The average SNAP benefit in fiscal year 2026 is $188 per month per person, which equals about $6.17 per day. For households, the average varies based on family size and income.
SNAP benefits help low-income Americans buy nutritious food each month.
Page Contents
- 1 What Determines Your SNAP Benefit Amount?
- 2 Maximum SNAP Benefits by Household Size (FY 2026)
- 3 SNAP Benefits in Alaska and Hawaii (FY 2026)
- 4 Understanding Average vs. Maximum SNAP Benefits
- 5 SNAP Income Limits for 2026
- 6 How to Calculate Your SNAP Benefit Amount
- 7 Changes to SNAP Benefits in 2025-2026
- 8 New SNAP Work Requirements for 2026
- 9 SNAP Benefits in U.S. Territories (FY 2026)
- 10 How to Apply for SNAP Benefits
- 11 Asset Limits for SNAP in 2026
- 12 Tips to Maximize Your SNAP Benefits
- 13 Frequently Asked Questions
- 13.1 How much is the average SNAP benefit in 2026?
- 13.2 Did SNAP benefits increase in October 2025?
- 13.3 What is the minimum SNAP benefit?
- 13.4 Can working families get SNAP?
- 13.5 How is my SNAP benefit calculated?
- 13.6 What can I buy with SNAP benefits?
- 13.7 Do I get the maximum benefit amount?
- 13.8 When will SNAP benefits increase again?
- 14 Compare Your Benefits: Average vs. Maximum
- 15 SNAP and Other Food Programs
- 16 What Happens If Your Income Changes?
- 17 Additional Resources
Quick Facts About SNAP Benefits in 2026:
- Average benefit per person: $188 per month ($6.17 per day)
- Maximum benefit for 1 person: $298 per month
- Maximum benefit for 4 people: $994 per month
- Minimum benefit: $24 per month for 1-2 person households
- Benefits updated: October 1, 2025 (effective through September 30, 2026)
- 48 states use same amounts: Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits due to food costs
Ready to see if you qualify? Check your eligibility with the SNAP benefits calculator or learn how to apply online.
What Determines Your SNAP Benefit Amount?
Your monthly SNAP amount depends on several factors. The program calculates benefits based on your unique situation.
Key Factors That Affect Your SNAP Amount:
Household size matters most. Larger families receive more benefits than single individuals.
Your income is counted carefully. SNAP looks at gross income and net income after deductions.
Allowable deductions reduce your counted income. These include rent, utilities, medical costs, and child care.
Your expenses are considered. Housing costs and utility bills can increase your benefit amount.
Maximum SNAP Benefits by Household Size (FY 2026)
Here are the maximum monthly SNAP benefits effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026:
48 States and Washington D.C.:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $298 |
| 2 people | $546 |
| 3 people | $785 |
| 4 people | $994 |
| 5 people | $1,183 |
| 6 people | $1,421 |
| 7 people | $1,571 |
| 8 people | $1,789 |
| Each additional person | Add $218 |
Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Service FY 2026 COLA
Important: These are maximum amounts for households with little or no income. Most working families receive less based on their net income.
Related: Minimum SNAP Benefits in 2025 and 2026
SNAP Benefits in Alaska and Hawaii (FY 2026)
Alaska and Hawaii have higher benefit amounts due to increased food costs.
Alaska Maximum Benefits:
Alaska divides into three regions with different maximum allotments:
| Household Size | Urban | Rural 1 | Rural 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $385 | $491 | $598 |
| 2 people | $707 | $901 | $1,097 |
| 3 people | $1,015 | $1,295 | $1,576 |
| 4 people | $1,285 | $1,639 | $1,995 |
| 5 people | $1,529 | $1,950 | $2,374 |
| 6 people | $1,838 | $2,344 | $2,853 |
| 7 people | $2,031 | $2,590 | $3,152 |
| 8 people | $2,314 | $2,950 | $3,591 |
Hawaii Maximum Benefits:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $506 |
| 2 people | $929 |
| 3 people | $1,334 |
| 4 people | $1,689 |
| 5 people | $2,010 |
| 6 people | $2,415 |
| 7 people | $2,668 |
| 8 people | $3,040 |
Understanding Average vs. Maximum SNAP Benefits
Most households receive less than the maximum benefit amount. The average reflects what typical families actually get.
Why Average Benefits Are Lower:
Working families have income. Even part-time work reduces your benefit amount.
The 30% rule applies. SNAP expects households to spend 30% of net income on food.
Deductions matter. Higher deductions mean higher benefits, but many families don’t have large deductible expenses.
Example for a family of 3:
- Net monthly income: $1,200
- Maximum benefit: $785
- Expected food contribution: $360 (30% of $1,200)
- Actual SNAP benefit: $425 per month
This family receives $425, not the $785 maximum.
SNAP Income Limits for 2026
You must meet income requirements to qualify for SNAP benefits in fiscal year 2026.
