Louisiana SNAP Calculator (FY 2026)

Estimate your household's eligibility for Food Assistance 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 bank accounts. Note: Louisiana waives the asset limit for most households.
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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. Louisiana uses Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, which eliminates the asset test and raises the gross income limit for most households. The final eligibility decision is made by the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS). You are encouraged to apply to get an official determination.

Frequently Asked Questions 2026

What are the Louisiana SNAP income limits for FY2026?

Louisiana has standard income limits at 130% poverty level. One person can earn up to $1,696 monthly gross income. A family of four qualifies with $3,483 or less. However, Louisiana also uses broad-based categorical eligibility at 200% poverty. This means most households can earn up to $2,608 for one person or $5,358 for four people.

How much are maximum Louisiana SNAP benefits in FY2026?

Maximum Louisiana SNAP benefits for FY2026 start at $298 monthly. A household of three gets up to $785 each month. Four-person families receive a maximum of $994 monthly. These amounts increased from October 2025 due to annual cost-of-living adjustments.

Does Louisiana SNAP have an asset limit in FY2026?

Louisiana doesn't have an asset limit for most SNAP households. You can have bank accounts and savings without penalty. Standard federal limits are $3,000 for most families. Households with elderly or disabled members can have $4,500 in assets.

How do I apply for Louisiana SNAP benefits?

Apply for Louisiana SNAP online through the LDH website. You can also submit applications by mail or fax. Local food banks throughout Louisiana offer free application help. Your application will be processed within 30 days of submission.

What foods can't I buy with Louisiana SNAP in 2026?

Starting January 2026, Louisiana SNAP won't cover soda or candy. You can't buy alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, or supplements either. Hot prepared foods and non-food items aren't eligible. Pet food, paper products, and cleaning supplies are excluded too.

Do I need to work to get Louisiana SNAP?

Most Louisiana SNAP recipients don't face work requirements. Adults ages 18-54 without kids must work 20 hours weekly. People over 55, parents with children, and disabled individuals are exempt. Students must meet specific work or school requirements to qualify.

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