The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a vital federal initiative that helps low-income families in Texas access nutritious food.
Administered by the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS), SNAP provides monthly financial assistance via the Lone Star Card, which can be used like a debit card at authorized stores to purchase essential food items.
Who Is Eligible for SNAP Benefits in Texas?
Eligibility for SNAP benefits is primarily determined by income levels and household size. Here are the key criteria:
- Income Limits:
- A single individual can qualify with a maximum monthly income of $2,005.
- A family of five can have a monthly income of up to $4,832 and still qualify.
- For each additional household member, the income limit increases by $707.
- Household Size and Financial Hardship: SNAP benefits are targeted at households experiencing financial hardship, including those who are unemployed or have low income.
How Much Can You Receive Through SNAP?
The amount of SNAP benefits varies based on household size and income. Here’s a breakdown:
- Individual: Up to $291 per month.
- Family of Five: Up to $1,115 per month.
- Larger Families:
- A household of eight can receive up to $1,751.
- An additional $219 is available for each extra person beyond eight members.
How to Access SNAP Benefits in September 2024
SNAP benefits are loaded onto the Lone Star Card based on the recipient’s Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number. The payment schedule for September 2024 is as follows:
| EDG Number | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 00-03 | Sunday, September 1 |
| 04-06 | Monday, September 2 |
| 07-10 | Tuesday, September 3 |
| 11-13 | Wednesday, September 4 |
| 14-17 | Thursday, September 5 |
| 18-20 | Friday, September 6 |
| 21-24 | Saturday, September 7 |
| 25-27 | Sunday, September 8 |
| 28-31 | Monday, September 9 |
| 32-34 | Tuesday, September 10 |
| 35-38 | Wednesday, September 11 |
| 39-41 | Thursday, September 12 |
| 42-45 | Friday, September 13 |
| 46-49 | Saturday, September 14 |
| 50-53 | Sunday, September 15 |
| 54-57 | Monday, September 16 |
| 58-60 | Tuesday, September 17 |
| 61-64 | Wednesday, September 18 |
| 65-67 | Thursday, September 19 |
| 68-71 | Friday, September 20 |
| 72-74 | Saturday, September 21 |
| 75-78 | Sunday, September 22 |
| 79-81 | Monday, September 23 |
| 82-85 | Tuesday, September 24 |
| 86-88 | Wednesday, September 25 |
| 89-92 | Thursday, September 26 |
| 93-95 | Friday, September 27 |
| 96-99 | Saturday, September 28 |
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase a variety of essential food items, including:
- Allowed Items: Fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, bread, cereals, and other staple foods.
- Restricted Items: SNAP funds cannot be used to buy prepared or hot foods, non-food items (such as cleaning products), alcohol, tobacco, or vitamins and supplements.
If you are a SNAP recipient in Texas, it’s crucial to know when your benefits will be available and what you can purchase.
By using your Lone Star Card according to the rules and keeping track of your payment dates, you can ensure that your household has access to the nutritious food it needs.
FAQs
Who is eligible for SNAP benefits in Texas?
Low-income individuals and families meeting specific income limits are eligible.
How much can a family of five receive through SNAP in Texas?
A family of five can receive up to $1,115 per month.
When will SNAP benefits be distributed in September 2024?
Benefits will be distributed based on the EDG number, starting from September 1 through September 28.
What can I buy with SNAP benefits?
You can purchase essential food items like fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products.
