The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a vital resource for many residents across the U.S., helping low-income families purchase the food they need to stay healthy.
In Texas, one of the states with the highest number of SNAP recipients, the program plays an essential role in ensuring food security. This article breaks down how SNAP works, including how benefits are received, eligibility requirements, and the June 2025 payment schedule.
How Do You Receive SNAP Benefits in Texas?
In Texas, SNAP benefits are distributed monthly through the Lone Star card, which functions like a debit card. This card can be used at any store that accepts SNAP, allowing recipients to purchase a wide variety of eligible food items.
The Lone Star card is strictly for food purchases, including fresh produce, packaged foods, and even seeds to grow a personal garden. However, SNAP benefits cannot be used for non-food items like tobacco, pet food, alcoholic drinks, or medications.
If non-food items are purchased with SNAP funds, the benefits may be permanently suspended. Additionally, SNAP benefits do not cover any food bills owed by the beneficiary.
One notable convenience for Texas SNAP participants is the ability to shop online using their Lone Star card. This is especially helpful for individuals with mobility disabilities, as it provides them with a more accessible way to purchase groceries. Just like in-person purchases, online orders must adhere to the same rules regarding eligible food items.
Eligibility Requirements for SNAP in Texas
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Texas, households must meet certain income, household size, and asset requirements. The program is designed to assist low-income families, though there are different rules based on age, household composition, and other factors.
- Adults Without Dependent Children: Most adults between the ages of 18 and 52 without dependent children can only receive SNAP benefits for three months within a three-year period. This rule encourages individuals to participate in the workforce. However, if the person works at least 20 hours per week, or participates in work or training programs, they may be eligible for a longer benefit period.
- Exemptions from Work Requirements: Certain individuals are exempt from the time limit, such as people with disabilities or pregnant individuals. Documentation of medical conditions may be required to prove eligibility for these exemptions.
- Households with Older Adults or Disabilities: Families that consist solely of elderly individuals or people with disabilities can access the Texas Streamlined Application Project (TSAP), which simplifies the application and administrative process.
Eligibility for SNAP benefits is evaluated at both the federal and local levels, with specific rules in place for different types of households. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) determines eligibility based on the household’s total income and assets.
SNAP Benefit Amounts and Payment Dates in Texas for June
The amount of SNAP benefits received each month depends on household size and other factors. In June 2025, Texas will distribute payments according to the latest eligibility group (EDG) numbers. Below is the distribution schedule for the first half of the month:
- June 9: EDGs ending in 5
- June 11: EDGs ending in 6
- June 12: EDGs ending in 7
- June 13: EDGs ending in 8
- June 15: EDGs ending in 9
Households certified before June 1, 2020, will receive payments on these days. After this date, certified households will receive their payments between the 16th and the 28th of each month.
The monthly benefit amount varies depending on household size:
- 1-person household: $291
- 2-person household: $535
- 3-person household: $766
- 4-person household: $973
- 5-person household: $1,155
- 8-person household: $1,756
- Additional benefits of $219 are provided for each extra person beyond eight in the household.
These amounts are updated each year to keep up with inflation.
SNAP benefits in Texas offer essential support to low-income households by providing a reliable way to purchase food. With the Lone Star card, beneficiaries can shop for eligible food items both in-store and online.
The program’s eligibility rules are designed to target those most in need, with specific provisions for different groups, including adults without children, older adults, and people with disabilities. Understanding the benefit amounts and payment schedule can help beneficiaries plan and make the most of their SNAP assistance.