SNAP

SNAP Income Limits 2026: Full Table by Household Size

June 30, 2026 · 5 min read · SNAP overview

To qualify for SNAP in 2026, your household's gross monthly income must be at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level — that's $1,632/month for one person or $3,380/month for a family of four. Here is the full income limit table, plus how deductions can lower your countable income.

2026 SNAP Income Limits by Household Size

There are two income tests: a gross income test (130% FPL) and a net income test (100% FPL after deductions). Most households must pass both. Households with an elderly (60+) or disabled member only need to pass the net income test.

Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits due to higher costs of living. See USDA for Alaska/Hawaii figures →

What counts as income for SNAP?

SNAP counts nearly all income sources, including:

• Wages and salaries (before taxes)
• Self-employment income (net profit)
• Social Security, SSDI, SSI, VA benefits
• Unemployment insurance
• Child support and alimony received
• Rental income
• Pension and retirement payments

Income that does not count: SNAP benefits themselves, most education grants and loans used for tuition, energy assistance (LIHEAP), and certain earnings of dependent children in school.

How deductions reduce your net income

Your gross income minus allowable deductions equals your net income. If your net income is at or below 100% FPL, you pass the net income test. Key deductions:

• Earned income deduction: 20% of all earned (work) income is automatically excluded
• Standard deduction: $204/month for households of 1–3; higher for larger households
• Shelter deduction: Rent + utilities exceeding 50% of your remaining income, up to $712/month (uncapped for elderly/disabled households)
• Dependent care deduction: Childcare or adult care costs paid so you can work or attend school
• Medical expense deduction: Out-of-pocket medical costs over $35/month for elderly or disabled household members

Example: A single working parent earning $2,000/month gross might reduce their countable income to well under $1,255 after the earned income deduction, standard deduction, and shelter costs — easily passing the net income test even if they're above the gross limit with categorical eligibility.

State variations: categorical eligibility

Most states have adopted broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE), which allows states to raise the gross income limit to 200% FPL — or eliminate it entirely — for households with children or other qualifying factors. Under BBCE, some families earning over 130% FPL can still qualify for SNAP.

Texas and a handful of other states have opted out of broad-based categorical eligibility and apply the standard 130% federal limit strictly. If you're near the income limit, it's worth applying anyway and letting your state make the determination — you may qualify through deductions or state-specific rules.

How much SNAP would I get?

SNAP benefit amounts are based on your net income (after deductions) and household size. The maximum monthly benefit for a family of four is $975. Most households receive less — the average is around $200–$250 per person per month. USDA publishes the current maximum allotment table each October. See current max allotments at USDA →

Common questions

What is the SNAP income limit for 2026?

The 2026 gross income limit is 130% FPL — $1,632/month for one person, $3,380/month for a family of four. Net income (after deductions) must be at or below 100% FPL.

What is the difference between gross and net income for SNAP?

Gross income is your total household income before deductions. Net income is what's left after SNAP's allowable deductions (earned income, standard, shelter, dependent care, medical). Both tests must be passed — but deductions often bring many households under the net limit even if they're near or slightly over the gross limit.

Do SNAP income limits vary by state?

The base federal limits apply in most states. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits. Most states have adopted broad-based categorical eligibility that raises or removes the gross income limit for families with children.

Does Social Security count as income for SNAP?

Yes — Social Security, SSDI, and SSI payments count as unearned income. However, many recipients still qualify because the limits are relatively generous and deductions (especially the shelter deduction for seniors) significantly reduce countable income.