What Income Is Not Counted for SNAP?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often referred to as food stamps, is a vital federal program that helps low-income individuals and families in the United States purchase nutritious food. SNAP eligibility is primarily based on household income, size, and certain expenses, but not all income is counted when determining whether you qualify or calculating your benefit amount.

Understanding what income is excluded can make a significant difference in your eligibility and benefit level. This article details the types of income that are not counted for SNAP, based on USDA guidelines, and provides guidance on how to navigate the eligibility process.

Understanding SNAP Income Calculations

SNAP eligibility is determined by comparing your household’s gross income (total income before deductions) and net income (income after allowable deductions) to federal poverty guidelines. Gross income must typically be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level (e.g., $1,632/month for one person in 2025 for most states), and net income must be at or below 100% (e.g., $1,255/month for one person).

However, certain types of income are excluded from these calculations, which can lower your countable income and improve your chances of qualifying or increase your monthly benefits.

Exclusions vary slightly by state due to differences in program administration, but the USDA provides a standardized list of income sources that are generally not counted. Always report all income to your state’s SNAP agency, as they will determine what is excluded based on your specific circumstances and state rules. Incorrect reporting can lead to delays, benefit reductions, or case closure.

What Income is Not Counted for SNAP

Below is a comprehensive list of income sources that are typically not counted for SNAP eligibility, based on USDA regulations and state practices:

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Other Tax Refunds: Federal and state tax refunds, including EITC payments, are not considered income for SNAP purposes. For example, a $2,000 EITC refund received annually does not affect your eligibility.
Child Support Payments Received: Payments you receive for child support are generally excluded from income calculations. However, child support payments you make may be counted as a deduction, potentially lowering your net income.
Student Financial Aid: Grants, scholarships, or loans used for tuition, books, or other educational expenses (e.g., Pell Grants) are not counted. This applies to funds specifically designated for education costs, not general living expenses.
Work-Study Income: Earnings from federal or state work-study programs for students are excluded, supporting students pursuing higher education.
Veterans Benefits (Certain Types): Specific veterans’ benefits, such as aid and attendance or housebound allowances, are not counted. Other veterans’ benefits, like disability payments, may be counted unless they fall under these exemptions.
In-Kind Benefits: Non-cash benefits, such as housing, food, or clothing provided by someone else (e.g., a friend covering your rent), are excluded from income calculations.
Reimbursements for Specific Expenses: Payments for job-related expenses (e.g., travel or uniforms) or medical reimbursements are not counted if used for their intended purpose. For example, a $50 reimbursement for work travel is excluded.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Non-Cash Benefits: TANF benefits provided as vouchers or services (e.g., transportation, childcare, or job training) are not counted as income. Cash TANF payments, however, are typically included.
Energy Assistance Payments: Payments from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or similar utility assistance programs are excluded. For instance, a $500 LIHEAP payment for heating costs does not count.
Lump-Sum Payments: One-time payments, such as inheritances, insurance settlements, or lottery winnings, are generally considered assets, not income. Most states do not apply an asset test for SNAP, so these payments often do not affect eligibility.
Certain Tribal Payments: Distributions from Native American trust funds, per capita payments, or other specific tribal payments (e.g., under the Indian Self-Determination Act) may be excluded, depending on the source.
Charitable Donations: Cash donations from non-profit organizations, typically under $300 per quarter, are not counted as income. For example, a $200 donation from a local charity to help with groceries is excluded.
Foster Care Payments: Payments received for foster children living in your household are not counted. Additionally, foster children may be excluded from your household size for SNAP purposes, potentially increasing your benefits.
Military Combat Pay: Special pay received by deployed military members (e.g., hazardous duty pay) is not counted if it is not regularly accessible to the household.
Irregular Income: Small, irregular cash gifts or income (e.g., birthday money under $30 per quarter) are excluded from income calculations.
Vendor Payments: Payments made directly to a third party on your behalf (e.g., a relative paying your utility bill directly to the provider) are not counted as income.
Certain Disaster Assistance Payments: Federal or state disaster relief payments, such as those for hurricanes or wildfires, are excluded if they are designated for specific recovery purposes.
Earned Income of Children: Income earned by children under 18 who are in school (e.g., part-time job earnings) is not counted in most cases.

