To qualify for food stamps (SNAP benefits), you must meet several key eligibility criteria:

Income Requirements

• Your household income must be at or below certain limits, which vary by household size and state. These limits are based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
• Generally, households must meet both gross income limits (usually 130% of FPL) and net income limits (100% of FPL) to qualify.
• For example, in 2024-2025, a single-person household typically must have a net monthly income below about $1,255 and a gross monthly income below about $1,632, though exact figures vary by state

• Income includes wages, self-employment earnings, child support, unemployment benefits, and other money received in the last 30 days

• Some deductions (e.g., for shelter, dependent care, medical expenses) can reduce countable income

Work Requirements

• Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) must work or participate in a work program for at least 20 hours per week to receive benefits for more than 3 months in a 36-month period.
• Individuals must register for work, not quit jobs voluntarily, accept job offers, and participate in training if assigned

• Certain groups are exempt from work requirements, including children, seniors, veterans, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and homeless individuals

Residency and Citizenship

• You must live in the state where you apply.
• You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen (lawfully present). Undocumented immigrants are not eligible, though some lawfully present immigrants must wait 5 years before qualifying

Other Requirements

• All household members must have or have applied for a Social Security Number

• Students enrolled at least half-time are generally ineligible unless they meet specific exemptions (e.g., working 20 hours per week, participating in work-study, caring for a young child)

• Some households may be "categorically eligible" if they receive other means-tested benefits like TANF or SSI

How to Apply

• You must apply in your state of residence, either online, by mail, or in person

In summary, to qualify for food stamps you must be a resident and citizen or qualified non-citizen, meet income limits based on your household size, fulfill work requirements if applicable, and provide required documentation such as Social Security Numbers. Income limits and specific rules can vary by state and household circumstances