In Maryland, SNAP is called the Food Supplement Program (FSP) — administered by the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) through local Departments of Social Services in each county and Baltimore City. Benefits are delivered on the Maryland Independence Card EBT accepted at authorized retailers and participating restaurants statewide and nationwide.
Maryland serves over 800,000 residents through the MyDHR Benefits online portal and local DSS offices across all 23 counties and Baltimore City.
This guide covers everything you need for your Maryland SNAP application: who qualifies, 2026 income limits, required documents, and how to apply online, by phone, or in person.
Want to estimate your benefit before applying? Use the Maryland SNAP eligibility calculator to check your household before you start.
Maryland Food Supplement Program Eligibility — Who Qualifies?
Maryland’s Food Supplement Program is open to working families, seniors, people with disabilities, students who meet exemptions, and anyone whose household income falls within the program limits.
Maryland participates in the SNAP Restaurant Meals Program and has eliminated the asset test for most households — two features that distinguish it from many other states.
Household Composition
Your SNAP household includes everyone who lives with you and regularly buys and prepares food together.
Spouses are always in the same household. Children who share meals with parents are typically included. Roommates who shop and cook separately are counted as their own household and apply independently.
Maryland’s mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities — from Baltimore City’s dense neighborhoods to the rural Eastern Shore’s watermen communities — creates a wide variety of household structures. If everyone in the home pools food costs, they are one household for FSP purposes.
Income Requirements
Maryland uses two income tests for most households:
Gross income test: Total household income before deductions must be at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Maryland applies the standard federal threshold — $1,644/month for a single person.
Net income test: Income after approved deductions must be at or below 100% FPL.
Households where all members are elderly (60+) or have a disability are exempt from the gross income test — only the net income limit applies to them.
Asset Rules
Most Maryland households face no asset test. Maryland has eliminated the asset test statewide through broad-based categorical eligibility.
The exception applies to households where all members are elderly or disabled and income exceeds the FPL limit. Those households must have countable assets under $4,500. Your primary home and one vehicle are always exempt.
Citizenship and Residency
You must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen residing in Maryland. Applications are processed through the local DSS office serving your county or Baltimore City.
Work Requirements for ABAWDs
Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18–54 must work, volunteer, or participate in approved training for at least 80 hours per month.
Without meeting this requirement, benefits are limited to 3 months in any 36-month period. Exemptions apply for pregnancy, documented disability, and caring for a child under age 6.
See our guide on SNAP work requirement exemptions for the full list.
Federal changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will expand work requirements to age 64 and include parents with children aged 14 and older starting in 2026. Maryland’s current 2026 rules apply in the meantime.
Maryland Food Supplement Income Limits for 2026
Maryland uses the standard federal gross income limit of 130% FPL. Limits update every October 1.
Gross Income Limits (130% FPL — Maryland)
| Household Size | Monthly Gross Income Limit | Annual Gross Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,644 | $19,736 |
| 2 | $2,229 | $26,748 |
| 3 | $2,814 | $33,764 |
| 4 | $3,399 | $40,782 |
| 5 | $3,984 | $47,800 |
| 6 | $4,569 | $54,818 |
| 7 | $5,155 | $61,852 |
| 8 | $5,740 | $68,884 |
| Each additional | +$586 | +$7,032 |
Households where all members are elderly or disabled have no gross income limit — only the net income test applies.
Net Income Limits (100% FPL)
| Household Size | Monthly Net Income Limit | Annual Net Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,266 | $15,190 |
| 2 | $1,715 | $20,574 |
| 3 | $2,164 | $25,972 |
| 4 | $2,613 | $31,354 |
| 5 | $3,062 | $36,740 |
| 6 | $3,511 | $42,128 |
| 7 | $3,960 | $47,520 |
| 8 | $4,410 | $52,910 |
| Each additional | +$449 | +$5,390 |
For a full state-by-state comparison, see the SNAP income limits page.
