Food & Nutrition
Texas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
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In your state, the average household that includes an older adult gets

$96/month

in SNAP benefits. You could get more or less depending on your income and household size.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps many older adults and young families pay for food. Once you're approved to receive SNAP benefits in Texas, the government will issue your funds through an electronic benefits transfer card (or EBT card).

An EBT card looks and works like a prepaid debit card. It can be used at grocery stores across Texas and at some online retailers to buy foods that are SNAP-eligible. Some farmers markets throughout the Lone Star State also participate in SNAP, and you can use your EBT card there as another form of payment.

Frequently asked questions

How does SNAP work?

Formerly known as Food Stamps, SNAP benefits allow many older adults, people with disabilities, and other Texas residents to stretch their budget further. This is because the money they would have spent on food can now be spent on other important needs—such as utilities, prescriptions, and health care.

What is the SNAP application process like in Texas?

While you may think applying for SNAP is too complex or time-consuming, it isn’t as difficult as you might expect. To apply for SNAP in Texas, print and fill out the paper application as described below and mail it to your local office. You can also apply online, or by calling your state hotline at 877-541-7905 to see if you can apply by phone. 
 
The process you could expect when applying for SNAP:
  1. Submit your SNAP application. (anywhere from 30-45 minutes)
  2. Answer any follow-up questions to complete your application and get prepared for your SNAP interview. (up to 30 days to process)
  3. Conduct your SNAP interview. (within 6 to 9 weeks after submitting your application)
  4. Await your SNAP benefits decision (within 6 to 9 weeks after submitting your application)
  5. Use your EBT card to purchase food at grocery stories, qualifying online retailers, and at farmer's markets. (after getting your SNAP benefits decision)

How do I know if I'm eligible for SNAP?

In Texas, the amount of SNAP benefits you may receive depends on:
  • Money you get from your job or other income you receive, like Social Security
  • How many people live with you
  • Any assets you have (for example, cash or property)
The following chart are maximum monthly income limits that most people or families can earn and still be eligible for SNAP in Texas. You can use the site you’re currently on to check your eligibility, just scroll to the top of this page and click the button that says ‘See If You May Be Eligible”. 
Family size Maximum monthly income in Texas
1 $ 2,005
2 $ 2,712
3 $ 3,419
4 $ 4,125
5 $ 4,832
For each additional person, add: $ 707
Source: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits

How do I prepare to apply?

While applying for SNAP in Texas, you’ll be asked for important information to help decide the amount of SNAP benefits you get.

Before you start, be sure to gather the following to make your Texas SNAP application process easier:

  • Documentation that may be required:
    • Identification
    • Social Security
    • Paystubs
    • Pension
    • Immigration status
    • Proof you live in Texas (utility bill, etc.)
  • Other information you may need to provide:
    • Life insurance information
    • Bank statements
    • Living expenses, such as what you pay for housing (rent or mortgage), natural gas, water, phone (showing that your basic living expenses are 50% or more of your income)
    • Medical expenses that are more than $35 per month (these expenses could help you if you receive more benefits through medical deductions)
While you may be worried about sharing your personal information, you should know that SNAP applications are protected by special security technology that keeps your information 100% private.

How do I apply for SNAP in Texas?

The time it takes to complete an application depends on the type of application you choose to use. Read below to learn more about which option might be right for you.
 
APPLY USING AN ONLINE APPLICATION

For online applications it can take 35 minutes to an hour to complete your SNAP application.

This process includes:

  • Creating your online account: Though not required (there is an “apply without an account” option), it’s highly recommended to create an online account so you can easily log in to check your application status, report changes to your case, renew your benefits, among other important tasks. This part takes 5 to 10 minutes.
  • Filling out your online application: During this step of the process, you’ll fill in important information including uploading documents that are required for eligibility. This part takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Apply Online
Once you’re done applying online, your waiting period for your SNAP benefits decision could take 6 to 9 weeks. Here’s what you could expect after you apply online for SNAP in Texas:
  • Receive a phone call from the Commission, where you’ll be asked follow-up questions.
  • Receive a letter from the Commission with requests for additional information or documentation.
  • Receive a letter notifying you that you have been approved and included will be your award amount.
APPLY BY MAIL
If you decide to apply using a paper application, there are two types that are offered: A ‘normal’ SNAP application and a ‘Texas simplified SNAP application’. Both processes are described below.

Applying for SNAP Using the Normal Paper Application

 
For normal SNAP paper applications it can take 30-45 minutes to complete your application.
 
This process includes:
  • Downloading the application here on BenefitsCheckUp.
  • Completing the application on paper. Note that you only need to complete sections labeled for “SNAP Food Benefits”.
  • Gathering related documentation.
  • Mailing it in. Note that we recommend using certified mail.
Download the Normal Application
Once you’re done applying using a normal SNAP paper application, you can expect the same waiting period and communication as you would if you applied online.

Applying for SNAP Using the "Simplified" Paper Application

 
For Texas simplified SNAP paper applications it can take 30-45 minutes to complete your application.
 
