If you struggle to afford food, you may be eligible for SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), also called Food Stamps. This program puts money in the hands of low-income individuals and families to buy groceries, with eligibility based on income and household size.
In this article, we will discuss income limits, eligibility, and application for SNAP in 2025. Therefore, you will know how much income a 2-person household could have and still be eligible.
What is SNAP and What Need Does it Serve?
SNAP is federal assistance given to needy families in purchasing nutritious food at prices within their reach. The program annually revisits its income limits due to inflation and other economic parameters. The new income limits for the year 2025 are effective from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
SNAP’s main objective is to see to it that no family goes hungry, particularly the low-income ones. It provides displaced income with access to healthy food, thus enhancing the living standards of millions of American individuals.
Criteria for SNAP Eligibility
In order to qualify for the SNAP benefit, you need to satisfy the following eligibility criteria:
- Submission of Application in Your State: To qualify for SNAP, you must apply in the state where you are currently living.
- Income Limits: Your income must be within certain limits established according to your family composition.
- Meal Preparation: You must be part of a household where members buy meals collectively and prepare them together.
Note: If you receive most of your meals from an institution, you are usually ineligible for SNAP. However, some exceptions apply in the case of elderly persons (60+) and disabled individuals.
How Income is Defined by SNAP
SNAP eligibility is determined with respect to two types of income:
- Gross Income: Total income before deductions.
- Net Income: Gross income less allowed deductions.
Households with one elderly (60+) or disabled member need only to meet the net income test.
SNAP Income Limits for 2025
The income limits apply to households in 48 states, Washington D.C., Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income (130% of Poverty Level) | Net Monthly Income (100% of Poverty Level) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,632 | $1,255 |
| 2 | $2,215 | $1,704 |
| 3 | $2,798 | $2,152 |
| 4 | $3,380 | $2,600 |
| 5 | $3,963 | $3,049 |
| 6 | $4,546 | $3,497 |
| 7 | $5,129 | $3,945 |
| 8 | $5,712 | $4,394 |
| Each Additional Member | +$583 | +$449 |
For example, with 2 household members, gross income should not exceed $2,215/month while net income is less than $1,704.
Apply for SNAP
It is a simple step to apply for SNAP:
- Visit your state’s SNAP office, or apply online through the official state website.
- Have your income proof, ID, and residence proof on hand.
- In a couple of days, you will hear back regarding your application.
- You may even qualify for early SNAP benefits if you need them quickly.
Important: Check out your application status on your state’s official SNAP site after you apply.
Benefits of SNAP
The following benefits accrue to the use of a SNAP EBT card:
- Grocery Shopping: Buy fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, and dairy products.
- Healthy Food: Buy food at discount prices or free.
- Farmers Markets: In many areas, you can use SNAP benefits at farmers markets for fresh produce.
Why is SNAP Important?
- Food Security: SNAP assures that low-income families have enough food.
- Nutrition: Helps buy nutritious and balanced meals.
- Financial Relief: Eases financial stress by paying a portion of grocery costs.
Conclusion
In addition to that, these income limits will also apply to net and gross earnings for qualification under SNAP benefits in 2025 for a household of two individuals. SNAP, by enabling access to cheaper, healthier food, plays a significant role in the nation’s fight against hunger while improving the quality of life for millions of Americans.
So, if you meet the eligibility requirements, don’t hesitate! Visit your state’s official SNAP website and apply today to secure your access to healthy and affordable food.