Important Notes:

State Variations: Some states may have additional exclusions or specific rules for certain income types. For example, California may exclude certain in-home supportive services payments for caregivers.
Reporting Requirements: You must report all income to your SNAP agency, even if you believe it’s excluded. The agency will determine what counts based on federal and state guidelines. Failure to report income accurately can lead to benefit delays or penalties.
Deductions vs. Exclusions: Excluded income is not counted at all, while deductions (e.g., rent, utilities, or medical expenses for elderly/disabled households) reduce your countable income after it’s reported. For more on income limits and deductions, see SNAP Income Limit.

Why Excluded Income Matters

Excluding certain income sources can significantly impact your SNAP eligibility and benefit amount. For example:

A single parent receiving $500 in monthly child support and a $1,000 EITC refund would not have these amounts counted toward their gross income, potentially keeping them below the 130% federal poverty level threshold.
A student receiving a $5,000 Pell Grant for tuition would not have this counted, making it easier to qualify for SNAP while pursuing education.
A household receiving a $1,000 one-time insurance settlement would not see this affect their SNAP eligibility in most states, as it’s considered an asset, not income.

Understanding these exclusions can help you accurately report income and avoid issues with your SNAP application or recertification. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, use the SNAP Eligibility Calculator to estimate your benefits based on your countable income and household details.

Common Scenarios Where Excluded Income Helps

Here are some real-world examples illustrating how excluded income can affect SNAP eligibility:

Scenario 1: Single Parent with Child Support
- Maria, a single mother in Texas, earns $1,400/month from her job and receives $400/month in child support. The child support is excluded, so her gross income is only $1,400, below the $1,632 gross income limit for a one-person household in 2025. She qualifies for SNAP and receives benefits.
Scenario 2: Student with Financial Aid
- John, a college student in California, earns $800/month from a part-time job and receives a $3,000 Pell Grant for tuition. The Pell Grant is excluded, so his countable income is $800, well below the gross income limit, making him eligible for SNAP.
Scenario 3: Veteran with Special Pay
- Sarah, a veteran in Florida, receives $1,200/month in disability benefits and $300/month in aid and attendance benefits. The aid and attendance portion is excluded, reducing her countable income and helping her qualify for SNAP.

Steps to Ensure Accurate Income Reporting

To avoid issues with your SNAP benefits, follow these steps to report income correctly:

List All Income Sources: When applying or recertifying, provide details of all income, even if you think it’s excluded. For guidance on applying, see How to Apply for SNAP Benefits.
Provide Documentation: Submit pay stubs, award letters, or other proof of income. For excluded income, such as student aid or LIHEAP payments, include documentation to clarify its purpose.
Check with Your State Agency: Contact your state’s SNAP office (e.g., mydhr.alabama.gov for Alabama or getcalfresh.org for California) to confirm which income types are excluded in your state. Find your state’s contact information through the USDA SNAP State Directory (www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory).
Monitor Your EBT Balance: Regularly check your SNAP balance to ensure benefits are loaded correctly, especially after reporting income changes. For details, see How to Check Your SNAP Balance.
Report Changes Promptly: Notify your SNAP agency within 10 days of any income or household changes (e.g., new job, loss of child support). This prevents overpayments or benefit interruptions.
Appeal Errors: If your benefits are denied or reduced due to an income miscalculation, request a fair hearing within 90 days of receiving a notice. Provide evidence of excluded income to support your case.

Protecting Your SNAP Benefits

To maintain your SNAP eligibility and prevent issues:

Update Contact Information: Ensure your state SNAP agency has your current address, phone number, and email to receive notices about recertification or income verification.
Secure Your EBT Card: Use your state’s EBT app (e.g., ConnectEBT or ebtEDGE) to lock your card or block out-of-state transactions. Change your PIN frequently and never share it.
Stay on Top of Recertification: Mark your calendar for recertification or periodic report deadlines. Submit documents early to avoid benefit disruptions.
Seek Assistance: If you’re unsure about income exclusions or eligibility, contact your local SNAP office or community organizations for help. You can also use online resources like lowincomerelief.com for additional support.

Conclusion

Understanding what income is not counted for SNAP—such as tax refunds, child support, student aid, and certain veterans’ benefits—can significantly improve your chances of qualifying or increase your benefit amount. By accurately reporting all income and providing documentation, you can ensure your SNAP application or recertification is processed correctly.

If you’re applying for SNAP or facing issues with your benefits, use the SNAP Eligibility Calculator to estimate your eligibility and benefit amount. For further assistance, check your state’s SNAP website, call your EBT customer service number, or connect with community resources to stay informed and supported.