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Filing a SNAP or USDA Complaint

If you believe you were discriminated against in a USDA program (like SNAP), you can file a complaint. USDA prohibits discrimination based on: 

  • Race, color, religion, sex (including sexual harassment), age, national origin 
  • Marital or family status 
  • Disability or limited English proficiency 
  • Political beliefs (in some programs) 
  • Income from public assistance 
  • Being treated unfairly because of a past civil rights complaint 

 

Filing Complaint

Ways to File a USDA Complaint: 

What to Include in your Complaint:

  • Your name, address and phone number
  • Contact info for your representative (if you have one)
  • The reason you believe you were discriminated against (basis)
  • Dates of the incident(s)
  • Who discriminated against you (person or agency)
  • What happened, why you think it happened and how you were harmed
  • Any documents or denial letters that support your case

Deadline: Complaints must be filed within 180 days of the incident. You may request a waiver if you missed the deadline for reasons such as illness, not knowing about the act or filing with another agency.

Contact for questions:

All phone numbers are mobile-friendly.

Accessibility: USDA offers information in other languages and alternative formats (Braille, large print, audio, ASL). 

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