Basic Food: help paying for groceries

Basic Food is what Washington calls SNAP. If you are 60 or older or have a disability, there is a rule about medical expenses that most people never hear about — and it can change the answer.

What it is

Monthly money for groceries, loaded onto an EBT card you use like a debit card at the store. Nobody at the checkout can tell what you are paying with.

Washington calls it Basic Food. Nationally it is SNAP. Many people still say food stamps. All the same programme.

The medical expense rule almost nobody mentions

If someone in your household is elderly or has a disability, allowable medical expenses above the applicable threshold can affect how your benefit is calculated under Washington's rules.

In plain terms: your medical costs can matter here, and they work in your favour. Premiums, prescriptions, over-the-counter items a doctor recommended, dental, transport to appointments — the kinds of things people never think to bring up on a food application.

Tell them about your medical expenses, whether or not anyone asks. People apply, receive a small amount or a denial, and never find out this existed.

What to have ready

What you receive each month and where it comes from
What you pay for housing and utilities
Your medical costs — premiums, prescriptions, dental, and travel to appointments
Who lives with you and shares food

You do not need all of it perfectly organised to start. Apply, then send what they ask for.

How much would I get?

We do not estimate that, and you should be sceptical of any website that does. The amount comes from your income, your household, your housing costs and your medical expenses. Washington calculates it.

What is worth knowing is that people frequently receive more than they expected once medical expenses are counted — and that receiving Basic Food can also open the door to the Lifeline phone and internet discount.

How to apply

Apply through Washington Connection Call DSHS: 877-501-2233

Do not send us your documents. American Senior Choices does not process food assistance applications and does not determine eligibility.

If you need food this week

An application takes time. For food now, call 211 or 1-877-211-9274. They can point you to food banks, senior meal programmes and home-delivered meals near you. There is no shame in it and no paperwork.

Questions people actually ask

Is Basic Food the same as food stamps?

Yes. Basic Food is Washington's name for SNAP, which people still often call food stamps. Benefits come on an EBT card you use like a debit card at the grocery store. Nobody at the checkout can tell what you are paying with.

I own my home. Can I still get it?

Owning a home does not by itself rule you out. Ask rather than assuming — this is one of the most common reasons older adults never apply.

I only qualified for a very small amount last time. Is it worth it?

Two things. First, if you did not report your medical expenses, the amount may have been calculated without something that could have helped. Second, receiving Basic Food can open doors to other help, including the Lifeline phone and internet discount.

Does this affect my Social Security or Medicare?

No. Basic Food does not reduce your Social Security payment and does not change your Medicare.

How long does it take?

It varies. Washington has faster processing in some urgent situations — if you have very little income or money on hand right now, say so when you apply rather than waiting to be asked.

Official sources

While you are looking at monthly costs

If groceries are tight, the Medicare side is worth a look too. Tim can review the plans he represents against your doctors and prescriptions — and point you at the premium and prescription help before any of that comes up.

Talk With Tim About Medicare: (360) 472-4261

This line is recorded, as Medicare requires for plan conversations.

Last reviewed September 2026. American Senior Choices does not determine eligibility for government assistance programs. Eligibility is determined by the appropriate government agency. Program rules and benefit amounts can change.

Disclaimer: American Senior Choices is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 5 organizations which offer 33 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.