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STATEWest VirginiaSNAP

West Virginia SNAP

SNAP helps low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled with cash assistance to buy the food they need for a nutritionally adequate diet.

The program serves low-income families with children, seniors, people with disabilities, and working or unemployed people of all ages.

As a condition of eligibility, all SNAP recipients who aren’t disabled or pregnant, must meet the general SNAP work rules or the ABAWD work rules unless otherwise exempt. 1

FAQ

Who qualifies for food stamps in WV?

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

  1. Live in West Virginia
  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 or $4,500 if at least one member is elderly or disabled

How much are SNAP benefits in WV?

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 SizeSNAP 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.

Eligible families will receive an EBT card, similar to a debit card, that they use to make food purchases at grocery stores and supermarkets.

Acceptable purchases include food for people and plants and/or seeds to grow food. 2

What are the income guidelines for SNAP in WV?

Most families in West Virginia with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level, about $4,442 a month for a family of three, qualify for SNAP.

There is no asset test required for SNAP eligibility in West Virginia

Family Size100%200%
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.

How do I apply for food stamps in WV?

Applications for SNAP may be made online at WV PATH  or in person at DHHR’s local office  nearest you. WV PATH is the one and only self-service portal to apply for benefits offered by the state of West Virginia.

Once your application is received, an interview will be arranged to decide if you are eligible. If deemed eligible, you will be able to access your SNAP benefits within 30 days from the date the office received your application.

In some emergency cases, you may get “expedited benefits” in seven days or less if you have very low income and resources.

Client Services Hotline
(800) 642-8589

Footnotes

  1. ABAWDs ages 18—64 must comply with special work rules  or they will be subject to a three-month time limit on SNAP receipt. ↩

  2. Beginning January 1, 2026, West Virginia will launch a new SNAP Healthy choices demonstration waiver. Under this waiver, SNAP benefits may no longer be used to buy soda. ↩

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