SNAP Benefits Calculator
Check your eligibility for food assistance and estimate your monthly SNAP benefit.
Household Information
Estimated Monthly SNAP Benefit
$353/mo
$4,236/year · Max: $768/mo
Income Tests
Deductions Applied
How to Apply
Apply through your state's SNAP office or online portal. You'll need proof of income, identity, and housing costs. Benefits are loaded onto an EBT card monthly.
Disclaimer
- Estimates based on federal SNAP rules — state rules vary (BBCE states may have higher limits).
- Actual benefit determined by your local SNAP office after full application.
- Some states have additional deductions or categorical eligibility rules.
What Is SNAP?
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), formerly known as food stamps, is the largest federal nutrition assistance program. It helps low-income individuals and families purchase food through an EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card that works like a debit card at authorized grocery stores and farmers' markets. In 2026, over 42 million Americans receive SNAP benefits.
SNAP Income Limits 2026
SNAP uses two income tests — gross and net. Most households must pass both to qualify:
| Household Size | Gross Monthly (130% FPL) | Net Monthly (100% FPL) | Max Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,580 | $1,215 | $292 |
| 2 | $2,137 | $1,644 | $536 |
| 3 | $2,694 | $2,072 | $768 |
| 4 | $3,250 | $2,500 | $975 |
| 5 | $3,807 | $2,929 | $1,158 |
Households with elderly (60+) or disabled members only need to pass the net income test. Many states use Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) with higher gross income limits (often 200% FPL).
How SNAP Benefits Are Calculated
SNAP benefit = maximum allotment minus 30% of adjusted net income. The program assumes you can spend 30% of your net income on food, and SNAP covers the gap up to the maximum. Key deductions that lower net income include: the standard deduction ($198 for most households), 20% earned income deduction, dependent care costs, and excess shelter costs above 50% of adjusted income.
How to Apply for SNAP
Apply through your state's SNAP office, online portal, or by mail. You will need proof of identity, income (pay stubs, tax returns), housing costs, and any dependent care expenses. Most states provide benefits within 30 days of application (7 days for expedited cases). Benefits are loaded onto an EBT card monthly.
USDA — SNAP Eligibility→Frequently Asked Questions
Can college students get SNAP?
College students enrolled at least half-time generally cannot receive SNAP unless they meet an exemption: working 20+ hours/week, participating in a work-study program, caring for a child under 6, or receiving other need-based financial aid. Rules expanded during COVID and some states maintain broader eligibility.
What can I buy with SNAP/EBT?
SNAP covers most food items: fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cereals, and seeds or plants that produce food. You cannot use SNAP for alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, prepared hot foods, or non-food items like cleaning supplies or pet food.
Can I get SNAP and other benefits at the same time?
Yes. SNAP can be combined with WIC, Medicaid, TANF, and other assistance programs. Receiving one benefit does not disqualify you from others, though each program has its own eligibility criteria.
Check your eligibility for other programs with our Benefits Eligibility Checker or estimate your ACA health insurance subsidy.