Colorado SNAP (Food Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
SNAP puts monthly food money on an EBT card you swipe like a debit card at the grocery store. Apply online through Colorado PEAK, on the MyCOBenefits mobile app, or by paper application mailed, faxed, or returned in person to your county human services office. You can even pre-screen your eligibility on the PEAK website before you apply.
Colorado's income door is wider than most SNAP explainers admit. It uses broad-based categorical eligibility with a single 200 percent of poverty gross income test, with no separate net income or asset test for most households. The gross monthly limits are $2,610 for one person, $3,526 for two, $4,442 for three, $5,360 for four, plus $918 for each additional member.
SNAP is county-run, so your county human services department decides eligibility and issues benefits based on income, resources, and household size. Have your documents ready: 30 days of income proof, or bookkeeping records if self-employed, proof of identity, and proof of medical expenses only if you are over 60 or disabled.
There is a work rule for some adults. Able-bodied adults without dependents, defined here as adults 18 to 56 with no children in the home, face SNAP work rules, though exemptions may apply. Ask your county worker whether an exemption fits your situation.
The EBT card does more than groceries. It works like a debit card at participating food stores, and it also gives discounted admission at many Colorado museums and cultural centers. Protect it: freeze the card when not in use, watch for skimming devices, and call your county right away if it is compromised.
Getting Colorado Works cash assistance or SSI can help you qualify for SNAP, and the same PEAK application reaches those programs. If food is short today, dial 2-1-1 for the nearest pantry.
Phone 1-800-816-4451
Help available in English and Spanish.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income-based; most households qualify with gross monthly income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, and your county human services office runs the exact numbers
- Working families, older adults, and people with disabilities with limited income may qualify, and being on Medicaid, TANF, or SSI can help establish eligibility
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Pre-screen on the Colorado PEAK website, then apply on PEAK, the MyCOBenefits app, or by paper at your county office.
- 2
Gather 30 days of income proof, ID, and medical expense proof if you are over 60 or disabled.
- 3
Complete the county's eligibility steps.
- 4
After approval, protect your EBT card and set it to freeze when not in use.
What to have ready
- Photo ID for the person applying
- 30 days of income proof (or bookkeeping records if self-employed)
- Proof of medical expenses if you are over 60 or disabled. Your county confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
What is the income limit for Colorado SNAP?
A single 200 percent of poverty gross test: $2,610 a month for one person, $5,360 for four, plus $918 per additional member. Most households face no separate net or asset test.
How do I apply?
Online through Colorado PEAK, on the MyCOBenefits app, or by paper at your county human services office. You can pre-screen on PEAK first.
Are there work requirements?
Able-bodied adults without dependents, defined as adults 18 to 56 with no children at home, face SNAP work rules, though exemptions may apply. Ask your county.
What else can my EBT card do?
Besides buying food at participating stores, it gives discounted admission at many Colorado museums and cultural centers.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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