Connecticut SNAP

Connecticut SNAP is a nutrition program that helps individuals and families with little or no income buy and eat healthy food.

Eligibility is limited to families with gross income not exceeding 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. That’s about $4,143 a month for a family of three to qualify.

The law requires all able-bodied SNAP recipients ages 18—50 living in non-exempt area to meet special work requirements. Otherwise, receipt of benefits is limited to no more than 3 months during a 36-month period.

Connecticut has a statewide ABAWD waiver in place until November 30, 2023. As a result, CT residents will not be subject to the 3-month time limit until that time.

FAQ #


Who qualifies for SNAP in CT? #

In order to qualify for SNAP in CT, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  1. Live in Connecticut
  2. Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
  3. Show proof of identity
  4. Meet certain income guidelines

There is no asset limit EXCEPT for households whose gross income is more than 200% of the federal poverty level.

What is the income limit for SNAP in CT? #

Under the new eligibility benefit levels, Connecticut residents will now qualify for SNAP if their gross monthly income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. That's about $4,143 a month for a family of three.

Family Size 100% 200%
1 $1,215 $2,430
2 $1,643 $3,287
3 $2,072 $4,143
4 $2,500 $5,000
5 $2,928 $5,857
6 $3,357 $6,713
7 $3,785 $7,570
8 $4,213 $8,427

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.

To find out if you may be eligible for SNAP in CT based on income, please use DSS ConneCT Pre-Screener.

How much do I get in food stamps in CT? #

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.

What can I buy with SNAP in CT? #

What you can buy with SNAP:

  • Breads and cereals
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Meats, fish and poultry
  • Dairy products
  • Seeds and plants that produce food such as tomato seeds
  • Bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages

What you CANNOT buy with SNAP:

  • Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes or tobacco
  • Any nonfood items, such as: pet foods, soaps, paper products and household supplies
  • Vitamins and medicines
  • Food that will be eaten in the store
  • Hot foods or foods that are already prepared

How do I apply for SNAP benefits in CT? #

You may apply for SNAP online at ConneCT, under “Apply for Benefits”, or pre-screen your eligibility under “Am I Eligible”, which also pre-screens for cash and medical benefits.

If you prefer, you can fill out the application for SNAP benefits at your local Department of Social Services office. For a list of local offices, please follow this link.

Once approved, you will receive an electronic EBT card that is preloaded monthly with cash benefits which can be used to purchase food from local grocery stores.


For more information about Connecticut SNAP, please call
DSS Client Information Line & Benefits Center
1-855-626-6632

Share this article