The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often called food stamps, helps low-income individuals and families purchase groceries for a healthy diet. SNAP benefits are distributed electronically through a card similar to a debit card, allowing recipients to buy eligible food items at authorized retailers.
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase a variety of food items, including fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cereals, and snacks. Importantly, SNAP benefits can also be used to purchase seeds and plants to grow food.
SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase non-food items such as tobacco, alcohol, pet food, household supplies, vitamins, or hot foods ready to eat. Additionally, SNAP cannot be used to pay for existing food bills.
Eligible individuals and families can now use their SNAP benefits to purchase groceries online, offering a convenient and safe way to access food.
Low-income households are generally eligible for SNAP. Eligibility requirements vary based on household size, income, and resources. Most adults without dependents are limited to three months of SNAP benefits within a three-year period. However, this limitation may be waived for those working or participating in a training program for at least 20 hours per week, or those who are pregnant or have a disability. Senior citizens and individuals with disabilities may qualify for simplified application procedures and extended certification periods through the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP).
Income limits for SNAP eligibility are based on household size and the Federal Poverty Level. Generally, gross monthly income must be at or below 130% of the poverty line. Net income, calculated after allowable deductions, must be at or below the poverty line. There are also limits on countable assets, such as bank accounts and savings.
The following table outlines general income guidelines for SNAP eligibility:
| Family size | Maximum monthly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $ 2,005 |
| 2 | $ 2,712 |
| 3 | $ 3,419 |
| 4 | $ 4,125 |
| 5 | $ 4,832 |
| For each additional person, add: | $ 707 |
Able-bodied adults without dependents between the ages of 16 and 59 are generally required to meet work requirements to maintain SNAP eligibility. These requirements may include registering for work, actively seeking employment, participating in a job training program, or accepting suitable employment offers.
Monthly SNAP benefit amounts are determined by household size, income, and allowable deductions. The maximum benefit amount decreases as household income increases. The following table provides an overview of maximum monthly SNAP allotments for different household sizes:
| Family size | Monthly SNAP amount |
|---|---|
| 1 | $291 |
| 2 | $535 |
| 3 | $766 |
| 4 | $973 |
| 5 | $1,155 |
| 6 | $1,386 |
| 7 | $1,532 |
| 8 | $1,751 |
| For each additional person, add: | $219 |
Language assistance and other accommodations are available for individuals with limited English proficiency or disabilities. For assistance with SNAP applications, eligibility questions, or benefit information, contact your local SNAP office or call 211.
