The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is available in the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia from October 1, 2013 through September 30, 2014.
To get SNAP benefits a household has to meet the following criteria:
- Households may have $2,000 in countable resources, such as a bank account, or $3,250 in countable resources if at least one person is age 60 or older, or is disabled.
- The following resources are not included in countable resources: a home and lot, the resources of people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the resources of people who receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF, formerly AFDC), and most retirement (pension) plans.
- Income Tests—The household’s gross monthly income must be 130% of the poverty line with a net monthly income meeting 100% of the poverty line. The table below is for the period of Oct. 1, 2013 through Sept. 30, 2014.
- Generally ABAWDS between 18 and 50 who do not have any dependent children can get SNAP benefits only for 3 months in a 36-month period if they do not work or participate in a workfare or employment and training program other than job search. This requirement is waived in some locations.
- With some exceptions, able-bodied adults between 16 and 60 must register for work, accept suitable employment, and take part in an employment and training program to which they are referred by the local office. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in disqualification from the Program.
For more information on SNAP eligibility for the elderly and/or disabled, call 1-877-472-8411 for assistance or visit http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/applicant_recipients/eligibility.htm.
