The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Texas supports low-income households by providing monthly benefits to buy nutritious food. Benefits are issued via the Texas Lone Star Card, an EBT card accepted at most grocery stores and select online retailers. SNAP helps alleviate food insecurity and promotes access to healthy meals for Texans.
Use the Eligibility Calculator on the Your Texas Benefits website to estimate your benefits, assuming you meet Texas’ eligibility criteria.
Eligibility for Texas SNAP Benefits
To qualify for SNAP in Texas, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Income: Household income must fall within federal poverty guidelines.
- Household Size: Based on individuals who live and eat together.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified legal resident.
- Residency: Must reside in Texas.
- Work Requirements: Certain adults must meet work obligations unless exempt.
- Assets: Some households, especially those with elderly or disabled members, may face asset limits.
Households with members aged 60+ or with disabilities may qualify under adjusted rules. Contact the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) for detailed guidance.
Texas SNAP Income Guidelines (2025)
Eligibility is based on gross (pre-tax) and net (post-deduction) income. The 2025 income limits, aligned with federal poverty guidelines, are as follows:
Gross Income Limit (130% of Federal Poverty Level)
Most households must have a gross monthly income below these amounts:
| Household Size | Max Monthly Gross Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,871 |
| 2 | $2,538 |
| 3 | $3,205 |
| 4 | $3,872 |
| 5 | $4,539 |
| 6 | $5,206 |
| 7 | $5,873 |
| 8 | $6,540 |
| Each Add’l | +$667 |
Gross Income Limit for Elderly/Disabled (165% of Federal Poverty Level)
Households where all members are 60+ or disabled qualify under higher limits:
| Household Size | Max Monthly Gross Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,375 |
| 2 | $3,210 |
| 3 | $4,045 |
| 4 | $4,880 |
| 5 | $5,715 |
| 6 | $6,550 |
| 7 | $7,385 |
| 8 | $8,220 |
| Each Add’l | +$835 |
Net Income Limit (100% of Federal Poverty Level)
Households exceeding gross income limits may qualify after deductions:
| Household Size | Max Monthly Net Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,439 |
| 2 | $1,946 |
| 3 | $2,453 |
| 4 | $2,960 |
| 5 | $3,467 |
| 6 | $3,974 |
| 7 | $4,481 |
| 8 | $4,988 |
| Each Add’l | +$507 |
Income Sources
Countable income includes:
- Earned: Wages, self-employment earnings.
- Unearned: Social Security, unemployment benefits, child support, pensions.
Asset Rules for Texas SNAP
Asset limits apply only to households with elderly (60+) or disabled members who exceed the gross income threshold. The asset cap is $5,000. Countable assets include:
- Cash and bank accounts
- Secondary properties (excluding primary residence)
- Stocks, bonds, mutual funds
Non-Countable Assets:
- Primary home
- Household goods (e.g., furniture, appliances)
- Retirement accounts
- Vehicles (Texas excludes one vehicle per adult household member and any vehicle used for work)
Defining a SNAP Household
A SNAP household includes individuals who live together and share meals, such as:
- Spouses
- Children under 22 living with parents
Individuals living together but purchasing and preparing food separately may qualify as separate households. Disabled seniors may form a separate household if their combined income with others is below 165% of the federal poverty level.
Work Rules for Able-Bodied Adults (ABAWDs)
Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs), aged 18–52, must:
- Work at least 20 hours per week, or
- Participate in an approved employment or training program (e.g., Texas Workforce Solutions).
Non-compliance restricts benefits to 3 months within a 3-year period.
Exemptions:
- Under 18 or over 52
- Pregnant
- Caring for a dependent child
- Physically or mentally unable to work
Deductions to Improve Eligibility
Deductions reduce countable income, increasing eligibility chances:
- Standard Deduction: $204 (1-3 people), $291 (6+)
- Earned Income: 20% deduction
- Dependent care expenses
- Court-ordered child support payments
- Medical expenses over $35/month (for elderly or disabled)
- Shelter costs (up to $672)
- Standard utility allowance (~$407, varies by household)
- Homeless deduction (up to $190.30)
Texas SNAP Benefit Amounts (2025)
Maximum monthly allotments by household size:
| Household Size | Monthly SNAP Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,157 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,755 |
| Each Add’l | +$220 |
Applying for SNAP in Texas
Apply through the following methods:
- Online: Your Texas Benefits portal (www.yourtexasbenefits.com)
- In-Person: Visit a local HHSC office
- Mail: Download, complete, and mail the application from the HHSC website
- Phone: Call 2-1-1 for assistance
An interview (via phone or in-person) is required to finalize the application.
Post-Approval Process
- Receive a Texas Lone Star Card (EBT).
- Use it to purchase eligible food at stores or online.
- Benefits are loaded monthly; check balances on receipts or the Your Texas Benefits app.
EBT Card Perks
- Amazon Prime: 50% discount for EBT cardholders.
- Museums for All: Free or reduced admission at participating museums.
- Online Shopping: Accepted at Amazon, Walmart, H-E-B, and other retailers.
Items Not Covered by SNAP
SNAP benefits cannot be used for:
- Alcohol or tobacco
- Hot prepared foods
- Non-food items (e.g., pet food, cleaning supplies)
- Vitamins or medications
Key Information
- Income and benefit limits are updated annually.
- Use the Your Texas Benefits SNAP Calculator to estimate eligibility.
- Apply even if unsure—you may qualify.
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for SNAP in Texas?
Apply online at Your Texas Benefits, in person at an HHSC office, by mail, or call 2-1-1 for help.
What are the 2025 SNAP income limits for Texas?
For a single-person household, the gross monthly income limit is $1,871. Limits vary by household size.
How long does SNAP approval take in Texas?
Approval takes up to 30 days, but expedited benefits may be issued within 7 days for emergencies.
Can I use my Texas SNAP EBT card online?
Yes, it’s accepted at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and H-E-B for online grocery purchases.
Are there work requirements for Texas SNAP?
Adults aged 18–52 without dependents must work 20 hours per week or participate in training, unless exempt.
This guide is based on 2025 federal and Texas HHSC guidelines. Verify details with your local HHSC office for accuracy.