Gross Monthly Income Limits (130% of Poverty Level):
| Household Size | 48 States & D.C. | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,696 | $2,118 | $1,949 |
| 2 people | $2,292 | $2,864 | $2,635 |
| 3 people | $2,888 | $3,609 | $3,321 |
| 4 people | $3,483 | $4,354 | $4,007 |
| 5 people | $4,079 | $5,100 | $4,692 |
| 6 people | $4,675 | $5,845 | $5,378 |
| 7 people | $5,271 | $6,590 | $6,064 |
| 8 people | $5,867 | $7,336 | $6,750 |
Net Monthly Income Limits (100% of Poverty Level):
| Household Size | 48 States & D.C. | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,305 | $1,630 | $1,500 |
| 2 people | $1,763 | $2,203 | $2,027 |
| 3 people | $2,221 | $2,776 | $2,555 |
| 4 people | $2,680 | $3,350 | $3,082 |
| 5 people | $3,138 | $3,923 | $3,610 |
| 6 people | $3,596 | $4,496 | $4,137 |
| 7 people | $4,055 | $5,070 | $4,665 |
| 8 people | $4,513 | $5,643 | $5,192 |
Special rule: Households with elderly (60+) or disabled members only need to meet net income limits, not gross income limits.
Source: USDA SNAP Eligibility Standards
How to Calculate Your SNAP Benefit Amount
SNAP uses a standard formula to determine your monthly benefit.
Step 1: Count Your Household Income
Add up all monthly income before taxes:
- Wages and salaries
- Self-employment income
- Social Security benefits
- SSI payments
- Unemployment benefits
- Child support received
- Other income sources
Step 2: Apply Standard Deductions
SNAP allows these deductions for fiscal year 2026:
Standard deduction (48 states & D.C.):
- $209 for households of 1-3 people
- $223 for households of 4 people
- $261 for households of 5 people
- $299 for households of 6+ people
Earned income deduction: 20% of all earned income
Dependent care deduction: Actual costs for child care or dependent care needed for work or school
Medical expense deduction: For elderly or disabled members, costs over $35 per month
Shelter deduction: Rent, mortgage, property taxes, and utilities over half your net income (capped at $744/month)
Homeless shelter deduction: $198.99 per month for households without stable housing
Step 3: Calculate Net Income
Subtract all allowable deductions from gross income. This is your net monthly income.
Step 4: Determine Your SNAP Benefit
Take 30% of your net income. This is your expected food contribution.
Subtract that amount from the maximum benefit for your household size. The result is your monthly SNAP benefit.
Formula: Maximum benefit – (0.30 × Net income) = Your SNAP benefit
Example Calculation:
Family of 3 with $2,000 gross income:
- Gross income: $2,000
- Earned income deduction (20%): -$400
- Standard deduction: -$209
- Shelter deduction: -$600
- Net income: $791
- Expected food cost (30%): $237
- Maximum benefit for 3: $785
- Final SNAP benefit: $548 per month
Use our updated SNAP Eligibility Calculator 2026 for quick and accurate answer.
Changes to SNAP Benefits in 2025-2026
SNAP benefits increased modestly on October 1, 2025 for fiscal year 2026.
What Changed:
Maximum benefits increased:
- Family of 1: Up from $292 to $298 (+$6)
- Family of 4: Up from $975 to $994 (+$19)
Minimum benefits increased:
- Up from $23 to $24 per month
Income limits increased:
- Adjusted to match 2026 poverty guidelines
Deductions increased:
- Standard deduction: Up from $198 to $209
- Shelter cap: Up from $734 to $744
- Homeless deduction: Up from $190.30 to $198.99
Federal law now limits SNAP benefit increases to once per year as part of cost-of-living adjustments that happen every October.
New SNAP Work Requirements for 2026
A federal law signed on July 4, 2025 expanded SNAP work requirements to adults ages 55 to 64 without dependent children.
Who Must Meet Work Requirements:
Adults ages 18-64 without dependents must work at least 20 hours per week or participate in approved training programs.
Previously: Work requirements only applied to ages 18-54.
New in 2026: Adults ages 55-64 now included.
Exemptions from Work Requirements:
- Pregnant individuals
- Parents of children under age 14 (previously under 18)
- People receiving disability benefits
- Veterans
- People experiencing homelessness
- Former foster youth
Impact: Approximately 1.2 million people nationwide will be affected by the expanded work requirements.
Read More: New York Rushed to Enforce SNAP Work Requirements by November 1
SNAP Benefits in U.S. Territories (FY 2026)
U.S. territories have different maximum benefit amounts.
Guam Maximum Benefits:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $439 |
| 4 people | $1,465 |
U.S. Virgin Islands Maximum Benefits:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $383 |
| 4 people | $1,278 |
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits
Applying for SNAP is straightforward. Most states offer online applications.
Application Steps:
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Review income limits and household requirements for your state.
Step 2: Gather required documents
You’ll need:
- Proof of identity (driver’s license, state ID)
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit statements)
- Proof of expenses (rent receipts, utility bills)
- Bank statements
Step 3: Submit your application
Apply online through your state SNAP website, by mail, or in person at your local SNAP office.
Step 4: Complete your interview
Most states conduct phone interviews within 7-10 days of applying.
Step 5: Receive your decision
Most applications are processed within 30 days. Expedited processing takes 7 days for urgent cases.
