Texas SNAP Food Benefits: Get Monthly Grocery Assistance

Program overview

Texas SNAP Food Benefits, administered by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), deliver monthly grocery assistance to more than 1.5 million Texans. Benefits are loaded onto the Lone Star Card—Texas’s Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system—which can be swiped at grocery stores, large retailers, farmers markets, and select online merchants. The program is designed to stabilize food budgets for low-income families, single adults, older Texans, and people transitioning between jobs. Because Texas spans massive rural areas and dense urban hubs, HHSC supplements the standard federal rules with unique outreach partnerships, mobile field offices, and application options tailored for people with limited internet access. Understanding those pathways, along with the deductions and exemptions available to your household, is the key to unlocking the full value of SNAP.

Texas has adopted Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE), effectively raising the gross income limit to 165% of the federal poverty level for most households and eliminating asset tests, except for those with disqualified members. Households containing a person aged 60 or older or a person with disabilities are not subject to the gross income test, though they must still meet net income limits. Texas also applies the federal Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) time limit, but many counties currently have waivers or good-cause exemptions due to economic conditions. Students enrolled at least half-time in higher education must meet additional criteria, but Texas offers pathways through workforce training, state-funded financial aid, TANF participation, or caring for dependents.

Benefit amounts and issuance cycles

SNAP benefits are calculated using a formula that subtracts 30% of a household’s net income from the maximum allotment for its size. For fiscal year 2024, maximum allotments range from $291 for a one-person household to $1,751 for eight people, with $219 added for each additional person. Net income is determined after deductions for earned income, standard allowance, dependent care, child support, shelter costs, and allowable medical expenses. Households experiencing homelessness or paying for temporary lodging can claim the full shelter deduction even without a traditional lease. Benefits are issued once per month based on the last two digits of the Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number; deposits occur over 15 days (the 1st through 15th of each month). You can check the schedule on the YourTexasBenefits website or via the Lone Star mobile app.

Texas offers expedited SNAP, known as emergency benefits, for households with less than $150 in monthly income and $100 or less in liquid resources, or when monthly housing costs exceed total income and assets. Emergency cases must be processed within seven calendar days. If you believe you qualify, highlight your situation in the application narrative and call 2-1-1 to request expedited service; follow up with your local benefits office to confirm receipt. Veterans, survivors of natural disasters, and families fleeing domestic violence should mention their circumstances, as HHSC can connect them to specialized support services and housing referrals.

Eligibility deep dive

Household composition

A SNAP household includes people who live together and share meals. Married couples and children under 22 living with a parent must be included. Individuals who rent a room but buy their own food can apply separately. Undocumented family members cannot receive benefits but may be excluded while their income is considered proportionally. Texas HHSC protects immigration information and does not share it with federal enforcement agencies except in fraud investigations. Lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, certain parolees, and trafficking survivors qualify without waiting periods if they meet all other requirements.

Income rules

Gross income includes wages, self-employment earnings after business expenses, unemployment benefits, Social Security, and most cash inflows. Net income is calculated by subtracting the standard deduction, 20% earned income deduction, dependent care expenses, legally obligated child support payments, and shelter/utility deductions. Households with elderly or disabled members can claim out-of-pocket medical expenses exceeding $35 per month, including Medicare premiums, prescription costs, dental services, medical transportation, and assistive devices. If you pay for child care so you can work or attend school, submit receipts; Texas allows the actual cost, including after-school programs and summer camps, to be deducted.

Resource considerations

Because of BBCE, most households do not face an asset limit. However, if someone is disqualified due to intentional program violations or certain drug felony convictions, the case may revert to the $2,750 resource limit ($4,250 if a member is elderly or disabled). Countable resources include cash, bank accounts, and stocks. Vehicles are excluded if used for work, medical transportation, or daily commuting. Document the purpose of each vehicle to avoid being flagged.

Application pathways

Online through YourTexasBenefits. Create an account, complete the SNAP application, and upload documents by scanning or taking photos with your smartphone. The site saves progress, allowing you to pause and resume.
Mobile app. The Your Texas Benefits app mirrors the web portal and offers push notifications for interview appointments, document requests, and benefit issuance.
In-person or paper. Visit a local HHSC benefits office or partner agency. Community organizations, libraries, and workforce centers often host staff who can help you complete and submit applications electronically.
Phone application. Call 2-1-1 (option 2) to start your application. HHSC can mail a paper form or complete the application verbally before scheduling an interview.

Your filing date is the day HHSC receives your signed application. Within a few days, you’ll receive a notice about your interview, usually conducted by phone. Prepare to verify your identity with information from your application; you can designate an authorized representative to complete the interview if needed. If you miss the call, contact HHSC immediately to reschedule. The agency must issue a decision within 30 days (or seven days for expedited cases).

