Do I qualify for SNAP food stamps?
Free 2026 SNAP eligibility calculator using the federal 130% gross-income test. Enter your household size and monthly gross income — instant eligibility estimate. Then apply through your state's portal.
2026 SNAP gross income limits (130% federal poverty level)
| Household size | Monthly limit (130% FPL) | Monthly limit (200% FPL — many BBCE states) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,632 | $2,510 |
| 2 | $2,215 | $3,408 |
| 3 | $2,798 | $4,304 |
| 4 | $3,380 | $5,200 |
| 5 | $3,963 | $6,097 |
| 6 | $4,546 | $6,993 |
| 7 | $5,129 | $7,889 |
| 8 | $5,712 | $8,786 |
For households over 8: add $583/person at 130% FPL or $897/person at 200%. Limits update each January per HHS Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Apply for SNAP in your state
Each state runs its own SNAP application portal. Find yours: /apply-snap (covers all 50 states + DC + territories). Standard processing: 30 days. Expedited (emergency-SNAP): 7 days for crisis cases (homeless, very low income, no resources).
What counts as income
- Wages, salary, tips, self-employment
- Social Security, SSI, SSDI
- Unemployment benefits
- Child support received
- Pension, retirement income
- Cash assistance (TANF)
- Veterans benefits
- Rental income
What does NOT count
- Tax refunds (most are excluded)
- Federal student aid
- Loans (must be repaid)
- Reimbursements for expenses
- Income tax credits like EITC
Frequently asked questions
What if I'm a college student?
College students 18-49 enrolled at least half-time are generally INELIGIBLE for SNAP unless they meet an exemption (working 20+ hrs/wk, single parent of child under 6, work-study, etc.). See food help for college students for full rules.
Does immigration status affect eligibility?
US citizens and certain qualified immigrants (lawful permanent residents 5+ years, refugees, asylees) qualify. Mixed-status households can apply for eligible members. Applying for SNAP for an eligible child does not affect a parent's immigration case.
Will SNAP affect my taxes or other benefits?
SNAP benefits are not taxable income. Receiving SNAP doesn't reduce your other federal benefits (Social Security, SSI, Medicare). Some federal subsidies treat SNAP-eligible households favorably.
How fast can I get benefits?
Standard: 30 days from application. Expedited (emergency-SNAP): 7 days if you have less than $150 monthly income + less than $100 in cash, are homeless, or are a migrant/seasonal worker. Apply expedited if you're in crisis.
Calculator estimates only — final eligibility determined by your state SNAP agency. Calculator operated by Feed America (EIN 92-1761881), a 501(c)(3) public charity headquartered in Houston, TX. Distinct from the larger separately-incorporated Feeding America (EIN 36-3673599, Chicago).