The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a key initiative of Texas Human And Health Services, is dedicated to ensuring Texans have access to nutritious food for a healthy life. This vital program helps individuals and families with limited income to purchase the food they need. SNAP benefits can even be used to buy garden seeds, enabling recipients to grow their own food.
SNAP benefits are conveniently loaded onto a Lone Star Card, functioning like a debit card at any SNAP-authorized retailer. This card simplifies grocery shopping, allowing recipients to discreetly use their benefits for essential food items.
It’s important to note that SNAP benefits are intended for food purchases only. They cannot be used for:
- Tobacco products
- Alcoholic beverages
- Non-food items such as household supplies or pet food
- Payment of outstanding food bills
For added convenience, Texas Human and Health Services has expanded SNAP benefits to online food retailers. Eligible individuals can now use their Lone Star Card to learn more about buying food online with SNAP. , making access to groceries even easier.
Who Can Benefit from SNAP through Texas Human and Health Services?
SNAP eligibility in Texas, managed by Texas Human and Health Services, is primarily based on household income and size. The program is designed to support:
- Low-income households meeting specific eligibility criteria.
- Able-bodied adults between 18 and 52 without dependent children living at home may receive SNAP benefits for a limited period of three months within a 36-month timeframe, unless they meet work requirements. This period may be extended for those working at least 20 hours per week or participating in approved job training programs. Certain adults, such as pregnant individuals or those with disabilities, may be exempt from work requirements.
- Households comprised entirely of individuals aged 60 and over or people with disabilities may qualify for the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP). TSAP streamlines the SNAP application process and extends benefit periods to three years, compared to the standard six-month period. This initiative by Texas Human and Health Services aims to simplify access for vulnerable populations.
Understanding Maximum Monthly Income Limits for SNAP in Texas
Texas Human and Health Services sets income limits to determine SNAP eligibility. The following table provides a general guideline for maximum monthly income based on family size:
| Family size | Maximum monthly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,005 |
| 2 | $2,712 |
| 3 | $3,419 |
| 4 | $4,125 |
| 5 | $4,832 |
| For each additional person, add: | $707 |
These figures are intended as a guide; specific eligibility may vary based on individual circumstances. For detailed information, it’s best to consult directly with Texas Human and Health Services.
Work Requirements and SNAP Benefits
Texas Human and Health Services requires most SNAP recipients between the ages of 16 and 59 to adhere to work rules to maintain their benefits. These rules mandate that individuals must actively seek employment or participate in a qualifying work program. Furthermore, recipients are not permitted to voluntarily quit a job without justifiable cause. These guidelines are in place to encourage self-sufficiency and responsible use of SNAP benefits.
Maximum Monthly SNAP Benefit Amounts in Texas
The maximum monthly SNAP benefit amount in Texas, as determined by Texas Human and Health Services, is dependent on household size. Below are the maximum allotments:
| Family size | Monthly SNAP amount |
|---|---|
| 1 | $291 |
| 2 | $535 |
| 3 | $766 |
| 4 | $973 |
| 5 | $1,155 |
| 6 | $1,386 |
| 7 | $1,532 |
| 8 | $1,751 |
| For each additional person, add: | $219 |
These amounts represent the highest possible SNAP benefits; the actual amount received may vary based on household income and allowable deductions.
Accessing Further Information and Assistance from Texas Human and Health Services
Texas Human and Health Services is committed to providing accessible services to all Texans. If you require language assistance due to limited English proficiency or need accommodations due to a disability, free support services are available. Please contact 211 or call 877-541-7905 for assistance. These resources can provide guidance on SNAP eligibility, application procedures, and connect you with further support services offered by Texas Human and Health Services.
