New York SNAP income limits for 2026 have been updated with cost-of-living adjustments effective October 1, 2025. The gross monthly income limit for a family of four is now $3,483, while the net income limit is $2,680.
These new SNAP eligibility standards help more New York families access food assistance benefits.
Key changes for 2026 include higher income thresholds, increased maximum allotments, and updated deduction amounts.
Use our updated NY Food Stamp Calculator to see if you qualify under the new guidelines.
Page Contents
- 1 What Are the 2026 SNAP Income Limits in New York?
- 2 Special Income Rules for Elderly and Disabled Households
- 3 Maximum SNAP Benefits in New York for 2026
- 4 SNAP Deductions That Lower Your Income
- 5 Asset Limits for New York SNAP
- 6 How to Apply for SNAP in New York (2025-2026)
- 7 Frequently Asked Questions
- 7.1 What is the SNAP income limit for a family of 4 in New York 2026?
- 7.2 How much money can you make and still get food stamps in NY?
- 7.3 What is the maximum SNAP benefit in New York 2026?
- 7.4 Do you have to meet asset limits for SNAP in New York?
- 7.5 When did the 2026 SNAP income limits start in New York?
- 7.6 Can college students get SNAP benefits in New York?
- 7.7 What deductions lower my income for SNAP eligibility?
- 7.8 How do I apply for SNAP benefits in New York 2026?
- 8 Ready to Apply for SNAP Benefits?
What Are the 2026 SNAP Income Limits in New York?
New York follows the federal SNAP income eligibility standards for the 48 contiguous states and D.C. There are two main income tests you must pass to qualify for SNAP benefits.
Gross Monthly Income Limits (130% of Poverty Level)
The gross income test looks at your total household income before deductions:
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,696 |
| 2 people | $2,292 |
| 3 people | $2,888 |
| 4 people | $3,483 |
| 5 people | $4,079 |
| 6 people | $4,675 |
| 7 people | $5,271 |
| 8 people | $5,867 |
| Each additional person | Add $596 |
Net Monthly Income Limits (100% of Poverty Level)
After allowable deductions, your net income must be at or below these amounts:
| Household Size | Net Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,305 |
| 2 people | $1,763 |
| 3 people | $2,221 |
| 4 people | $2,680 |
| 5 people | $3,138 |
| 6 people | $3,596 |
| 7 people | $4,055 |
| 8 people | $4,513 |
| Each additional person | Add $459 |
Special Income Rules for Elderly and Disabled Households
Households with elderly (60+) or disabled members have different income limits. These households only need to meet the net income test, not the gross income test.
For separate elderly/disabled households, the gross income limit is 165% of the poverty level:
- 1 person: $2,152
- 2 people: $2,909
- 3 people: $3,665
- 4 people: $4,421
Maximum SNAP Benefits in New York for 2026
The maximum monthly SNAP allotments for New York households have increased for 2026:
| 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 |
The minimum SNAP benefit for 1-2 person households is $24 per month.
SNAP Deductions That Lower Your Income
Several deductions can reduce your countable income for SNAP eligibility:
Standard Deductions
- Households 1-2 people: $209
- 3 people: $209
- 4 people: $223
- 5 people: $261
- 6+ people: $299
Other Allowable Deductions
- Shelter costs exceeding half your income (maximum $744 deduction)
- Medical expenses for elderly/disabled members over $35 monthly
- Dependent care costs for work, training, or education
- Child support payments made to non-household members
Asset Limits for New York SNAP
Your household assets must be below these limits to qualify:
- Most households: $3,000 maximum
- Households with elderly (60+) or disabled member: $4,500 maximum
Assets include bank accounts, cash, and vehicles over certain values. Your home and retirement accounts don’t count toward these limits.
How to Apply for SNAP in New York (2025-2026)
You can apply in 3 ways:
- Online: MyBenefits.ny.gov
- Phone: Call 1-800-342-3009
- In Person: Visit your local Department of Social Services (DSS)
📅 Processing time: 30 days
🚨 Expedited SNAP: Get benefits in 7 days if your income and resources are very low.
Documents You Need
Bring or upload these when applying:
- ID: Driver’s license, state ID, passport
- Proof of income: Pay stubs, Social Security, unemployment letters
- Proof of address: Utility bill, lease, or rent agreement
- Bank statements
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SNAP income limit for a family of 4 in New York 2026?
A family of four can earn up to $3,483 per month gross income. The net income limit is $2,680 monthly after deductions. These limits increased from 2025 as part of cost-of-living adjustments.
How much money can you make and still get food stamps in NY?
Your gross monthly income must be at or below 130% of poverty level. For one person, this is $1,696 monthly. For each additional person, add $596 to the income limit.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit in New York 2026?
The maximum monthly SNAP benefit is $994 for a family of four. One person can get up to $298 monthly. These amounts increased from previous years.
Do you have to meet asset limits for SNAP in New York?
Most households must have assets under $3,000. Elderly or disabled households have a $4,500 asset limit. Your home and retirement accounts don’t count toward these limits.
When did the 2026 SNAP income limits start in New York?
The new income limits became effective October 1, 2025. These annual adjustments help more families qualify for food assistance benefits.
Can college students get SNAP benefits in New York?
Most students aged 18-49 enrolled half-time cannot get SNAP. Students can qualify if they work 20+ hours weekly. Students with children under age 6 may also qualify.
What deductions lower my income for SNAP eligibility?
Standard deductions range from $209-$299 based on household size. You can also deduct shelter costs over half your income. Medical expenses for elderly members over $35 count too.
How do I apply for SNAP benefits in New York 2026?
Apply online at myBenefits.ny.gov or visit your local Department of Social Services. You need proof of income, identity, and expenses. Processing takes up to 30 days.
Ready to Apply for SNAP Benefits?
The 2026 SNAP changes are good news for New York families. More people can now qualify for food assistance. If your family of four earns under $3,483 monthly, you might get help.
Don’t wait – apply today! Visit myBenefits.ny.gov to start your application. You can also visit your local social services office. The worst thing that happens is they say no. The best thing is you get money for groceries each month.
