North Carolina SNAP Benefits Calculator 2025
Estimate your potential Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits based on the latest guidelines
Household Information
Income Information
Expense Deductions
Your Estimated SNAP Benefits
Enter your information to see your estimated benefits
Maximum Allotment for Household Size:
$0
Gross Monthly Income:
$0
Standard Deduction:
$0
Earned Income Deduction (20%):
$0
Dependent Care Deduction:
$0
Child Support Deduction:
$0
Medical Expense Deduction:
$0
Total Shelter Costs:
$0
Shelter Deduction:
$0
Net Monthly Income:
$0
30% of Net Income:
$0
Estimated Monthly SNAP Benefit:
$0
Disclaimer: This calculator provides an estimate only and not a guarantee of benefits. Official determination requires application through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. The actual benefit amount may differ based on verification of your information and other factors.
How to Use This Calculator
1
Enter Household Information
Start by entering the number of people in your household and their details including age, disability status, and citizenship information.
2
Input Income Sources
Enter all sources of monthly income for your household, including earned income from jobs and unearned income like Social Security benefits.
3
Add Expense Deductions
Provide information about your housing costs, utility expenses, childcare costs, and other eligible deductions.
4
View Your Results
Your estimated monthly benefit amount and detailed calculation breakdown will update automatically as you enter information.
North Carolina SNAP (Food Stamps) 2025 FAQs
How do I apply for food stamps in North Carolina 2025?
You can apply for NC food stamps online at ePASS.nc.gov. You can also visit your local DSS office. The application takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. You need basic personal and income information ready.
What is the income limit for SNAP in North Carolina 2025?
A single person can earn up to $1,580 monthly gross income. A family of four can earn up to $3,250 monthly. Net income limits are lower after deductions. These amounts may change throughout 2025.
How long does it take to get approved for food stamps in NC?
Most SNAP applications get processed within 30 days. Emergency cases get approved within 7 days. You will receive a decision letter by mail. Check your application status online at ePASS.
Can college students get food stamps in North Carolina?
College students can get SNAP if they meet special rules. You must work 20 hours weekly or have kids. You can also qualify if you get work-study. Students in job training programs may qualify too.
Do I qualify for emergency food stamps in NC?
You qualify for emergency SNAP if you have less than $150 monthly income. You also qualify if housing costs exceed your income plus cash. Emergency benefits come within 7 days of applying.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit in North Carolina 2025?
A single person gets up to $291 monthly maximum. A family of four gets up to $973 monthly maximum. Your actual amount depends on income and expenses. Benefits load on your EBT card monthly.
When do NC food stamp benefits get deposited?
NC SNAP benefits load based on your case number's last digit. Benefits load from the 3rd to 21st of each month. Check your deposit date on your EBT card or ePASS account.
How much do you get for food stamps per person in NC?
The average person gets about $180 monthly in SNAP benefits. This amount varies based on household income and size. Maximum benefit for one person is $291 monthly. Minimum benefit is usually $23 monthly.
Can I check my NC EBT card balance online?
Yes, check your balance at www.ebtEDGE.com or call 1-888-622-7328. You can also check at any store terminal. The ePASS website also shows your benefit information. Balance updates happen in real-time.
What can you buy with food stamps in North Carolina?
You can buy most foods for home cooking and eating. This includes fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and bread. You cannot buy alcohol, tobacco, hot foods, or non-food items. Pet food is not allowed either.
Can I use NC EBT card at restaurants?
Most NC SNAP recipients cannot use benefits at restaurants. Only elderly, disabled, or homeless people can use restaurant meal programs. These programs are very limited in North Carolina. Check with your local DSS office.
Does North Carolina accept EBT for grocery pickup?
Yes, most major grocery stores accept EBT for online pickup. Walmart, Food Lion, and Harris Teeter accept EBT online. You can pay delivery fees with cash or debit card. Online purchasing expanded during COVID-19.
Can I use my NC EBT card in other states?
Yes, your NC EBT card works in all 50 states. You can shop at any store that accepts SNAP. Your benefits stay the same when traveling. Report address changes if you move permanently.
How often do I need to recertify for NC food stamps?
Most households recertify every 12 months. Some households recertify every 6 months. Elderly and disabled households may recertify every 24 months. You get a notice 45 days before your deadline.
What happens if I don't recertify my NC SNAP benefits?
Your benefits will stop if you miss recertification deadline. You must reapply completely to get benefits back. There is no grace period for late recertification. Act quickly when you get renewal notices.
How do I report changes to my NC SNAP case?
Report changes online at ePASS.nc.gov within 10 days. You can also call your local DSS office. Important changes include income, address, and household size. Some changes must be reported immediately.
Can I recertify my NC food stamps online?
Yes, you can complete most recertifications online through ePASS. You may need to submit documents by mail or fax. Some cases require an interview by phone. Online recertification is faster and more convenient.
Do seniors get extra SNAP benefits in North Carolina?
Seniors over 60 get higher deductions for medical expenses. They also get longer certification periods. Some seniors qualify for minimum $23 monthly benefit. Emergency SNAP rules are easier for seniors.
How does child support affect NC SNAP benefits?
Child support you receive counts as income for SNAP. Child support you pay reduces your countable income. Court-ordered support payments are deducted from gross income. Keep records of all support payments.
Can immigrants get food stamps in North Carolina?
Some immigrants can get SNAP benefits in NC. Legal permanent residents may qualify after 5 years. Refugees and asylum seekers often qualify immediately. Undocumented immigrants cannot get SNAP benefits. Children may qualify regardless of parent status.
What if I get denied for NC food stamps?
You can appeal the decision within 90 days. Request a fair hearing through your local DSS office. You can also reapply with additional information. Get help from legal aid or advocacy groups. Keep all paperwork for your appeal.
What are the work requirements for NC SNAP?
Able-bodied adults without dependents must work 20 hours weekly. You can also do approved training or workfare. This rule applies to people aged 18-49. Some areas have waivers for high unemployment.
How long can I get food stamps without working in NC?
ABAWD adults can get SNAP for only 3 months in 36 months. You must work or train to continue benefits. Some counties waive this rule due to job shortages. Students and caregivers have different rules.
Does unemployment count as work for NC SNAP?
Receiving unemployment benefits does not count as work for SNAP. You still must meet work requirements if you are ABAWD. Unemployment income does count toward SNAP income limits. Job search activities may count toward work requirements.