Quick Answer: For Washington state SNAP benefits (Basic Food program) in 2025, a single person can earn up to $2,510 per month gross income, while a family of four can earn up to $5,200 per month.
Washington has expanded eligibility beyond federal requirements, making more families eligible for food assistance.
Looking for other states? Check our complete guide to SNAP income limits by state 2025 for eligibility requirements nationwide.
What is SNAP in Washington State?
Basic Food, also known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), helps people buy groceries. The program provides monthly benefits on an EBT card to purchase healthy food items.
2025 Washington SNAP Income Limits
Gross Income Limits (Monthly)
The gross income limit is 200% of the federal poverty level. Here are the monthly limits effective October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025:
| Household Size | Monthly Gross Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,510 |
| 2 people | $3,408 |
| 3 people | $4,304 |
| 4 people | $5,200 |
| 5 people | $6,098 |
| 6 people | $6,994 |
| 7 people | $7,890 |
| Each additional person | +$898 |
Net Income Limits (Monthly and Annual)
Net income is a household’s gross income minus deductions. The net income limit is 100% of the federal poverty level:
| Household Size | Monthly Net Income Limit | Annual Net Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,255 | $15,060 |
| 2 people | $1,704 | $20,448 |
| 3 people | $2,152 | $25,824 |
| 4 people | $2,600 | $31,200 |
| 5 people | $3,049 | $36,588 |
| 6 people | $3,497 | $41,964 |
| 7 people | $3,945 | $47,340 |
| Each additional person | +$449 | +$5,388 |
Washington SNAP Benefits Amounts 2025
Maximum monthly SNAP benefit amounts for 2025:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $292 |
| 2 people | $536 |
| 3 people | $768 |
| 4 people | $975 |
| 5 people | $1,158 |
| 6 people | $1,390 |
| 7 people | $1,536 |
| Each additional person | +$220 |
SNAP Eligibility Requirements in Washington
Income Tests
Washington uses three main eligibility tests:
- Gross Income Test – Total monthly household income before taxes
- Net Income Test – Income after allowed deductions
- Asset Test – Resources and savings
Special Rules for Seniors and Disabled
If the household has a member who is 60 or older or has a disability but is over the gross income limit, the household can instead qualify by meeting the Net Income and Asset tests.
Asset Limits
Good news: There is no asset limit in Washington. This makes Washington more generous than federal SNAP rules.
However, if the household has a member who is 60 or older or has a disability and did not meet the Gross Income test, the household can alternatively qualify under the federal program rules which have an asset limit of $4,500 but no Gross Income limit.
Income Deductions for SNAP
Standard Deductions
Washington allows several deductions to reduce your countable income:
- Standard Deduction – $204 for households of 1-3 people
- Earned Income Deduction – 20% of earned income
- Child Support Payments – Court-ordered payments excluded from gross income
- Medical Expenses – For household members 60+ or disabled (minus $35)
- Utility Allowances – For heating, cooling, and basic utilities
- Shelter Costs – Rent, mortgage, property taxes (if over 50% of income)
Utility Allowances
Households can only receive one utility allowance. If a household qualifies for multiple allowances, choose the highest allowance:
- Heating and Cooling Allowance – If you pay heating/cooling bills
- Basic Utility Allowance – If you pay two or more utility bills
- Single Utility Allowance – If you pay for one utility
Work Requirements for SNAP 2025
Important Change: Starting in July 2025, those aged 18 to 64 must also be working at least 80 hours per month in order to qualify for SNAP.
Who Must Work
Adults aged 18-64 without dependents must meet work requirements.
Work Requirement Exemptions
You don’t need to meet work requirements if you:
- Have a child under 14 years old
- Are pregnant
- Are 60 years old or older
- Have a disability
- Care for a disabled household member
- Are a student
- Already work 30+ hours per week
How to Apply for Washington SNAP
Application Process
- Apply Online – Visit Washington Connection portal
- Phone Application – Call your local DSHS office
- In-Person – Visit a Community Services Office
- Complete Interview – Phone or in-person interview required
Required Documents
Bring these documents for your application:
- Photo ID
- Social Security cards for all household members
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit statements)
- Bank statements
- Rent receipts or mortgage statements
- Utility bills
Frequently Asked Questions
How much Basic Food benefits can I get in Washington?
Maximum monthly benefits range from $292 for one person to $975 for a family of four. Your actual benefit amount depends on your household size, income, and allowable deductions.
Can I get emergency Basic Food benefits in Washington?
Yes, you can get Basic Food benefits within seven calendar days if you meet emergent conditions such as having less than $150 monthly income and $100 or less in resources, or facing urgent housing costs.
What are the work requirements for Washington Basic Food?
Starting July 2025, adults aged 18-64 must work at least 80 hours per month to qualify for SNAP. You’re exempt if you have children under 14, are pregnant, disabled, or already work 30+ hours weekly.
Is there an asset limit for Basic Food in Washington?
No, Washington has no asset limit for Basic Food, making it more generous than federal SNAP rules. Your bank accounts, savings, and vehicle values don’t count against eligibility.
How long does it take to get approved for Basic Food in Washington?
Regular applications are processed within 30 days of submission. Emergency cases can receive benefits within 7 days if they meet specific urgent need criteria.
Can immigrants get Basic Food benefits in Washington?
Legal immigrants who aren’t eligible for federal Basic Food solely due to immigration status can apply for the State Food Assistance Program (FAP), which provides similar benefits using state funding.
Resources and Contact Information
Washington DSHS Offices
Find your local Community Services Office at dshs.wa.gov or call 1-877-501-2233.
Online Tools
- Washington Connection portal for applications
- SNAP benefit calculator
- Case status tracking
Emergency Food Assistance
If you need immediate food help while waiting for SNAP approval:
- Local food banks
- WIC program for women and children
- Senior nutrition programs
- School meal programs
Conclusion
Washington’s Basic Food program helps families buy groceries with monthly benefits. In 2025, a single person can earn up to $2,510 monthly and a family of four can earn up to $5,200 monthly and still qualify.
Apply if your income falls within these limits. Use our Washington Food Stamp calculator or contact a DSHS caseworker to check your eligibility and estimate your benefits.
This information is current as of 2025 and based on Washington state DSHS guidelines. Rules and income limits may change annually. Always verify current requirements when applying.