What Counts as Income for SNAP (and What Doesn't)

What counts as income for SNAP

SNAP counts most income you receive. This includes:

• Wages and salary from a job
• Self-employment income
• Social Security benefits
• Unemployment benefits
• Workers' compensation
• Child support you receive
• Alimony
• Pensions and retirement income
• Cash assistance from state or local programs
• Rental income

The USDA counts your gross income first. Gross income means all the money you make before taxes or deductions.

What doesn't count as income for SNAP

SNAP ignores certain types of income:

• In-kind support (food, shelter, or clothing given to you directly)
• Student financial aid
• Income tax refunds
• Non-cash benefits like housing vouchers
• Adoption assistance payments
• Certain disaster assistance
• Child tax credits and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

Gross income limits

First, your household must pass the gross income test. The limit is 130% of the federal poverty guideline for your household size.

From October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026, the gross monthly income limits are:

If your household is larger than 4 people, check our SNAP page for the full table. These limits update every October 1.

How deductions work

If you pass the gross income test, the next step is calculating your net income. Net income is what's left after you subtract allowed deductions from your gross income.

SNAP allows these deductions:

• 20% earned income deduction: You can subtract 20% of all wages and self-employment income.
• Standard deduction: A flat amount based on household size. For households of 1–3 people in the 48 states and DC, it's $209 a month. Larger households get higher deductions.
• Shelter costs: You can deduct rent, mortgage, utilities, and similar housing costs that go over 50% of your remaining income. The deduction is capped at $744 a month in most states.
• Dependent care: Costs for childcare or adult care that let you work or attend school.
• Child support: If you legally owe child support and pay it, you can deduct it.
• Medical costs: If someone in your household is 60 or older or disabled, you can deduct medical expenses over $35 a month.

Net income limits

After subtracting all deductions, your household must meet the net income limit. The net income limit is 100% of the federal poverty guideline.

From October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026, the net monthly income limits are:

Special rules for older adults and people with disabilities

If your household includes someone who is 60 years old or older or who is disabled, you only need to meet the net income limit. You don't have to pass the gross income test. This gives more people a chance to qualify.

Checking your eligibility

The easiest way to see if you might qualify is to use our SNAP calculator. It will show you an estimate based on your household income and size.

Keep in mind that applying is free, and only the SNAP agency in your state can officially decide if you qualify. Learn how to apply for SNAP in your state.