What SNAP is
SNAP is a federal entitlement program administered by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service and run day-to-day by your state's human services or social services agency. The program reaches more than 40 million people in a typical month — roughly one in eight Americans — and is the most effective single anti-hunger tool the country has. Benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card on the same calendar day each month. The card works at the checkout terminal of any retailer authorized to accept SNAP, which includes nearly every supermarket, most grocery stores, many corner stores, and an expanding list of farmers markets and online grocery sellers.
Who qualifies
Eligibility for SNAP is based on three things: gross monthly household income, net income after allowable deductions, and countable resources (savings, etc). For most households, gross income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty line and net income must be at or below 100% of the line. Households with an elderly (60+) or disabled member follow slightly different rules and may qualify with higher incomes. College students, immigrants, and people with certain felony convictions face additional rules that vary by state. The household is defined as everyone who buys and prepares food together, which is not always the same as everyone living at the address.
What you receive
The maximum monthly benefit is set each year by USDA based on the Thrifty Food Plan and adjusts for household size. As of fiscal year 2025, the maximum monthly allotment for a household of one in the 48 contiguous states and DC is around $292; for a family of four it is around $975. Households with some income receive less than the max, calculated as the maximum minus 30% of net income. The minimum benefit for a one- or two-person household that meets the income test is around $23/month. Alaska, Hawaii, Guam and the Virgin Islands have higher benefit levels to reflect higher food costs.
How to apply
You apply through your state's SNAP office. Every state has an online application — search 'apply for SNAP [your state]' or visit fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory. You can also apply by paper, by phone, or in person at a county human services office. The application asks about everyone in your household, your income, your housing costs, and your bank accounts. After you apply, you must complete an interview, usually by phone. Most decisions are issued within 30 days. If your household has very low income and very few resources, you may qualify for expedited SNAP, which is approved within 7 days.
Using your EBT card
Use your EBT card the same way you would use a debit card. At checkout, swipe and enter your PIN. Eligible items include almost any food intended for home preparation: bread, cereal, fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, snack foods, non-alcoholic beverages, seeds and plants that produce food. You cannot use SNAP for hot prepared food, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, supplements, pet food, household supplies, or non-food items. Many farmers markets double SNAP dollars for fresh produce through programs like Double Up Food Bucks. SNAP can also be used at major online grocery retailers in most states for delivery and pickup.
Recertification
SNAP benefits are not permanent — most households must recertify every 6 to 12 months. Your state will send a notice before your certification period ends. Missing the recertification deadline is the most common reason households are cut off from benefits even though they still qualify. Set a reminder, respond to all paperwork, and report changes in income within 10 days as required by your state.
What to do if you are denied
If you are denied SNAP or your benefits are reduced, you have the right to a fair hearing. The denial notice will explain how to request one. You generally have 90 days from the notice. Free legal aid organizations — many funded by the Legal Services Corporation — handle SNAP appeals at no cost in every state. You can also reapply at any time if your situation changes.
Where to go from here
If this program looks like a fit for your household, take 10 minutes today to start an application or call your local agency. Even if you are unsure whether you qualify, the application is the easiest way to find out — there is no penalty for applying and being denied. If you need food while you wait for a decision, browse the pantry directory for a site near you, or read our same-day help guide.