What this calculator estimates
This calculator gives you a rough estimate of how much SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), also known as food stamps, you might receive each month. It does not tell you whether you qualify. Only your state's SNAP office can decide that.
The calculator uses the same rules your state uses, including income limits, deductions, and benefit amounts for FY 2026. Your actual benefit depends on details only your state can verify.
What you'll need to enter
The calculator asks about your household to estimate your benefit. Have this information ready:
- Your state. SNAP rules and benefit amounts differ by state.
- People in your household. Count everyone who buys and cooks food together, including children and other adults.
- Monthly earnings from work (before tax). Include wages, tips, and self-employment income. Do not subtract taxes.
- Other monthly income. This includes Social Security, child support you receive, unemployment payments, and similar money coming in.
- Someone 60 or older or with a disability. Select yes if anyone in your household is elderly or disabled. This opens deductions that help your household qualify and get more benefits.
- Monthly rent or mortgage. Include rent, mortgage, property tax, and homeowner's insurance. This is your shelter cost.
- Monthly utilities. Add up heating, electricity, water, sewer, trash, phone, and internet. You can use an average if costs vary.
- Child or dependent care costs. Include money you pay for childcare, adult daycare, or care for a disabled family member so you can work or attend school.
- Child support you pay. Include legally owed support you pay to someone outside your household.
- Medical costs (if 60+ or disabled). Only households with someone 60 or older or with a disability can count medical expenses. Include doctor visits, prescriptions, medical equipment, and similar costs you pay out of pocket.
Why these figures matter
SNAP has two main income tests. Your household's gross income (earnings plus other income before deductions) usually cannot exceed 130% of the federal poverty line. If you pass that, your net income (after allowable deductions) cannot exceed 100% of the poverty line.
Deductions reduce your net income. SNAP allows deductions for the 20% of earnings you lose to taxes, shelter costs (rent, mortgage, utilities), childcare, child support, and medical costs for elderly or disabled household members. These deductions help lower-income households qualify and receive more benefits.
How to read your estimate
After you enter your information, the calculator shows your estimated monthly SNAP benefit as a single number. This is the maximum your household might receive if you qualify.
The estimate also breaks down whether your household likely meets the gross and net income tests. It shows you which deductions the calculator counted.
What this calculator does not do
This is a screening tool, not an application. It does not:
- Verify your income, assets, citizenship, or immigration status.
- Check whether you have assets above the SNAP limit.
- Look at your work or school hours if you might have time limits.
- Account for other household members or special situations your state recognizes.
- Guarantee you will receive the estimated amount.
Your state may use slightly different rules, have additional requirements, or count income differently than this calculator does.
Next steps after your estimate
If the estimate shows you might qualify, the next step is to apply to your state's SNAP program. Applying is free. Your state has 30 days to decide whether you qualify.
To apply, contact your state's SNAP office or visit your state's benefits website. You can usually apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. When you apply, have ready:
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements).
- Proof of rent, mortgage, or utilities.
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status.
- A Social Security number for each household member.
- Account numbers for checking and savings accounts (to verify assets).
If you need help applying or have questions about the calculator, visit our help page or programs page to find your state's contact information and resources.
Limits of this estimate
This calculator uses FY 2026 figures for most U.S. states and the District of Columbia. Hawaii uses higher benefit amounts and income limits because of its cost of living. Alaska uses its own rules and is not included in this calculator.
The calculator assumes standard SNAP rules. Your state may have policies that change how income is counted or what deductions apply. For example, some states have slightly different shelter cost limits or treat education payments differently.
Income rules can also change throughout the year, and your state may have local variations. The estimate is most accurate if your income and expenses are stable. If your situation is complex—such as having self-employment income, recent job changes, or large medical costs—contact your state's SNAP office to discuss how they would count your specific circumstances.
This is not a guarantee of eligibility or benefit amount. Only your state's SNAP office can determine whether you qualify and how much you will receive.