How to Apply for SNAP in Texas: Step-by-Step Guide 2026
Last updated: February 2026
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about SNAP in Texas and is not legal or financial advice. Eligibility rules can change, and individual circumstances vary. Always verify current requirements with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission before applying.
Applying for food assistance can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already dealing with financial stress. The paperwork, the income rules, the waiting. It's a lot to navigate on your own.
Here's the good news: if you want to apply for EBT in Texas, the process is more straightforward than you might think. You can complete your Texas SNAP application online at YourTexasBenefits.com in about 30 to 45 minutes. A family of four earning less than $4,420 per month (gross income) likely qualifies, and benefits can start arriving on your Lone Star Card within 30 days of applying.
Texas SNAP provides real help with grocery costs. The average Texas family receives hundreds of dollars monthly in food benefits, which can free up income for rent, utilities, and other essentials. Nearly 3.4 million Texans receive SNAP benefits each month, and you may qualify even if you work full time.
This guide walks you through the entire Texas SNAP application process, from checking your eligibility to receiving your Lone Star Card.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you start your application, it helps to know whether you're likely to qualify. Texas SNAP uses federal income guidelines, and most households must meet both a gross income test and a net income test.
The gross income limit for SNAP in Texas is 165% of the Federal Poverty Level. This means your total household income before any deductions must fall below the threshold for your household size. The net income limit is 100% FPL, which is calculated after allowable deductions like housing costs and dependent care.
Texas SNAP Income Limits (October 2025 to September 2026)
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Limit | Net Monthly Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,151 | $1,304 |
| 2 | $2,908 | $1,763 |
| 3 | $3,664 | $2,221 |
| 4 | $4,420 | $2,679 |
| 5 | $5,177 | $3,138 |
| 6 | $5,933 | $3,596 |
For each additional person, add $755 to the gross limit and $458 to the net limit.
Texas also has asset limits. Most households can have up to $5,000 in countable assets (bank accounts, cash, some investments). Your first vehicle is exempt up to $22,500 in fair market value, and your home does not count as an asset.
You can check your eligibility for SNAP and other benefit programs in about five minutes using a free screening tool like Benefits USA. These screeners ask a few questions about your household and show which programs you may qualify for before you spend time on the official application.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Having your documents ready before you start will make the application process smoother. Texas HHSC will verify the information you provide, so accuracy matters.
Documents You'll Need
Identity verification:
- Driver's license or state ID
- Birth certificate or passport
- Social Security cards for all household members
Proof of income (for everyone in your household who earns money):
- Recent pay stubs (last 30 days)
- Self-employment records
- Social Security or SSI award letters
- Unemployment benefit statements
- Child support documentation
Proof of expenses (these can lower your countable income):
- Rent or mortgage statements
- Utility bills (electric, gas, water, phone)
- Childcare costs
- Medical expenses if you're elderly or disabled
Proof of residency:
- Utility bill with your name and address
- Lease agreement
- Texas ID showing current address
You don't need every document to submit your application. Texas allows you to apply first and provide verification documents within 10 days. However, gathering documents upfront can speed up your approval.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Texas offers several ways to submit your SNAP application. Choose the method that works best for your situation.
Apply Online at YourTexasBenefits.com
The fastest way to apply is online through the state portal. Visit YourTexasBenefits.com and create an account if you don't already have one. The online application takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete.
The website is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can save your progress and return later if you need to gather more information. After submitting, you'll receive a confirmation number to track your case.
Apply by Phone
Call 2-1-1 and select Option 2 to request an application by mail or get help applying over the phone. Texas 2-1-1 connects you with local resources and can answer questions about the application process.
Apply In Person
Visit your local Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) office to apply in person. Staff can help you complete the application and submit your documents on the spot. To find your nearest office, call 2-1-1 or search online for "HHSC office near me."
Step 4: Complete Your Interview
After Texas receives your application, a caseworker will schedule an interview. This is a required step for all SNAP applicants.
Most interviews are conducted by phone, though you can request an in-person interview at your local HHSC office. The interview typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes. The caseworker will verify the information on your application and may ask for additional documentation.
During the interview, be prepared to discuss your household composition, income sources, and monthly expenses. Answer questions honestly and completely. If you don't know an exact amount, provide your best estimate and let the caseworker know.
