SNAP

SNAP summary:

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal public benefit that provides funding to help eligible people in the U.S. to supplement their grocery budget.
The program primarily serves low-income households, but older adults and individuals with disabilities may also qualify for benefits.
Benefits can be used to purchase food and non-alcoholic drinks, like fruits and vegetables, bread and cereals, meat, dairy products, and snacks.

SNAP definition and meaning

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal public benefit in the U.S. that provides funding intended to help cover the cost of food and groceries.

To collect SNAP benefits, you must apply for benefits and meet eligibility requirements. While the program primarily serves low-income households, some older adults and people with disabilities may qualify for SNAP.

Key concept: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal benefit program that helps low-income U.S. households buy food.

More on SNAP

SNAP benefits can be used for some surprising food-related purchases. Not everyone knows this, but SNAP benefits can be used to buy seeds and plants that produce food. Some states offer bonus funds for using SNAP at farmers' markets. Some online retailers accept EBT payments for groceries.

SNAP: a comprehensive overview

SNAP provides food benefits to eligible low-income individuals and their families. Benefits help supplement a recipient's food budget, allowing them to afford more food and thereby improve their food security. SNAP is an important part of many households’ personal finances.

Program recipients are given an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. SNAP benefits are loaded onto an EBT card monthly, as long as the recipient remains eligible for benefits.

When the program was first introduced in 1939, it was called the Food Stamp Program. Many people still refer to SNAP benefits as food stamps today.

SNAP benefits can be used to purchase food such as:

Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy product
Breads and cereals
Snack foods
Non-alcoholic beverages

You must fill out an application and meet your state's eligibility requirements to collect SNAP benefits. In most cases, applicants must meet certain income limits to be eligible for benefits.

You can apply for SNAP by contacting your local SNAP office. In some states, you can also apply for SNAP benefits online, by mail, or by fax.

All applicants are required to participate in a brief interview.

SNAP FAQs

Can you buy anything with SNAP?

No. Certain items can't be purchased using SNAP benefits. For example, you can't use your benefits to buy alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, hot prepared foods, vitamins and supplements, pet food, household supplies, or paper products.

Does SSI count for income for SNAP?

Yes, both earned income, such as wages, and unearned income, including veterans' disability, death benefits, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), are considered when determining eligibility for SNAP.

What is the average monthly SNAP benefit amount?

Benefit amounts vary by household size, monthly household income, and expenses. The average SNAP household received a monthly benefit of $332, according to data from 2023. For households with children, the average monthly benefit was $574.