one may qualify), verified by USDA SNAP expedited service:
- Monthly gross income under 150∗∗andcash/bankaccountatorunder∗∗150** and cash/bank account at or under **100.
- Combined monthly income and cash/bank account is less than your monthly rent/mortgage and utilities.
- You’re a migrant or seasonal farmworker household with little or no cash.
Ask for “expedited service” on your application or when you talk to your county.
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If you don’t qualify for expedited service, ask your county for local emergency food referrals.
- Use the Food Resource Hotline (720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626) to find same-day food pantries and community meals.
- If your case passes 7 days with no expedited decision, contact a supervisor or request a fair hearing for delay.
After you’re approved: EBT, shopping, online purchasing, and protecting your benefits
Colorado uses the Colorado Quest EBT card.
- Card services: 1-888-328-2656 and ebtEDGE cardholder portal
- Program basics: USDA SNAP
Using your EBT
- You can buy eligible food at authorized retailers. Use the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator to find stores near you.
- Colorado participates in online purchasing (e.g., Walmart, Amazon, and authorized local stores). See current list: USDA SNAP Online Purchasing.
- No fees, no sales tax on SNAP purchases. You can’t buy hot foods ready to eat or non-food items.
- Unused benefits roll over month to month, but if your card isn’t used for 9 months, older funds can be removed.
Protect your benefits (skimming and fraud)
- Create a strong PIN. Don’t share it.
- Avoid suspicious card skimmers. Check the card reader before swiping.
- If you suspect theft, report immediately to 1-888-328-2656 and your county. Federal guidance: USDA on SNAP skimming and card security.
Colorado may offer stolen benefits replacement under federal rules; ask your county for the current process and timelines.
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If your card was stolen/compromised, change your PIN and request a replacement right away at 1-888-328-2656.
- If you’re having account issues, check ebtEDGE and call your county SNAP office.
- If replacement is denied and you believe you qualify, consider an appeal within 90 days of the decision.
Income rules, deductions, and verification
Your countable income is reduced by SNAP deductions. This often makes a big difference.
Deductions you should report (many people miss these)
- 20% earned income deduction (automatic on wages).
- Standard deduction for your household size (updates every Oct 1; built into the calculation).
- Dependent care costs you pay so you can work or attend training/school (no set dollar cap).
- Child support you pay to someone outside your household (court-ordered).
- Medical expenses for elderly/disabled household members, counting the portion over $35/month.
- Shelter and utility costs (rent/mortgage, property taxes/insurance, utilities). A standard utility allowance applies; high shelter costs matter.
Official: USDA SNAP deductions
Deductions table (use it as a checklist)
| Deduction | Who can use it | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 20% earned income | Anyone with wages | Automatically applied |
| Standard deduction | All households | Varies by size; updates annually |
| Dependent care | Parents/guardians in work/training/school | Keep receipts or provider letter |
| Child support paid | Payers with court-ordered support | Provide payment proof |
| Medical (elderly/disabled) | 60+ or disabled members | Only count amount over $35/mo |
| Shelter/Utility | Most households | High rent/utility can increase benefits |
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If your income is just over the limit, re-check childcare, utilities, medical, and child support deductions.
- Ask your county worker to walk through the budget screen with you so you can see what was counted.
- Get a second look from Hunger Free Colorado (720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626) if the numbers don’t make sense.
Income limits and maximum benefits (how to find today’s exact numbers)
Because SNAP amounts change every October 1, always verify the current year’s amounts:
- Current-year income limits: USDA SNAP income eligibility standards
- Current-year maximum benefit amounts: USDA SNAP maximum allotments
- Colorado’s application and eligibility screener: Colorado PEAK
If you need numbers today and don’t want to click around, call the Food Resource Hotline (720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626) and ask for the current Colorado gross income limit and max benefit for your household size. They use the same official numbers and can give them to you on the spot.
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- Visit your county office with your documents and ask for a quick eligibility pre-check.
- Apply anyway. The system will calculate based on updated standards, and the county will confirm with you.
- If the calculation seems off, ask for a written budget breakdown and appeal within 90 days if needed.
Common mistakes to avoid
These are the issues that most often delay or reduce benefits.
- Not reporting childcare costs. Dependent care can make a big difference. Bring a receipt or a signed statement from your provider.
- Missing the interview call. Your application sits until you complete the interview. If you miss it, call your county to reschedule.
