SNAP (Food Stamps)

What is SNAP?

SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly food stamps) gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy food. You use the card like a debit card at grocery stores and farmers markets. The amount you get depends on your household size and income.

Who qualifies

You may qualify if your household income is below a certain limit. The limit depends on your state and household size.

For the period from October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026, the gross monthly income limits are:

48 states and DC:

• 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
• Each extra person: add $586

Alaska:

• 1 person: $2,118
• 4 people: $4,354

Hawaii:

• 1 person: $1,949
• 4 people: $4,007

If your household includes someone who is 60 or older or has a disability, you only need to meet a lower net income limit instead.

Many states also use broad-based categorical eligibility, which can raise the income limit and remove the asset test. Ask your state program about this.

How much you get

Your benefit is based on your household size and net income (after deductions).

The maximum monthly benefits from October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026 are:

48 states and DC:

• 1 person: $298
• 2 people: $546
• 3 people: $785
• 4 people: $994
• 5 people: $1,183
• 6 people: $1,421
• 7 people: $1,571
• 8 people: $1,789
• Each extra person: add $218

Hawaii:

• 1 person: $506
• 4 people: $1,689

Alaska (urban):

• 1 person: $385
• 4 people: $1,285
• Rural Alaska is higher

Your actual benefit is the maximum for your household size minus 30% of your net income. Your net income is your earnings and other income after deductions.

The deductions include 20% of your earned income, a standard deduction based on household size, excess shelter costs, dependent care costs, child support you pay, and medical costs (for households with someone 60+ or disabled).

If you get a small benefit, you may receive at least $24 per month in most states.

How to apply

You apply through your state's SNAP program. Visit your state's page for the specific application process and where to submit it.

Applying is free. The state agency decides whether you qualify based on the rules.

You will likely need to provide:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of residency (address)
• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, letters from employers)
• Proof of expenses (rent or mortgage, utility bills)
• Social Security numbers for household members
• Information about your assets

Your state program can tell you the exact documents it needs.

What happens after you apply

Your state will review your application and contact you if it needs more information. Processing usually takes a few weeks, but it varies by state.

If you are approved, you will get an EBT card in the mail. Your benefits load onto the card each month, and you can use it immediately.

You will need to renew your benefits periodically—usually once a year, but your state will tell you when.

Asset limits

The federal asset limit is $3,000. If your household includes someone 60 or older or someone with a disability, the limit is $4,500. Assets include money in bank accounts, vehicles (in some cases), and other property.

However, many states have removed the asset test through broad-based categorical eligibility. Ask your state whether the asset limit applies to you.

Related programs

If you qualify for SNAP, you may also qualify for other benefits. Use our screener to check what else you might be eligible for.

Find your state

Rules and application processes vary by state. Visit your state's SNAP page for details:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• District of Columbia
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

Use our SNAP calculator

Not sure if you qualify or how much you might get? Try our SNAP calculator to estimate your benefit amount.