New York SNAP

New York SNAP helps low income New Yorkers including working families, the elderly and the disabled feed their families and eat healthier.

Eligible SNAP recipients are issued an EBT card that can be used to buy groceries and other items with their cash benefits at authorized retail food stores.

FAQ #


Who is eligible for SNAP in New York? #

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

  1. Live in New York
  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 SNAP recipients in New York must meet the general SNAP work rules or the ABAWD work rules unless otherwise exempt.

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

How much food stamps will I get for a family of 3 in NY? #

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 is the income limit for food stamps in New York? #

Most families in NY with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level, about $4,143 a month for a family of three, qualify for food stamps.

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.

Most households applying for SNAP no longer have to pass a savings/resource test in order to get SNAP benefits.

How do I apply for food stamps online in NY? #

For an application as well as eligibility pre- screening, go to myBenefits. If you are a first time user and want to apply for benefits, you must first create a myBenefits account.

After your application is filed, the local DHS or SNAP office will review your information, conduct an interview, and determine your eligibility for SNAP.

To get a quick idea of what programs you may be eligible for, click on “Am I Eligible” and answer a few pre-screening questions.

How to get emergency food stamps in NY? #

All SNAP applications are screened for emergency eligibility on the day the application is filed. If you are deemed eligible for “expedited benefits”, you will be authorized emergency SNAP benefits within a few days, but no later than 5 days from application.

Can you buy baby formula with food stamps in New York? #

Yes, you can use your SNAP benefits to buy baby food, including infant formula, cereals, juices, and baby food in boxes and jars.


For more information about NY SNAP, please call
Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
1-800-342-3009

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