CSFP eligibility requires that you are at least 60 years old, live in a participating state or tribal area, and have a household income at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (some states allow up to 150%). The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) is a free USDA program that delivers a monthly box of nutritious foods to qualifying seniors. In fiscal year 2024, CSFP served over 731,000 participants nationwide with $389 million in federal funding. If you think you may qualify, check your eligibility for CSFP and other programs in just a few minutes.
What Is the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)?
CSFP is a federal nutrition program run by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). It provides monthly food packages to low-income adults aged 60 and older. The program operates in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and through seven Indian Tribal Organizations.
Unlike SNAP (food stamps), which provides a debit card for grocery purchases, CSFP delivers a pre-assembled box of USDA Foods directly to participants each month. The food packages are designed to supplement your existing diet with nutrients commonly lacking in senior diets.
| Feature | CSFP | SNAP |
|---|---|---|
| Benefit type | Monthly food box | EBT debit card |
| Age requirement | 60 or older | Any age |
| Income limit | 130% to 150% FPL | 130% FPL (gross) |
| Food choices | Pre-selected USDA Foods | Buy what you want |
| Can use both? | Yes | Yes |
| Application | Through local CSFP agency | Through state SNAP office |
What Are the CSFP Eligibility Requirements?
To qualify for CSFP, you must meet three basic requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 60 years old.
- Residency: You must live in a state or tribal area that participates in CSFP. Some states have local service area requirements.
- Income: Your household income must be at or below the income limit set by your state, which can be up to 130% or 150% of the Federal Poverty Level depending on where you live.
Some states may also require that participants be at nutritional risk, as determined by a physician or local agency staff. There is no citizenship requirement listed in federal CSFP regulations.
What Are the CSFP Income Limits?
Most states set CSFP income limits at 130% of the Federal Poverty Level. Some states use the higher threshold of 150% FPL. The following table shows the 2026 income guidelines for the 48 contiguous states, DC, and Puerto Rico.
CSFP Income Limits for 48 Contiguous States, DC, and Puerto Rico (2026)
| Household Size | 130% FPL (Annual) | 130% FPL (Monthly) | 150% FPL (Annual) | 150% FPL (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $20,748 | $1,729 | $23,940 | $1,995 |
| 2 | $28,132 | $2,345 | $32,460 | $2,705 |
| 3 | $35,516 | $2,960 | $40,980 | $3,415 |
| 4 | $42,900 | $3,575 | $49,500 | $4,125 |
| 5 | $50,284 | $4,191 | $58,020 | $4,835 |
| 6 | $57,668 | $4,806 | $66,540 | $5,545 |
For each additional household member, add $7,384 (annual) at 130% FPL or $8,520 (annual) at 150% FPL.
CSFP Income Limits for Alaska (2026)
| Household Size | 130% FPL (Annual) | 130% FPL (Monthly) | 150% FPL (Annual) | 150% FPL (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $25,935 | $2,162 | $29,925 | $2,494 |
| 2 | $35,165 | $2,931 | $40,575 | $3,382 |
| 3 | $44,395 | $3,700 | $51,225 | $4,269 |
| 4 | $53,625 | $4,469 | $61,875 | $5,157 |
CSFP Income Limits for Hawaii (2026)
| Household Size | 130% FPL (Annual) | 130% FPL (Monthly) | 150% FPL (Annual) | 150% FPL (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $23,868 | $1,989 | $27,540 | $2,295 |
| 2 | $32,357 | $2,697 | $37,335 | $3,112 |
| 3 | $40,846 | $3,404 | $47,130 | $3,928 |
| 4 | $49,335 | $4,112 | $56,925 | $4,744 |
What Foods Are Included in the CSFP Monthly Box?
Each month, CSFP participants receive a food package containing a variety of nutritious items. The box typically includes:
- Dairy: Shelf-stable milk, cheese
- Grains: Farina, oats, ready-to-eat cereal, rice, pasta
- Protein: Canned meat, poultry, or fish, peanut butter, dry beans
- Fruits and vegetables: Canned fruits, canned vegetables, 100% fruit juice
The food package is supplemental, meaning it is not intended to be a complete diet. It is designed to provide key nutrients that are commonly lacking in the diets of older adults, including protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C.
