STATEKentuckySNAP

Kentucky SNAP

Kentucky SNAP helps low-income people and families in Kentucky with cash assistance to buy food for healthy meals at participating stores.

Unless otherwise exempt, most recipients ages 18—59 who aren’t disabled or caring for a child under age 6 are required to register for, look for and accept work.

ABAWDs who aren’t exempt must comply with special work rules or they will be subject to a three-month time limit on SNAP receipt.

FAQ

Who is eligible for SNAP in Kentucky?

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

  1. Live in Kentucky
  2. Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
  3. Show proof of identity
  4. Meet certain income guidelines
  5. Have less than $3,000 in resources

What is the income limit for SNAP in KY?

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

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 does a family of 3 get in food stamps?

SNAP benefits may vary from family to family depending on a variety of factors, including the household size, income and allowable deductions, such as rent, utilities, child support, and child care costs.

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.

Eligible households are issued an EBT Card used to make food purchases at one of the 231,000 authorized retail locations around the country, 4,200 in Kentucky.

How do I apply for food stamps in Kentucky?

Eligibility pre-screening and online application are available at Kentucky’s Benefind — an official website where you can apply for benefits like K-TAP, Medicaid as well as SNAP, from any computer with internet.

You may also apply in person at a local DCBS office or by phone by calling (855) 306-8959 and speak with a caseworker.

Once your application is received, an interview with an eligibility worker may be arranged to determine your eligibility, usually within 5 days.

How do I get emergency food stamps in KY?

You may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits under certain circumstances, if:

  1. your household’s monthly rent/mortgage and utilities costs are more than your gross monthly income.
  2. your household’s gross monthly income is less than $150 and resources, such as cash or bank accounts, total $100 or less.

For more information, contact the local DCBS office in the county where you live or call (855) 306-8959 for assistance.

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