Millions of Americans rely on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) for food aid. In fiscal year 2023, USDA data show SNAP served about 42.1 million people per month (12.6% of the population). Recent data for the fiscal year 2024 report roughly 41.7 million participants (12.3%). SNAP benefits are issued on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, a government-issued debit card.

With your EBT eligibility each eligible household gets a monthly allotment loaded onto its EBT card, which can be used at authorized retailers (grocery stores, supermarkets, some farmers markets, and online grocery sites) to buy approved foods. SNAP covers staples such as fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, cereals, breads, and seeds/plants to grow food. (It does not cover non-food items like pet food, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, or hot prepared foods.) Because SNAP provides secure, nutrition-focused benefits, it is a critical support for food security among low-income families

What Is EBT and SNAP?

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is a federal aid program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that provides monthly benefits to low-income individuals and families to purchase nutritious food. It determines eligibility and benefit amounts based on household income, size, and expenses, ensuring recipients can access essentials like fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and grains.

EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) is the secure electronic system used to deliver SNAP benefits (and, in some states, other assistance) via a reloadable plastic card. Functioning like a debit card, it stores recipients’ monthly allotments and allows them to pay for eligible food items at approved retailers by swiping the card and entering a personal identification number.

Checking Your SNAP and EBT Eligibility

You must apply in your state of residence, since SNAP is administered by state agencies under USDA guidance. To find out if you qualify, gather your household’s information (income, expenses, assets) and contact your state or local SNAP office. Most states allow online, in-person, mail, or fax applications. When you apply, include detailed proof of each household member’s income and expenses (recent pay stubs, tax forms, utility bills, rent receipts, etc.). After you apply, the SNAP office will usually respond within 30 days to let you know if you qualify. An interview (by phone or in person) is required to verify your information.

You may designate an authorized representative (a friend or family member) to apply or appear on your behalf if needed. Applicants should bring key documents to the interview: proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, birth certificate), Social Security numbers, proof of residence (leases, utility bills), income and expense records, and proof of any disability or medical costs. After approval, benefits are retroactive to your application date. Once enrolled, be prepared to report any major changes promptly (changes in income, household members, or expenses), since these can adjust your benefit level.

SNAP Eligibility Criteria

SNAP eligibility depends on household size, composition, income, and assets, plus any applicable exemptions. The following factors determine qualification:

Household Composition

A SNAP household includes all people who live together and purchase and prepare meals jointly. For example, a spouse and any children under 22 are always counted as part of the same household, even if they have separate income.

In general, roommates who cook separately form separate SNAP households. (There are special rules for elderly or disabled members living in group homes, but otherwise, they are counted in the household if they eat together.)

Income Eligibility

Income Limits. SNAP uses two income tests. First, your gross income (total income before deductions) must be at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For fiscal year 2025, the gross and net monthly income limits were as follows:

Household Size (*Members)	Gross Monthly Income Limit (≤ 130% FPL)	Net Monthly Income Limit (≤ 100% FPL)	Income Limit with Elderly (60+) or Disabled Member (≤ 165% FPL)
1	$1,632	$1,255	$2,071
2	$2,215	$1,704	$2,811
3	$2,798	$2,152	$3,551
4	$3,380	$2,600	$4,290
5	$3,963	$3,049	$5,030
6	$4,546	$3,497	$5,770
7	$5,129	$3,945	$6,510
8	$5,712	$4,394	$7,249
Each additional person	+$583	+$449	+$740

Note: Households with an elderly (60+) or disabled member only need to meet the net-income test, not the gross limit.

Several deductions reduce income for these tests. You may subtract 20% of earned income, a standard deduction (for this year, it is $204 for 1–3 people), plus allowable expenses. For example, you can deduct legally owed child support, work-related dependent care costs, and – if you or a member is elderly or disabled – any medical or disability expenses over $35 per month.

Housing costs can also lower your net income via the excess shelter deduction: if your shelter costs (rent/mortgage, utilities, etc.) exceed half of your income after other deductions, the excess is deducted (capped for most households, higher or unlimited for seniors/disabled)

Resource (Asset) Limits

Federal SNAP rules set a baseline resource limit of $2,750 for most households (or $4,250 if a member is 60+ or disabled). Countable resources include cash, bank accounts, stocks and bonds. (Your primary home, most retirement accounts, and personal property are excluded from this test.) Importantly, many states do not impose an asset test at all under broad-based categorical eligibility. In the few states that do enforce limits, the thresholds have generally been standardized to $3,000 ($4,500 if elderly/disabled).

