New income guidelines for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, are now in effect in Ohio.
The updated guidelines took effect on October 1, 2026, and are based on household size and monthly income.
For a household of one, the maximum gross monthly income is $2,660, while the net monthly income limit is $1,330.
For a household of two, the limits are $3,607 gross and $1,804 net per month.
A household of three can have up to $4,554 in gross monthly income and $2,277 in net income.
For four people, the limits are $5,500 gross and $2,750 net.
For each additional household member, the gross income limit increases by $947, while the net income limit increases by $474.
Gross income is the total monthly income before deductions. Net income is the amount left after allowable deductions.
Those deductions can include rent or mortgage payments, child care costs, medical expenses, child support, and other eligible expenses.
SNAP is available to those who qualify, including individuals, seniors, workers, and people with disabilities.
People who have never received food assistance before can also apply to see if they qualify.
SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer, or EBT, card, known in Ohio as the Ohio Direction Card.
Benefits are deposited onto the card each month. Any unused SNAP benefits remain on the card and can be used in future months. However, benefits can be removed if the account goes unused for nine months.
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase items including fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry and fish, dairy products, breads and cereals, snack foods, non-alcoholic beverages, and seeds and plants that produce food for the household.
Recipients can check their EBT balance by looking at their most recent grocery receipt, calling EBT customer service at 866-386-3071, or using the Connect EBT or Propel smartphone apps.
Free assistance is also available for people who need help applying for SNAP.
You can contact the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services at 1-844-640-OHIO, or visit benefits.ohio.gov to apply.
SNAP recipients are also reminded to report changes in income, including changes to wages or salaries, Social Security, unemployment, or self-employment income.
