Eligibility

• The U.S. Department of Agriculture sets the basic eligibility requirements for Nutrition Assistance. To receive benefits, you cannot exceed gross and net maximum monthly income requirements, and can only have limited assets. Arizona bases the income limits on the current federal poverty level guidelines. Participants must also be citizens or legal residents of the United States, and residents of Arizona.
  
  

Application

• You cannot be certain if you can receive Nutrition Assistance in Arizona until you apply. Residents are free to apply for benefits online through the Health-e-Arizona website, but some documentation will need to be faxed to your nearest Family Assistance Administration before the application is considered complete. Downloadable applications are available at the website of the Department of Economic Security. You can also request one from a local Family Assistance Administration office, in-person or by telephone.
  
  

Interview

• The application process for Arizona Nutrition Assistance is not over until you attend an eligibility interview. You will need to bring supporting documentation to the interview, which proves your citizenship, residency, income, assets, employment and expenses. After the interview, you will receive notification concerning approved for NA within 30 days. You'll receive notification within seven days, if you have applied for expedited benefits.
  
  

Work Requirements

• Unlike Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, single people are eligible for Nutrition Assistance. Able-bodied adults who have no dependents can only receive benefits for six months during a 36-month period, however. All able-bodied adults who receive NA between the ages of 18 and 50 must also meet the state's work requirements to keep their benefits. Participants must work or volunteer for an average of 20 hours per week for 30 consecutive days. They may also participate for 20 or more hours per week in job training or job search programs.
  
  

Benefits

• Once you receive approval, you can begin using your benefits. You should receive an Arizona Quest card in the mail, and can use this to access your benefits when shopping at approved vendors. Use the Quest card to buy fruits, vegetables, baby formula, cereals, dairy products and meat. You cannot use NA benefits to buy alcohol, tobacco, hot foods, pet food, medicine or vitamins.