Food stamps is a federal program that puts money on a card you use like a debit card to buy groceries

The official name is the Supplemental Nutrition information Program, or SNAP. The money loads onto a card called an EBT card (Electronic Benefits Transfer). You swipe it at the checkout to pay for food — the same way you would use a debit card. The amount you receive each month depends on your household size and income. You can buy fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, and other food items. You cannot buy hot food, alcohol, tobacco, or non-food items like soap or paper towels.

SNAP is run by your state's department of social services or human resources, not by a single federal office. Each state sets its own rules within federal guidelines, so the exact process and the amount you receive can differ depending on where you live. The program has been around since the 1960s and is one of the largest food information programs in the country.

Key Takeaways

  • SNAP puts monthly money on an EBT card that works like a debit card at grocery stores and farmers markets.
  • You can buy unprepared food like produce, meat, and dairy, but not hot meals, alcohol, or household items.
  • The amount you receive depends on your household size, income, and expenses, and varies by state.
  • Your state's department of social services or human resources handles SNAP, so the process and rules differ by location.
  • The EBT card is private — the cashier cannot tell what program the money comes from just by looking at the card.

How much money you get each month

SNAP calculates your benefit amount using a formula that looks at your household income, the number of people in your household, and certain expenses like rent and utilities. The federal government sets a maximum benefit amount each year. For a single person in 2024, the maximum is around $291 per month. For a family of four, it is around $1,316 per month. These amounts change yearly, and your actual benefit will be lower if your income is above the minimum threshold.

The calculation is not straightforward — it involves deductions for housing costs, childcare, and medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members. Your state's SNAP office will do this math for you when you submit your information. The key point is that the more income your household has, the less SNAP money you receive. Once your income reaches a certain level, you no longer receive any benefit.

What you can and cannot buy

SNAP money can be used on any unprepared food intended for home cooking and eating. This includes fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry, fish and seafood, dairy products, breads and cereals, snacks like nuts and seeds, and beverages like milk and juice. You can also buy seeds and plants that produce food.

You cannot use SNAP to buy hot or prepared food — this means no deli chicken, no pizza from the grocery store bakery, and no food from a restaurant or food truck. You also cannot buy alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicine, pet food, soap, paper products, or anything else that is not food. Some grocery stores have a self-checkout system that will reject items you try to buy with your EBT card if they are not SNAP-may be able to access, so you will know right away if something does not may have access to.

How to use your EBT card

Once you receive your EBT card in the mail, you set up it by calling the number on the back or using your state's online portal. You then set a PIN (personal identification number) — this is like a debit card PIN that only you know. When you shop, you select your groceries, go to the checkout, and tell the cashier you are paying with your EBT card. You swipe or insert the card and enter your PIN, just like you would with a regular debit card.

The cashier will separate your SNAP-may be able to access items from any non-may be able to access items. Your EBT card pays for the may be able to access food, and you pay for the rest with cash, a credit card, or another payment method. The transaction is private — the cashier cannot see what program the money comes from, and your receipt will not say "food stamps" or "SNAP" on it. You can use your EBT card at most grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers markets that accept SNAP.

When your benefits arrive each month

Your SNAP benefits load onto your EBT card on a specific day each month. The day depends on your state and sometimes on the last digit of your case number. Your state's SNAP office will tell you which day to expect your money. The benefits do not roll over — if you do not spend them by the end of the month, they disappear. This means you need to plan your grocery shopping around when your benefits arrive.

You can check your balance by calling the customer service number on the back of your EBT card, logging into your state's online portal, or texting a balance inquiry to the number provided. Many states also let you check your balance at the ATM or by asking the cashier at checkout. Keeping track of your balance helps you know how much you have left to spend before the month ends.

How SNAP differs by state

While SNAP is a federal program, each state runs it slightly differently. Some states have higher income limits than others. Some states allow certain expenses as deductions that other states do not. Some states process applications faster than others. A few states offer online shopping with SNAP at certain retailers, while most do not yet. The maximum benefit amounts are the same nationwide, but the income thresholds and deduction rules vary.

This is why it matters which state you live in. If you move to a different state, you will need to reapply for SNAP in your new state. Your old EBT card will not work once you move. Contact your new state's SNAP office as soon as you arrive to start the process there.

SNAP and other information programs

SNAP often works alongside other programs. If you receive Temporary information for Needy Families (TANF), you may receive SNAP as well. If you are elderly or disabled and receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may also be on SNAP. Some people receive both SNAP and housing vouchers. These programs are separate — getting one does not automatically disqualify you from another, though your income and household situation affect what you can receive.

Your state's social services office can tell you which programs you might be able to use at the same time. Some states have combined process processes that let you explore for multiple programs in one step. Others require separate applications for each program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use SNAP at farmers markets?

Yes. Many farmers markets accept EBT cards, and some states have programs that match your SNAP spending at farmers markets dollar-for-dollar. This means if you spend $10 in SNAP benefits on produce at a participating farmers market, you get an extra $10 in tokens to spend there. Check with your local farmers market or your state's SNAP office to find participating locations.

What happens if I do not spend all my SNAP money by the end of the month?

The money disappears. SNAP benefits do not roll over to the next month. This is why it is important to plan your grocery shopping around when your benefits arrive. If you know you will not use all your money, buy shelf-stable items like canned goods, rice, or pasta that you can store and use later.

Can someone else use my EBT card?

No. Your EBT card is for you only, and you are the only one who should know your PIN. If someone else uses your card without permission, that is fraud. If your card is lost or stolen, call the number on the back when ready to report it and request a replacement.

Do I have to report changes in my income or household?

Yes. If your income changes, someone moves into or out of your household, or your living situation changes, you must report it to your state's SNAP office. Failing to report changes can result in overpayment, which you may have to repay. Your state will tell you how to report changes — usually by phone, mail, or online.

Can I buy food for my pets with SNAP?

No. SNAP covers food for people only. Pet food is not an may be able to access item. If you need help with pet food, some local animal shelters and food banks offer pet food information programs separate from SNAP.