West Virginia SNAP

SNAP helps low-income individuals and families in West Virginia afford the food they need for a nutritionally adequate diet by providing monthly food assistance benefits.

The program serves low-income families with children, older adults, 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 either 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:

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

For the period through September 30, 2026, a family of three may receive up to $785 per month with no income or about $485 per month if the family has a net monthly income of $1,000.

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.

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, or about $4,442 a month for a family of three, may qualify for SNAP.

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

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.

West Virginians, are you eligible for SNAP?

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

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.

West Virginia Department of Human Services
Client Services Hotline
(800) 642-8589

What documents are needed for SNAP benefits in West Virginia?

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
Proof of resources or assets (if applicable)
Any additional documents needed to verify your household’s situation

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