Montana SNAP

Montana SNAP helps low-income individuals and families afford a nutritionally adequate diet by providing monthly food assistance, with priority given to older adults and people with disabilities.

As a condition of eligibility, all SNAP recipients who aren’t exempt are required to register for work, accept an offer of suitable work, or take part in an employment and training program ¹

Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) must comply with special work rules. Otherwise, receipt of SNAP benefits is limited to no more than 3 months within a 36-month period. ²

FAQ

Who is eligible for SNAP in Montana?

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

Live in Montana
Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
Show proof of identity
Meet income limits and other financial eligibility rules

What is the income limit for SNAP benefits in Montana?

Most families in Montana with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level, or about $4,442 a month for a family of three, may qualify for food stamps. There is no asset test for most households in Montana.

Household Size	100%Net Income	200%Gross Income
1	$1,304	$2,608
2	$1,763	$3,525
3	$2,221	$4,442
4	$2,679	$5,358
5	$3,138	$6,275
6	$3,596	$7,192
7	$4,054	$8,108
8	$4,513	$9,025

Effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. Gross income limit applies to most households, except when at least one member is age 60 or older or receives disability income; in these cases, only the net income test applies.

Montanans, are you eligible for SNAP?

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

How much is SNAP in Montana?

SNAP benefits in Montana vary based on household size, income, and allowable expenses. For example, a family of three with no income may receive up to $785 per month in SNAP benefits.

Household 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.

Benefits are provided on the “Montana Access Card” which is an electronic card that can be used to make food purchases at grocery stores and supermarkets.

How do I apply for SNAP in Montana?

You may apply for SNAP online through apply.mt.gov under “Apply for Assistance” or in person at any local Office of Public Assistance. ³

Eligibility pre-screening is also available under “Am I Eligible,” which can help determine your likely eligibility for cash and medical benefits.

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
Office of Public Assistance
(888) 706-1535

What documents are needed for SNAP benefits in Montana?

When you apply for SNAP, you may be asked to provide the following documents:

A valid photo ID
A valid Social Security Number
Proof of residency (where you live)
Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
Proof of earned and unearned income
Any additional documents needed to verify your household’s situation

How long does it take to get SNAP in Montana?

If you qualify for SNAP benefits, you will get them no later than 30 days from the date of the application. However, families with little or no money ⁴ may be eligible for expedited SNAP and have their first benefits within 7 days.

SNAP E&T program is a component of SNAP that helps recipients gain skills and find work to move towards self-sufficiency. ↩
Montana’s SNAP has a waiver for the ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) time limit in certain areas due to high unemployment rates. ↩
The Field Offices of Public Assistance can be found on the map here. ↩
Households with less than $150 in monthly gross income and $100 or less in liquid resources. ↩