The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides nutrition benefits to help low-income families buy healthy food. Individuals or families who meet income and eligibility requirements can apply for assistance.
Quick Answer
- 1-person household → Up to $1,696 gross income per month
- 2-person household → Up to $2,292 gross income
- 3-person household → Up to $2,888 gross income
(Data applies from October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026, for the 48 contiguous states and D.C., including North Dakota.)
SNAP, also known as food stamps in North Dakota, helps families buy groceries every month.
Use our fy 2026 updated North Dakota food stamp eligibility calculator to see if you qualify or not.
Page Contents
2025 vs 2026 SNAP Income Limits
| Household Size | 2025 Gross Income | 2026 Gross Income | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,580 (est.) | $1,696 | +$116 |
| 2 | $2,137 | $2,292 | +$155 |
| 3 | $2,694 | $2,888 | +$194 |
| 4 | $3,250 | $3,483 | +$233 |
| 5 | $3,807 | $4,079 | +$272 |
| 6 | $4,364 | $4,675 | +$311 |
To become eligible, two things are important:
- North Dakota SNAP income limits
- Your gross income
SNAP Gross Income Limits 2026
Families must stay under these gross monthly income standards:
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,696 |
| 2 | $2,292 |
| 3 | $2,888 |
| 4 | $3,483 |
| 5 | $4,079 |
| 6 | $4,675 |
| 7 | $5,271 |
| 8 | $5,867 |
| Each extra person | +$596 |
SNAP Net Income Limits 2026
After deductions, what you earn is called Net Income.
| Household Size | Maximum Net Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,305 |
| 2 | $1,763 |
| 3 | $2,221 |
| 4 | $2,680 |
| 5 | $3,138 |
| 6 | $3,596 |
| 7 | $4,055 |
| 8 | $4,513 |
| Each extra person | +$459 |
North Dakota SNAP Deductions 2026
These deductions reduce your eligible income for SNAP eligibility in North Dakota:
- Standard deduction:
- $209 for 1–2 people
- $223 for 3 people
- $261 for 4 people
- $299 for 6+ people
- Work deduction: 20% of earned income
- Child care costs: Actual cost allowed
- Medical costs: For elderly (60+) or disabled members
- Shelter deduction: Rent, mortgage, utilities up to $744 monthly
- Homeless shelter deduction: Up to $198.99 monthly
SNAP Benefits 2026 (North Dakota)
These are the maximum monthly SNAP allotments:
| Household Size | Maximum SNAP Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $298 |
| 2 | $546 |
| 3 | $785 |
| 4 | $994 |
| 5 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $1,421 |
| 7 | $1,571 |
| 8 | $1,789 |
| Each extra person | +$218 |
Who Can Qualify for SNAP in North Dakota?
You may qualify if you:
- Live in North Dakota
- Are a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Spouses and most children under age 22 count as one household
- If age 16–59 and able to work, you must meet general work requirements (with some exemptions)
SNAP Benefit Calculation Example
To see SNAP benefits, use this formula:
Maximum SNAP benefit – 30% of net income = Your benefit
👉 Example: A family of 4
- Maximum SNAP = $994
- Net income = $2,000
- 30% of $2,000 = $600
- $994 – $600 = $394 SNAP per month
FAQs
Q1. What is the income limit for 1 person?
A 1-person family in North Dakota can earn up to $1,696 gross income per month. The net income limit is $1,305.
Q2. How much can a family of 4 earn?
A 4-person family can earn up to $3,483 gross per month. Net income limit = $2,680.
Q3. What is the max SNAP benefit for 1 person?
The maximum SNAP benefit for a 1-person household is $298 per month. Actual benefits depend on net income and deductions.
Q4. Does Social Security count as income?
Yes. Social Security payments are included in gross income for SNAP eligibility. But you may still qualify if income is under the limits.
Q5. Do SNAP limits change each year?
Yes. Limits are updated every October 1 to reflect COLA (cost-of-living adjustments).
Q6. When should you renew SNAP benefits?
You must renew before your certification period ends. North Dakota HHS will send a renewal notice by mail.
How to Apply for SNAP in North Dakota
The fastest way is to apply online via the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (NDHHS) self-service portal.
Other ways:
- Apply in person at your local Human Service Zone office
- Apply by mail (download, print, sign, and mail the SNAP application)
- Apply by fax → 701-328-1006
- Apply by email → applyforhelp@nd.gov
Documents Needed
- Government-issued ID
- Pay stubs or proof of income
- Bank statements
- Proof of household expenses
- Social Security numbers for all members
Processing Time
- Normal cases: Around 30 days
- Emergency cases: Within 7 days
Conclusion
The North Dakota SNAP Income Limits 2026 are higher than last year. Families can earn more and still qualify for food assistance. Don’t miss the chance to get help with groceries — apply today online or offline.
