Wisconsin FoodShare Income Limits FY2026

Wisconsin FoodShare program helps low-income families buy healthy food through SNAP benefits. For fiscal year 2026 starting October 1, 2025, the program has updated income limits and benefit amounts to help more Wisconsin residents afford groceries.

Key Points About Wisconsin FoodShare 2026

• Maximum benefit for family of 4: $994 per month
• Gross income limit for family of 4: $3,483 monthly
• Net income limit for family of 4: $2,680 monthly
• Minimum benefit: $24 for 1-2 person households
• Asset limit: $3,000 for most households, $4,500 for elderly/disabled
• Effective dates: October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026

What Are Wisconsin FoodShare Income Limits for 2026?

Wisconsin FoodShare uses federal poverty guidelines to determine who qualifies for benefits. Your household must meet both gross income (before deductions) and net income (after deductions) limits to qualify.

Wisconsin applies a gross income limit of 200% of the federal poverty level for most households. The net income must not exceed 100% of poverty level after allowed deductions.

Wisconsin FoodShare Income Limits Table 2026

Household Size	Gross Monthly Income (130%)	Net Monthly Income (100%)	Maximum Benefit
1 person	$1,696	$1,305	$298
2 people	$2,292	$1,763	$546
3 people	$2,888	$2,221	$785
4 people	$3,483	$2,680	$994
5 people	$4,079	$3,138	$1,183
6 people	$4,675	$3,596	$1,421
7 people	$5,271	$4,055	$1,571
8 people	$5,867	$4,513	$1,789
Each additional	+$596	+$459	+$218

Source: USDA FY2026 COLA Adjustments

Did SNAP Benefits Increase in 2026?

Yes, FoodShare benefits increased for 2026. Maximum allotments increased for the 48 states and DC, with a family of four now receiving up to $994 monthly. The minimum benefit also rose to $24 for small households.

These annual adjustments help benefits keep pace with rising food costs. Wisconsin families will see slightly higher benefit amounts starting October 2025.

What Counts as Income for Wisconsin FoodShare?

FoodShare considers all money your household receives before taxes. This includes wages from jobs, self-employment income, Social Security benefits, unemployment payments, child support, and pension payments.

Some income doesn’t count, like TANF payments, SSI benefits, and most student financial aid. You can deduct 20% of earned income, dependent care costs, medical expenses for elderly or disabled members, and excess shelter costs when calculating net income.

How Much Can a Family of 4 Get in Wisconsin FoodShare?

A family of four in Wisconsin can receive up to $994 per month in FoodShare benefits for 2026. The exact amount depends on your household’s net income after allowed deductions.

If your family has no income, you receive the maximum amount. As your income increases, your benefit amount decreases. Use a Wisconsin SNAP benefits calculator to estimate your benefit amount based on your specific situation.

Wisconsin FoodShare Deductions for 2026

Wisconsin allows several deductions to calculate your net income:

Standard Deduction by Household Size:

• 1-2 people: $209
• 3 people: $223
• 4 people: $261
• 5 people: $299
• 6+ people: $299

Other Important Deductions:

• Earned Income Deduction: 20% of gross earned income
• Dependent Care: Costs for work, training, or education
• Medical Expenses: For elderly or disabled members over $35 monthly
• Excess Shelter Costs: Housing costs above 50% of income (maximum $744 deduction)
• Homeless Shelter Deduction: Up to $198.99 monthly

How to Apply for FoodShare in Wisconsin

Wisconsin offers four convenient ways to apply for FoodShare benefits.

Apply Online (Fastest Method)

1. Visit the ACCESS Wisconsin website at access.wi.gov
2. Click “Apply for Benefits”
3. Create an account or log in
4. Complete the FoodShare application form
5. Upload required documents electronically
6. Submit your application

You can also use the MyACCESS mobile app to apply and manage benefits from your smartphone.

Apply by Phone

1. Call your local county agency (find numbers at dhs.wisconsin.gov)
2. Request a FoodShare application over the phone
3. Answer questions from the caseworker
4. Provide information about household members and income
5. Schedule a phone interview if required

Apply in Person

1. Find your county agency office location
2. Visit during business hours (call ahead for hours)
3. Request a FoodShare application form (F-16019)
4. Fill out the application with staff assistance
5. Submit documents and complete an interview same day

Apply by Mail

1. Download form F-16019 from dhs.wisconsin.gov
2. Fill out the paper application completely
3. Include copies of required documents
4. Mail to your local county agency
5. Wait for a phone interview appointment

Required Documents for Wisconsin FoodShare

Gather these documents before applying:

• Identification: Driver’s license, state ID, or birth certificate
• Proof of Income: Pay stubs, employer letter, or tax returns
• Proof of Expenses: Rent receipt, mortgage statement, utility bills
• Social Security Numbers: For all household members
• Immigration Status: For non-citizens (if applicable)
• Medical Bills: For elderly or disabled household members

How Fast Will I Get Approved for FoodShare in 2026?

Most Wisconsin FoodShare applications are processed within 30 days of submission. If you qualify for expedited services, you could receive benefits within 7 days.

You qualify for expedited processing if:

• Your household has less than $150 in monthly income
• You have $100 or less in cash and checking accounts
• You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker
• Your monthly expenses exceed your income and cash on hand

After Approval:

• Benefits are loaded onto your Quest EBT card
• Use the card like a debit card at any grocery store
• Accepted at farmers markets and participating retailers
• Benefits are added to your card monthly

Wisconsin FoodShare Asset Limits

Asset limits remain unchanged at $3,000 for most households and $4,500 for households with elderly or disabled members. Assets include cash, bank accounts, and property (excluding your home and one vehicle).

Assets that COUNT toward the limit:

• Money in checking and savings accounts
• Cash on hand
• Second vehicles or additional property
• Stocks, bonds, and investment accounts

Assets that DON’T COUNT:

• Your primary home where you live
• One vehicle used for transportation
• Retirement accounts (401k, IRA, pension plans)
• Household goods and personal belongings
• Life insurance policies

If you own multiple properties or have substantial savings, check with your county agency about asset rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Wisconsin FoodShare provides crucial food assistance to eligible households throughout the state. With updated income limits and increased benefit amounts for 2026, more families can access nutritious food for their tables.

If your household income falls within the limits shown above, don’t wait to apply. The application process is simple whether you choose to apply online through ACCESS Wisconsin, by phone, in person at your county office, or by mail.

Ready to apply? Visit access.wi.gov today to start your FoodShare application and get the food assistance your family needs. You can also call 1-888-794-5556 for help with your application or to find your local county agency.

Last Updated: October 2025 | Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Service FY2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustments