Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility for SNAP (food stamps) benefits is usually based on gross and net income (for families with at least one elderly or disabled member, just net income). The amount of benefits received is determined by household size and adjusted gross income after these exemptions:

a standard deduction.
a 20 percent earned income deduction.
a deduction for dependent care.
a deduction for child support paid by a household member.
a limited deduction for medical expenses for elderly or disabled individuals.
a limited deduction for excess shelter care expenses.

Gross income limits are established by the federal government and adjusted annually. Current gross income limits are available from local SNAP benefits specialists.

A family may have liquid resources (cash, checking accounts, stocks, bonds, etc.) of up to $2,000. With one or more family members who are disabled or age 60 or over, the resource limit is $3,000.

Pre-Screening Tool

To help determine if you are eligible for SNAP benefits, you can use an online pre-screening tool provided by USDA Food and Nutrition Service.

This pre-screening tool is not an application for SNAP benefits.

An application for SNAP benefits must be made at your local office.

Employment Requirements

Able-bodied applicants must register for work and cooperate in seeking and keeping employment. In certain counties, applicants are required to participate in an Employment and Training Program. However, you may be exempt from this requirement if you are:

responsible for care in the home of a disabled person or child under age six.
pregnant (in fourth month or later).
a household member participating in the TANF work program.
a VISTA volunteer.
employed or self employed and meeting certain requirements.
a student enrolled at least half-time in any recognized school of higher learning.

Report all Changes Affecting Eligibility

All SNAP recipients must report anytime their monthly gross income is over the maximum allowed for their household size. Incoem maximums can be found on notices or by calling your Benefits Specialist. The income must be reported by the 10th day of the month, following the month the income exceeds the maximum.

All SNAP recipients are also required to complete a recertification (review) process once every 12 months. Most SNAP recipients will fill out a report form in the 6th month of their recertification period. Recertification and report forms will be mailed to recipients.

Recipients are not required to report any other changes, but they may choose to report changes such as:

the addition of a household member and their income.
increase in expenses, such as shelter costs, daycare costs, etc.
income stops or decreases.