Details vary state to state, but here's a general overview:
You complete a SNAP application and submit it to your state's social services office. You will be asked questions such as:
How many people are in your household
Your address and contact information
Your income for last 30 days
Your expenses, such as housing, utilities and medical costs
Optional voter registration
A caseworker reviews your application
After review, the state may request documents to show your identification, citizenship/immigration status, income, and expenses; such as ID, paystubs, rent, utilities, medical costs, etc.
You complete a phone interview with the caseworker.
If the state determines that you qualify for SNAP, they send you an EBT card in the mail with money on it to buy food.
This whole process usually takes around 30-45 days, unless you qualify for emergency benefits, then you may receive SNAP benefits in 5-7 days. Each month, the state will add the same amount of money to your card. You will usually have to renew your benefits within a certain time frame, sometimes 6 or 12 months, or up to 3 years, depending on your situation.