If you’re trying to save money on groceries, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can be a great support. It helps millions of Americans put food on the table each month. Depending on your income and household size, you could get over $200 per month — and in some cases, even more.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify or how the program works, here are 16 simple facts to help you decide if SNAP is right for you.
1. SNAP Helps Low-Income and Unemployed Individuals
You don’t need to be unemployed to qualify. Low-wage workers, part-time workers, people receiving welfare, older adults, those with disabilities, and homeless individuals may also be eligible.
2. Income Limits Apply
To qualify, you must meet certain monthly income limits.
For 2025, the limits are:
- Single person:
- Gross income: $1,580
- Net income: $1,215
- Family of four:
- Gross income: $3,250
- Net income: $2,500
3. There’s a Limit on Resources
You must also meet resource (asset) limits:
- Under 60 years old: Up to $2,750 in countable resources
- 60+ or disabled: Up to $4,250
Countable resources include cash, savings, or money in a bank account. But your home, personal items, retirement accounts, and government benefits (like SSI or TANF) are not counted.
4. SNAP Benefits Change Every Year
The USDA updates SNAP amounts yearly based on inflation and food prices. This ensures the benefits match the cost of basic, healthy meals.
5. You Must Apply Through Your State
Even though SNAP is a federal program, you apply through your state’s SNAP office. You can usually apply online, by phone, or in person.
6. Most States Allow Online Applications
Most states now let you apply online. If your state doesn’t, you’ll need to fill out a paper application and mail or bring it to a local office.
7. Your Benefit Depends on Household Size
The more people in your household, the more you can receive:
- 1 person: Up to $291/month
- 2 people: Up to $536/month
- 4 people: Up to $973/month
8. Benefits Are Usually Approved Within 30 Days
If you qualify, you’ll normally get your first SNAP deposit within 30 days of applying.
9. Some People Get Benefits Faster
If you have no income or very low income, you may qualify for emergency SNAP and get benefits within 7 days.
10. SNAP Benefits Come on an EBT Card
You’ll receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which works just like a debit card. It comes with a PIN for security and can be used at stores that accept SNAP.
11. You Can Use SNAP at Many Stores
You can use SNAP at:
- Grocery stores
- Walmart, Target, and similar big stores
- Some convenience stores
- Farmers markets
You can check store eligibility using the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator online.
12. Most Food Items Are Covered
SNAP covers a wide range of food, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat and fish
- Bread, cereal, and dairy
- Snacks
- Seeds and plants to grow food
13. Some Items Are Not Allowed
You can’t use SNAP to buy:
- Alcohol or tobacco
- Hot meals or food prepared for immediate consumption
- Vitamins, medicines, or supplements
- Non-food items (like soap or paper products)
14. You Need to Reapply Periodically
SNAP is approved for a certain period, called the certification period. Before it ends, you must reapply. You also need to report changes to your income or household size.
15. Alaska and Hawaii Get Higher Benefits
Because of higher living costs, the max monthly SNAP benefits are higher in:
- Alaska: Up to $1,937 (for a family of four)
- Hawaii: Up to $1,759 (for a family of four)
16. Work Requirements May Apply
Some adults must meet work rules to stay eligible:
- Don’t quit a job or reduce work hours without a reason
- Register for work or take part in job training
- Follow your state’s SNAP work requirements
Your state will explain what’s required when you apply.