In Texas, individuals or families who benefit from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) receive their payments through the Lone Star Card, an electronic benefit card (EBT) that works similar to a debit or credit card. This card is automatically reloaded each month, always on the same date, with SNAP funds and can be used at stores that accept EBT payments for the purchase of essential foods.
At a federal level, the SNAP program is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) but, every state has the autonomy to manage their allocated funds according to their local realities. In Texas, the program is administered by the Department of Children and Families (DFC), that distributes the funds and select the qualifying households.
How do I apply for food stamps in Texas?
The easiest way to process benefit payments is to do it online through the official website of the Texas Department of Children and Families (DCF), in its exclusive service on this site. If you prefer to apply in person, call your local office (scroll to the bottom of the page and click “Find an Office”) or the Texas SNAP hotline (1-877-541-7905) to find out.
If you are already approved to receive SNAP in Texas before, you will receive your Lone Star Card to manage your benefits. If you ever have problems with your card or need assistance, you can contact customer service at 1-800-777-7328.
SNAP benefits payment dates in Texas: the first week of deposits
Regarding payment dates, households that were approved before June 1, 2020 receive their benefits between the 1st and 15th of each month, depending on the last digit of their Eligibility Determination (EDG) number. For the first nine days of the month, the deposit dates are as follows:
- February 1: If your EDG ends in 0
- February 3: If your EDG ends in 1
- February 5: If your EDG ends in 2
- February 6: If your EDG ends in 3
- February 7: If your EDG ends in 4
- February 9: If your EDG ends in 5
- If your number ends in 6, 7, 8 or 9, your payment will arrive between February 11 and 15.
How much is the maximum you can receive on your Lone Star Card this month?
The amount you receive on your Lone Star Card depends on the size of your household and other financial factors. For tax year 2025, the maximum monthly SNAP benefits in Texas are as follows:
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,158
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
- For each additional person: the program could add up to $220.
Keep in mind that these amounts represent the maximum benefit, so they are not necessarily the amount that will be assigned to you. Everything will depend on several variables, such as the assets and values that the family has and other income from work or social benefits, which can reduce the approved monthly amount of SNAP benefits.