Building a strong application packet

Collect and submit the following documents:

Identity: Texas ID, driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued photo ID. For children, provide birth certificates or school records.
Social Security numbers: Required for each household member seeking benefits. If someone is applying for an SSN, submit proof from the Social Security Administration.
Residency: Lease, mortgage statement, utility bill, or letter from a landlord or shelter. Rural applicants can use a notarized statement or description of their living arrangement if utilities are bundled.
Income: Pay stubs for the last 30 days, employer verification, self-employment ledgers, profit/loss statements, or award letters for unemployment or disability benefits. Agricultural workers should include crew leader letters outlining seasonal wages.
Expenses: Receipts for child care, elder care, disability-related services, and medical costs. Provide rent receipts, property tax statements, homeowners insurance, or motel bills for temporary housing.
Student status: Proof of enrollment, financial aid award letters, and documentation of work-study, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act participation, or parenting responsibilities.

Uploading documents within 10 days of the request prevents delays. If you cannot obtain a document, submit a written statement explaining why and provide collateral contacts (such as an employer or landlord) who can verify information by phone.

Interview preparation and follow-up

During the interview, HHSC staff confirm household details, income, and expenses. Be ready to explain irregular earnings, fluctuating hours, or recent job losses. Self-employed applicants should describe business operations, gross receipts, and deductible expenses like supplies, gas, insurance, and platform fees. If you share housing, clarify how rent and utilities are split. Highlight any special needs, such as medical transportation or dietary restrictions, because these can support deductions or referrals to other programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).

After the interview, monitor your YourTexasBenefits account for notices. HHSC may request additional documents or schedule a follow-up. Respond quickly; if deadlines are missed, the application can be denied. If you receive a denial or lower benefit than expected, request a fair hearing within 90 days. Benefits may continue during the appeal if you ask for continued assistance before the effective date of the action.

Maximizing and using your benefits

Shop strategically. Use the Lone Star Card at authorized retailers and track your balance with the Your Texas Benefits app or the Providers app. Many farmers markets participate in Double Up Food Bucks, giving you extra produce dollars.
Plan around issuance dates. Benefits are deposited over the first half of the month. Create a budget that covers high-cost weeks, and use coupons or store loyalty programs to stretch funds.
Use SNAP online. Texas participates in SNAP Online Purchasing, allowing you to buy groceries from Amazon, Walmart, H-E-B, and select regional grocers. Delivery fees must be paid in cash or other payment methods, but the groceries themselves can be covered by SNAP.
Stack benefits. SNAP recipients automatically qualify for school meal programs, the Texas WIC program for pregnant people and children under five, and often for reduced utility rates. Many community colleges waive certain fees for SNAP students.
Protect your card. Skimming and phishing scams are increasing. Change your PIN regularly, store the card separately from the PIN, and report suspicious activity immediately at 800-777-7328.

Renewal and reporting obligations

Certification periods in Texas range from six months to two years depending on household composition. Most working families recertify annually, while households with elderly or disabled members and no earned income may receive 24-month periods with a mid-cycle report. Pay attention to notices labeled “Form H1017” or “H1020”; these outline documentation needed for ongoing eligibility. Report changes within 10 days if your household income exceeds 130% of the poverty level, if someone moves in or out, or if your work hours fall below 80 hours per month and you are subject to ABAWD rules.

To avoid interruptions, submit recertification paperwork early, ideally 30 days before expiration. Re-upload recent pay stubs, rent receipts, and medical bills. If you cannot complete the process on time, call HHSC to request more time—especially if you are hospitalized, experiencing disaster impacts, or dealing with domestic violence.

Troubleshooting and advocacy resources

Community partners: Organizations like Feeding Texas, legal aid groups, and workforce boards have staff trained in SNAP navigation. They can submit documents, attend interviews, and represent you at hearings.
Rural outreach: HHSC’s mobile units visit remote counties; check the schedule online to access in-person assistance without traveling long distances.
Language access: HHSC provides interpretation in more than 150 languages and offers translated applications. You have the right to an interpreter at no cost.
Disaster response: After hurricanes, tornadoes, or winter storms, Texas may offer Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP). If you already receive SNAP, report storm-related losses to request replacement benefits. Save photos of spoiled food or power outages to support your claim.
Fair hearings: File appeals online through YourTexasBenefits, by mail, or by fax. Continue submitting verification while the appeal is pending, and request benefits to continue if you believe the agency erred.

How to Apply

Ready to apply for Texas SNAP benefits? Here’s exactly how to get started and maximize your chances of approval.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before applying, confirm you meet the basic requirements:

You live in Texas
Your household’s gross income is at or below 165% of the federal poverty level (for most households)
You’re a U.S. citizen, national, or qualified non-citizen
You or someone in your household is responsible for buying and preparing food

Use the pre-screening tool on YourTexasBenefits.com to get an estimate of your potential benefit amount.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect documentation before you start your application:

Identity: Texas ID, driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued photo ID
Social Security Numbers: SSN cards or documents for all household members
Residency: Lease, utility bill, mortgage statement, or letter from landlord
Income: Last 30 days of pay stubs, employer letters, self-employment records, unemployment award letters, Social Security statements
Expenses: Rent receipts, child care bills, medical expenses (if household has elderly or disabled members), child support payments

If you’re missing any documents, don’t let that stop you from applying. You can submit them later, and HHSC can help you obtain some documents.

