The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), popularly known as food stamps, remains a fundamental pillar in the fight against food insecurity in the United States in 2025. Designed to help low-income individuals and families, this federal program not only provides access to nutritious food, but has also evolved significantly, adapting to today’s digital needs.
SNAP eligibility in 2025 maintains strict income and resource-based criteria, regulated by the Department of Agriculture (USDA). A household’s gross monthly income must not exceed 130% of the federal poverty line. For a family of three, this means a limit of $2,798 per month ($33,576 per year).
However, the final calculation considers net income (after deductions for housing, childcare, or medical expenses for the elderly/disabled), which must be below the federal poverty line.below100% of the poverty line ($2,152 for that same household of three).
Other requirements you must comply with to qualify for SNAP benefits
Asset limits matter too, when it comes to eligibility criteria to be applied:
- Households without seniors (60+) or disabled: $3,000 max
- Households with these members: $4,500 max
- Flexibility exists for families with kids, seniors, or disabled individuals. As a USDA report notes: “Those facing high medical costs or fixed incomes might still qualify even slightly above gross limits.”
About 42 million Americans (across 22 million households) will depend on SNAP for basic food needs in 2025. The New York Times reports these numbers show relative stability, though minor shifts occur with economic or policy changes. For many, it remains their only safety net against food insecurity.
How much Help Does SNAP Provide? 2025 Key Amounts
Benefits vary by household size, net income, and deductible expenses – aiming to cover affordable, nutritious diets. Maximum monthly amounts are:
- Household size 1: $292
- Household size 2: $536
- Household size 3: $768
- Household size 4: $975
- Household size 5: $1,158
- Household size 6: $1,390
- Household size 7: $1,536
- Household size 8: $1,756
- Every extra member: +$220
Our official source is: USDA, SNAP benefits amounts and cost-of-living adjustments, FY 2025.*
The final calculation deducts 30% of the household’s net income from the applicable maximum amount. For example, a family of four with a net income of $1,500 would receive $975 – (0.3 x $1,500) = $525 per month.
Top 10 US retailers accepting SNAP EBT cards online (2025)
In 2025, SNAP recipients can shop at major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target, along with wholesale clubs (Costco, Sam’s Club) and specialty stores (Thrive Market). Regional chains like Hy-Vee and Jewel-Osco also participate, ensuring nationwide access to grocery delivery and pickup options for EBT users.
- Amazon (Fresh/Pantry) — Home delivery
- Walmart — Delivery + in-store pickup
- Target — Curbside pickup
- Costco — Bulk items (membership required)
- Aldi — Budget options (select areas)
- Whole Foods (via Amazon) — Organic focus
- Hy-Vee – Midwest coverage
- Jewel-Osco (Albertsons) — National presence
- Sam’s Club — Bulk alternative
- Thrive Market — Health/organic specialty (48 states)
These online shopping options prove especially valuable for seniors, disabled individuals, and families in food deserts – making every benefit dollar stretch further in challenging times. BUT, always remember that the SNAP Benefits cover only eligible foods (produce, dairy, meat, bread). Not shipping fees, packaging, or non-food items. Availability varies by ZIP code so you can find your closest store searching the official USDA’s retailers list, in their website.
