Indiana guidance with Louisville-area examples. Check which county each service covers.

Apply for SNAP or Medicaid in Indiana

One state office, the Division of Family Resources (DFR), handles food help and health coverage.

1. Step 1: Choose how to apply for SNAP

   You can apply online with the FSSA Benefits Portal. If you do not have a computer or internet, you can apply at your local DFR office.

   • Indiana FSSA Division of Family Resources: SNAP (Food Assistance) says: “apply for SNAP online through the FSSA Benefits Portal” (checked 2026-10-07)
   • Indiana FSSA Division of Family Resources: SNAP (Food Assistance) says: “can apply at a local DFR office” (checked 2026-10-07)

2. Step 2: Choose how to apply for Medicaid

   You can apply in person, online, by mail, or by phone. A certified helper called a navigator can help you apply.

   • Indiana Medicaid: Apply for Coverage says: “You can apply in person, online, by mail, or by phone.” (checked 2026-10-07)
   • Indiana Medicaid: Apply for Coverage says: “A certified navigator can assist you with the process to apply” (checked 2026-10-07)

3. Step 3: Call or visit DFR

   Call the benefits line, or visit your local DFR office during office hours.

   • Indiana FSSA Division of Family Resources: Contact DFR says: “Benefits information: toll free 800-403-0864” (checked 2026-10-07)
   • Indiana FSSA Division of Family Resources: Contact DFR says: “Office hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. local time” (checked 2026-10-07)

4. Step 4: Gather what you need

   You will give names, birth dates, and Social Security numbers for everyone in your home. You will also show income and housing costs.

   • Indiana FSSA Division of Family Resources: SNAP (Food Assistance) says: “names, dates of birth, and Social Security Numbers for all persons living in your home” (checked 2026-10-07)

5. Step 5: Send everything

   For Medicaid, your application must be complete and all required documents must be submitted.

   • Indiana Medicaid: Apply for Coverage says: “your application must be complete and all required documentation must be submitted” (checked 2026-10-07)

6. Step 6: Wait for a letter

   DFR will mail you a notice about your case. Medicaid can take up to 90 days. Read the letter. It tells you how to appeal.

   • Indiana FSSA Division of Family Resources: SNAP (Food Assistance) says: “You will be mailed a notice regarding your eligibility” (checked 2026-10-07)
   • Indiana Medicaid: Apply for Coverage says: “it can take up to 90 days to determine if you are eligible” (checked 2026-10-07)

7. Step 7: Already get SNAP?

   Starting November 23, 2026, SNAP benefits older than about nine months are removed from EBT accounts. Use your benefits before they expire.

   • Indiana FSSA Division of Family Resources: SNAP (Food Assistance) says: “Beginning November 23, 2026, all SNAP benefits that are at least 274 days old” (checked 2026-10-07)

Confirm before you go. Office hours and rules can change. Call DFR before you visit.

This guide is information, not legal advice or a promise of help. NOLO does not decide who qualifies. Rules and offices change.