The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps, provides nutrition assistance to lower-income people with monthly benefits.

The benefits are only certified for six-, 12-, or 24-month periods, after which beneficiaries will have to reapply to continue to receive food stamps. Here are the ways to reapply for SNAP.

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Online

Beneficiaries can apply for recertification of their SNAP benefits through an online form on the state SNAP website. Applications can vary by state but can be completed without having to mail or physically turn in a form in order to renew SNAP benefits.

Paper application

The other option for recertifiying SNAP benefits is through a paper application. These applications also vary by state, with information available on each state government's SNAP website. Forms are usually available in multiple languages.

Paper applications can be submitted by mail, fax, or in person, with specific delivery instructions varying by state.

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Once the application is completed, applicants must complete an interview and provide relevant documents in order to determine if they are still eligible for SNAP benefits. Those who already have SNAP benefits should receive an application to reapply for certification to their mailing address on file prior to their benefits expiration, according to the Washington, D.C., Department of Human Services.

In order to continue to receive SNAP benefits without any interruption, beneficiaries should complete and turn in the recertification form 15 days before the end of the certification period, according to the D.C. government.