As of the fiscal year 2022, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) served about 41.1 million Americans on average per month. Therefore, there is a considerable number of recipients who rely on Food Stamps.
However, there are many people who could receive SNAP benefits, but they have not applied yet. Some may not apply because they do not know the program. Others may be reluctant to apply because of various reasons.
Who could apply for SNAP benefits in the USA?
The United States Department of Agriculture, through the Food and Nutrition Program, claims that your household must meet several conditions. The sooner you apply for Food Stamps the better because you will get benefits back to the date you sent your application. Of course, if you are eligible.
First of all, you can only receive SNAP benefits in the State you are currently living. Apart from that, you must also meet income, resource and residency requirements. The elderly and those citizens with a disability have special rules though.
A household can have $2,750 in countable resources to be eligible for SNAP benefits. That is, the money you have in your bank. Seniors’ and people with a disability’s household can have up to $42,50.
Income requirements for SNAP benefits in the USA
In general, Food Stamp applicants must meet the gross and net income limits. If you live with a senior aged 60 or older, or with a person with a disability, you only have to meet the net income limit.
Through Sept. 30, 2024, the gross monthly income for a family of 4 is $3,250. On the contrary, the net income limit for 4 is $2,500. Bear in mind that Alaska and Hawaii have higher income limits because they have a higher cost of living.
Besides, there are general and specific work requirements. For example, Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents must work for 80 hours per month to get SNAP benefits for over 3 months in 3 years. Generally, Food Stamps are for U.S. citizens and certain lawfully present non-citizens. Apply now, and do not miss out on this benefit.