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Glossary

SNAP household

The people who live together and buy and prepare food as a unit, which determines if you can get SNAP and how much you may receive.

Your SNAP household includes everyone who lives with you and shares meals and groceries—usually your spouse and children, but sometimes other relatives or people you live with.

Your household size matters because SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) sets income limits and benefit amounts based on how many people are in your home. For example, a household of 3 has a different income limit and maximum benefit than a household of 4.

If you buy and prepare food separately from someone else in your home, they may not count as part of your SNAP household. The rules can be detailed, so when you apply, the agency will help you figure out who counts.

Programs where this matters

LIHEAPHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesLIHEAP helps households with low income pay heating and cooling bills, and may help in an energy crisis such as a shut-off notice.MedicaidCenters for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesMedicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by each state with federal funding, for children, adults, pregnant people, older adults and people with disabilities.SNAPUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceSNAP gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to help households with low income buy food.WICUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceWIC gives healthy foods, nutrition education and breastfeeding support to pregnant women, new mothers, infants and young children with low income.Child Care AidHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesChild care assistance helps families with low income pay for child care so parents can work, look for work, or go to school or training.TANFHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesTANF gives cash help and support services to families with children who have low income. Each state runs its own program.