How to Figure Out Food Stamp Benefits
Food stamps are officially referred to as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. SNAP benefits help economically disadvantaged, disabled and elderly people buy the food they need to sustain themselves. The amount of SNAP benefits you receive is determined mainly by your income, but there are some exceptions. Figuring out the amount of SNAP benefits you will receive can be done in a couple of ways.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Ensure you are eligible to receive food stamps based on your income. In general, your gross income must be no more than 130 percent of the national poverty level. There are exceptions for households with elderly or disabled members, and those who already receive certain government benefits such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). In addition, Alaska and Hawaii have their own individual poverty levels and income guidelines.
-
2
Determine how many members in your household are eligible for food stamp benefits. Even if someone in your household is excluded due to being an illegal immigrant or because of their criminal status, others such as children and pregnant women will likely be able to receive benefits. Eligibility guidelines for your state can be found on the federal SNAP website (see "Resources" section below).
-
-
3
Visit your local social services office to determine for sure how much you can receive in food stamp benefits. Though you may be able to come up with a rough estimate, only after applying for, being accepted to receive and having an appointment with a social services office will you be able to find out exactly how many food stamps you'll be allotted each month.
-
4
Use a SNAP benefit calculator if your state offers one on their official website. Many states offer this tool on the social services section of their website.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit food image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
