data/programs/snap.json

{
  "id": "snap",
  "name": "SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) / Food Assistance",
  "jurisdiction": "state:MN",
  "category": "food",
  "source": "DHS Combined Manual 0019.06, 0013.06; 7 CFR Part 273; MN Statutes Chapter 256D",
  "description": "SNAP, known in Minnesota as Food Assistance, provides monthly electronic benefits (EBT card) to low-income households to purchase groceries at authorized retailers. In Minnesota, SNAP is administered by county and tribal human service agencies and funded jointly by the federal government and the state. Benefits are loaded to an EBT card each month and can be used at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and some online retailers.\n\nMinnesota uses Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) to expand access. Under BBCE, the gross income limit is 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For 2026, this means: 1 person ($31,300/year or $2,608/month), 2 people ($42,060/year or $3,505/month), 3 people ($52,820/year or $4,402/month), 4 people ($63,580/year or $5,298/month). There is no asset or resource test for most households under BBCE, meaning savings accounts, cars, and property generally do not disqualify applicants.\n\nMaximum monthly benefit amounts by household size (2024-2025 federal figures, adjusted annually): 1 person $292, 2 people $535, 3 people $768, 4 people $975, 5 people $1,158, 6 people $1,390, 7 people $1,536, 8 people $1,756. Each additional person adds approximately $220. Actual benefit amounts are reduced based on net income after deductions for housing costs, child care, medical expenses, and earned income.\n\nMost U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens are eligible. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for federal SNAP but may qualify for Minnesota's state-funded food assistance program. College students enrolled at least half-time generally must meet additional work requirements. People who have been convicted of certain drug felonies may face restrictions.\n\nApplications can be submitted online, by mail, by fax, or in person. Benefits typically begin within 30 days of application; emergency (expedited) benefits can be issued within 7 days for households with very low income or resources. Households must recertify eligibility periodically, typically every 6 or 12 months.",
  "eligibility_summary": "Gross income at or below 200% FPL (2026: $2,608/month for 1 person, $3,505 for 2, $4,402 for 3, $5,298 for 4). No asset test under BBCE. U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen. Minnesota residents. Work requirements apply to able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) ages 18-54: must work or participate in job training at least 80 hours/month, limited to 3 months of benefits in a 36-month period otherwise.",
  "benefit_amounts": "Monthly EBT benefits: 1 person $292, 2 people $535, 3 people $768, 4 people $975, 5 people $1,158, 6 people $1,390. Actual amount depends on net income after deductions.",
  "documents_required": "Proof of identity, proof of Minnesota residency, Social Security numbers for all household members, proof of income (pay stubs, employer letter), immigration status documents if applicable, housing costs (rent/mortgage), utility bills.",
  "application_url": "https://mnbenefits.mn.gov",
  "contact": "Call your county human services office or 1-800-657-3698 (DHS)"
}