For example, Idaho, Indiana and Texas currently set their limit at $5,000. Also, households that are already categorically eligible for another program (such as TANF or SSI) are typically not subject to an asset test: if all household members receive TANF or SSI, you are automatically eligible for SNAP. To be sure, always check your state’s SNAP guidelines.

Work Requirements

Able-bodied adults without dependents (often called ABAWDs) must meet work rules. Under current law, this includes able-bodied adults aged 18–54 (expanded from 49 in 2023) who are neither disabled nor living with minor children. These individuals must work or participate in training/volunteering at least 80 hours per month (about 20 hours per week) to receive SNAP beyond a short time limit.

In practice, SNAP limits benefit receipt for non-exempt adults in this category to 3 months in 3 years unless they meet the 20-hour work requirement. (Federal law allows work waivers in high-unemployment areas, but those have largely expired.) Recent legislation (the 2023 debt-ceiling/“Fiscal Responsibility” deal) raised the age limit to 54 by Oct 2024 and added new exemptions. For example, homeless individuals, veterans, and young adults (≤24) who aged out of foster care are now explicitly exempt. Other common exemptions remain: anyone under 18 or over 54, pregnant women, people physically or mentally unfit for work, and primary caregivers for young children or disabled family members are not subject to the ABAWD time limit. Households consisting only of seniors and/or disabled members have no work requirement at all.

Special SNAP Rules for Students

College students enrolled at least half-time are generally not eligible for SNAP unless they meet certain exemptions. Eligible exemptions include working at least 20 hours per week, participating in a paid work-study program, or being responsible for a child (care for a child under 6, or a child 6–11 with no adequate childcare). Being a single parent student, receiving TANF, or participating in qualifying training programs (like SNAP Employment & Training, Title I workforce programs, or Trade Adjustment Act training) can also qualify a student.

(Note: COVID-era broad exemptions expired in 2023; as of July 2023, students must meet one of the above criteria to receive benefits.)

Immigrant Eligibility

SNAP is available only to U.S. citizens and certain lawfully present non-citizens. Eligible non-citizens include refugees, asylees, and victims of human trafficking (among others) who receive SNAP immediately without a waiting period. Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders) are generally eligible only after a 5-year residency, though this waiting period can be waived for disabled immigrants, military families, or children under 18.

In all cases, eligible non-citizens must also meet the same income and resource tests as citizens. Undocumented immigrants and most DACA recipients are not eligible for SNAP.

Requirements for Elderly or Disabled Members

SNAP provides special considerations for households with elderly or disabled members to ensure they receive adequate nutritional support. An individual is considered elderly if they are 60 years or older. A person qualifies as disabled if they meet specific criteria, such as receiving federal disability or blindness payments under the Social Security Act (including SSI), state disability payments based on SSI rules, or disability retirement benefits from a government agency due to a permanent disability.

Eligibility also extends to individuals receiving annuities under the Railroad Retirement Act if they qualify for Medicare or are deemed disabled under SSI, as well as veterans who are totally disabled, permanently homebound or require regular aid. Surviving spouses or children of veterans receiving VA benefits and considered permanently disabled also fall into this category.

Special provisions apply to these households. For example, they can deduct unreimbursed medical expenses exceeding $35 per month, including medical and dental care, hospitalization, nursing care, prescription medications, approved over-the-counter drugs, health insurance premiums, and transportation for medical services. Attendant care services are also deductible, though the cost of special diets is not.

Households with elderly or disabled members may benefit from higher resource limits and specific income exclusions or deductions, potentially increasing their SNAP benefits. Additionally, elderly or disabled individuals are generally exempt from SNAP work requirements.

How to Apply for the SNAP Program?

To apply for SNAP benefits, contact your state’s SNAP office. Application methods vary by state and may include online, in-person, mail, or fax options and may involve several steps to determine food assistance qualifications and ensure that applicants receive appropriate benefits. An interview is typically required as part of the SNAP application process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you through the process:

Initiating the Application

To initiate the SNAP application process, you first need to contact your state’s SNAP office. Since SNAP is managed at the state level, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers a directory of state SNAP websites and online application portals, which you can find on USA.gov.

Application methods vary by state. Many states provide online applications through their official websites. Alternatively, you can apply in person by visiting your local SNAP or designated county office. Another option is to complete a paper application and submit it by mail or fax.

Submitting the Application

When completing the application, ensure each member’s household details, such as income, expenses, and personal information, are accurate. Once finished, submit the application using your chosen method. The submission date is essential because benefits are usually calculated from that day.

Preparing for the Interview and Presenting the Required Documents

After submitting your application, a face-to-face or telephone interview will be arranged. The purpose is to verify the information provided and discuss any additional details. Be prepared to present:

• Proof of Identity: Federally issued ID, such as a driver’s license.
• Proof of Residence: Utility bills, lease agreements, or other official documents.
• Citizenship or Immigration Status: Birth certificates or immigration documents.
• Social Security Numbers: For all household members.
• Income Verification: Recent pay stubs, tax returns, or employer statements.
• Household Information: Details of all members, including age and relationship.
• Expense Documentation: Records of housing costs, child care, medical expenses, and child support payments.
• Disability Proof: If applicable, medical records or disability determinations.
• School Attendance: For household members attending school.

You can appoint an authorized representative if you can’t apply or attend the interview. This individual, knowledgeable about your household circumstances, can act on your behalf. The designation must be in writing and specify the representative’s responsibilities.

The authorized representative can handle application processes, report changes, and use household benefits. However, certain individuals, such as SNAP employees or disqualified persons, may be restricted from serving as representatives.

Reporting Any Changes

After approval, promptly report any changes in household circumstances, such as income fluctuations, alterations in household composition, or expenses. Timely reporting ensures accurate benefit calculations and compliance with program requirements.

How Much Will You Get?

The calculation of SNAP benefits involves deducting 30% of a household’s net monthly income from the maximum monthly allotment for that household size. Net income is assessed after considering specific deductions like housing costs and dependent care expenses. The formula used is:

Maximum monthly allotment for your household size – (30% of your net monthly income) = Your SNAP benefit.

The maximum monthly allotments, which vary by household size, are established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and are updated for each fiscal year. For Fiscal Year 2025, these allotments are set as follows:

Household Size (*Members)	Maximum Monthly Allotment	Projected Average Monthly Benefit for Fiscal Year 2025*
1	$292	$199
2	$536	$364
3	$768	$594
4	$975	$726
5	$1,158	$845
6	$1,390	$1,018
7	$1,536	$1,116
8	$1,756	$1,317
Each additional person	+$220

Based on the formula above, consider a household of four with a net monthly income of $500. The maximum SNAP allotment for a household of this size is $975. Since 30% of the household’s net income is considered for SNAP calculations, this amounts to $150 ($500 × 0.3). Therefore, the monthly SNAP benefit for this household would be $825 ($975 – $150).

In short, the higher your allowable deductions (from medical costs, dependent care, housing, etc.), the lower your net income, and the larger your benefit. SNAP benefit amounts are announced annually and can change slightly each year with cost-of-living adjustments. For the latest tables of maximum allotments and deductions, consult USDA’s SNAP guidelines or your state SNAP website.

Maximizing SNAP and Related Benefits

Qualifying for SNAP may also connect you to other support programs. For instance, many SNAP recipients automatically qualify for programs like Medicaid, the School Lunch program, and may qualify for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help with utility bills. Some states also provide automatic enrollment in certain tax credits (like the Earned Income Tax Credit). Always ask your caseworker or search your state’s benefits website for linked assistance.

Meanwhile, SNAP can stretch your food budget. Plan meals and use shopping lists to minimize waste, buy in bulk or sell items for non-perishables, and use coupons or store loyalty programs. Local food banks and pantries often work cooperatively with SNAP offices to offer extra groceries or cookbooks for budgeting.

Conclusion

Understanding EBT and SNAP eligibility is essential for those seeking nutritional assistance. This guide outlines key factors, including income limits, asset thresholds, and special provisions for various groups such as seniors, students, and immigrants. It also details the SNAP application process, required documentation, and ongoing responsibilities for recipients.

Eligible households can access the support they need by ensuring accurate information and timely updates. For personalized guidance, contacting state agencies or local assistance offices remains crucial. Accessing SNAP benefits supports individual well-being and contributes to community stability by promoting food security and economic participation.

Frequently Asked Questions