SNAP Benefits 2026 — Monthly Amounts, Eligibility, and How to Apply
SNAP Benefits at a Glance
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) — still commonly called food stamps — provides monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries. It's the largest federal nutrition program, serving over 42 million Americans in 22 million households.
Check your SNAP eligibility and other benefits with the Benefits Eligibility Calculator→The average monthly benefit per person: ~$195/month (varies significantly by income and household size).
2026 Income Limits
SNAP uses both gross income (before deductions) and net income (after deductions) tests:
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income (130% FPL) | Net Monthly Income (100% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,644 | $1,264 |
| 2 | $2,224 | $1,712 |
| 3 | $2,806 | $2,158 |
| 4 | $3,386 | $2,604 |
| 5 | $3,966 | $3,050 |
| 6 | $4,548 | $3,498 |
| Each additional | +$580 | +$446 |
Exceptions: Households with an elderly (60+) or disabled member only need to meet the net income test. Some states use "broad-based categorical eligibility" with higher gross income limits (up to 200% FPL).
Asset Limits
| Household Type | Asset Limit |
|---|---|
| Standard | $2,750 |
| With elderly/disabled member | $4,250 |
Assets include bank accounts and some investments. Not counted: your home, retirement accounts, vehicles (in most states), and personal belongings.
Many states have eliminated the asset test entirely through categorical eligibility.
Maximum Monthly Benefits (2026)
These are the maximum amounts — actual benefits depend on your income (lower income = higher benefit):
| Household Size | Maximum Benefit | Minimum Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $292 | $23 |
| 2 | $536 | $23 |
| 3 | $768 | $23 |
| 4 | $975 | $23 |
| 5 | $1,158 | $23 |
| 6 | $1,390 | $23 |
| 7 | $1,536 | $23 |
| 8 | $1,756 | $23 |
Benefit calculation: Maximum benefit minus 30% of your net income. SNAP assumes you spend 30% of your income on food, and the benefit covers the rest.
Example: A family of 3 with $1,500 net monthly income receives $768 - (30% × $1,500) = $768 - $450 = $318/month.
What SNAP Covers
You can buy:
- Groceries (fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cereals)
- Seeds and plants that produce food
- Snacks, candy, and soft drinks (controversial but allowed)
- Energy drinks labeled with Nutrition Facts
You cannot buy:
- Alcohol or tobacco
- Vitamins and supplements
- Prepared hot foods (at restaurants or deli counters)
- Non-food items (cleaning supplies, paper products, pet food)
- Items labeled with Supplement Facts
SNAP benefits are loaded onto an EBT card that works like a debit card at grocery stores, farmers' markets, and some online retailers (Amazon, Walmart).
How to Apply
Step 1: Submit an Application
- Online: Your state's SNAP website (search "[state] apply for SNAP")
- In person: Local DSS/DHS office
- Phone: Some states accept phone applications
- Mail: Download the form from your state's website
Step 2: Interview
Most states require a phone or in-person interview within 30 days. The caseworker will verify your:
- Identity
- Income and expenses
- Household composition
- Housing costs (rent, mortgage, utilities)
Step 3: Provide Documentation
| Document | Examples |
|---|---|
| Identity | Driver's license, state ID, passport |
| Income | Pay stubs, SSI letter, unemployment letter |
| Expenses | Rent receipt, utility bills, child care receipts |
| Residency | Lease, utility bill with address |
Step 4: Receive Benefits
If approved, you'll receive an EBT card within 30 days. Benefits are retroactive to your application date.
Expedited benefits (within 7 days) are available if:
- Your monthly gross income is below $150 and assets are below $100
- Your monthly housing costs exceed your income + assets
- You're a destitute migrant or seasonal worker
Deductions That Increase Your Benefit
SNAP calculates benefits based on net income — after these deductions:
| Deduction | Amount |
|---|---|
| Standard deduction | $198 (1-3 people) / $208 (4+) |
| Earned income deduction | 20% of gross earnings |
| Child/dependent care | Actual cost (up to limits) |
| Medical expenses (elderly/disabled) | Costs above $35/month |
| Shelter deduction | Housing costs above 50% of income (capped) |
| Child support paid | Actual amount |
These deductions can significantly increase your benefit. A household paying $1,500/month rent with $2,000 income would get a much larger benefit than one paying $800.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can college students get SNAP?
Generally no — college students enrolled at least half-time are excluded unless they meet an exemption: working 20+ hours/week, participating in work-study, caring for a child under 6, or receiving TANF.
How long do SNAP benefits last?
Most adults receive benefits in 6-12 month certification periods, then must recertify. Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18-49 are limited to 3 months of benefits in a 36-month period unless they work or participate in a training program 20+ hours/week.
Does SNAP affect immigration status?
Receiving SNAP is considered in public charge determinations for some immigration applications. Consult an immigration attorney if this concerns you. US citizen children can receive SNAP regardless of parents' immigration status.
USDA — SNAP Eligibility→Check your eligibility and estimated benefit with our SNAP Benefits Calculator, see if you also qualify for WIC, and check Medicaid eligibility — many SNAP recipients also qualify for free healthcare.
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