To be eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, a households income and resources must meet three tests. The eligibility criteria for SNAP include:
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Income: Most families and individuals who meet the programs income guidelines are eligible for SNAP. The income guidelines vary by state and household size, but generally, if your gross income, based on family size, is at or below the amounts specified by your state, you may be eligible for SNAP benefits.
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Resources: Households must have resources (such as bank accounts) below a certain limit. The resource limit is $2,250 for most households, but it is $3,500 for households that contain a member who is disabled or 60 years of age or older.
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Other factors: There are specific requirements for immigrants, elderly persons, and persons with disabilities. For example, non-citizens must meet certain criteria to qualify for SNAP benefits. Additionally, households with members who are older adults or have a disability and households that are “categorically eligible” for SNAP because they participate in another economic security program, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, may be eligible for SNAP benefits.
It is important to note that eligibility and benefit levels are based on household size, income, and other factors, and the only way to determine if your household is eligible for SNAP benefits is to apply.
