Massachusetts SNAP income limits for 2025 help determine if you qualify for food assistance benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
In Massachusetts, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) follows the USDA FY2025 federal income standards and state-specific eligibility guidelines.
For 2025, a single-person household qualifies with gross income under $1,632/month or net income under $1,255/month, while Massachusetts’ categorical eligibility threshold is $2,608/month.
To see if your household qualifies instantly, use our Massachusetts SNAP eligibility calculator for a quick estimate before applying.
Massachusetts SNAP Income Limits Chart (2025)
The table below combines data from the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) and USDA/FNS FY2025 guidelines (effective October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025).
| Household Size | MA Categorical Eligible (Monthly) | Annual Equivalent | Federal Gross 130% (Monthly) | Annual Gross | Federal Net 100% (Monthly) | Annual Net | Max Monthly SNAP Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,608 | $31,296 | $1,632 | $19,584 | $1,255 | $15,060 | $292 |
| 2 | $3,525 | $42,300 | $2,215 | $26,580 | $1,704 | $20,448 | $536 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $53,304 | $2,798 | $33,576 | $2,152 | $25,824 | $768 |
| 4 | $5,358 | $64,296 | $3,380 | $40,560 | $2,600 | $31,200 | $975 |
| 5 | $6,275 | $75,300 | $3,963 | $47,556 | $3,049 | $36,588 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $7,192 | $86,304 | $4,546 | $54,552 | $3,497 | $41,964 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $8,108 | $97,296 | $5,129 | $61,548 | $3,945 | $47,340 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $9,025 | $108,300 | $5,712 | $68,544 | $4,394 | $52,728 | $1,756 |
| +Each Additional Person | +$917 | +$11,004 | +$583 | +$6,996 | +$449 | +$5,388 | +$220 |
Key takeaway: Massachusetts uses categorical eligibility (200% FPL) for easier access. Federal gross and net tests still apply, and benefits are calculated using 30% of countable net income.
Massachusetts SNAP Maximum Income Limits & Benefits
Understanding SNAP eligibility requirements in Massachusetts starts with knowing the current income thresholds. The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) uses these limits to determine food stamp qualification:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Income (Gross) | Maximum SNAP Benefits | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,608 | $292 | $31,296 |
| 2 people | $3,525 | $536 | $42,300 |
| 3 people | $4,442 | $768 | $53,304 |
| 4 people | $5,358 | $975 | $64,296 |
| 5 people | $6,275 | $1,158 | $75,300 |
| 6 people | $7,192 | $1,390 | $86,304 |
| 7 people | $8,108 | $1,536 | $97,296 |
| 8 people | $9,025 | $1,756 | $108,300 |
| Each additional person | Add $917 | Add $220 | Add $11,004 |
Note: Your actual SNAP benefit amount may vary based on household expenses, deductions, and net income calculations.
Understanding SNAP Eligibility in Massachusetts
Massachusetts SNAP eligibility is based on income, household size, and expenses. Here’s how it works:
- Gross Income Test: Most households must earn 130% or less of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) before deductions.
- Net Income Test: After subtracting allowable deductions (rent, childcare, medical expenses), your net income must be at or below 100% FPL.
- Categorical Eligibility: Massachusetts applies 200% FPL thresholds for many households, making more families automatically eligible.
- Benefit Calculation: The maximum allotment is reduced by 30% of your net income.
Asset Limits
Most Massachusetts households do not face asset/resource tests due to categorical eligibility. However:
- Households not categorically eligible face asset caps:
- $3,000 for most households
- $4,500 if a member is elderly (60+) or disabled
How to Check SNAP Eligibility in Massachusetts
Massachusetts SNAP Household Definition
Your SNAP household composition includes anyone you regularly buy and prepare meals with. Massachusetts law requires these family members in your household:
- Your spouse (if living together)
- Children under 22 (regardless of meal sharing)
- Other household members who share food purchases and preparation
What Income Counts for SNAP Benefits
Massachusetts SNAP income calculations include all money received by household members:
- Employment wages and salary
- Social Security benefits and disability payments
- Unemployment compensation and workers’ compensation
- Child support payments received
- Cash assistance from other programs
- Self-employment income and business profits
- Retirement pensions and investment income
Massachusetts Food Stamp Application Process
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Massachusetts
Applying for Massachusetts food stamps offers multiple convenient options through the Department of Transitional Assistance:
1. Online SNAP Application
- Visit DTAConnect.com for fastest processing
- Complete application 24/7 from any device
- Upload required documents electronically
- Track application status online
2. Phone Application
- Call DTA Assistance Line: (877) 382-2363
- Press 7 for SNAP application assistance
- Available Monday-Friday, 8:15 AM – 4:45 PM
- Free interpreters in over 100 languages available
3. Mail or Fax Application
- Download SNAP application from Mass.gov
- Mail to: DTA Document Processing Center, P.O. Box 4406, Taunton, MA 02780
- Fax to: (617) 887-8765
Required SNAP Application Documents
Massachusetts SNAP verification requirements may include:
- Proof of income: Pay stubs, Social Security award letters, unemployment benefits
- Identity verification: Driver’s license, state ID, birth certificate
- Residency proof: Utility bills, lease agreement, mortgage statement
- Household composition: Birth certificates for children, marriage certificate
- Medical expenses: For elderly or disabled household members
- Child care costs: For working parents
Massachusetts EBT Card and SNAP Benefits
Using Your Massachusetts EBT Card
After SNAP approval, you’ll receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that works like a debit card:
- EBT card delivery: Mailed within 3-5 days of application
- Faster pickup: Available at local DTA offices
- PIN setup: Required for card activation and security
- Balance checking: Available 24/7 by phone or online
What You Can Buy with SNAP Benefits
SNAP-eligible food items in Massachusetts include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables for healthy eating
- Meat, poultry, and seafood for protein sources
- Dairy products including milk, cheese, yogurt
- Bread and cereals for essential carbohydrates
- Seeds and plants for growing food at home
- Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares
Special SNAP programs available:
- Restaurant Meals Program (RMP): Hot meals for elderly, disabled, or homeless individuals
- Healthy Incentives Program (HIP): Extra $40-$80 monthly for local produce purchases
Massachusetts SNAP Special Populations
SNAP for Seniors (60+) in Massachusetts
Massachusetts SNAP for elderly includes special provisions:
- Simplified application: Special senior application available
- Medical expense deductions: For prescription drugs and medical care
- Asset exemptions: Retirement accounts and life insurance excluded
- Restaurant meals: Access to hot meals through RMP
SNAP for Students and Working Families
Massachusetts SNAP work requirements and student eligibility:
- Student eligibility: Full-time students with work-study or dependents may qualify
- Working families: No asset limits make qualification easier
- Job training participants: SNAP Path to Work offers additional support
SNAP for People with Disabilities
Massachusetts SNAP disability accommodations:
- Application assistance: Help completing forms and interviews
- Medical expense deductions: Prescription costs and disability-related expenses
- Authorized representatives: Someone can apply and shop for you
- Accessibility services: Available in all DTA offices
Frequently Asked Questions:
What’s the 2025 income limit for a single person in Massachusetts?
A single person qualifies if they earn $1,632/month (gross) or $1,255/month (net). The Massachusetts categorical eligibility threshold is $2,608/month.
Q: How much SNAP benefits will I receive in Massachusetts?
A: Maximum SNAP benefits range from $292 for individuals to $1,756 for households of eight, but your actual amount depends on income and expenses.
Q: Does Massachusetts have asset limits for SNAP?
A: No, Massachusetts has no asset limits for SNAP eligibility, making it easier to qualify compared to federal requirements.
Q: How long does SNAP application take in Massachusetts?
A: DTA processes SNAP applications within 30 days, with emergency benefits available within 7 days for qualifying households.
Q: Can college students get SNAP in Massachusetts?
A: Students may qualify if they work-study, have dependents, receive certain benefits, or participate in approved training programs.
Does Massachusetts check bank accounts for SNAP?
No, most households are categorically eligible and face no asset test. Only non-categorically eligible households face limits ($3,000 or $4,500 if elderly/disabled).
Do income limits change mid-year?
Income tables stay fixed for the fiscal year (Oct 1, 2024 – Sept 30, 2025), but deductions and utility allowances can adjust annually.
Where can I check all state SNAP income limits?
See the full guide: SNAP Income Limits by State 2025 for every state’s chart.
Conclusion
Ready to apply for Massachusetts SNAP benefits? Visit DTAConnect.com or call (877) 382-2363 today. Remember, if approved, your food stamp benefits start from your application date, so don’t delay applying for this essential nutrition assistance program.