Step 3: Choose Your Application Method
Texas offers multiple ways to apply:

Online (Recommended): Go to YourTexasBenefits.com and create an account. The online application saves your progress, so you can complete it over multiple sessions. You can upload documents directly from your phone or computer.

Mobile App: Download the “Your Texas Benefits” app from the App Store or Google Play. The app works the same as the website and sends you notifications about your case.

By Phone: Call 2-1-1 and select option 2 to start an application over the phone. Staff can complete the application with you verbally or mail you a paper form.

In Person: Visit your local HHSC benefits office or a partner agency (community organization, library, workforce center). Staff can help you complete the application electronically.

Step 4: Complete the Application
Fill out the application completely and accurately. Key sections include:

Household composition (everyone who lives with you and shares meals)
Income from all sources for all household members
Expenses (rent/mortgage, utilities, child care, medical costs)
Resources (bank accounts, vehicles, property)

Be thorough. Missing information delays processing. If a question doesn’t apply to you, write “N/A” rather than leaving it blank.

Step 5: Submit Your Application and Documents
Once you complete the application, submit it along with your supporting documents. Your filing date is the day HHSC receives your signed application—this is important because it determines when your benefits can start.

If applying online or via app, upload documents by taking photos with your smartphone or scanning them. If applying by paper, you can:

Mail documents to the address on your application
Fax them to your local office
Drop them off in person
Upload them later through YourTexasBenefits.com

Step 6: Complete Your Interview
Within a few days of applying, you’ll receive a notice scheduling your interview. Most interviews are conducted by phone. HHSC will call you at the scheduled time.

Prepare for the interview:

Have your application and all documents in front of you
Be ready to verify information you provided
Explain any income fluctuations or unusual circumstances
Ask questions if anything is unclear

If you miss the interview call, contact HHSC immediately to reschedule. Missing the interview is the most common reason applications are denied.

You can designate an authorized representative (family member, friend, caseworker from a community organization) to complete the interview on your behalf if needed.

Step 7: Respond to Any Follow-Up Requests
After your interview, HHSC may request additional documents or clarification. Respond within 10 days to avoid delays. Check your YourTexasBenefits account regularly for notices.

Step 8: Receive Your Decision
HHSC must make a decision within 30 days of your application date (or 7 days if you qualify for expedited service). You’ll receive a notice by mail and through your YourTexasBenefits account telling you:

Whether you’re approved or denied
Your benefit amount (if approved)
When your benefits will be available
Your certification period (how long until you need to recertify)

Step 9: Activate and Use Your Lone Star Card
If approved, you’ll receive your Lone Star Card in the mail within 7-10 days. When it arrives:

Call the number on the sticker to activate it
Choose a 4-digit PIN (don’t use obvious numbers like 1234 or your birth year)
Check your balance using the app, website, or by calling 800-777-7328
Start using it at any store that accepts SNAP

Your benefits will be deposited on a specific day each month based on your EDG number (shown on your approval notice). Benefits are deposited between the 1st and 15th of each month.

Step 10: Maintain Your Benefits
To keep receiving benefits:

Report required changes within 10 days (income exceeds 130% poverty level, household members move in/out, work hours drop below 80/month if you’re subject to ABAWD rules)
Complete any mid-certification reports if required
Recertify before your certification period ends (you’ll receive notices reminding you)

Expedited Service
If you qualify for expedited service, you’ll receive benefits within 7 days. You may qualify if:

Your household has less than $150 in monthly gross income and $100 or less in liquid resources, OR
Your monthly housing costs exceed your monthly income and liquid resources combined

When applying, clearly state if you believe you qualify for expedited service. Call 2-1-1 to request expedited processing.

Getting Help with Your Application
If you need assistance:

Call 2-1-1 for general help and to find local assistance
Contact Feeding Texas or local food banks for application assistance
Visit a legal aid organization if you’re denied and believe the decision was wrong
Ask about authorized representative services if you can’t complete the process yourself

For complete information about Texas SNAP benefits and to apply online, visit: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits

Questions? Call the HHSC Benefits Hotline at 2-1-1 (or 877-541-7905). Representatives are available Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM Central Time.

Securing Texas SNAP benefits is not only about meeting income guidelines—it’s about telling the full story of your household’s expenses, responsibilities, and goals. By organizing documentation, requesting every available deduction, and staying in contact with HHSC, you can obtain the maximum benefit and keep it in place as your circumstances evolve.