EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Texas, ensuring access to nutritious meals and alleviating food insecurity across the state.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Texas
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Texas are determined based on household size and gross monthly income. The gross monthly income limit is the maximum income a household can earn to qualify for SNAP benefits, while the maximum benefit amount is the highest amount of assistance a household can receive each month.
Household Size: 1 person
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,383
Maximum Benefit Amount: $250
Household Size: 2 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,868
Maximum Benefit Amount: $459
Household Size: 3 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,353
Maximum Benefit Amount: $658
Household Size: 4 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,839
Maximum Benefit Amount: $835
Household Size: 5 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,324
Maximum Benefit Amount: $992
Household Size: 6 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,809
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,190
Household Size: 7 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,295
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,316
Household Size: 8 people
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,780
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,504
Household Size: Each additional person
Gross Monthly Income Limit: +$486
Maximum Benefit Amount: +$188
For the most current information, please visit the official Texas SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Texas
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Texas, applicants must meet several eligibility criteria:
Income Limits: Applicants must meet both gross and net income limits based on household size.
Residency Requirements: Applicants must reside in Texas.
Citizenship Status: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens can qualify.
Work Requirements: Certain work-related conditions must be met.
Special Conditions: Special considerations are given to seniors, disabled individuals, and students.
For detailed and up-to-date information, visit the official Texas SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Texas
Applying for SNAP benefits in Texas can be done online, in-person, or by mail. Each method ensures accessibility and convenience for all applicants seeking assistance.
Applying Online
To apply for SNAP benefits online as a Texas resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website
Go to the Your Texas Benefits website to start your application.
Create an account or log in
Sign up for a new account or log in if you already have one.
Complete the application form
Fill out the online application form with your household and income details.
Submit required documents electronically
Upload necessary documents such as proof of income and identification.
Review and submit your application
Double-check all information and submit your completed application.
Applying In-Person
To apply for SNAP benefits in-person, follow these steps:
Locate your nearest SNAP office
Find the closest SNAP office using the Your Texas Benefits website or call 2-1-1 for assistance.
Gather necessary documents
Collect essential documents such as identification, proof of income, and residency verification.
Visit the office during business hours
Go to the SNAP office during their operating hours, typically Monday through Friday.
Complete the application form
Fill out the application form provided at the office with your household and income details.
Submit your application to a caseworker
Hand your completed application to a caseworker, who will review and process it.
For more information, visit the official Texas SNAP website or contact your local SNAP office.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in Texas by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form
Visit the Your Texas Benefits website to download and print the application form.
Fill out the form completely
Complete the application form with your household and income details.
Photocopy necessary documents
Make copies of essential documents like identification and proof of income.
Mail the application and documents
Send the completed application and photocopied documents to the address provided on the form.
Wait for confirmation or further instructions
After mailing, wait for a response with confirmation or additional steps.
Special SNAP Services in Texas
In Texas, residents may receive special SNAP services such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Visit the Your Texas Benefits website to learn more and see if you qualify.
Expedited SNAP Services in Texas
Residents of Texas can receive expedited SNAP benefits in emergency situations by meeting specific criteria. To qualify, households must have extremely low income, limited resources, or an urgent need for food assistance. For instance, if a household's monthly gross income is less than $150 and their liquid resources are under $100, they may be eligible for expedited services.
Additionally, households with combined monthly income and liquid resources that are less than their monthly rent or mortgage and utility costs can also qualify. These expedited benefits are designed to provide immediate relief, ensuring that families facing severe financial hardship can access essential food assistance without delay.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
In Texas, individuals affected by disasters such as fires or power outages can request replacement SNAP benefits. Those who qualify include current SNAP recipients who have lost food due to these events.
To apply, contact your local SNAP office or call 2-1-1. Even if you are not currently receiving SNAP benefits, you may still be eligible for emergency assistance. The application process involves providing details about the disaster and its impact on your food supply.
Required documents may include identification, proof of residence, and a statement detailing the loss. Ensure all information is accurate to expedite the replacement process and receive the necessary support promptly.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Texas provides tailored support for older adults (60+) and individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive the assistance they need. These groups often have simplified application options, making the process more accessible and less time-consuming.
Eligibility criteria for seniors and disabled individuals may differ slightly, often allowing for higher income limits and more lenient asset tests. This flexibility helps accommodate the unique financial situations these individuals may face.
Common deductions for these groups include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce their countable income. This ensures that more of their essential needs are met, providing a crucial safety net for vulnerable populations.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Texas
Once approved for SNAP benefits, it's important to understand how to use them effectively, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
EBT cards, or Electronic Benefit Transfer cards, are used by SNAP recipients to access their benefits. Similar to a credit or debit card, an EBT card is swiped at the point of sale to purchase eligible food items. The card is linked to the recipient's SNAP account, automatically deducting the purchase amount from their available balance. This system ensures a convenient and discreet way to use SNAP benefits for grocery shopping.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Recipients in Texas can use their EBT card to purchase a variety of eligible food items, ensuring they have access to nutritious options. These items include:
Fruits
Vegetables
Dairy products
Bread and cereals
Meat, poultry, and fish
Non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are restrictions on what can be purchased with an EBT card. Ineligible items include:
Alcoholic beverages
Hot foods prepared for immediate consumption
Vitamins and supplements
Non-food products such as cleaning supplies, paper goods, and pet food
Download Benny for Free and Earn Cash Back on EBT
With Benny, you can earn cash back on groceries from stores like Target, Walmart, and Dollar Tree, as well as services such as Uber and Lyft. Download Benny for free. Connect your EBT card and earn cashback as you shop.
