Everything You Need to Know about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Updated as of September 8, 2025

With unemployment rates still above 3%, many are turning to government programs for support.

One of the most well-known is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly called food stamps.

SNAP is the largest and most effective anti-hunger program in the U.S. It is fully funded by the federal government and administered by state agencies.

In 2024, SNAP served an average of 41.7 million participants per month.

If you’re considering applying, it’s important to understand how SNAP works, who qualifies, what it covers, and how to apply.
 

Here’s an essential guide to SNAP:

BONUS: If your state agency finds you eligible, you can receive benefits retroactive to the date you submitted your application, typically up to three months prior.
 

What Is SNAP?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (or SNAP) provides vital nutrition support to low-income families, older adults (60+), people with disabilities on fixed incomes, and other households with limited resources.

The USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) manages SNAP nationwide through regional offices that license and oversee authorized retailers.

SNAP is the largest federal nutrition assistance program, providing timely aid especially during and after economic downturns, second only to unemployment insurance.

About half of SNAP recipients aged 50 to 59 live with elderly or disabled family members, and roughly two-thirds belong to households with children.

Participants receive benefits loaded onto electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used to buy approved food items at grocery stores, convenience stores, and some farmers’ markets.
 

Who Qualifies?

SNAP is broadly accessible to low-income Americans, unlike many means-tested programs limited to specific groups.

While states may adjust certain rules—such as vehicle asset limits—federal guidelines largely determine eligibility nationwide.

Qualification depends on household gross and net income, assets, and size.

To qualify, households generally must have a gross monthly income at or below 130% of the federal poverty level and limited countable resources—$2,250, or $3,500 if at least one household member is elderly or disabled.

For example, a family of four typically must have a gross monthly income under about $3,526 and a net income below approximately $2,676, though exact figures vary by state and deductions.

Applicants must also be U.S. citizens or have qualifying immigration status and reside in one of the 50 states or D.C.
 

What Does SNAP Cover?

Monthly SNAP benefits help participants buy food, but cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, pet food, prepared hot foods, or non-food items.

Approved food purchases include bread, cereals, fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, dairy products, and seeds or plants for growing food.

The program also offers nutrition education and guidance to support healthy dietary choices.

In a recent change, some states have banned the purchase of junk food and beverages that lack nutritional value, such as sugary soft drinks and candy, in accordance with federal regulations aimed at promoting healthier eating habits.
 

How to Apply for SNAP

Each state administers its own application process within federal guidelines.

People can apply in person at local SNAP offices, by mail, or online—almost all states provide online applications.

Applicants must take an eligibility interview, typically by phone, and provide documents proving identity, residence, immigration status, household makeup, income, and assets.

Benefits are calculated based on income levels, so lower-income households receive higher benefits.

Recipients usually need to reapply every 6 to 12 months; elderly and disabled households may reapply every 12 to 24 months.

As the largest federally funded nutrition program, SNAP plays a crucial role in helping millions of low-income Americans access nutritious food.

For more information or to find your state’s SNAP details, visit https://www.benefits.gov.

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