What is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)?
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), formerly called food stamps, is a government program that helps people buy the food they need for healthy lives. It is the largest program working to fight hunger in America. SNAP helps many people stretch their budgets because the money they would use on food can go towards other needs like medical bills, utilities, and rent.
How to Apply:
Apply online at YourTexasBenefits.com, visit a local Texas Health and Human Services office or call 2-1-1 (after selecting a language, choose Option 2).
Need Assistance Applying?
If you need application assistance, please reach out to a Feeding Texas network food bank near you and ask to speak with a Social Service member.
How does SNAP work?
In Texas, SNAP food benefits are put on a Lone Star Card and can be used just like a credit card at any store that accepts SNAP. The amount you receive each month depends on your income and family size.
Who is it for?
SNAP is for everyone – families, seniors, people living with disabilities, people who are unemployed or employed, and veterans or active military. SNAP is here to help you whenever you may need it.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for SNAP. Every state has different requirements for eligibility. Requirements in Texas include:
- People who don’t have a lot of money and meet program rules.
- Most adults ages 18 to 49 with no children in their home can get SNAP for only three months in a three-year period.
- *The benefit period might be longer if the person works at least 20 hours a week or is in a job or training program. Some adults might not have to work to get benefits, such as those who have a disability or are pregnant.
- Households in which all members are either older adults (age 60 and older), or people with disabilities are eligible to participate in the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP), which makes the SNAP application process easier and provides three years of benefits at a time instead of six months.
Maximum Monthly Income Limits
The following chart gives a general idea of the amount of money (income) most people or families can earn and still be in this program. *This information may change and is not guaranteed when applying.
| Family size | Maximum monthly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,775 |
| 2 | $2396 |
| 3 | $3,020 |
| 4 | $3,644 |
| 5 | $4268 |
| For each additional person, add: | $625 |
Other Rules
Most people ages 16 to 59 must follow work rules to get SNAP benefits. Work rules mean a person must look for a job or be in an approved work program. If the person has a job, they can’t quit without a good reason.
Maximum Monthly SNAP Amount
Most people ages 16 to 59 must follow work rules to get SNAP benefits. Work rules mean a person must look for a job or be in an approved work program. If the person has a job, they can’t quit without a good reason.
| Family size | Monthly SNAP amount |
|---|---|
| 1 | $250 |
| 2 | $459 |
| 3 | $658 |
| 4 | $835 |
| 5 | $992 |
| 6 | $1,190 |
| 7 | $1,316 |
| 8 | $1,504 |
| For each additional person, add: | $188 |