The SNAP program has become one of the most important to help Texans families in need, providing resources so that these vulnerable households can feed their members with fresh and nutritious groceries. It is not only designed to help people have better nutrition, but also eliminates some unhealthy products from the equation, such as junk food, alcohol and tobacco-based products.
Applying for SNAP benefits in Texas is a simple process that is managed by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, using its website or going in-person to the local office to access the paper application form. Gather necessary documents such as identification, income verification, and residency proof, among other requirements. But, let’s slow down and learn together how to apply for the food stamps in the Lone Star State.
Food stamps in Texas: Who can qualify in the TSAP
For most adults aged 18 to 49 who do not have children in their home, SNAP benefits are available for a limited period of three months within a three-year timeframe. However, we acknowledge that everyone’s situation is unique, and there are exceptions that can extend the benefit period. If an individual works at least 20 hours per week or participates in a job or training program, they may qualify for an extended benefit period. Additionally, some individuals, such as those with disabilities or pregnant individuals, might be exempt from the work requirements and still be eligible for benefits.
For households where all members are either older adults aged 60 and above or individuals with disabilities, the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP) is available. This initiative is designed to simplify the SNAP application process and provides the added benefit of receiving three years of benefits at a time instead of the standard six months.
To qualify for the TSAP food stamps, you could fill your application online at YourTexasBenefits.com. If you’re more for the person-to-person interaction, find your local Texas Health and Human Services office to pick up a paper application, which you can return via mail, fax or in person. You could also call at 2-1-1 and request a paper application to be emailed to your house. You’ll be requested to attach copies of recent medical bills, or even pharmacy statements to verify your medical expenses. Also, you could be asked to provide award letters or similar statements that verify any pension, retirement, or disability income. Furthermore, have ready a copy of your current bank statements.
The maximum SNAP benefits you could collect in Texas in 2023
The following table will give you an idea of how much SNAP money can be charged in Texas, following the general federal guidelines, with the updated values of 2023 (household size and amount):
- 1 person: $281
- 2 people: $516
- 3 people: $740
- 4 people: $939
- 5 people: $1,116
- 6 people: $1,339
- 7 people: $1,480
- 8 people: $1,691
- Each additional person: add $211
Now, your family must comply with monthly income limits, as established for the state of Texas. These limits are linked to the family size, as follows:
- 1 person: $1,869
- 2 people: $2,518
- 3 people: $3,167
- 4 people: $3,816
- 5 people: $4,465
- Each additional person: add $649
SNAP Benefits in Texas: You payment days in August 2023
In Texas, the payment schedule for SNAP benefits in August 2023 follows a staggered system, where disbursements are spread out over the first 15 days of the month. The date you receive your payment depends on the last digit of your client ID number. To determine the exact date of your benefit disbursement, please refer to the schedule provided by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
The schedule follows this rule, according to your Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number:
- 0: 1st of the month
- 1: 3rd of the month
- 2: 5th of the month
- 3: 6th of the month
- 4: 7th of the month
- 5: 9th of the month
- 6: 11th of the month
- 7: 12th of the month
- 8: 13th of the month
- 9: 15th of the month
How can the SNAP benefits be expanded beyond 3 months?
Commencing from October 1, 2023, the Biden administration has implemented a lasting augmentation to SNAP benefits. Consequently, families will experience a modest upswing in their food benefits starting in that month. This enduring enhancement comes in response to the ongoing struggles faced by American households concerning food insecurity. As of the end of August, more than 7% of households reported experiencing occasional or frequent lack of adequate food, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s weekly Household Pulse survey.
Combining the 15% SNAP boost with the emergency allotment, the average monthly food benefit per person currently stands at $240. With the permanent increase in SNAP benefits set to begin on October 1, beneficiaries will observe a moderate rise in their average monthly benefit, at least as long as the emergency allotment remains in effect. The average monthly benefit per person will escalate to $251.