How Deductions Work in Maryland
Your net income is calculated after subtracting approved deductions from your gross income:
- 20% earned income deduction — applied automatically to all wages
- Standard deduction — $204–$291 depending on household size
- Excess shelter deduction — rent, mortgage, and utilities above a threshold, capped at $712. Maryland has some of the highest rents in the mid-Atlantic region — Baltimore City, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and Anne Arundel County households frequently reach this cap
- Dependent care deduction — childcare costs required for work or training
- Medical expense deduction — out-of-pocket costs above $35/month for elderly or disabled members
Maryland uses a Standard Utility Allowance (SUA) that accounts for heating and cooling costs. Maryland’s humid continental climate — hot summers and cold winters — makes both heating and air conditioning significant utility expenses. List all utility costs on your application.
Maximum Food Supplement Benefits in Maryland
Maryland follows the standard lower-48 maximum benefit table — $292/month for a single person up to $1,756 for a household of eight.
Actual benefits depend on net income after all deductions. The full breakdown by household size is on the Maryland SNAP benefits page.
Documents You’ll Need for the Maryland SNAP Application
DHS/DSS will verify your identity, income, residency, and household composition. Gather these before starting your Maryland SNAP application to avoid delays.
Identity Documents
Maryland driver’s license, Maryland state ID, U.S. passport, or birth certificate paired with a Social Security card. At least one document must confirm who you are.
Income Verification
Pay stubs from the last 30 days, W-2 forms, tax returns, or a signed employer statement.
If you receive SSI, Social Security, unemployment, or child support, bring your most recent award letter or benefit statement. Maryland’s major industries include federal government employment, defense contracting, healthcare, biotech, and maritime/port work at the Port of Baltimore. Workers across all these sectors — including federal contractors who may face sporadic contract gaps — should bring whatever recent income documentation they have.
Proof of Maryland Residency
A recent utility bill, lease or mortgage agreement, or piece of official mail showing your current Maryland address.
P.O. boxes are not accepted — DHS requires a physical address. Baltimore City residents in shelters or transitional housing can use a letter from the facility confirming their current address.
Household Member Information
Full legal names, dates of birth, relationships, and Social Security numbers for all household members who are applying.
Members not applying — such as non-citizen household members — do not need to provide SSNs, but their income factors into the household calculation.
Expense Documentation
Rent or mortgage statements, utility bills, childcare invoices, and medical receipts for elderly or disabled members.
Maryland’s childcare costs — particularly in Montgomery County, Howard County, and Baltimore City — are among the highest in the country. Document all childcare payments made in connection with work, as these are fully deductible and can significantly increase your benefit.
Asset Information (If Applicable)
Bank statements are only required for elderly or disabled households with income above the FPL limits. Most Maryland households do not need to document assets.
Practical tip: MyDHR Benefits allows document uploads through photos taken on your phone. If applying in person at your local DSS office, bring originals — staff will copy and return them on the spot.
How to Apply for the Food Supplement Program in Maryland: Step by Step
DHS targets 30-day processing for standard applications. Expedited benefits are available within 7 days for qualifying households.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility First
Use our independent Maryland SNAP eligibility calculator to see whether your household income falls within Maryland’s income limits. You can also pre-screen at mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us before starting the full application.
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Online through MyDHR Benefits (recommended): Apply at mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us — Maryland’s benefits portal for the Food Supplement Program, Medicaid, and other programs. Create a free account, complete the application, upload your documents, and submit. Your application routes to your county DSS office automatically. Available 24/7.
By phone: Call DHS at 1-800-332-6347 (statewide toll-free) or 410-767-7000 for Baltimore. Caseworkers can walk you through the Maryland SNAP application and mail any forms requiring a signature. TTY users call 711.
In person: Visit your county Department of Social Services office. Maryland has DSS offices in all 23 counties and Baltimore City — major locations include Baltimore City, Silver Spring/Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Annapolis/Anne Arundel County, Frederick, Hagerstown, and Salisbury. A full list is at dhs.maryland.gov/local-offices.
