Do you need to apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)? Here’s what individuals and families need to know about SNAP eligibility, applying for SNAP and what happens after submitting your SNAP application.
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What Is SNAP?
Administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), SNAP is the largest federal nutrition assistance program in the United States.
A SNAP household is defined as everyone who lives together and purchases and prepares meals together. This includes spouses and most children under age 22. Generally, if an institution gives you most of your meals you would not be eligible for SNAP benefits. However, there are exceptions for elderly and disabled persons.
Eligible low-income individuals and families may receive SNAP benefits through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. This card may be used to purchase eligible food for the household from authorized food retailers.
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Am I Eligible for SNAP?
In order to qualify for SNAP, individuals must be able to meet a few requirements. Applicants must live in the state in which they apply for SNAP and meet certain income limits.
The SNAP eligibility resources page outlines a table of SNAP income eligibility limits per household size. The household must meet the gross and net income limits described in this table. Otherwise, the household is not eligible for SNAP and may not receive benefits. Households with an elderly or disabled person are only required to meet the net income limit. Households in which all members receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may be considered categorically eligible for SNAP due to predetermined eligibility for other means-tested programs.
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There are also work requirements for SNAP eligibility. The four primary requirements are registering for work, not voluntarily quitting a job or reducing hours, taking a job if offered and participating in employment and training programs if assigned by the state. Able-bodied adults without dependents are required to work at least 20 hours per week to receive SNAP benefits for more than three months in a 36-month period.
Special groups not subject to these requirements include children, seniors, pregnant women and individuals exempt for physical or mental health reasons. Students ages 18 through 49 who are enrolled in college at least part time are not eligible for SNAP unless they meet specific exemptions.