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
Recipients in Texas can use their EBT card at a variety of locations, including grocery stores, corner stores, and farmers' markets. These venues offer a wide range of eligible food items, ensuring access to nutritious options.
Additionally, EBT cards can be used for online purchases at retailers like Amazon and Walmart, providing further convenience. This flexibility allows recipients to shop for groceries in a way that best suits their needs and lifestyle.
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits is crucial to ensure you maximize your food assistance, avoid running out of funds, and maintain eligibility. Here's how to check your EBT balance, understand deposit schedules, and renew benefits.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Texas
In Texas, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the last digit of the client's EDG (Eligibility Determination Group) number. Here’s a quick breakdown:
0: 1st of the month
1: 3rd of the month
2: 5th of the month
3: 6th of the month
4: 7th of the month
5: 9th of the month
6: 11th of the month
7: 12th of the month
8: 13th of the month
9: 15th of the month
Understanding the deposit schedule is crucial for managing your SNAP benefits effectively, ensuring you plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
For more details, check out our guide on EBT deposit schedule in Texas to learn about common reasons for delays and other helpful tips.
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
There are several methods available for checking your EBT balance in Texas:
Online Portal: Visit the Your Texas Benefits website and log in to your account to view your balance.
Benny App: Download Benny, link your EBT card, and check your balance and transactions in real time.
Phone Number: Call the number on the back of your EBT card and follow the automated instructions to hear your balance.
ATM Receipt: Insert your EBT card into an ATM, select "Balance Inquiry," and your balance will be printed on the receipt.
For additional information on each method for checking your EBT balance, check our guide on EBT Balance Check in Texas.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
Recipients in Texas typically need to renew or recertify their SNAP benefits every 6 to 12 months. Required documents include proof of income, residency, and any changes in household size or expenses. The recertification process can be completed online via the Your Texas Benefits website, by mail, or in-person at a local SNAP office.
Timely recertification is important to ensure continuous access to benefits. Missing the deadline can disrupt assistance, so mark your calendar and gather necessary documents in advance to streamline the process.
EBT Customer Support in Texas
SNAP and EBT customer support in Texas provides essential assistance for managing benefits, addressing issues, and ensuring recipients have access to necessary resources.
For detailed contact information, support options, and solutions to common issues, check out our guide on EBT customer service in Texas.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Texas
EBT Customer Service Phone Number: Call 1-800-777-7328 for assistance.
Hours of Operation: Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Services Offered:
Report lost or stolen EBT cards
Reset or change your PIN
Check your EBT card balance
Inquire about recent transactions
Get information on benefit deposits
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or DHS office is straightforward with several available resources. You can use online locator tools, call dedicated phone lines, or book appointments directly.
Here are the steps to locate your nearest office:
Online Locator Tools: Visit the Your Texas Benefits website and use their office locator tool to find the nearest SNAP or DHS office.
Phone Lines: Call 2-1-1 or the EBT customer service number at 1-800-777-7328 for assistance in locating an office.
Appointment Booking: Some offices offer online appointment booking through the Your Texas Benefits website, ensuring you can schedule a visit at your convenience.
Multi-Langual Support
In Texas, SNAP application materials and assistance are available in multiple languages to support non-English speakers. This ensures that all residents can access the benefits they need. The most common languages in which assistance is available include:
Spanish
Vietnamese
Chinese
Arabic
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Texas is easier with Benny. This app lets you check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, ensuring you stay on top of your benefits. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
With Benny, you can make the most of your SNAP benefits while enjoying additional savings. Learn more about Benny and start managing your benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions about SNAP in Texas
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Texas?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Texas, you must meet income limits based on household size, be a Texas resident, and be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Additionally, you must comply with work requirements and special conditions for seniors, disabled individuals, and students. For more details, visit the official Texas SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP benefits in Texas if they meet certain conditions. These include working at least 20 hours per week, participating in a state or federally funded work-study program, or caring for a dependent under 6 years old. For more details, visit the official Texas SNAP website.
Can I get SNAP benefits if I’m an immigrant?
Some immigrants may qualify for SNAP benefits depending on their immigration status. Eligible non-citizens include lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees. For a complete list of qualifying statuses, check the official SNAP eligibility page.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Texas typically need to renew their benefits every 6 to 12 months. The exact renewal period depends on specific state rules and individual circumstances. It's important to keep track of your renewal date to ensure continuous access to your benefits.