Find your state SNAP office: USDA State Directory
Asset Limits for SNAP in 2026
Asset limits remain unchanged for fiscal year 2026:
Standard households: $3,000 in countable resources
Households with elderly (60+) or disabled members: $4,500 in countable resources
What Counts as Assets:
- Cash on hand
- Bank account balances
- Savings bonds
- Stocks and investment accounts
What Does NOT Count:
- Your home and the lot it sits on
- One vehicle per household
- Retirement accounts (401k, IRA, pension)
- Resources of household members receiving SSI or TANF
- Most personal property
Important: Most states have adopted “broad-based categorical eligibility” which eliminates or increases asset limits. Check your state’s rules.
Tips to Maximize Your SNAP Benefits
Getting the highest benefit requires accurate reporting and understanding deductions.
Report All Allowable Expenses:
Document shelter costs carefully. Include rent, mortgage, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA fees.
Claim utility expenses. Most states offer a standard utility allowance if you pay any utility bills.
Track medical costs for elderly or disabled members. Include premiums, copays, prescriptions, and medical transportation.
Report child care expenses. Document payments for day care, after-school care, or babysitting needed for work or school.
Calculate the earned income deduction. The 20% deduction applies automatically to all earned income.
Keep Your Case Active:
Recertify on time. Benefits end if you miss your recertification deadline.
Report changes promptly. You must report income changes within 10 days.
Save your documents. Keep copies of all paperwork submitted to SNAP.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the average SNAP benefit in 2026?
The average SNAP benefit per person is $188 per month in fiscal year 2026. For households, the average varies based on family size, income, and expenses.
Did SNAP benefits increase in October 2025?
Yes, SNAP benefits increased on October 1, 2025 for fiscal year 2026. The maximum benefit for a family of four increased from $975 to $994 in most states.
What is the minimum SNAP benefit?
The minimum SNAP benefit for 1-2 person households is $24 per month in the 48 states and D.C. for fiscal year 2026.
Can working families get SNAP?
Yes. Many working families qualify for SNAP. Income limits allow a family of four to earn up to $3,483 per month (gross income) and potentially qualify, depending on expenses and deductions.
How is my SNAP benefit calculated?
Your benefit equals the maximum allotment for your household size minus 30% of your net income. Net income is your gross income minus allowable deductions like rent, child care, and medical expenses.
What can I buy with SNAP benefits?
You can buy most foods including fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cereals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. You cannot buy alcohol, tobacco, hot prepared foods, vitamins, or non-food items.
Do I get the maximum benefit amount?
Only if your net income is very low or zero. Most households receive less than the maximum based on their income and expenses.
When will SNAP benefits increase again?
SNAP benefits can only increase once per year as part of the October cost-of-living adjustment. The next increase will be October 1, 2026.
Compare Your Benefits: Average vs. Maximum
Understanding the difference helps set realistic expectations.
Average Benefit Recipients:
- Working families with some income
- Part-time workers needing food assistance
- Seniors on fixed incomes like Social Security
- Families with moderate deductible expenses
Maximum Benefit Recipients:
- Households with zero or very low net income
- Families with high shelter costs and other deductions
- Newly unemployed households
- Families in crisis situations
Most SNAP households receive 50-70% of the maximum benefit for their household size.
SNAP and Other Food Programs
SNAP works alongside other nutrition programs.
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children):
Provides specific foods for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5. You can receive both WIC and SNAP.
School Meal Programs:
Free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch at school. SNAP eligibility often means automatic school meal qualification.
Senior Nutrition Programs:
Meals on Wheels and congregate meal sites serve seniors. These supplement SNAP benefits.
Food Banks and Pantries:
Community organizations provide free groceries. SNAP recipients can also use food banks for additional help.
What Happens If Your Income Changes?
Report income changes to your SNAP office within 10 days.
Changes That Affect Benefits:
Income increases:
- New job or pay raise may decrease benefits
- Additional household income reduces your amount
Income decreases:
- Job loss or reduced hours may increase benefits
- Report immediately for faster adjustment
Household changes:
- New household member increases maximum benefit
- Member leaving decreases your benefit amount
Expense changes:
- Higher rent or utilities may increase benefits
- Lower expenses may decrease your benefit
Keep your caseworker informed. Unreported changes can result in overpayments you must repay.
Additional Resources
Official SNAP Information:
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service
- SNAP Eligibility Requirements
- SNAP State Directory
- Benefits.gov SNAP Page
State SNAP Offices:
Find your local office through the USDA state directory. Each state manages its SNAP program under federal guidelines.
Free Application Help:
Many community organizations offer free SNAP application assistance. Contact your local food bank, United Way 211, or community action agency for referrals.
SNAP Benefits Calculators:
Use online calculators to estimate your benefit amount before applying. These tools help you understand what to expect.
Published: November 5, 2025
Last Updated: November 5, 2025
Disclaimer: SNAP benefit amounts and eligibility rules are subject to change. This article reflects fiscal year 2026 data effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. Always verify current information with your state SNAP office or the USDA. This article provides general guidance and is not legal or financial advice.
