50. If I am a disabled immigrant, do I need to wait five years for SNAP?

No. You do not need to wait five years if you are a lawful permanent resident adult and you receive a disability-based benefit because of a severe disability.106 C.M.R.§362.220 (B)(7)(e). This policy also applies to battered immigrants and humanitarian parolees. If you are under age 18, you do not need a disability-benefit; there is no 5-year wait.

Question 39 explains the disability rules for SNAP and multiple ways you can qualify as receiving a “disability-based benefit,” including through EAEDC or MassHealth. And remember, you may qualify for state-funded SNAP if you cannot qualify for federal SNAP. See Question 48..