The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, offers food support to families and individuals who meet established income requirements. Benefits are calculated based on specific household income and expenses. This document summarizes the eligibility and benefit calculation rules in effect for federal fiscal year 2025, which began in October 2024.
To find out if you qualify for SNAP food assistance, interested parties should contact their local human services office. Staff will evaluate the applicant’s situation and determine if they meet the necessary requirements. This process is essential to access benefits, which may vary depending on individual circumstances.
The Lone Star Card: a key tool in Texas for families in need
In Texas, SNAP benefits are distributed through the Lone Star Card, an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT card). This card works similarly to a debit or credit card, but is loaded with food stamp funds. It can be used at establishments that accept EBT payments.
Applying for food stamps can be done online, simplifying the process for those interested. You can also apply in person by contacting your local human services office or calling the Texas SNAP hotline at 1-877-541-7905. Once the benefits are approved, the Lone Star Card is delivered.
Texas SNAP Benefit Deposit Schedule
SNAP benefit deposits are made between the 1st and 28th of each month, based on the last two digits of the household’s Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number. For example, numbers ending in 00-03 receive their benefits on the 16th, while those ending in 25-27 receive their benefits on the 23rd.
They are separated into two groups: those who were approved or certified before June 1, 2020 and those who were approved or certified after that date. The first group receives their payments between the 16th and 28th, and the second group receives their payments between the 1st and 15th. It can be confusing, but once you understand it, it’s super easy.
The groups of Texan SNAP recipients who will see their money arrive in the coming days are the following:
- 00-03: they receive their payments on February 16
- 04-06: They receive their payments on February 17
- 07-10: they receive their payments on February 18
- 11-13: They receive their payments on February 19
- 14-17: They receive their payments on February 20
- 18-20: They receive their payments on February 21
- 21-24: They receive their payments on February 22
- 25-27: they receive their payments on February 23
For tax year 2025, maximum monthly benefits range from $292 for a one-person household, but for a family of 4 the maximum payment is $975, and $1,756 for a household of eight. Each additional person in the household can add $220 to the maximum benefit.
The estimated average benefits for FY 2025 are based on SNAP Quality Assurance Program data from FY 2022. For example, a one-person household could receive an average of $199 monthly, a 4-person household averages $726, while an eight-person household could get about $1,317.
