How to Get New SNAP Benefits Even If You Are Still a Student
Starting October 1, monthly SNAP food benefits will grow by an average of $ 36 per person, the largest increase in the program’s 46-year history. Here’s what you need to know about how to qualify for the increased food assistance you can get, even if you are a student.
Every SNAP member will receive additional help.
The hike is the result of a USDA revision of its Thrifty Food Plan , a list of food items the government uses to estimate the minimum cost of a nutritious diet. Apart from adjusting for inflation, this number has not increased since 1962.
On average, the monthly allowances will provide an additional $ 36 on top of the pre-pandemic monthly allocation of $ 121 per person, a jump of 25% per month. The change is also timely as the COVID subsidy, which has added 15% to SNAP benefits , is due to end in October when a new steady increase kicks in.
How do I qualify for SNAP food assistance?
Eligibility for SNAP benefits is based on several factors related to family expenses, but in general, your net income must be at or below the poverty line .
Students aged 18–49 who are at least part-time in college are not eligible for SNAP. However, some exceptions apply, for example if you have worked 20 hours as a student or if you have a physical or mental disability. More information on exceptions can be found here . In addition, as part of COVID legislation, the following additional exemptions continue to apply:
- You are a student eligible to participate in government-funded or government-funded workplace learning during the regular school year. (Your college or university will determine if you are eligible for on-the-job study.)
- You are a student who has a Zero Expected Family Contribution (EFC) score for the current academic year. Students receive an EFC upon applying for financial aid.
If you qualify, your SNAP benefits will be provided through postal electronic debit cards (EBT) that can be used at over 238,000 authorized retailers nationwide.
For more information on membership requirements and how SNAP royalties are calculated, click here . To apply, visit your government agency’s website, which can be found here .