- Forgetting utilities. Even if utilities are included in rent, ask about the standard utility allowance.
- Not updating when income drops. Report changes right away to increase your benefits.
- Sending unreadable documents. Use well-lit photos. Avoid screenshots that cut off edges.
- Letting your case close for missing a recertification deadline. Put the date in your calendar the day you’re approved.
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If something goes wrong, call your county the same day and document who you spoke with.
- Ask your worker for a list of any missing items in writing.
- If you can’t resolve it, call 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626 for coaching or seek legal help from Colorado Legal Services.
If you’re denied, sanctioned, or the benefit looks wrong
You have rights. Ask your worker for a written notice with the reason.
Your options
- Appeal (fair hearing) within 90 days of the notice: USDA SNAP rights and responsibilities.
- Ask for “continuation of benefits” during the appeal if you file quickly (follow the deadline listed on your notice, often 10 days).
- Ask for a supervisor review before filing—sometimes errors are fixed quickly.
- Get legal help: Colorado Legal Services (statewide).
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- File the appeal anyway to preserve your rights, even if you’re waiting on new documents.
- Contact Hunger Free Colorado (720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626) to spot issues and prepare for your hearing.
- Ask for help from a local advocate (see “Local organizations” below).
Real-world examples
These scenarios are based on typical cases. Your final amount depends on the official calculation.
- You work full-time making 18/hour∗∗withvariableovertime.Withtwokids,childcareat∗∗18/hour** with variable overtime. With two kids, childcare at **700/month, and rent $1,700, you may still qualify. Keep overtime pay stubs; if overtime stops, report the change to adjust your benefit.
- You just left a job and have only $60 in your bank account. Your rent and utilities are due. You likely qualify for expedited SNAP within 7 days. Apply now and note your emergency.
- You share an apartment with a roommate who cooks separately. Your SNAP household is just you and your child. Only your income counts, not your roommate’s, if you truly purchase and prepare food separately.
- You’re a veteran and between jobs. You may be exempt from ABAWD time limits. Tell your worker and provide your DD-214 or VA documentation.
Sources: USDA SNAP expedited service, USDA SNAP ABAWD, USDA SNAP household rules
City-by-city FAQs (Colorado)
Denver (Denver County)
- Where do I apply in person? Use Denver Human Services locations via the county directory: Find Denver’s human services contact via CDHS directory and select Denver County for addresses and phone numbers.
- How long does Denver take? Standard SNAP processing is up to 30 days; expedited within 7 days by federal rule: USDA processing standards.
- Can I get help filling out the form? Yes. Call 720-382-2920 or 855-855-4626 for free help: Hunger Free Colorado.
- Are there extra local food resources? See Food Bank of the Rockies – Find Food (major nonprofit serving Denver Metro).
- What if I lost my EBT card? Call 1-888-328-2656 immediately or go to ebtEDGE.
Colorado Springs (El Paso County)
- Where’s the county office? Use the CDHS county directory and choose El Paso County for addresses, phone, and hours.
- Is there in-person help with documents and scanning? Yes, county lobbies can help; or call 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626 for hotline assistance.
- How do ABAWD rules affect me here? Federal rules apply statewide; some local variations can apply if there are waivers. Ask your county or see USDA ABAWD.
- Any free groceries while I wait? Try Care and Share Food Bank – Find Food (regional nonprofit).
- EBT online use? Yes. See current Colorado retailers: USDA SNAP Online Purchasing.
Aurora (Arapahoe/Adams Counties)
- Which county do I use? It depends on your address (Aurora spans Arapahoe and Adams). Use the CDHS county directory to find the correct office.
- Fastest way to apply? Online at Colorado PEAK. Upload pictures of your documents from your phone.
- I just lost my job. Can I get expedited SNAP? Possibly, within 7 days if you meet federal criteria: USDA expedited.
- Local help? Hunger Free Colorado: 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626.
- EBT card issues? Call 1-888-328-2656 or visit ebtEDGE.
Fort Collins (Larimer County)
- Where do I drop documents? Check Larimer County’s address via the CDHS county directory.
- Students at CSU: You may need a student exemption to qualify: USDA SNAP students.
- Is there a way to estimate benefits? Yes: Colorado PEAK can screen and apply.
- Local food resource? Food Bank for Larimer County – Get Food.
- How to appeal a denial? You can request a fair hearing within 90 days: USDA SNAP rights.
