Alabama Food Assistance (SNAP)
Alabama’s Food Assistance Program provides monthly cash benefits to eligible low income Alabamians to help them buy the food they need for good health. Its aim is to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition.
Currently, most food stamp recipients ages 16—59 who aren’t disabled or raising children are required to work a minimum of 30 hours a week to receive SNAP benefits.
ABAWDs must comply with special work rules or they will be subject to a three-month time limit on SNAP receipt.
FAQ #
Who is eligible for food stamps in Alabama? #
In order to qualify for SNAP, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Live in Alabama
- Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
- Show proof of identity
- Meet certain income guidelines
If everyone in your household is age 60 or older, and no one is working, you can apply for benefits through the Alabama Elderly Simplified Application Project (AESAP).
For more information about AESAP, or to request an AESAP application, call 1-800-438-2958.
What is the income limit for food stamps in Alabama? #
Most families in Alabama with gross income up to 130% of the federal poverty level, about $2,495 a month for a family of three, qualify for food stamps.
| Family Size | 100% | 130% |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,133 | $1,473 |
| 2 | $1,526 | $1,983 |
| 3 | $1,919 | $2,495 |
| 4 | $2,313 | $3,007 |
| 5 | $2,928 | $3,807 |
| 6 | $2,706 | $3,518 |
| 7 | $3,099 | $4,029 |
| 8 | $3,493 | $4,540 |
Gross income limit applies to most households, except those in which at least one person is 60 years of age or older, or receives disability income.
How much does a family of 3 get in food stamps in Alabama? #
SNAP benefits may vary from family to family depending on a variety of factors, including the household size, income and allowable deductions.
For example, a family of three with no income may receive up to $740 in monthly benefits or $440 each month if the family has a net monthly income of $1,000.
- Family Size SNAP Benefits
- 1 $281
- 2 $516
- 3 $740
- 4 $939
- 5 $1,116
- 6 $1,339
- 7 $1,480
- 8 $1,691
The actual SNAP benefit amounts are based on a household's net income with a general rule that an increase of $100 in net income results in a reduction of $30 in benefits.
How do I apply for food stamps in Alabama? #
To apply for food assistance benefits online, please visit MyDHR — the online application portal for Alabama’s public assistance. Before you can complete the application, you must first register for an account.
Once you’re accepted into the program, you will receive an electronic EBT card that is preloaded monthly with cash benefits and is used, like a debit card, to purchase eligible food from local grocery stores.
Does Alabama drug test for food stamps? #
Under the current law, SNAP participants are not legally required to take or pass a drug test in order to apply for or receive benefits under SNAP.
However, a proposed new Alabama law would require residents to pass a drug test “if there is reasonable suspicion that the person uses or is under the influence of a drug”.