SNAP FY 2026 COLA: New Income Limits and Monthly Allotments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the Fiscal Year 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

These adjustments update income eligibility, maximum allotments, deductions, asset limits, and reporting thresholds.

Income Eligibility Standards (Monthly)

Net Monthly Income (100% of Poverty Level)

• 48 States & D.C.:

  • 1 person: $1,305

  • 2 people: $1,763

  • 3 people: $2,221

  • 4 people: $2,680

  • Each additional member: +$459

• Alaska:

  • 1 person: $1,630

  • 2 people: $2,203

  • 3 people: $2,776

  • 4 people: $3,350

  • Each additional member: +$574

• Hawaii:

  • 1 person: $1,500

  • 2 people: $2,027

  • 3 people: $2,555

  • 4 people: $3,082

  • Each additional member: +$528

Gross Monthly Income (130% of Poverty Level)

• 48 States & D.C.: 1 person $1,696 → 8 people $5,867

• Alaska: 1 person $2,118 → 8 people $7,336

• Hawaii: 1 person $1,949 → 8 people $6,750

Elderly/Disabled Separate Household (165% of Poverty Level)

• 48 States & D.C.: 1 person $2,152 → 8 people $7,446

• Alaska: 1 person $2,689 → 8 people $9,311

• Hawaii: 1 person $2,474 → 8 people $8,567

For the full data, check here.
 

Maximum Monthly Allotments

• 48 States & D.C.:

  • 1 person: $298 → 8 people: $1,789

  • Each additional person: +$218

• Alaska (Urban / Rural 1 / Rural 2):

  • 1 person: $385 / $491 / $598 → 8 people: $2,314 / $2,950 / $3,591

  • Each additional person: $282 / $360 / $438

• Hawaii: 1 person $506 → 8 people $3,040, each additional +$371

• Guam: 1 person $439 → 8 people $2,637, each additional +$322

• U.S. Virgin Islands: 1 person $383 → 8 people $2,300, each additional +$281

Minimum Allotments

• 48 States & D.C.: $24 (households 1–2 members)

• Alaska: $31–$48

• Hawaii: $41

• Guam: $35–$598

• U.S. Virgin Islands: $31

Deductions

Standard Deduction

• 48 States & D.C.: $209–$299 (household size 1–6+)

• Alaska: $358–$374

• Hawaii: $295–$344

• Guam: $420–$598

• U.S. Virgin Islands: $184–$299

Maximum Excess Shelter Deduction

• 48 States & D.C.: $744

• Alaska: $1,189

• Hawaii: $1,003

• Guam: $873

• U.S. Virgin Islands: $586

Maximum Homeless Shelter Deduction

• All areas: $198.99

Maximum Asset Limits

• Households with ≥1 member age 60 or disabled: $4,500

• All other households: $3,000

Note: The elderly/disabled limit also applies to substantial lottery or gambling winnings.

Threshold for Required Reporting of Changes in Household Income

• All areas (48 States, D.C., Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, Virgin Islands): $125

This FY 2026 COLA ensures SNAP benefits adjust to the cost of living, helping households meet their nutritional needs while maintaining eligibility thresholds.

If you could use a little extra help, see what benefits you can claim here.

-

Don't miss out on general benefits information!

Subscribe for the latest updates, expert advice, and valuable tips to help you maximize your benefits and financial well-being.

Stay informed—sign up now!