If you miss your scheduled interview, Texas will send you a notice with instructions to reschedule. Missing your interview without rescheduling can result in your application being denied, so watch your mail and answer calls from unknown numbers during this time.
Step 5: Receive Your Determination
Texas HHSC has 30 days from the date you apply to process your application and send you a decision. If you're approved, your notice will include your monthly benefit amount and when to expect your Lone Star Card.
Expedited (Emergency) Benefits
If your household has very low income or resources, you may qualify for expedited processing. Texas must process expedited applications within 7 days. You may qualify if:
- Your household has less than $150 in monthly gross income and $100 or less in resources
- Your monthly rent and utilities exceed your monthly income and resources
- You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with $100 or less in resources
If you believe you qualify for expedited benefits, mention this when you submit your application or during your interview.
If You're Denied
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Your denial notice will explain why you were denied and how to request a fair hearing. Common reasons for denial include income over the limit, missing documents, or missing the interview.
You can reapply immediately if your situation changes or if you can provide the missing information.
What to Expect After Approval
Once approved, you'll receive your Lone Star Card in the mail within 7 to 10 days. This is a debit card that works like any other payment card at authorized retailers.
Monthly Benefit Amounts
Your benefit amount depends on your household size, income, and allowable deductions. Texas uses a formula that considers your net income after deductions to calculate your monthly benefit.
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $298 |
| 2 | $546 |
| 3 | $785 |
| 4 | $994 |
| 5 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $1,421 |
Most households don't receive the maximum amount. The average SNAP benefit in Texas is around $200 to $400 per month per household, depending on income and expenses.
When Benefits Are Deposited
Texas deposits SNAP benefits based on the last digit of your case number. Benefits are loaded to your Lone Star Card between the 1st and 15th of each month. Your approval notice will tell you your specific deposit date.
Where to Use Your Lone Star Card
You can use your Lone Star Card at most grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers markets throughout Texas. SNAP benefits can purchase bread, cereal, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, dairy, and seeds or plants that produce food.
SNAP cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, prepared hot foods, or non-food items like paper products or pet food.
Recertification: Keeping Your Benefits
SNAP benefits are not permanent. Texas requires you to recertify your eligibility periodically, typically every 6 to 12 months. You'll receive a notice in the mail before your certification period ends with instructions for renewal.
Report any changes to your household within 10 days. This includes changes in income, household size, address, or expenses. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments that you'll need to repay or underpayments that shortchange your family.
You can report changes and complete recertification online at YourTexasBenefits.com, by phone at 2-1-1, or in person at your local HHSC office.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for SNAP in Texas? Texas HHSC processes most SNAP applications within 30 days. If you qualify for expedited benefits due to very low income or resources, you can receive benefits within 7 days.
Can I get SNAP if I have a job in Texas? Yes. SNAP is designed for working families. In Texas, you can earn up to $4,420 per month (gross) for a family of four and still qualify. Many Texans with full-time jobs receive SNAP benefits.
What is the Lone Star Card? The Lone Star Card is Texas's EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card. It works like a debit card and is used to access your SNAP benefits at authorized grocery stores and food retailers.
Can I apply for SNAP if I'm not a U.S. citizen? Some noncitizens can qualify for SNAP, including lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who have lived in the U.S. for five years, refugees, and asylees. Children who are U.S. citizens can qualify regardless of their parents' immigration status.
Do I need to do an interview for Texas SNAP? Yes. All SNAP applicants in Texas must complete an interview, usually conducted by phone. The interview verifies the information on your application and typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.
How often do I need to recertify for Texas SNAP? Most Texas households must recertify every 6 to 12 months. You'll receive a notice before your certification period ends with instructions for renewal.
Next Steps
Applying for SNAP in Texas starts with a single step: checking whether you qualify. If your household income falls within the limits, the application process is manageable and the benefits are significant.
The average Texas family receives hundreds of dollars monthly in food assistance. That's real money that can help stretch your grocery budget and free up funds for rent, utilities, and other essential expenses.
Start by gathering your documents, then visit YourTexasBenefits.com to submit your application. If you want to check your eligibility for SNAP and other benefit programs first, a free screening tool can show you what you may qualify for in about five minutes.
