Hawaii SNAP

Hawaii SNAP, commonly knowns as food stamps, helps put healthy food within reach for Hawaii’s low-income residents by providing monthly cash benefits.

Priority is granted to single parents, the elderly, people with disabilities as well as families on public assistance.

The state allows residents earning up to 200% of the current Hawaii's poverty standard to access SNAP benefits. That's about $4,765 per month for a family of three.

In Hawaii, SNAP benefits are issued through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card which can be used at any grocery store and for services like meals-on-wheels.

FAQ #

Who qualifies for food stamps in Hawaii? #

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

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

As a condition of eligibility, all able-bodied SNAP recipients in Hawaii must meet the general SNAP work rules or the ABAWD work requirements unless otherwise exempt.

ABAWD recipients who aren’t working or exempt are limited to three months of eligibility every 36 months.

What is the income limit for food stamps in Hawaii? #

Most families in Hawaii with gross income up to 200% of the Hawaii's poverty standard qualify for food stamps. For a family of three, the limit is $4,765 in gross monthly income and $2,383 in net monthly income.

There is no asset test for most households in Hawaii.

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.

Those who have less than $150 per month in income and $100 or less in cash may qualify for Emergency SNAP and have their first benefits within 7 days.

How much food stamps will I get in Hawaii? #

Due to a higher cost of living, Hawaii has the highest monthly SNAP benefit per household member. ¹ For example, a family of three in Hawaii with little or no income may get up to $1,413 in monthly benefits.

• Family Size SNAP Benefits
• 1 $538
• 2 $987
• 3 $1,413
• 4 $1,794
• 5 $2,131
• 6 $2,557
• 7 $2,826
• 8 $3,230

How do I apply for food stamps in Hawaii? #

Hawaii residents seeking SNAP assistance must fill out a standard benefits application form and submit it to the benefits office closest to you.

Click here for benefits office contact information statewide.

Once your application is received, an intake worker will review your case and determine if you qualify for SNAP benefits.

How long can I receive SNAP benefits in Hawaii? #

For most Hawaii households without elderly (60+) or disabled people, that period is 12 months or 24 months for households with elderly (60+) or disabled people.

Can you use Hawaii EBT out of state? #

Yes. SNAP benefits are interoperable through the use of your EBT card which means you can use your Hawaii EBT wherever EBT is accepted anywhere in the United States including the District of Columbia, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

References