By mail or fax: Download the application at dhs.maryland.gov/food-supplement-program and mail or fax it to your local DSS office.
A simplified application is available for households where all members are elderly or disabled.
Step 3: Complete the Application Accurately
The application covers all household members, every income source (wages, federal employment, self-employment, Social Security, unemployment, child support), and monthly expenses including rent, utilities, and childcare.
Maryland’s large federal workforce — particularly in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties near Washington, D.C. — means many applicants have government employment income, including pay during shutdowns or gaps between contract periods. Report your actual current monthly income accurately.
Sign digitally through MyDHR Benefits or with a wet signature on paper applications.
Step 4: Attend Your Interview
DHS requires a phone or in-person interview for all new Maryland SNAP applications. A caseworker will contact you within 30 days of receiving your application.
Answer the call — a missed interview delays your case. The interview covers your household situation, income sources, and monthly expenses. It typically takes 15–20 minutes. Have your documents accessible when the call comes.
Step 5: Receive Your Decision
If approved: You receive a written notice with your benefit amount and certification period. Your Maryland Independence Card EBT arrives by mail within 7–30 days. Call 1-800-997-2222 to set your 4-digit PIN once the card arrives.
If denied: You receive a written notice explaining the specific reason. You have 90 days to request a fair hearing. Contact DHS at 1-800-332-6347 to initiate an appeal. If you were already receiving benefits, they continue at the previous level during the appeal.
If expedited: Tell your caseworker if your household has income under $150/month and liquid assets under $100, or if combined income and assets are less than your monthly housing costs. DHS must issue benefits within 7 days.
Step 6: Use, Maintain, and Renew Your Benefits
Maryland Independence Card EBT benefits load monthly based on your case number. Check your balance at connectebt.com or by calling 1-800-997-2222.
Food Supplement benefits work at authorized retailers statewide — Giant Food, Safeway, Walmart, Aldi, and many independent stores. Giant Food is Maryland’s dominant grocery chain with full EBT acceptance at all locations. Maryland also participates in the SNAP Restaurant Meals Program — eligible elderly, disabled, and homeless residents can use their Independence Card at participating restaurants. Maryland also participates in Double Up Food Bucks at select farmers markets including Baltimore’s Waverly Farmers Market.
Report changes in income, household size, or address within 10 days through MyDHR Benefits or by contacting your local DSS office. Most households are certified for 12 months. Check your Maryland EBT balance anytime online or by phone.
Maryland Food Supplement and Other Benefit Programs
Medicaid: Maryland Medicaid is applied for through the same MyDHR Benefits portal. Many Food Supplement recipients also qualify. Check eligibility with our Medicaid eligibility calculator.
WIC: Pregnant women and families with children under 5 may qualify for WIC alongside the Food Supplement Program. Maryland WIC is administered through local health departments. See our WIC income guidelines for Maryland.
EBT discounts: Your Maryland Independence Card may qualify for discounts at certain retailers and programs. See EBT discounts in Maryland.
SNAP-eligible foods: See our guide on SNAP-eligible foods for what benefits can and cannot purchase.
Seniors on Social Security: Many Maryland seniors receiving Social Security also qualify for Food Supplement benefits. See our guide on whether seniors on Social Security can get food stamps.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Maryland SNAP Application
How long does the Maryland SNAP application take to process?
Standard Maryland SNAP applications are processed within 30 days from the date DHS receives your completed application. If your household qualifies for expedited processing — income under $150/month and liquid assets under $100, or combined income and assets below your monthly rent and utilities — benefits must be available within 7 days. Applying online through MyDHR Benefits is the fastest path.
What is the income limit for the Maryland Food Supplement Program?
For 2026, your household’s gross monthly income must be at or below 130% FPL — $1,644/month for a single person and $3,399/month for a family of four. Net income after deductions must be at or below 100% FPL — $1,266/month for one person and $2,613/month for four. Households where all members are elderly or disabled skip the gross income test. Limits adjust every October.
