SNAP / Food Stamps Eligibility Calculator

SNAP counts most earned income (wages, self-employment) and unearned income (Social Security, unemployment, child support, alimony). Excluded: loans, tax refunds, one-time payments, and some education assistance. Gross income is before deductions; net income is after allowable deductions — including earned income disregard (20% of wages), standard deduction, dependent care costs, medical expenses for elderly/disabled members, and excess shelter costs.

BBCE is a policy option that lets states automatically extend SNAP eligibility to households receiving certain non-cash benefits (like a pamphlet about TANF services). Over 40 states have adopted BBCE, which raises the gross income limit from 130% to 185–200% FPL and eliminates the asset test. States that haven't adopted BBCE — including Texas, Alabama, and a handful of others — stick with the federal 130% limit and may apply an asset test.

Apply online at your state's SNAP portal or in person at your local SNAP/TANF office. You can also use benefits.gov to find your state's application. The application asks for household size, income from all sources, and expenses. Most states process applications within 30 days; if your household has very low income, you may qualify for expedited processing within 7 days.

Standard processing is 30 days from when your state receives a complete application. If your household has less than $150 in gross monthly income and less than $100 in liquid resources, or includes a migrant or seasonal farm worker, you qualify for expedited service within 7 days. If you haven't heard back within 30 days, call your local office.