Wisconsin FoodShare Calculator (FY 2026)

Estimate your household's eligibility for FoodShare benefits based on official guidelines for Oct 2025 - Sep 2026.

How to Use This Calculator
  1. Household Size: Enter the total number of people who buy and prepare food together.
  2. Elderly/Disabled Status: Select 'Yes' if anyone in your household is age 60+ or receives disability benefits. These households have different rules if income is very high.
  3. Gross Monthly Income: Enter your household's total income from all sources before any taxes or deductions are taken out.
  4. Housing & Utility Costs: Include your total monthly rent/mortgage, property taxes, home insurance, and utility bills (heating, electricity, water, phone).
  5. Dependent Care Costs: Enter amounts paid for child or adult care that are necessary for a household member to work, look for work, or attend school.
  6. Medical Expenses: This only applies to elderly or disabled household members. Enter their total out-of-pocket medical expenses that are over $35 per month.
  7. Countable Assets: Most households in Wisconsin do not have an asset limit. Only enter assets if your household has an elderly/disabled member AND your gross income is over the limit.
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Elderly or Disabled Household Questions

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Disclaimer: This is an informational estimator and not an official application or guarantee of benefits. Calculations are based on FY 2026 federal guidelines and Wisconsin's FoodShare rules. Wisconsin uses Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, which raises the gross income limit to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level and eliminates the asset test for most households. The final eligibility decision is made by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. You are encouraged to apply to get an official determination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Wisconsin FoodShare income limits for FY2026?

Wisconsin FoodShare uses 200% of federal poverty guidelines for FY2026 eligibility. A single person can earn up to $2,610 monthly. A family of four qualifies with income up to $5,360 monthly. These limits run from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.

Why does Wisconsin use 200% income limit instead of 130%?

Wisconsin uses broad-based categorical eligibility to help working families. Most states use 130% federal poverty level limits. Wisconsin's 200% limit helps families with high rent or childcare costs. You'll still need to report changes if income exceeds 130%.

How much will I get in Wisconsin FoodShare benefits for FY2026?

FoodShare benefits depend on your household size and net income. A family of four can get up to $994 monthly. A single person's maximum is $298 monthly. The minimum benefit increased to $24 for FY2026.

What is the 130% reporting limit in Wisconsin FoodShare?

The 130% limit is when you must report income changes. For one person, that's $1,696 monthly. For a family of four, it's $3,483 monthly. You can still get benefits above this amount. Always report income changes to your local agency.

Does Wisconsin FoodShare have an asset limit in FY2026?

Wisconsin has no asset limit for households under 200% poverty level. Elderly or disabled members with income over 200% face a $4,500 limit. Your home and vehicle don't count as assets. Bank accounts and cash are countable resources.

How long does Wisconsin FoodShare application take to process?

Wisconsin processes FoodShare applications within 30 days of submission. You might qualify for expedited service in 7 days. Expedited service helps households with very low income. You'll complete a phone interview before approval.

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