Maryland participates in the Restaurant Meals Program. Who qualifies and how does it work?
Maryland participates in the SNAP Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), which allows certain eligible residents to use their Independence Card at participating restaurants for hot prepared meals.
Eligibility is limited to individuals who are elderly (60+), have a documented disability, or are experiencing homelessness. No separate application is required — if you meet these criteria, your Independence Card automatically works at enrolled restaurants.
Participating restaurants are listed at mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us. The program operates in Baltimore and other Maryland cities, with ongoing expansion.
I work for the federal government or a federal contractor near D.C. Can I qualify for SNAP during a government shutdown or contract gap?
Yes — SNAP eligibility is based on your current monthly income, not your employment history or career level.
During a federal government shutdown, furloughed employees who are not receiving pay have a current monthly income of zero (or just unemployment benefits if they qualify). Many federal workers in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and other Maryland jurisdictions qualify for SNAP during shutdown periods.
Similarly, federal contractors who experience gaps between contracts may qualify based on their income during the gap period. Apply promptly when your income drops — benefits are not retroactive.
Can seniors in Maryland qualify for Food Supplement benefits on Social Security only?
Yes — and many qualify for more than they expect. For households with a member who is 60+ or disabled, only the net income test applies. Maryland’s high housing costs — particularly in the Baltimore and Washington suburbs — and medical expenses can reduce net income significantly through deductions. See how Social Security income affects SNAP eligibility for a full breakdown.
Montgomery County and Howard County have very high rents. Does that help my benefit?
Yes — significantly for many households. The shelter deduction reduces your countable net income when rent and utilities exceed a threshold. Montgomery County, Howard County, and parts of Anne Arundel and Baltimore counties have some of the highest rents in the mid-Atlantic region.
Many households paying $2,000 or more per month in rent reach the $712 shelter deduction cap — which directly increases their monthly Food Supplement benefit.
A household earning $2,500/month gross that pays $2,000/month in rent may have a net income well below the qualifying threshold after shelter and earned income deductions are applied. Use the Maryland SNAP eligibility calculator with your actual rent to see the impact on your specific situation.
What if my Maryland SNAP application is denied?
DHS will send a written denial notice explaining the specific reason — whether it’s income exceeding limits, missing verification, or another issue. You have 90 days to request a fair hearing.
Contact DHS at 1-800-332-6347 to initiate an appeal. If you were already receiving benefits, they continue at the previous level during the appeal. For free legal assistance, contact Maryland Legal Aid at 1-800-999-8904. Maryland Food Bank (410-737-8282) can provide food support while your case is pending.
How will the One Big Beautiful Bill Act affect Maryland’s Food Supplement Program?
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act includes approximately $186 billion in federal SNAP cuts through 2034. Key changes beginning in 2026 include expanding work requirements to adults up to age 64 and including parents of children aged 14 and older.
Maryland’s current eligibility rules remain in effect for 2026. Maryland has historically been supportive of broad SNAP access — the state may pursue state-funded supplements if federal rules tighten significantly, but the scope and timing of any state action is uncertain.
If you are currently eligible, completing your Maryland SNAP application now locks in your current certification period before changes take effect. See our full guide on Big Beautiful Bill SNAP changes.
Get Help Applying
- DHS Main Line: 1-800-332-6347 (toll-free statewide) | 410-767-7000 (Baltimore)
- Online Application: mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us
- Independence Card EBT Balance: 1-800-997-2222
- Maryland Legal Aid (Appeals): 1-800-999-8904
- Maryland Food Bank: 410-737-8282
- Full list of state EBT contacts: EBT phone numbers for all states
For the complete Maryland SNAP application walkthrough, see the Maryland SNAP application guide.
This guide is based on current USDA SNAP guidelines and Maryland DHS Food Supplement Program rules. Income limits and program details are subject to change — verify current figures with DHS at dhs.maryland.gov or by calling 1-800-332-6347 before applying.