SNAP (Food Stamps)
Monthly grocery benefits for low-income households.
About This Program
SNAP — still commonly called food stamps — provides monthly benefits loaded onto an EBT card that works like a debit card at most grocery stores, supercenters, farmers markets, and some online retailers including Amazon and Walmart. Benefits are deposited on a set date each month and do not roll over indefinitely, though unspent funds carry forward for a limited period. Eligibility is based on household size and income. The gross income limit is 130% of the federal poverty level for most households, but the number that actually determines your benefit is net income — gross income after several deductions. The most important deduction is a 20% earned income deduction on wages, meaning only 80% of your work income counts. There is also a standard deduction for all households, a shelter deduction for rent and utilities, and a medical expense deduction for elderly or disabled members. These deductions mean many working families with gross income near the limit still qualify and receive meaningful benefits. Benefit amounts are calculated as the maximum allotment for your household size minus 30% of net income. A household with zero net income receives the maximum; one with higher net income receives less. In 2024, the maximum monthly benefit ranges from $291 for a single person to $1,756 for a household of eight. SNAP cannot be used to buy alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, or hot prepared foods. It can be used for seeds and plants that produce food. Benefits are the same whether you apply in California or Mississippi — the federal formula applies everywhere — though some states extend eligibility further through categorical eligibility policies.
Eligibility Requirements
| Income | Gross income at or below 130% FPL |
| Citizenship | US citizen or eligible non-citizen |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much SNAP will I receive?
SNAP benefits are calculated as the maximum allotment for your household size minus 30% of your net income (income after deductions). The maximum for a family of four is $973/month in 2024. A family of four with $1,000/month net income would receive about $673/month ($973 − $300). Use our SNAP estimator for a personalized calculation.
Does SNAP check my bank account?
Most states have eliminated the asset test through broad-based categorical eligibility, so they do not review bank accounts. In the roughly 10 states that still have an asset test, liquid assets over $2,750 (or $4,250 for households with an elderly or disabled member) can affect eligibility.
Can undocumented immigrants receive SNAP?
No. SNAP requires US citizenship or eligible non-citizen status (lawful permanent resident, refugee, asylee, etc.). Undocumented immigrants are not eligible. However, US-citizen children in mixed-status families can receive SNAP based on their own eligibility, even if their parents cannot.
How long does SNAP last?
SNAP has no lifetime limit. Benefits continue as long as you meet the income and other eligibility requirements. You must recertify — typically every 6-12 months for working-age adults and every 24-36 months for seniors and people with disabilities.
What can I buy with SNAP?
SNAP can be used to purchase most food items at authorized retailers: fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cereals, and non-alcoholic beverages. It cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, supplements, prepared hot foods, or non-food household items. SNAP is accepted at most grocery stores, many farmers markets, and select online retailers.
Related Programs
Eligibility requirements may have changed. Verify at the official source before applying.
Benefit Amount
$23 to $1,756/mo depending on household size
Application Guide
How to Apply for SNAP (Food Stamps) →Category
Food AssistanceLast reviewed: May 2025