STATEColoradoSNAP

Colorado SNAP

Colorado’s Food Assistance Program or SNAP assists low-income individuals and families in Colorado to buy the food needed for a nutritionally adequate diet.

The program is offered in at least one location in all Colorado counties, ensuring that all eligible families have access to a healthy diet.

Eligibility is limited to families with gross income not exceeding 200% of the federal poverty guidelines as shown in the table below.

FAQ

Who is eligible for food stamps in Colorado?

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

  1. Live in Colorado
  2. Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
  3. Show proof of identity
  4. Receive Colorado Works, SSI or other assistance payments
  5. Meet certain income guidelines

As a condition of eligibility, all SNAP participants in Colorado are required to register for work, accept an offer of suitable work, or participate in the Employment First program, 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 Colorado?

Most families in Colorado with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level, about $4,303 a month for a family of three, qualify for food stamps.

Family Size
Income Limit
1
$2,510
2
$3,407
3
$4,303
4
$5,200
5
$6,097
6
$6,993
7
$7,890
8
$8,787
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 are SNAP benefits in Colorado?

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 $768 in monthly benefits or $468 each month if the family has a net monthly income of $1,000.

Family Size
SNAP Benefits
1
$292
2
$536
3
$768
4
$975
5
$1,158
6
$1,390
7
$1,536
8
$1,756
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. Use our SNAP calculator to estimate the amount of benefits you can expect to receive.

How do I apply for food stamps in Colorado?

Application for SNAP benefits can be made online at Colorado PEAK. Once an application is submitted, an eligibility worker will begin processing your case and schedule an interview if necessary.

If you are approved, your benefits should be available on your EBT card, called the Colorado Quest Card, within 30 days from the date of your application.

What can you buy with food stamps in Colorado?

What you can buy with food stamps:

  • Produce and canned goods
  • Meat and dairy products
  • Dried goods, beans and rice
  • Breads and cereals
  • Baby food and infant formula
  • Soda, chips and candy
  • Coffee and tea
  • Seeds (whether for eating or planting)

What you cannot buy with food stamps:

  • Hot food or any food that you eat in-store
  • Pet food
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Cigarettes
  • Medicine and vitamins
  • Non-edible household items like diapers, soap, laundry detergent or toilet paper

Does Colorado EBT work in other states?

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

Double Up Food Bucks is a program that doubles the value of SNAP benefits at participating markets and food retail stores. Here’s how it works.

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