SNAP eligibility depends on several factors including household income, resources, citizenship/immigration status, household size, and certain categorical or program exemptions. Here’s a concise guide to who generally qualifies and common exceptions. Direct answer

• Most U.S. households must meet income and resource limits to qualify for SNAP benefits, with eligibility determined by gross and net income compared to thresholds for the household size, and by allowable deductions. Some households may be categorically eligible if already eligible for other means-tested programs like TANF or SSI. Eligibility rules also consider citizenship/immigration status, household composition, and certain special circumstances.

Key eligibility components

• Income limits:
  • Gross income: Many households must have gross monthly income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Some exceptions apply for elderly or disabled individuals who may only need to meet net income limits.

* Net income: After allowable deductions (e.g., housing costs, child care, medical expenses for elderly/disabled), the remaining net income must fall within state-specific limits.

• Household size and resources:
  • SNAP considers each household, its resources, and total monthly income. Resources (like bank accounts) are counted, with certain exemptions and limits.

• Citizenship and immigration status:
  • Generally, U.S. citizens and certain qualified noncitizens may be eligible, subject to other requirements such as income and residency. Some noncitizens may have restrictions or need to meet specific criteria.

• Deductions and special categories:
  • Deductions for housing, utilities, child/dependent care, medical expenses, and other eligible costs can affect whether income passes the net tests. Some households may qualify under special categories (e.g., elderly/disabled) with different tests.

• Exemptions and exemptions from work requirements:
  • Some individuals are exempt from work requirements (e.g., certain students, those with disabilities, caregivers, or people aged 60+). Others may need to meet work or training obligations unless exempt.

Common eligibility pathways and examples

• Categorically eligible: Households already eligible for TANF, SSI, or certain other programs may be deemed eligible for SNAP without additional income testing.

• Student rules: In general, students aged 18–49 enrolled at least half-time may not qualify unless they meet exemptions such as working 20 hours per week, participating in work-study, or meeting other criteria.

• Special populations: Pregnant women, seniors, veterans, homeless individuals, and certain foster or former foster youth age 24 or younger may have specific eligibility considerations or exemptions.

Step-by-step next actions (if you’re applying)

• Determine household size and gross monthly income, then compare to your state’s SNAP thresholds.
• Identify eligible deductions (e.g., housing, utilities, child care, medical expenses for elderly/disabled) to calculate net income.
• Check citizenship/immigration status and any categorical eligibility paths.
• Gather required documents (identity, residency, income proof, expenses, and any benefit letters for current assistance).

If you’d like, share your household size, gross monthly income, any deductions you can claim (rent/mortgage, utilities, child care, medical expenses for elderly/disabled), and your state. I can walk you through whether you might meet the general eligibility tests and outline the next steps to apply.