Louisiana SNAP

Louisiana SNAP is a federally-funded food assistance program for low-income Louisiana residents who qualify. Eligible households can receive food assistance through regular SNAP or through the Louisiana Combined Application Project (LaCAP).

As condition of eligibility, most adult recipients who aren’t disabled or exempt are required to register for work or accept an offer of employment to continue receiving benefits beyond three months.

ABAWDs ages 18—64 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 Louisiana?

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

Live in Louisiana
Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
Show proof of identity
Meet certain income guidelines

What are the income guidelines for food stamps in Louisiana?

There is no asset limit in Louisiana. Most families with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level qualify for food assistance. For a family of three, it’s about $4,442 per month.

Family Size	Income Limit
1	$2,608
2	$3,525
3	$4,442
4	$5,358
5	$6,275
6	$7,192
7	$8,108
8	$9,025

Effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. 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.

Are you eligible for SNAP?

Find out if you may qualify and get an estimated amount of benefits you could receive.

How much are SNAP benefits in Louisiana?

Benefits depend on both the number of persons in the household and the net monthly income amount remaining after all allowable deductions.

For example, eligible families of three in Louisiana with no income may receive up to $785 a month for food.

Family Size	SNAP Benefits
1	$298
2	$546
3	$785
4	$994
5	$1,183
6	$1,421
7	$1,571
8	$1,789

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 SNAP in Louisiana?

In order to apply for benefits, you must first create an online account for LA CAFÉ on the DCFS website and complete an electronic application. A DCFS staff member will contact you for an interview over the phone, if applicable.

If you are eligible for SNAP, you will receive a Louisiana Purchase Card and SNAP benefits will be automatically deposited into your account every month.

How long does it take to get approved for food stamps in Louisiana?

If you are approved for SNAP, you will receive your SNAP benefits no later than 30 days from the date the office received your application. In some emergency cases, you may get your first benefits in seven days or less.

What is LaCAP in Louisiana?

Louisiana Combined Application Project (LaCAP) is a food assistance program for Louisiana residents who are at least 60 years of age and receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). It is a simplified version of SNAP with three standard payments.

Depending on shelter costs, LaCAP participants will receive $100, $155, or $244. LaCAP cases are certified for 36 months.

For more information on SNAP and other services, please call

Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)
625 N 4th St
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
(888) 524-3578