Lesson 3
The SNAP income limits
⏱ 2 min
Key points
- Most households need income before deductions at or under 130% of the poverty level, and income after deductions at or under 100%.
- For a family of four that's $3,575 and $2,750 a month, through September 2027.
- If someone is 60 or older or disabled, you only have to pass the second test.
- Most states use higher limits, up to 200% of the poverty level.
SNAP uses two income tests. Gross income is everything your household brings in before taxes and deductions. Net income is what's left after the deductions covered in the next lesson. Most households have to pass both.
These limits apply from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2027, in the 48 contiguous states and DC. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits.
| People in household | Gross income limit (130%) | Net income limit (100%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,729 | $1,330 |
| 2 | $2,345 | $1,804 |
| 3 | $2,960 | $2,277 |
| 4 | $3,575 | $2,750 |
| 5 | $4,191 | $3,224 |
| 6 | $4,806 | $3,697 |
| Each extra person | +$616 | +$474 |
If someone is 60 or older or disabled
Households with a member who is 60 or older or has a qualifying disability skip the gross income test. Only the net income test applies, and they get extra deductions for medical costs and unlimited housing deductions. Many older people who assume they earn too much from Social Security turn out to qualify.
Your state's limit may be higher
Most states use a rule called broad-based categorical eligibility. In those states, the gross limit can be 165%, 185% or 200% of the poverty level, and many have no limit on savings. California, Florida, Michigan and many others use 200%. A higher gross limit doesn't guarantee a benefit, because your net income still has to be low enough, but it means more working families qualify.
What counts as income
Wages, self-employment earnings, Social Security, SSI, unemployment, child support you receive and most other regular income all count. Some money doesn't, such as most loans and certain education aid.
The benefit estimator in the next lesson uses your state's actual gross limit.
Quick check
Ana is 67 and lives alone on Social Security of $1,900 a month, which is above the $1,729 gross limit. Which test does she need to pass?
Sources: SNAP eligibility, USDA; Broad-based categorical eligibility, USDA.