Washington Basic Food

Basic Food, Washington’s name for SNAP, helps low-income individuals and families in Washington obtain a more nutritious diet by supplementing their income with “Basic Food” benefits.

Benefits are based on how many people live in your household, your income, and living expenses, or about $785 per month for a family of three with little or no income.

Able-bodied adults, ages 18 through 64 without dependents, ~~who live in a non-waived area~~, ¹ are required to participate in specific activities to retain eligibility for Basic Food beyond the three-month time limit.

FAQ

Who is eligible for SNAP in Washington State?

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

Be a resident of Washington State
Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
Show proof of identity
Meet certain income guidelines

Legal immigrants who meet all the Basic Food requirements except citizenship or alien status may apply for Food Assistance Program (FAP) instead.

What is the income limit for food stamps in WA?

Most families in Washington State with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level, about $4,442 a month for a family of three, qualify for food stamps. There is no asset test for Basic Food.

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 food stamps will I get in Washington?

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 $785 in monthly benefits or $485 each month if the family has a net monthly income of $1,000.

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 Washington?

Submit an application at a local DSHS Community Services Office (CSO) in person, ² by mail or online through the Washington Connection or offline when the Mobile Community Services Office is in town.

If applicable, an interview will be arranged to determine your eligibility. Once your application is verified, a determination will be made no later than 30 days.

Customer Service Contact Center
(877) 501-2233

Can I use Washington EBT out of state?

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

As of November 2025, no areas are exempt . ↩
Click on the Office Locator to locate the Community Services Office nearest you. ↩