How Much SNAP (Food Stamps) Will I Get?
USDA's formula is: the maximum benefit for your household size minus 30% of your net income. Most households receive less than the maximum because they have some income; households with no income receive the maximum. Your state agency calculates the actual amount.
The formula
Monthly SNAP benefit = Maximum benefit − (0.30 × Net income, rounded up)
Eligible 1- and 2-person households receive at least $25 a month.
Maximum benefit by household size (FY2027)
| Household size | Maximum monthly |
|---|---|
| 1 | $306 |
| 2 | $562 |
| 3 | $808 |
| 4 | $1,023 |
| 5 | $1,217 |
| 6 | $1,463 |
| 7 | $1,616 |
| 8 | $1,841 |
Deductions from gross income
- 20% of earned income (wages)
- Standard deduction: $217 (1-3 people), $229 (4), $268 (5), $308 (6 or more)
- Dependent care needed for work, training or school
- Medical costs over $35 a month for members who are 60+ or disabled
- Legally owed child support paid (in some states)
- Excess shelter: shelter costs above half of adjusted income, capped at $769 unless a member is 60+ or disabled
Worked examples (no shelter, care or medical deductions, which raise the benefit)
Example 1: single mom, 2 kids, $1,800 a month in wages
Household of 3, maximum benefit $808
Deductions: 20% of wages ($360) + standard ($217)
Net income: $1,223; 30% = $367
Estimated benefit: $808 − $367 = $441 a month
Example 2: single adult, no income
Household of 1, maximum benefit $306
Estimated benefit: $306 a month (the maximum)
Example 3: 65-year-old, $1,400 a month Social Security
Household of 1, maximum benefit $306. Only the net income limit applies.
Net income: $1,400 − standard ($217) = $1,183; 30% = $355
Estimated benefit: $25 a month (the minimum). Medical costs over $35 or high rent can raise it.
Apply
Related
Sources
- USDA SNAP FY 2027 Cost-of-Living Adjustments (memo of Aug 21, 2026)
- USDA: SNAP eligibility
- USDA: SNAP state agency directory
Figures effective October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027 (USDA). Figures are for the 48 contiguous states and D.C.; Alaska, Hawaii, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands have different figures on the USDA source.