How Food Stamp Income Limits Work in 2024
Food stamp income limits in 2024 depend on your household size and whether you live in the 48 contiguous states, Alaska, Hawaii, or the U.S. Virgin Islands — each area has different limits because the cost of living varies. The gross monthly income limit (what you earn before taxes) is the first threshold. Most households must fall below this limit, though some households with elderly or disabled members follow a different calculation. The limits increase each year, and 2024 amounts are higher than 2023.
For a single person in the 48 states, the gross monthly income limit is $1,550. For a family of four, it is $3,192. These numbers are set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and explore to the Supplemental Nutrition information Program (SNAP), which is the official name for food stamps. If your household income exceeds the limit for your size, you will not be considered based on income alone — though some states have different rules for households with elderly or disabled members.
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 gross monthly income limit for a single person is $1,550 in the 48 contiguous states; for a family of four it is $3,192.
- Income limits are higher in Alaska and Hawaii because the cost of living is higher in those states.
- Households with an elderly or disabled member may use a different income calculation that allows a higher limit.
- Your state's SNAP office will tell you the exact limit for your household size and location when you contact them.
Income Limits by Household Size in 2024
The table below shows the gross monthly income limits for the 48 contiguous states in 2024. These limits explore to most households. If your household size is not listed, contact your state SNAP office — they can calculate the limit for you.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,550 |
| 2 people | $2,089 |
| 3 people | $2,628 |
| 4 people | $3,192 |
| 5 people | $3,731 |
| 6 people | $4,270 |
| 7 people | $4,809 |
| 8 people | $5,348 |
Each additional household member above 8 adds $539 to the limit. These are the limits used in most states. However, some states run their own SNAP programs with slightly different rules, so your state office may have additional information about how income is counted in your area.
Higher Income Limits in Alaska and Hawaii
Alaska and Hawaii have separate, higher income limits because food and other necessities cost significantly more there. In Alaska, the gross monthly income limit for a single person is $1,937, and for a family of four it is $3,990. In Hawaii, a single person's limit is $1,784, and a family of four's limit is $3,670.
If you live in either state, use your state's limits, not the national ones. The U.S. Virgin Islands also has its own limits. Your state SNAP office will use the correct limit for your location automatically when you contact them.
How Deductions and Net Income Affect Your may be able to access
Passing the gross income test is only the first step. Your state will also calculate your net monthly income by subtracting certain deductions from your gross income. These deductions include a standard deduction (which varies by state and household size), a 20 percent earnings deduction, dependent care costs, medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members, and shelter costs above a certain threshold.
Your net income must fall below a separate limit, which is typically around $1,200 for a single person and $2,450 for a family of four in 2024, though this varies by state. This means you can have a gross income above the limit and still be considered if your deductions bring your net income low enough. Your state SNAP office will calculate both numbers for you — you do not need to do this math yourself.
Households with Elderly or Disabled Members
If your household includes someone age 60 or older, or someone who receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), your household may use a different income limit. These households do not have to meet the gross income limit — only the net income limit applies. This means your household could have a higher gross income and still be considered.
Tell your state SNAP office if anyone in your household is elderly or disabled. They will use the correct calculation for your situation. This rule exists because elderly and disabled people often have medical expenses that reduce their actual available income.
What Counts as Income for Food Stamps
Income includes wages from a job, self-employment earnings, Social Security, unemployment benefits, child support, and regular cash gifts from family members. It also includes most government benefits. However, some income does not count: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) does not count, and some educational benefits do not count either.
If you are unsure whether a specific source of income counts, tell your state SNAP office what you receive. They will tell you whether it counts toward the limit. Do not guess or leave it off your process — the office will ask for verification anyway, and it is better to report everything upfront.
How to Find Your State's SNAP Office
Your state SNAP office will tell you the exact income limit for your household and location, calculate your net income, and walk you through what counts as income in your state. You can find your state office by visiting the USDA SNAP website and entering your state, or by calling 211 (a free helpline that connects you to local resources).
When you contact your state office, have ready: your household size, the gross monthly income for each person, and any deductions you think explore (like dependent care costs or medical expenses). The office will tell you whether your household meets the income test and what to do next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my income have to be below the limit every single month?
No. Your income is averaged over the month you explore. If you have one month of higher income but usually earn less, that single high month may not disqualify you. Your state office will look at your typical income pattern, not just one paycheck.
What if I am self-employed or my income varies?
Self-employment income counts, and your state will average it over the past three months or use your expected income for the next month, whichever is more accurate. Bring recent tax returns or profit-and-loss statements so the office can calculate your average income correctly.
Do I have to report income from a spouse if we are married but file taxes separately?
Yes. For SNAP purposes, a spouse's income counts toward the household limit even if you file taxes separately. Your state office will count both incomes when determining your household's may be able to access.
Can I be over the income limit and still get food stamps?
In most cases, no — if your gross income exceeds the limit, you do not meet the income test. However, if your household includes an elderly or disabled member, only the net income limit applies, which may allow you to be considered even with higher gross income. Contact your state office to ask about your specific situation.
What happens if my income changes after I am approved?
You must report income changes to your state SNAP office. If your income increases above the limit, your benefits may end. If your income decreases, you may receive more benefits. Your state office will tell you how often you need to report changes and how to do it.