The Connecticut SNAP income limits for 2026 decide who can get food stamp benefits. The USDA updates these limits each year to match inflation. The new limits apply from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 20262026 snap.
- ✅ Who qualifies? Low-income households that meet income and resource rules
- ✅ Income chart: Gross & net limits for 1–8 people
- ✅ Max benefits: $298 (1 person) to $1,789 (8 people)
- ✅ How to apply? Online, by mail, or at DSS office
- ✅ Minimum Benefit: $24 for households of 1-2
- ✅ Approval time: 30 days (7 days if urgent)
Use our updated Connecticut SNAP Calculator to instantly check your eligibility and estimate your monthly benefits.
Page Contents
Connecticut SNAP Income Limits 2026
Connecticut uses federal SNAP income standards. Two income tests determine eligibility.
Gross Income Test
Your household must earn below 130% of poverty. This includes wages, Social Security, child support, and unemployment.
Net Income Test
After allowed deductions, you must be below 100% poverty. Deductions include housing costs, dependent care, and medical expenses.
The USDA sets these limits annually based on federal poverty guidelines, effective October 1, 2025.
For comparison, you can also see the SNAP income limits by state in 2025 to understand how Connecticut’s numbers match up nationwide.
Connecticut SNAP Income Chart 2026
This table shows monthly income limits and maximum benefits.
| Household Size | Gross Income Limit | Net Income Limit | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,696 | $1,305 | $298 |
| 2 | $2,292 | $1,763 | $546 |
| 3 | $2,888 | $2,221 | $785 |
| 4 | $3,483 | $2,680 | $994 |
| 5 | $4,079 | $3,138 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $4,675 | $3,596 | $1,421 |
| 7 | $5,271 | $4,055 | $1,571 |
| 8 | $5,867 | $4,513 | $1,789 |
| Each Additional | Add $596 | Add $459 | Add $218 |
Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Service, Fiscal Year 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustments
Who Qualifies for SNAP in Connecticut?
Connecticut SNAP eligibility includes income and other factors.
Basic Eligibility Rules
- Be a Connecticut resident
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Provide Social Security numbers for household members
- Meet work requirements (if able-bodied adult)
Income Requirements
Gross income must be under 130% poverty level. Net income must be under 100% poverty level.
Some households only need net income test. This includes elderly or disabled members.
Asset Limits
Most households have a $3,000 asset limit. Households with elderly or disabled members have a $4,500 limit.
Assets include bank accounts and vehicles. Your home doesn’t count.
Connecticut SNAP Deductions
Deductions reduce your countable income. Lower income means higher benefits.
Standard Deduction
Connecticut households receive $209 standard deduction for 1-2 people, $209 for 3 people, $223 for 4 people, $261 for 5 people, and $299 for 6+ people.
Housing Deduction
You can deduct rent or mortgage costs. Utilities count too.
The maximum shelter deduction is $744 per month.
Other Deductions
- Dependent Care: Child care or elder care costs
- Medical Expenses: For elderly or disabled members over $35
- Child Support: Legally obligated payments
- Earned Income: 20% of gross earned income
How to Apply for SNAP in Connecticut
Connecticut offers three application methods. Choose what works best for you.
Apply Online
Visit the Connecticut Department of Social Services website. Create an account on myCTDSS portal.
Complete the application in one session. Upload documents digitally.
Processing takes up to 30 days. Emergency cases process within 7 days.
Apply by Phone
Call the Connecticut DSS Customer Service Center. The number is 1-855-626-6632.
Representatives help complete your application. They speak multiple languages.
Apply in Person
Visit your local DSS office. Find locations on the DSS website.
Bring required documents with you. Staff provide assistance on-site.
Required Documents
Gather these before applying:
- Identification: Driver’s license or state ID
- Proof of Income: Pay stubs, award letters, tax returns
- Residency: Utility bill or lease agreement
- Housing Costs: Rent receipt or mortgage statement
- Child Care Costs: Provider receipts or statements
- Social Security Numbers: For all household members
- Immigration Status: If applicable
Missing documents slow processing time. Submit everything upfront.
Connecticut SNAP Benefits Amount
Your benefit amount depends on income and household size.
Maximum Benefits
Here are the maximum SNAP benefit amounts for Connecticut (FY 2026):
- 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: +$218
📌 Minimum SNAP benefit (1–2 person households): $24
Minimum SNAP Benefits
Small households of 1-2 people receive at least $24 monthly.
How Benefits Are Calculated
Start with maximum allotment for your size. Subtract 30% of net income.
Example for family of four:
- Maximum allotment: $994
- Net income: $2,000
- 30% of net: $600
- Monthly benefit: $394
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the maximum income to qualify for SNAP in CT?
For a household of 4, the gross limit is $3,483/month and net limit is $2,680/month in FY 2026.
2. How much SNAP will I get in Connecticut?
It depends on household size and income. A family of 4 can get up to $994/month.
3. Can seniors qualify for SNAP in CT?
Yes. Seniors (60+) and disabled people have higher income limits (165% FPL).
4. How long does SNAP approval take?
Most applications are processed within 30 days. Emergency SNAP takes 7 days.
5. Do I need a job to get SNAP in Connecticut?
Most adults 18–52 must work or join training. Exemptions apply for students, disabled, and caregivers
6. What is the minimum SNAP benefit in CT?
Small households (1–2 people) may receive the minimum $24 benefit.
Conclusion
The Connecticut SNAP income limits for 2026 make sure help goes to those who need it most. If your household meets these limits, you may get monthly EBT benefits to buy groceries. The program helps families, seniors, and workers afford healthy food.
Don’t miss out—apply today through Connecticut DSS or use the SNAP calculator to check your eligibility.
