The South Carolina SNAP (Food Stamps) program helps low-income households buy food using an EBT card. Eligibility depends mainly on your household size and income, updated yearly by the USDA.
✅ Quick Facts:
- Who qualifies? Low-income families under USDA income limits.
- Income chart: See below for 2025–2026 gross & net limits.
- Max benefits: Up to $994/month for 4 people.
- Apply: Online via SC DSS Benefits Portal.
- Approval time: 30 days (7 days for emergencies).
👉 Use our South Carolina SNAP Calculator to estimate your benefits instantly.
Page Contents
SC SNAP Income Eligibility (FY 2026)
Effective: October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026
Source: USDA SNAP COLA Memo FY2026
Gross & Net Monthly Income Limits
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income (130%) | Net Monthly Income (100%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,696 | $1,305 |
| 2 | $2,292 | $1,763 |
| 3 | $2,888 | $2,221 |
| 4 | $3,483 | $2,680 |
| 5 | $4,079 | $3,138 |
| 6 | $4,675 | $3,596 |
| 7 | $5,271 | $4,055 |
| 8 | $5,867 | $4,513 |
| Each add’l member | +$596 | +$459 |
Maximum SNAP Benefits in South Carolina (FY 2026)
| Household Size | Max Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $298 |
| 2 | $546 |
| 3 | $785 |
| 4 | $994 |
| 5 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $1,421 |
| 7 | $1,571 |
| 8 | $1,789 |
| Each add’l person | +$218 |
💡 The minimum benefit for 1–2 person households is $24/month.
How to Apply for SNAP in South Carolina
You can apply online, by mail, or in person through the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS).
1️⃣ Apply Online
Visit SC DSS Benefits Portal and submit your SNAP application.
2️⃣ Apply by Mail
Download the SNAP form, fill it, and mail it to your county DSS office.
3️⃣ Apply In-Person
Visit your nearest local DSS office for help completing your application.
4️⃣ Documents Needed
Bring or upload:
- ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, SSI, or unemployment)
- Rent or mortgage proof
- Utility bills
- Childcare or medical expense proof
SC SNAP Eligibility Factors
To qualify for SNAP in South Carolina, households must:
- Meet income and resource limits.
- Have U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status.
- Live in South Carolina.
- Register for work if required.
Asset Limits (unchanged for FY2026):
- $3,000 for regular households.
- $4,500 if a member is elderly (60+) or disabled.
FAQs – South Carolina SNAP 2025–2026
1. What is the income limit for SNAP in SC for 2026?
A family of four must earn under $3,483 gross/month or $2,680 net/month.
2. What is the max SNAP benefit in SC for 2026?
The maximum is $994/month for a family of four.
3. How fast can I get benefits?
Most applications are processed within 30 days; emergencies within 7 days.
4. Can I apply online?
Yes. Apply at benefitsportal.dss.sc.gov.
5. Do seniors qualify for higher limits?
Yes. Households with elderly/disabled members use the 165% income limit.
6. How often are SNAP limits updated?
Every October 1 by the USDA, based on inflation adjustments.
Conclusion
The 2025–2026 SC SNAP income limits make more families eligible for food assistance this year. If your household meets the income chart, you could receive up to $994 per month to help buy groceries.
Applying is quick and free—just gather your income and ID documents, then apply online or visit your nearest DSS office.
👉 Don’t wait—apply today and use our SNAP calculator to check your eligibility instantly!
