The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program that helps low-income individuals and families purchase food.

SNAP benefits can be used to purchase essential groceries such as:

• Breads and cereals
• Fruits and vegetables
• Meats, fish, and poultry
• Dairy products
• Seeds and plants to grow food at home

However, SNAP doesn’t cover:

• Alcohol, cigarettes, or tobacco
• Hot, prepared foods
• Non-food items like pet food, soap, or household supplies

So....How Much ?

The amount of SNAP benefits depends on household size and income. Here are the maximum monthly allotments as of October 1, 2024:

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility is determined by household income. For example:

• A single person without earned income must have a monthly gross income of $1,632 or less.
• Households with earned income or elderly/disabled members have higher income limits.

Good news: assets like savings or retirement accounts typically don’t count against your eligibility.

But I'm in trouble Right Now!

If you’re in urgent need, you may qualify for expedited SNAP benefits, available within five days of applying. This is especially helpful for households with little or no money.

SNAP is a vital resource for many New Yorkers, offering financial relief for essential food expenses. Applying is straightforward, and resources like mybenefits.ny.gov can guide you through the process.