The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program that helps low-income families buy nutritious food. In Texas, the state manages this program, which was formerly known as food stamps. SNAP benefits are delivered electronically using the Lone Star Card, a debit-like card that can be used only at approved stores.
How Are SNAP Benefits Distributed in Texas?
Each month, SNAP recipients receive money on their Lone Star Card. This amount is loaded automatically and depends on household size and income. You can use the card to buy eligible food items at places like supermarkets, convenience stores, and some markets.
What Foods Can You Buy with SNAP?
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase:
- Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products like milk and cheese
- Bread, cereals, and other staple foods
However, SNAP cannot be used for non-food items or luxury products.
Foods and Items NOT Allowed on SNAP
SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy:
- Alcohol (beer, wine, liquor)
- Cigarettes or tobacco
- Vitamins, medicines, or supplements (these have “Supplement Facts” labels)
- Hot prepared foods
- Pet food
- Cleaning supplies or paper products
The program focuses strictly on basic food needs.
Can You Buy Seeds or Plants with SNAP?
Yes! You can buy seeds and plants that produce food, which encourages home gardening and food self-sufficiency. The food grown must be for household consumption.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Texas
There are four ways to apply:
- Online: Visit YourTexasBenefits.com for a fast and easy application.
- By Phone: Call 2-1-1 and press option 2, or call 1-877-541-7905 for assistance.
- In Person: Visit a local Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) office. Find locations on YourTexasBenefits.com or by calling 2-1-1.
- By Mail or Fax: Download the form from the website and mail it to HHSC, PO Box 149024, Austin, TX 78714-9968, or fax to 1-877-447-2839.
Make sure to include all required documents to avoid delays.
SNAP Payment Schedule in Texas for June 2025
SNAP payments depend on household certification date and the Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number.
- Households certified before June 1, 2020 get payments from June 1 to June 15 based on the last digit of their EDG:
- Ends in 0: June 1
- Ends in 1: June 3
- Ends in 2: June 5
- Ends in 3: June 6
- Ends in 4: June 7
- Ends in 5: June 9
- Households certified on or after June 1, 2020 get payments from June 16 to June 28, based on the last two digits of their EDG. They do not receive payments between June 1 and June 10.
Maximum SNAP Benefits in Texas (Until Sept 30, 2025)
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,157
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
For each additional person, add $220.
These amounts will be reviewed in September 2025 based on inflation (COLA index).
SNAP in Texas helps low-income families afford nutritious food through the Lone Star Card. Understanding what foods you can buy, how to apply, and the payment schedule can help you make the most of your benefits. For June 2025, payments will be distributed between June 1 and June 28 depending on certification date and EDG number.