SNAP for Seniors: Special Rules for People 60 and Older

The Big Advantage: Only One Income Limit

SNAP has two income limits. Usually, your household must pass both. But if anyone in your household is 60 or older (or disabled), you only need to meet the net income limit.

For 2025-2026, the net income limits in the 48 states and DC are:

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

Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits. This rule means seniors with higher earnings can still qualify.

Medical Costs You Can Deduct

When SNAP calculates your net income, it subtracts certain costs from what you earn. If you're 60 or older, you can deduct medical costs over $35 per month. This includes:

• Doctor and dentist visits
• Prescription medications
• Medical equipment (like glasses or hearing aids)
• Health insurance premiums
• Nursing care

Younger adults cannot deduct medical costs. This can significantly lower your net income and increase your benefits.

Higher Asset Limits

SNAP has an asset limit—the total money and resources you can own and still qualify. If you're 60 or older, your household can have up to $4,500 in countable assets instead of the usual $3,000.

Certain things don't count as assets, like your home and one car. Ask the agency handling your application which assets count in your state.

How Benefits Are Calculated

Once you qualify, your monthly benefit depends on your household size and net income. For 2025-2026, the maximum monthly benefits in the 48 states and DC are:

• 1 person: $298
• 2 people: $546
• 3 people: $785
• 4 people: $994

Your actual benefit is the maximum for your household size, minus 30% of your net income. The more income you have, the lower your benefit. Households with 1 or 2 people receive at least $24 a month if they qualify.

Hawaii and Alaska have higher maximums.

How to Apply

Applying for SNAP is free. Contact your state or county social services office, or apply online through your state's website. Have ready:

• Your Social Security number
• Proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer)
• Proof of expenses (rent or mortgage papers, utility bills, medical receipts)
• Proof of assets (bank statements)
• Proof of citizenship or legal residency

Processing usually takes about 30 days, though you may be able to get emergency benefits faster.

What SNAP Covers

Benefits come on an EBT card that works like a debit card. You can buy:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, poultry and fish
• Dairy products
• Breads and cereals
• Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages

You cannot buy hot prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, or household items.

Other Help You Might Qualify For

If you're a senior, you may also qualify for other programs. Check our benefits screener to find what you're eligible for in your situation.