Hawaii SNAP (Food Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
Hawaii SNAP puts monthly food money on an EBT card you use like a debit card at most grocery stores. It is run by the state Department of Human Services (DHS). The fastest way to apply is online through the Public Assistance Information System (PAIS) at pais.dhs.hawaii.gov. You can also mail or drop off the paper form, DHS 1240, at a processing center, or call the Public Assistance Information Line at 1-855-643-1643.
Hawaii uses its own poverty figures, which are higher than the mainland, so know the income line. The gross monthly income limit is 130 percent of the Hawaii poverty level. As of October 1, 2025, that is $1,949 a month for one person, $2,635 for two, $3,321 for three, and $4,007 for four, plus $686 for each added person.
There is a wider door, too. Under Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, most households can qualify with gross income at or below 200 percent of the Hawaii poverty level, with no asset limit. As of February 1, 2025, those households do not face a separate net income test either. So a working family that is a little over the 130 percent line may still qualify.
Some households skip the income tests entirely. If every member of your household already gets, or is approved to get, TANF or SSI cash, your household is eligible for SNAP with no gross, net, or asset test.
There are a few rules to plan for. Most able-bodied adults must meet work requirements. Every household member must give a Social Security number or apply for one. When you submit, you get a receipt with a tracking number, and DHS then contacts you to set up the required interview.
Benefits load onto a Hawaii EBT card you use at authorized stores and at ATMs, with surcharge-free Allpoint ATMs across the state. Free interpreter help in many languages is available by phone. If food is short today, dial 2-1-1 for the Aloha United Way helpline.
Phone 1-855-643-1643
Help available in English and Spanish.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income-based. Under Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, most households qualify with gross monthly income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, with no asset limit and, as of February 2025, no separate net income test
- Households where everyone receives TANF or SSI are categorically eligible. Most able-bodied adults must meet work requirements, and every household member must provide or apply for a Social Security number
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online at pais.dhs.hawaii.gov, or mail or drop off the paper DHS 1240 form at a processing center.
- 2
Have proof of income and Social Security numbers ready for each household member.
- 3
Ask about Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility if your income is just over the 130 percent line.
- 4
Watch for your receipt and tracking number, then complete the interview DHS sets up.
- 5
Set up your Hawaii EBT card once you are approved.
What to have ready
- Photo ID for the person applying
- Proof of income for the past month
- Social Security numbers for each member, or proof you applied for one. Your processing center confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
What is the income limit for Hawaii SNAP?
The gross limit is 130 percent of the Hawaii poverty level, which is $1,949 a month for one person and $4,007 for four as of October 1, 2025. A wider path at 200 percent, with no asset limit, covers many more households.
Is there an asset test?
Not for most households. Under Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility the asset limit is removed, and since February 1, 2025 there is no separate net income test for those households.
Can I qualify automatically?
Yes. If everyone in your household gets or is approved for TANF or SSI cash, your household is eligible for SNAP with no gross, net, or asset test.
How do I apply?
Online at pais.dhs.hawaii.gov, or by mailing or dropping off the paper DHS 1240 form. For help, call 1-855-643-1643.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
See all Hawaii programs →Free · Private · No account needed