NJ Human Services Launches Redesigned NJ Helps Portal and Online Application for Food & Cash Assistance & Expands SNAP Navigators

Eligible residents can now use redesigned application to apply and get assistance from SNAP navigators available in every county

September 27, 2022

(TRENTON) – Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced the Department has launched a modernized benefits portal and online application for residents to apply for the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Work First New Jersey (WFNJ) program and has expanded SNAP Navigators across the state.

Individuals can check their eligibility for food assistance, cash assistance and health care by visiting NJHelps.gov. Those who choose to apply for SNAP and/or WFNJ will be redirected to the new application.

“No one should go hungry or without health care.  At Human Services we want to make it as easy as possible to navigate our programs and access the services and benefits available for you and your family,” said Commissioner Adelman. “This new modernized application is streamlined, easier to complete and is designed to work better for you. We have also expanded the number of SNAP Navigators available to assist individuals who would like help completing their applications. If you would benefit from food assistance, cash assistance or health care, please visit NJHelps.gov to check your eligibility and apply.”

The new application is mobile friendly, making it more accessible and reachable.  When applying for SNAP/WFNJ, individuals can upload required documents online through the new portal to confirm their eligibility and check the status of their application. A video tutorial in English and Spanish on how to apply can also be found online here.

“We have been working to improve the online tools available for SNAP, and make it easier for applicants and enrollees to apply for and manage their SNAP benefits. This latest upgrade helps make applying simpler; but of course, if an applicant has questions or needs assistance, help is available,” said Deputy Commissioner for Social Services Elisa Neira.

The Department launched SNAP online purchasing during the height of the pandemic, and last year made available the ConnectEBT mobile application allowing SNAP beneficiaries to manage their accounts on the go.

The Department also has expanded the number of partner agencies, known as SNAP Navigators, who provide SNAP application assistance to the public at no cost. This help is free and confidential. This year the list of agencies participating as SNAP Navigators grew from three to 11 agencies with a presence in counties all across our state. SNAP Navigators assist individuals with the application process, including helping them identify the documents they need to demonstrate their eligibility and how they can maximize their SNAP benefits. For a list of SNAP Navigators by county, visit NJSNAP.gov.

“I encourage anyone in need of food or cash assistance to check their eligibility for SNAP and WFNJ at NJHelps.gov. If you have no health coverage, you can also check your eligibility for health insurance,” said Natasha Johnson, who directs Human Services’ Division of Family Development, which is responsible for the SNAP program.