The highest income to qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) varies significantly based on household size. Generally, the larger your household, the higher the income limit you can meet to be eligible for benefits. For most households, there are two main income tests: gross monthly income (generally 130% of the federal poverty level) and net monthly income (generally 100% of the federal poverty level).
The SNAP income limits provided below are effective from October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024.
SNAP Income Limits by Household Size
To qualify for SNAP, your household's income typically must fall within these guidelines. The limits below represent the maximum gross and net monthly income a household can have to be considered for eligibility.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income (130% of Poverty) | Net Monthly Income (100% of Poverty) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,580 | $1,215 |
| 2 | $2,137 | $1,644 |
| 3 | $2,694 | $2,072 |
| 4 | $3,250 | $2,500 |
Please note: The "highest income to qualify" for SNAP, based on the provided data for households up to four members, is $3,250 per month for a household of four under the gross income test. This limit increases for larger households, though specific figures beyond a household of four are not detailed in this reference.
Understanding Gross and Net Income
- Gross Monthly Income is your household's total income before any deductions are made. This includes wages, salaries, self-employment income, Social Security benefits, and other sources.
- Net Monthly Income is the gross income minus certain allowable deductions, such as standard deductions, earned income deductions, dependent care costs, medical expenses for elderly or disabled members, and shelter costs.
Most households must meet both the gross and net income limits to qualify. However, some households, such as those with elderly or disabled members, may only need to meet the net income limit.
Factors Affecting Eligibility
Beyond income, other factors also determine SNAP eligibility:
- Resources: Most households must also meet a resource limit (e.g., cash in bank accounts). For the 2024 fiscal year, this limit is typically \$2,750, or \$4,250 for households with at least one member who is age 60 or older, or disabled.
- Work Requirements: Many able-bodied adults without dependents are subject to work requirements to receive SNAP benefits.
- State-Specific Rules: While federal guidelines set the base, individual states may have slight variations or additional requirements.
For more detailed information on SNAP eligibility and current income limits, you can refer to resources from organizations like the National Council on Aging (NCOA).