Grand Junction (Mesa County)
- Where’s the office? Use the CDHS county directory to get Mesa County contact info.
- I live far from the office. Can I do everything online? Yes. Apply and upload via Colorado PEAK; interview can be by phone.
- Any rural-friendly resources? Call 2-1-1 or visit 211 Colorado to find mobile pantries and delivery options.
- EBT retailer finder? Use the USDA Retailer Locator.
- If I’m denied, who can help? Call 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626 or reach out to Colorado Legal Services.
Diverse communities: targeted guidance and contacts
LGBTQ+ single mothers
- You have the same SNAP rights. If you face discrimination, report it to your county and the USDA Office of Civil Rights: USDA Civil Rights.
- Need a safe helper for the application? Use the Food Resource Hotline: 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626.
Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child
- You may qualify for medical expense deductions (portion over $35/month). Keep receipts and pharmacy printouts: USDA SNAP deductions.
- Ask for disability accommodations for appointments and interviews. This is your right: USDA Civil Rights.
Veteran single mothers
- You may be exempt from ABAWD time-limits under federal rules. See USDA ABAWD and bring VA documents.
- County Veterans Service Offices can help you coordinate services: find your county via Colorado counties directory (official) or the state veterans portal: Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs.
Immigrant and refugee single moms
- Many lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and children qualify. Mixed-status families can apply; only eligible members receive benefits: USDA SNAP non-citizens.
- SNAP does not count for public charge decisions. See DHS guidance via USCIS Public Charge Resources (federal).
Tribal-specific resources
- If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, you may access SNAP or FDPIR (Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations). Learn more and find local programs: USDA FDPIR.
- Colorado’s federally recognized tribes: Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. Contact tribal human services or FDPIR office through the USDA directory above.
Rural single moms (limited access)
- Apply and upload documents online via Colorado PEAK; interviews can be done by phone.
- Use 2-1-1 or 211 Colorado to find mobile pantries and delivery options.
- If transportation is a barrier, ask your county about alternatives (mail, drop boxes, phone recertifications).
Single fathers
- SNAP rules are the same. If your kids live with you some of the time, discuss how often and whether you purchase/prepare food together; household composition matters: USDA SNAP household rules.
- Claim dependent care costs if you pay them. Keep receipts.
Language access
- You have the right to free language assistance at county offices. Ask for an interpreter.
- For phone help in many languages, call 720-382-2920 or 855-855-4626: Food Resource Hotline.
Resources by region (Colorado)
Use the official directory for addresses, phones, and hours for your county: Colorado county human services directory (CDHS)
Front Range (Denver Metro, Aurora, Lakewood, Thornton)
- Apply online at Colorado PEAK.
- Food resources: Food Bank of the Rockies – Find Food.
- City human services offices: use the CDHS directory for county-specific contact info.
Northern Colorado (Fort Collins, Greeley, Loveland)
- County offices: Larimer, Weld — see CDHS directory.
- Food bank: Food Bank for Larimer County – Get Food.
- Hotline help: 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626.
Southern Colorado (Colorado Springs, Pueblo)
- County offices: El Paso, Pueblo — see CDHS directory.
- Regional food bank: Care and Share Food Bank – Find Food.
- Hotline: 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626.
Western Slope (Grand Junction, Montrose, Glenwood Springs)
- County offices: Mesa, Montrose, Garfield — see CDHS directory.
- Food finder: USDA Retailer Locator and 2-1-1 for pantries.
- Apply online if distance is an issue: Colorado PEAK.
Mountain and Eastern Plains (rural counties)
- Use online application and phone interviews to avoid long trips: Colorado PEAK.
- Call 2-1-1 or visit 211 Colorado for mobile pantry dates.
- If mail is unreliable, ask your worker about document drop boxes or alternative delivery.
Local organizations that help with SNAP in Colorado
These are trusted nonprofits and statewide resources.
- Hunger Free Colorado Food Resource Hotline: 720-382-2920 (Metro) / 855-855-4626 (Toll-free). SNAP screening and application help in many languages. Food Resource Hotline
- Benefits in Action: Application assistance for SNAP and other benefits. Benefits in Action (Colorado nonprofit)
- 211 Colorado: Dial 2-1-1 or search online for food pantries, transportation, and local resources. 211 Colorado
- Food Bank of the Rockies (Front Range & Western Slope partners): Find pantries and mobile distributions. Find Food – Food Bank of the Rockies
- Colorado Legal Services: Free legal help for low-income Coloradans; can assist with SNAP appeals. Colorado Legal Services
Timelines, recertification, and keeping benefits
What to track
| Stage | What happens | Typical timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application submitted | You filed via PEAK, paper, or in person | Same day | Keep your confirmation/receipt |
| Interview | Phone or in person | Usually within 1–2 weeks | Answer unknown calls |
| Decision | Approval or denial | Within 30 days (or 7 days expedited) | Federal standard |
| EBT card | Mailed or picked up | 5–10 days by mail typically | Call 1-888-328-2656 if lost |
| Recertification | Periodic review | Date on your notice | Submit early to avoid gaps |
Source: USDA SNAP processing rules
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If you miss a recertification deadline, submit ASAP and call your county to reopen the case.
- If your case closed wrongly, ask for restoration of benefits and consider an appeal within 90 days.
- Keep copies/photos of everything you submit.
Where to shop and how to save
Helpful tools
- Find nearby EBT stores: USDA SNAP Retailer Locator
- Online SNAP (Colorado participates): USDA SNAP Online Purchasing
- Farmer’s markets: Many markets offer Double Up Food Bucks to stretch fruits/veggies. Check your local market or ask 2-1-1.
Plan B if this doesn’t work
- If a store won’t accept your EBT card, ask for the store manager and verify they are SNAP-authorized.
- If your transaction fails, call 1-888-328-2656 and check ebtEDGE for your latest balance and transactions.
- If you can’t get to a store, look for online options or delivery that accepts EBT (fees cannot be paid with SNAP).
Quick reference tables
Who counts in your household?
| Situation | Counts in SNAP household? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Your minor children living with you | Yes | You buy/prepare food together |
| Roommate who buys/cooks separately | No | Not part of your food unit |
| Adult child under 22 living with you | Yes | Federal rule: under 22 with parent |
| Co-parent who doesn’t live with you | No | Not in your household |
| Baby on the way (pregnancy) | Not until born | You may qualify for other programs |
Source: USDA SNAP household rules
What can you buy?
| Allowed with SNAP | Not allowed |
|---|---|
| Fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cereals | Hot prepared foods for immediate eat-in |
| Seeds and plants to grow food | Alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicine |
| Non-alcoholic beverages | Non-food items (soap, paper products, pet food) |
Source: USDA SNAP eligible foods
What to do if you need food today (while you wait)
- Call the Food Resource Hotline: 720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626 for same-day pantry referrals and SNAP help. Hunger Free Colorado
- Use 2-1-1 or 211 Colorado to find pantries and community meals near you.
- Check regional food banks’ “Find Food” pages: Food Bank of the Rockies and Care and Share Food Bank.
“What if this doesn’t work?” quick fallback list
- Ask for expedited SNAP (decision within 7 days) if you have low cash/income.
- Call your county supervisor if your case is stuck past 30 days.
- File an appeal within 90 days if denied or under-issued.
- Get advocacy help from Hunger Free Colorado (720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626) or legal help from Colorado Legal Services.
Source list and where the numbers live
- Colorado program information and application: Colorado SNAP (CDHS) and Colorado PEAK
- County office finder: Colorado county human services directory (CDHS)
- Federal rules and yearly amounts:
- USDA SNAP income eligibility standards (monthly gross and net income limits)
- USDA SNAP maximum allotments (maximum monthly benefits by household size)
- USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA (official annual update)
- USDA SNAP deductions
- USDA SNAP expedited service
- USDA SNAP ABAWD
- USDA SNAP students
- USDA Retailer Locator
- USDA SNAP Online Purchasing
- USDA SNAP rights and responsibilities
- EBT card services: 1-888-328-2656, ebtEDGE
- Help applying: Hunger Free Colorado Food Resource Hotline (720-382-2920 / 855-855-4626)
- Legal help: Colorado Legal Services
All links tested at time of publication; verify current amounts on USDA/CDHS pages above (annual updates each October 1).
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Colorado Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified August 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
Program details, eligibility limits, and benefit amounts change regularly, especially each year on October 1. Always confirm current rules, income limits, and maximum benefit amounts directly with the Colorado Department of Human Services or the USDA using the links in this guide, or by contacting your county human services office. This guide is informational and not legal advice.
🏛️More Colorado Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Colorado
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
