SNAP Benefits by Household Size: Maximum Amounts

Maximum SNAP benefits by household size (October 2025 to September 2026)

These are the highest amounts you can receive. Your actual benefit will likely be lower because it depends on your income and other factors.

These figures apply from October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026. The USDA updates them every October 1.

If you live in rural Alaska, your maximum benefit is higher than the urban amounts shown. Check with your state SNAP office for exact amounts.

What you actually receive

The maximum benefit is not what most households get. Your actual benefit is calculated by subtracting 30% of your net income from the maximum for your household size.

So if you are one person in most states with zero net income, you would get the full $298. But if you have income, your benefit will be lower.

For one- or two-person households in most states, there is a minimum benefit of $24 per month, even if the calculation would give you less.

Minimum income to qualify

SNAP has income limits to decide who qualifies. These apply from October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026.

Gross income limit (130% of the poverty line): This is the first test. If you earn more than this, you usually don't qualify.

• 1 person: $1,696
• 2 people: $2,292
• 3 people: $2,888
• 4 people: $3,483
• 5 people: $4,079
• 6 people: $4,675
• 7 people: $5,271
• 8 people: $5,867

Alaska amounts are higher. Hawaii amounts are slightly higher. Check with your state for exact figures.

Net income limit (100% of the poverty line): After deductions, your income must be at or below this amount. This is the second test.

• 1 person: $1,305
• 2 people: $1,763
• 3 people: $2,221
• 4 people: $2,680

If someone in your household is 60 or older or disabled, you only need to meet the net income limit. The gross income limit doesn't apply to you.

Many states use something called broad-based categorical eligibility, which can raise the gross income limit and remove the asset test entirely. Ask your state office if you are close to the limit.

How your benefit is calculated

Your actual SNAP benefit comes from this formula:

Maximum benefit for your household size minus 30% of your net monthly income = your benefit

To find your net income, start with your gross income and subtract allowed deductions:

• 20% of earned income
• A standard deduction: $209 for households of 1–3 people, $223 for 4 people, $261 for 5 people, $299 for 6 or more people
• Excess shelter costs (rent or mortgage, utilities, property tax), capped at $744 unless someone is 60+ or disabled
• Child care or dependent care costs
• Legally owed child support you actually pay
• Medical costs over $35 per month for members who are 60+ or disabled

This can get complicated. You can estimate your benefits with our SNAP calculator, or apply and let the agency do the math for you. Applying is free, and only the agency decides if you qualify.

Asset limits

The federal asset limit is $3,000 for most households. If a household member is 60 or older or disabled, the limit is $4,500.

Some assets don't count, like your primary home, one car, and retirement accounts. Ask your state SNAP office what counts.

Again, many states don't use the asset test at all if they use broad-based categorical eligibility.

Next steps

If you think you qualify, apply for SNAP in your state. The application is free. You can apply online, by mail, in person, or sometimes by phone. Only the state agency decides if you qualify based on your actual situation.