This process includes:
  • Confirming that you are eligible to submit the simplified SNAP application. This application is for people who are 60 or older and live with people who are 60 or older, or if you’re living with a disability. 
  • Downloading the simplified application.
  • Completing the application on paper. 
  • Gathering related documentation.
  • Mailing it in. Note that we recommend using certified mail.
Get the Texas Simplified Application
Like the normal SNAP paper application, you can expect the same waiting period and communication as you would if you applied online.

How can I get help with my application?

There are multiple options available should you need help filling out your Texas SNAP application.
 
You can: 
NCOA also has a HelpLine that you can call to get free support. To get started today, call 1-855-534-1245.

What happens after I apply for SNAP in Texas?

It can take up to 30 days to process your Texas SNAP application and then 6 to 9 weeks to get your SNAP benefits decision. Soon after you apply, someone from your local SNAP agency should call you to make an appointment for a SNAP interview.
 
What can I expect during my SNAP interview?
 
The purpose of the SNAP interview is not to trip you up or to try to disqualify you from this food assistance program. It is simply to double-check the information you already provided.
 
The goal of the SNAP interview is to make sure your application is complete, correct, and ready for approval.
 
You can expect to answer questions like:
  • What is your full name and birthday?
  • What is your Social Security number?
  • Where do you live? (You can still qualify if you are houseless.)
  • Are you a U.S. citizen? (You may still qualify if you are a noncitizen.)
  • What is your monthly income?
  • Do you pay utilities, such as an electric bill or cable TV bill?
  • What other regular bills do you have?
How can I prepare for my SNAP interview?
Use the list of SNAP interview questions above and picture yourself responding to them. Imagine how it feels to answer with confidence. Practice makes perfect! If you live with someone else, have them ask you these questions. If you live alone, you could sit in front of a mirror.
 
What else should I do after I apply for SNAP?
 
