The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal initiative. In Texas, it is administered by the state. This program helps low-income households purchase nutritious food. It was formerly known as food stamps. Benefits are delivered electronically.
Distribution is carried out through the Lone Star Card. This card operates like a debit card. It works exclusively at authorized retailers. Its purpose is to facilitate the purchase of basic food. The card simplifies access to the benefits allocated monthly.
How are SNAP benefits distributed in Texas?
Recipients receive a monthly allowance on their Lone Star Card. This amount is automatically loaded each cycle. The card allows them to purchase eligible food items at participating establishments. These include supermarkets, convenience stores, and certain markets. The amount depends on household size and net income.
There are clear rules regarding which products can be purchased. Purchases are restricted to specific food items. Non-food items or items considered luxury items are excluded. Federal regulations determine the eligibility list. Stores display SNAP acceptance notices.
Allowed foods cover basic categories. Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables are eligible. Meats, poultry, and fish can also be purchased. Other foods include dairy products such as milk and cheese. Breads and cereals are part of the basic list.
Don’t Lose Your SNAP Benefits: Foods Not Allowed and Prohibited
There are specific exclusions for SNAP purchases. Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, and tobacco are prohibited. Vitamins, medications, and supplements are also ineligible. The key difference is in the product label: “Nutrition Facts” indicates food, “Supplement Facts” excludes it.
Other restrictions apply to ready-to-eat hot foods. Pet food cannot be purchased with the card. Cleaning supplies and paper are also prohibited. Any non-food items are excluded from the program. The regulations aim to focus the subsidy on basic nutrition.
Seeds and plants that produce food are eligible. This allows families to grow their own produce. Home gardening initiatives can be supported. Purchases must be for consumption by the beneficiary household. This provision promotes food self-sufficiency.
Application process for SNAP benefits in Texas
There are four ways to apply for SNAP benefits in Texas. The online option is through YourTexasBenefits.com. This method is typically the fastest for applicants. It allows them to complete and submit the application digitally. It also makes it easier to track the status of their application.
To apply by phone, call 2-1-1. After selecting your language, press option 2. Alternatively, you can call 1-877-541-7905. Operators can help you complete the application over the phone. A paper form can also be mailed to you.
Applying in person requires visiting local offices. The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) operates these locations. The nearest location can be found at YourTexasBenefits.com or by calling 2-1-1. There, you can receive direct assistance with the application process. Staff can answer specific questions.
Applying by mail or fax is another option. The paper form can be downloaded from YourTexasBenefits.com. Once completed, it can be mailed to: HHSC, PO Box 149024, Austin, TX 78714-9968. It can also be faxed to 1-877-447-2839. It is crucial to include all required documentation.
June 2025 SNAP benefit payment schedule in Texas
The distribution of SNAP payments in June 2025 depends on two factors. The household’s certification date and EDG number are decisive. The Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) assigns the payment date. There are two main groups with different schedules.
Households certified before June 1, 2020, receive payments from June 1st to June 15th. The exact date depends on the last digit of the EDG. For the period from June 1st to June 10th, 2025, the schedule is:
- EDG ends at 0: June 1
- EDG ends in 1: June 3
- EDG ends in 2: June 5
- EDG ends in 3: June 6
- EDG ends in 4: June 7
- EDG ends in 5: June 9
Households certified as of June 1, 2020, receive benefits between the 16th and the 28th. Their payday is based on the last two digits of their EDG. Therefore, this group does not receive payments between June 1 and 10. They must wait until after the 15th.
Maximum SNAP benefits range from $292 to $1,755
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,157
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
- For each additional person: +$220
All of these amounts are in effect until September 30, 2025, when the fiscal year’s inflation rate will be assessed using the COLA index, and new increases will be established.