Additional SNAP Benefits Eligibility Criteria

Income

  • Households must meet income tests unless all household members are receiving TANF or SSI. Most households must meet the gross and net income tests, but a household with an elderly member or who is receiving certain types of disability has to meet the net income test.
  • The gross income is the household’s total, non-excluded income, before deductions are taken.

Deductions - Beginning October 1, 2016

  • 20% deduction from earned income
  • Dependent care deduction for work, training, or education
  • Legally owed child support payments
  • Maximum excess shelter deduction of $517
  • Medical expenses for elderly members that is higher than $35 per month, if not paid by insurance or other person
  • Standard deduction of $152 for a household size of one-to-three people, $168 for four people, $197 for five people, and $226 for six or more people

Employment Requirements

  • Able-bodied adults without dependent children between 18 and 50 must register for work, accept suitable employment, and take part in an employment and training program.

For more information on SNAP employment requirements, see the SNAP Work Requirements Fact Sheet (PDF).

Special Rules for Elderly

  • A person is elderly if he or she is 60 years of age or older.

Special Rules for Disabled

  • Is a surviving spouse of a veteran who is receiving VA benefits and is considered to be permanently disabled
  • Is a veteran who is totally disabled, permanently housebound, or in need of regular aid and attendance
  • Receives annuity under the Railroad Retirement Act and is eligible for Medicare
  • Receives federal or state disability or blindness payments under the Social Security Act including SSI

Immigrant Eligibility

  • Are receiving disability-related assistance or benefits
  • Beginning October 1, 2003, are children regardless of date of entry
  • Legal immigrant must have lived in the country for five years