SNAP Calculator

How the SNAP calculator works

The calculator estimates your monthly SNAP (food stamps) benefit in three steps, using the same rules your state agency applies. It is an estimate only. Your state agency makes the final decision.

How much SNAP will I get?

SNAP generally calculates a household’s monthly benefit by subtracting 30% of its net income from the maximum allotment for its household size. The maximum amounts are the same across the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C. Alaska and Hawaii have higher maximum allotments.¹

Households of one or two people get at least $24 a month if they qualify (more in some states), even when the formula gives less.

What are the SNAP income limits?

Under the standard rules, a household has to pass two income tests:

1. Gross income test. Your income before deductions must be at or below your state’s limit, set as a percentage of the federal poverty level. Many states use a higher limit than the federal 130%. You can see yours on your state’s SNAP page.
2. Net income test. Your income after deductions must be at or below 100% of the federal poverty level.

Some states use broad-based categorical eligibility, which replaces these tests with a single higher gross income limit.

What income is deducted from my SNAP calculation?

The calculator subtracts the following from your gross monthly income to get your net income.

Earned income deduction. Households may deduct 20% of gross earned income, such as wages and self-employment earnings. The deduction does not apply to unearned income, such as Social Security or unemployment benefits.

Standard deduction. Every household receives a fixed deduction that depends on household size. The amounts are adjusted each fiscal year.¹

Child support. Legally obligated child support payments made by a household member to or for someone outside the household are deducted. A state may instead exclude those payments from the household’s income.

Dependent care. The cost of caring for a child or other dependent is deducted when the care is necessary for a household member to look for, accept or keep a job, or to attend training or education that prepares for employment.

Medical expenses. A household with an elderly or disabled member may deduct out-of-pocket medical costs above $35 per month. SNAP defines an elderly person as a household member age 60 or older. Some states allow a standard medical deduction in place of itemized costs.

Excess shelter deduction. Shelter costs, such as rent or mortgage payments and utility costs, that exceed half of the household’s income after the other deductions are deducted. For households without an elderly or disabled member, the deduction cannot exceed a maximum set for the area.

Utility allowance. States may apply a standard utility allowance to the excess shelter deduction in place of actual utility bills. Households that pay heating or cooling costs receive the heating and cooling allowance. Households that receive a LIHEAP payment of more than $20 are eligible for that allowance only if the household includes an elderly or disabled member.² Households without heating or cooling costs may receive a smaller allowance for other utilities, depending on the number of utilities they pay and on state policy.

Where can I find SNAP rules for my state?

Gross income limits, standard medical deductions, and utility allowances vary by state. Select your state in the calculator or review the SNAP rules for each state.