SNAP Income Limits 2026: Do You Qualify for Food Stamps?
SNAP income limits change every October. This table covers October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026 (FY2026). It shows the standard gross and net monthly limits for the 48 contiguous states and D.C.; your state may use a different eligibility pathway.
Choose your SNAP household size, then compare income before deductions with the gross column. The net column uses only SNAP-allowed deductions. These are reference tests, not an approval result: state categorical rules, household circumstances and nonfinancial requirements also matter.
FY2026 SNAP limits: Oct. 2025–Sept. 2026 (48 states & D.C.)
| Household size | Gross / mo (130%) | Net / mo (100%) | Max benefit / mo |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,696 | $1,305 | $298 |
| 2 | $2,292 | $1,763 | $546 |
| 3 | $2,888 | $2,221 | $785 |
| 4 | $3,483 | $2,680 | $994 |
| 5 | $4,079 | $3,138 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $4,675 | $3,596 | $1,421 |
| 7 | $5,271 | $4,055 | $1,571 |
| 8 | $5,867 | $4,513 | $1,789 |
| Each more | +$596 | +$459 | +$218 |
Source: SNAP FY2026 eligibility standards — USDA FNS
💡 Tip
Alaska and Hawaii use different income tables. Broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE) can change the gross-income or resource test in participating states. A household with an older or disabled member can also have different tests. Ask the state which pathway applies before ruling yourself out.
Two income tests: gross and net
Gross income is income before SNAP deductions, including countable earnings and unearned income such as unemployment payments. Net income is the result after permitted SNAP deductions; it is not simply take-home pay. Under the standard rules, most households must pass both tests. Deductions can reduce net income but do not turn an over-limit gross amount into a passing standard gross test.
A SNAP household generally buys and prepares food together, with required groupings for some relatives living together. It may differ from everyone at your address or everyone on your tax return. Ask the office who must be included. The maximum benefit column is a ceiling, not the amount every eligible household receives.
Asset rules
Resource rules depend on the eligibility pathway and state options. Some households face a resource test; others qualify under categorical rules. The home you live in is generally excluded, while vehicle treatment can vary. Tell the agency about savings and vehicles and ask which exclusions apply.
Review sources: USDA: FY2026 tables; Virginia DSS: standard and BBCE tables; Indiana FSSA: standard SNAP table.
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Explore benefitsLast updated September 8, 2026. Spotted something out of date? Programs change — always confirm with the agency before you apply.
Common questions
What is the SNAP income limit for a family of 4 in 2026?
For FY2026 (October 1, 2025–September 30, 2026), the standard limits for four people in the 48 contiguous states and D.C. are $3,483 gross and $2,680 net per month. State categorical rules and household exceptions can change which tests apply; these figures alone do not decide eligibility.
Can I qualify if I'm slightly over the limit?
Possibly, if a state categorical-eligibility pathway or a household exception applies. Deductions affect the net test and do not automatically waive the standard gross test. Ask your state office which rules apply to your household.
Do my savings count against SNAP?
It depends on your state and eligibility pathway. A resource test may apply, with exclusions. Vehicle rules can vary. Report the information requested and ask the office which resources count.