SNAP Food Benefits (Lone Star Card)
Last updated August 2026
SNAP in Texas is monthly grocery money on a Lone Star Card that swipes like a debit card. It pays up to $298 a month for one person, $546 for two, $785 for three, $994 for four. Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com, or call 2-1-1 (option 2, or 877-541-7905) if you want a person on the line.
The standard income limit is $1,696 a month before taxes for one person, $3,483 for a family of four. Some sites quote higher numbers like $2,152 and $4,421; those are screening figures for homes with someone 60 or older or disabled, not the general limit. Do not do the math yourself. Apply and let the office run it.
If you have almost nothing, say so. Expedited SNAP gets food money onto your card by the 7th day if you have $100 or less on hand and under $150 coming in this month, or if rent and utilities cost more than everything you have. Most paperwork can wait until after that first payment; only proof of who you are cannot.
The interview is a phone call, and the decision must come within 30 days. Two paths worth knowing: if everyone in your home is 60 or older or disabled with no job income, ask for TSAP, a shorter application that certifies you for 3 years instead of 6 months. And most adults 18 to 64 without a child under 14 at home must work or train 80 hours a month, or benefits stop after 3 months in a 3-year window.
One new rule: since April 1, 2026, the Lone Star Card cannot buy candy or drinks with 5 or more grams of added sugar or any artificial sweetener. Milk drinks and mostly-juice drinks are fine. While your case processes, food pantries ask no questions, and being on SNAP settles WIC's income test for pregnant women and young kids.
Phone 1-877-541-7905
Help available in English and Spanish.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income limits by household size: standard gross limit about $1,696/month for 1 person, $3,483 for a family of 4; homes with someone 60+ or disabled use higher screening figures
- Most adults 16-59 must meet work rules; households of only seniors 60+ or people with disabilities can use the simpler TSAP application
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com, on the Your Texas Benefits app, or call 2-1-1 and pick option 2. Paper applications work at any HHSC office.
- 2
Almost no money or food? Ask for expedited SNAP. That means benefits by day 7, and most documents can wait until after.
- 3
Answer the phone for your interview. It is done by call, not in an office.
- 4
Send proof of identity, income, and your rent and utility costs. Housing costs can raise your amount.
- 5
Everyone 60+ or disabled with no earnings? Ask for TSAP: a shorter form and a 3-year certification.
- 6
Get your decision within 30 days, then your Lone Star Card. Card help: 800-777-7328.
- 7
Denied or cut? Ask for a fair hearing within 90 days: call 2-1-1 or put it in writing.
What to have ready
- Photo ID for the person applying
- Proof of income for the last 30 days
- Rent or mortgage and utility costs
- Social Security numbers for everyone applying. The office confirms the exact list at your interview.
What the application looks like
Common questions
What is the income limit for food stamps in Texas?
The standard gross limit is $1,696 a month for one person, $2,292 for two, $2,888 for three, $3,483 for four. Homes with someone 60 or older or disabled are screened differently and can qualify at higher income. Apply and let the office decide.
How much SNAP does Texas pay?
Up to $298 a month for one person, $546 for two, $785 for three, $994 for four, through September 2026. Small households get at least a minimum benefit. Rent and utility costs can push your amount up.
How fast can I get SNAP in Texas?
By the 7th day with expedited service, if you have $100 or less on hand and little income this month. Otherwise the state must decide within 30 days.
What is TSAP?
The Texas Simplified Application Project, for households where everyone is 60 or older or gets disability payments, with no job income. Shorter form, benefits certified for 3 years instead of 6 months, and renewals usually skip the interview.
Do I have to work to keep SNAP in Texas?
Most adults 18 to 64 without a child under 14 at home must work or train 80 hours a month, or benefits stop after 3 months in a 3-year period. Pregnancy, disability, and other exemptions exist; ask the worker.
What can't the Lone Star Card buy?
Alcohol, tobacco, non-food items, and since April 1, 2026, candy and drinks with 5+ grams of added sugar or any artificial sweetener. Milk-based drinks, mostly-juice drinks, and electrolyte drinks for medical use are still fine.
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