Here are actions you MUST do after you apply and if you get approved:
  • Review all correspondence in a timely manner. Watch your mail for correspondence from HHS and be sure to reply quickly enough to meet deadlines.
  • Make sure to follow-up on the requests you receive for documentation.
  • Report changes to your address, phone number, or income within 10 days of the change. You can do this by updating it online or by calling 211. 
Here are actions you may have to do depending on your situation:
  • If you applied through a ‘simplified’ application, it renews every 3 years, so plan ahead.
  • If you’re employed, you might have to renew your SNAP benefits every 3 months. To do this, you should expect to receive a renewal form in the mail or in your account online.
  • If you are disabled, but not receiving Social Security, you may need to provide a doctor’s statement. A form will be mailed to you or the doctor to complete.
  • If you receive assistance paying your living expenses, you may need to provide information on who provides the assistance and the amounts of payments. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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What Do They Ask in a SNAP Interview?
After you apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, the next steps will include a SNAP interview. The purpose of the SNAP interview is not to trip you up or to try to disqualify you from the program. It is simply to double-check the information you already provided on your SNAP application. What will they ask during my SNAP interview? The goal of the SNAP interview is to make sure your application is complete, correct, and ready for approval. You can expect to answer questions like: What is your full name and birthday? What is your Social Security number? Where do you live? (You can still qualify if you are houseless.) Are you a U.S. citizen? (You may still qualify if you are a noncitizen.) What is your monthly income? Do you pay utilities, such as an electric bill or cable TV bill? What other regular bills do you have? What should I take to my SNAP interview? Now that you have an idea of what your interviewer might ask, you can gather the documents you will need to answer the questions easily and correctly. This can include: Your Social Security card if you do not have your number memorized A letter from a shelter representative if you are houseless and staying there Proof of identity Acceptable ways to prove your identity include: Birth certificate Driver’s license U.S. passport Work visa Resident alien card Proof of income Make sure to have the following items ready if any of them apply to you: Pay stubs Benefit letters (like those from Social Security or Veterans Administration, for example) Pension statements Proof of deductions Keep handy any bills or payment records for qualified deductions, such as: Dependent-care costs (for a disabled household member, for example) Rent or mortgage Utilities (heat, water, electric, cable, telephone, etc.) Medical expenses How can I get ready for my SNAP interview? Use the list of SNAP interview questions above and picture yourself responding to them. Imagine how it feels to answer with confidence. Practice makes perfect! If you live with someone else, have them ask you these questions. If you live alone, you could sit in front of a mirror. There is no right or wrong way to practice for your SNAP interview. Practice of any kind can help you feel prepared and help your interview go smoothly.
How Long Can I Use SNAP Benefits?
Almost 5 million older adults get help buying food through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly called food stamps. If you are one of them or are thinking about applying, you may have questions about how long you can use SNAP benefits. How long do SNAP benefits last? SNAP benefits periods range from 1 month to 3 years. How long you can receive SNAP benefits depends on:  The number of people in your household Your employment status Your age and health If you qualify, your approval letter will tell you how long you will get benefits. This period of time is called your certification period. Your household will be issued an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to use to spend your monthly SNAP dollars. How do I renew SNAP benefits? If you need help from SNAP for a longer period of time, you will have to recertify for benefits. Several weeks before your SNAP benefits are scheduled to end, you will receive a recertification packet with instructions.  In addition to completing the recertification form, you may have to provide additional verifying information and/or documents. These may include: Your current income and most recent pay stubs, if applicable Any household changes (new members or people who have left) The amount you pay for shelter, dependent care, and medical expenses The good news? Many states have now made the renewal process easier for older adults. If everyone in your house is age 60 or older, you should be able to skip the recertification interview.  SNAP guidelines vary by state. If you have questions, use this state directory and contact your local SNAP office. Do SNAP dollars expire?  You do not have to use all your SNAP benefits in the same month you receive them. Unused SNAP dollars will stay on your EBT card. Some people save up SNAP dollars for fewer but bigger shopping trips. Even if you lose your SNAP benefits, you can still spend any SNAP dollars left on your EBT card. However, the phrase "use it or lose it" applies to SNAP benefits. If you do not spend your SNAP dollars at all for 9 months, you will lose them for good. How can I protect my SNAP benefits? It is important to keep your SNAP EBT card in a safe and secure place, such as your wallet, but mistakes happen. Contact your state’s EBT customer service department right away if: You lose your EBT card. Your EBT card is stolen. You forget your personal identification number (PIN), the 4-digit secret number you use to access your funds. There are unauthorized charges on your EBT account. EBT cards are not protected from fraudulent charges like other government benefits cards, so act quickly to protect your benefits.  How do I apply for SNAP benefits? NCOA's BenefitsCheckUp is here to help make the often overwhelming SNAP application process much easier for you. Click here to get started by entering your ZIP code.   
What Can You Buy With SNAP?
Did you know that most food items you would normally purchase at the grocery store can be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)? What can you buy with your SNAP benefits? In addition to items like fresh produce, meats, dairy items, breads, and cereals, you can also buy items that help you prepare your meals or that are commonly eaten with meals. A good rule of thumb for what can't be bought using your SNAP benefits is all nonfood items as well as pet food.  Here is a more detailed list of what you can buy with SNAP ( ✅ ), followed by a list of what you can't buy with SNAP (❌). Items approved for purchase with SNAP ✅ Staple foods Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned) Meat, poultry, and fish (fresh, frozen, or canned) Dairy items (fresh or shelf-stable) Bread and cereal SNAP allows some leeway in these categories. For example, you can buy nut milk, soy milk, or oat milk instead of cow milk. You can buy gluten-free pasta under bread and cereal. You may even buy 100% apple sauce for fruit, eggs under poultry, or canned ravioli with tomato sauce under vegetables. ✅ Accessory foods Spices and seasonings (powdered, dried, or extracted) Honey, maple syrup, cane sugar, and other natural or artificial sweeteners Ketchup, mustard, and other condiments Potato chips, pretzels, popcorn, and other snacks Baked goods Cake and brownie mixes Ice cream Water, soda, lemonade, iced tea, fruit and vegetable juices, and some but not all energy drinks  ✅ Seeds and plants If you have the time, space, and ability to start a small garden, you may be happy to learn that you can use your SNAP benefits to do it. You can buy seeds and plant starts with SNAP that, over time, may grow enough produce to lower your grocery bill. Items not approved for purchase with SNAP ❌ Hot food/meals You can't use your SNAP benefits for food that is hot and ready to eat when you buy it. This means you can't use SNAP to buy items like rotisserie chicken, precooked pizza slices, or soup from a food bar.  ❌ Beer, wine, and liquor You can't buy alcohol of any kind with SNAP benefits, even if it is sold in a grocery store. ❌ Pet food Pet food can't be purchased with SNAP benefits. But there is no rule against using SNAP to buy canned or bagged tuna, chicken, or other protein for yourself and sharing it with a pet. ❌ Cigarettes You can't use SNAP to buy any tobacco products—not cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco. Likewise, you cannot use SNAP for e-cigarettes or their refills either. ❌ Pharmacy items You can't use SNAP to buy prescription or over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or supplements. Sports and energy drinks that have a Supplement Facts label only can't be purchased with SNAP either. They must have a Nutrition Facts label to buy them with SNAP. ❌ Personal care items SNAP only covers food items. So things like soap, toothpaste, household cleaners, diapers, and makeup can't be bought with SNAP. I am ready. How do I apply for SNAP? Find out if you might be able to get SNAP benefits and learn how to apply here on BenefitsCheckUp. You can use our secure, confidential site to learn more about SNAP, how to navigate to your state's online SNAP application, guidelines, and more.
See What Key Benefits Programs You May Qualify For

BenefitsCheckUp can help you assess whether you can get help from programs before you apply. Answer questions anonymously to find out if you may be eligible for key benefits programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicare Savings Programs, Medicaid, Medicare Part D Low Income Subsidy (LIS) - Extra Help, among others. 

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