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SNAP eligibility — do you qualify?
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly food stamps) is the largest US food-assistance program — 40+ million Americans receive it monthly. Eligibility is based on income, household size, and a few categorical rules.
Quickest answer: use our free instant SNAP calculator on the homepage → No personal info required, runs in your browser.
Federal income limits (FY 2026)
| Household size | Gross monthly (130% FPL) | Net monthly (100% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,632 | $1,255 |
| 2 | $2,215 | $1,704 |
| 3 | $2,798 | $2,152 |
| 4 | $3,380 | $2,600 |
| 5 | $3,963 | $3,049 |
| 6 | $4,546 | $3,497 |
| 7 | $5,129 | $3,945 |
| 8 | $5,712 | $4,394 |
| +1 | +$583/person | +$449/person |
Hawaii and Alaska have higher limits — see Hawaii SNAP or Alaska SNAP.
Asset rules
- Most households: countable assets must be ≤$3,000 (≤$4,500 if a senior 60+ or disabled member is in the household)
- Many states have broad-based categorical eligibility that waives the asset test for SNAP applicants
- Excluded from asset count: primary home, retirement accounts, vehicles (varies by state), TANF cash benefits
Work requirements (ABAWD rules)
Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) ages 18-54 must work or train 80 hrs/month. Otherwise SNAP is limited to 3 months in any 36-month period. Time-limit waivers exist in high-unemployment areas.
Categorical rules
- Students ages 18-49 in higher ed need to meet additional rules — see our college food guide
- Immigrants: lawful permanent residents qualify after 5 years (some exceptions). Citizen children in mixed-status households are always eligible. See immigrant food guide
- Seniors 60+ and disabled adults get higher asset limits + medical-cost deductions
- Strikers are NOT eligible (with limited exceptions)
Apply by state
Each state has its own SNAP application portal: Find your state →
SNAP calculator
Use the free SNAP calculator on the homepage — instant estimate based on household size + income. No PII, runs in your browser.