Texas SNAP Calculator (FY 2026)

Estimate your household's eligibility for food benefits (Lone Star Card) based on the official USDA guidelines for Oct 2025 - Sep 2026.

How to Use This Calculator
  1. Household Size: Enter the total number of people who buy and prepare food together.
  2. Elderly/Disabled Status: Select 'Yes' if anyone in your household is age 60+ or receives disability benefits. These households have different rules.
  3. Gross Monthly Income: Enter your household's total income from all sources before any taxes or deductions are taken out.
  4. Housing & Utility Costs: Include your total monthly rent/mortgage, property taxes, home insurance, and utility bills (heating, electricity, water, phone).
  5. Dependent Care Costs: Enter amounts paid for child or adult care that are necessary for a household member to work, look for work, or attend school.
  6. Medical Expenses: This only applies to elderly or disabled household members. Enter their total out-of-pocket medical expenses that are over $35 per month.
  7. Countable Assets: Enter the total value of resources like cash, and money in checking, savings, or investment accounts. Do not include the home you live in or most retirement accounts.
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Elderly or Disabled Household Questions

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Disclaimer: This is an informational estimator and not an official application or guarantee of benefits. Calculations are based on FY 2026 federal guidelines. Texas operates under Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE), which may mean the asset test is not applied to many households. This calculator includes the federal asset test for informational purposes, but your actual eligibility may differ. The final eligibility decision is made by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).

Frequently Asked Questions (FY 2026)

How much can I get from Texas SNAP benefits in 2026?

Your benefit amount depends on your household's size and net income. For Fiscal Year 2026, the maximum monthly benefit for one person is $298. Most eligible households with 1-2 people receive at least the minimum benefit of $24 monthly. A family of four can receive up to $994 per month.

What's the income limit for Texas SNAP for 2026?

For Fiscal Year 2026 (starting Oct 1, 2025), the gross monthly income limit is generally $1,696 for a single person and $3,483 for a family of four. You can view a complete chart of the Texas SNAP income limits for different household sizes. While these are the standard federal limits, Texas may use different criteria, so it's always best to apply.

How do I calculate my Texas SNAP benefits for 2026?

Take your gross monthly income and subtract allowed deductions, such as the standard deduction ($209 for households of 1-3 people). Also, remove 20% of your earned income. After all deductions, multiply your final net income by 0.3 and subtract that amount from the maximum benefit for your household size. This gives you your estimated monthly SNAP amount.

What are the Texas SNAP work requirements in 2026?

Adults aged 18-52 without dependents generally must work or participate in a job training program for at least 80 hours per month. If this requirement is not met, benefits could be limited to 3 months within a 3-year period. Exemptions apply for individuals who are pregnant, have a disability, or meet other criteria.

Can I use a Texas SNAP calculator to estimate my benefits?

Yes, online SNAP calculators provide a quick estimate based on the information you provide. They are not official applications but are very helpful for understanding your potential eligibility and benefit amount. For an official decision, you must apply through the state.

When do the new SNAP rule changes take effect in Texas?

The new cost-of-living adjustments for benefit amounts and income limits take effect on October 1, 2025. Other changes, such as those related to work requirements for certain adults, have been gradually phasing in and are already in effect.

What deductions can I claim on my Texas SNAP application?

Common deductions include a standard deduction ($209 for households of 1-3 people, and more for larger households), 20% of earned income, certain dependent care costs, and high shelter/utility expenses. Elderly or disabled members may also deduct out-of-pocket medical expenses over $35.

Where can I apply for Texas SNAP benefits online?

You can learn how to apply for SNAP in Texas and submit your application on the official state portal, YourTexasBenefits.com. Applying online is the fastest method. You can also visit a local Texas Health and Human Services office for assistance.

Can I buy groceries online with Texas SNAP EBT in 2026?

Yes, Texas allows SNAP recipients to use their EBT card (Lone Star Card) to purchase groceries online from approved retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and H-E-B. Note that SNAP benefits cannot be used to pay for delivery fees.

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