How Do You Apply for CSFP?
Follow these steps to apply for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program:
Step 1: Check your eligibility. Confirm that you are 60 or older and that your income falls within the limits for your state. You can use our free screener tool to check your eligibility for CSFP and other programs.
Step 2: Find your local CSFP agency. Contact your state distributing agency to find a local CSFP site near you. You can find contact information on the USDA CSFP Program Contacts page.
Step 3: Complete an application. Visit your local CSFP agency to fill out an application. You will need to provide proof of age, residency, and income.
Step 4: Provide required documentation. Bring the following to your appointment:
- Photo ID or proof of age (driver's license, birth certificate, passport)
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or government mail)
- Proof of income (Social Security statement, pension statement, tax return)
Step 5: Receive your determination. The local agency will review your application and notify you of your eligibility. If approved, you will be told when and where to pick up your monthly food box.
Step 6: Pick up your food box each month. Food boxes are typically distributed at local community centers, churches, food banks, or other designated sites on a set schedule.
Is There a Waiting List for CSFP?
Yes, in many areas there is a waiting list for CSFP. The program has a limited number of caseload slots allocated by Congress each year. In 2024, approximately 731,933 slots were available nationwide. When all slots in a service area are filled, new applicants are placed on a waiting list and served as openings become available.
If you are placed on a waiting list, ask about other food assistance programs you may qualify for in the meantime, including SNAP, TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program), and local food banks.
Can You Receive CSFP and SNAP at the Same Time?
Yes. You can participate in CSFP and SNAP simultaneously. You may also participate in CSFP alongside other nutrition programs such as the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP), TEFAP, and the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). These programs are designed to work together to help meet your nutritional needs.
What States Participate in CSFP?
CSFP currently operates in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. However, the program may not be available in every county or area within each state. Seven Indian Tribal Organizations also operate CSFP independently:
- Oglala Sioux (South Dakota)
- Seminole Nation (Oklahoma)
- Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians (California)
- Spirit Lake Tribe (North Dakota)
- Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians (Mississippi)
- Wichita and Affiliated Tribes (Oklahoma)
- Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska (Nebraska)
Contact your state agency to find out if CSFP is available in your specific area.
How Is CSFP Different from a Food Bank?
While both CSFP and food banks provide free food, there are important differences:
| Feature | CSFP | Food Banks/Pantries |
|---|---|---|
| Funding source | Federal (USDA) | Mix of public and private |
| Eligibility screening | Required (age, income) | Usually minimal or none |
| Food consistency | Same package monthly | Varies by donation |
| Nutritional design | Targeted to senior needs | General |
| Schedule | Monthly, fixed schedule | Varies by location |
| Enrollment | Formal application | Walk-in at most sites |
Frequently Asked Questions About CSFP Eligibility
What age do you have to be for CSFP?
You must be at least 60 years old to participate in CSFP. There is no upper age limit.
Does CSFP count as income for other programs?
No. The value of the CSFP food package is not counted as income or resources for any federal or state program, including SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI.
Can someone pick up my CSFP box for me?
In most cases, yes. If you are unable to pick up your food box due to illness or disability, many local agencies allow a proxy or authorized representative to pick it up on your behalf. Check with your local CSFP agency about their proxy policy.
How much is the CSFP food box worth?
The estimated retail value of the monthly CSFP food box is approximately $50 to $75, depending on the specific items included and current food prices.
Can I choose what goes in my CSFP box?
No. CSFP food packages are standardized and pre-assembled based on USDA nutritional guidelines. You cannot customize the contents. However, you may exchange or donate items you do not want.
Is CSFP available to non-citizens?
Federal CSFP regulations do not include a citizenship requirement. Eligibility is based on age, income, and residency. However, policies may vary by state, so check with your local agency.
Check Your Eligibility for CSFP and Other Programs
Not sure if you qualify for CSFP or other federal and state benefit programs? Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for CSFP, SNAP, Medicaid, LIHEAP, and more in just a few minutes. It is completely free, private, and takes less than five minutes.
