The Propel Guide To EBT In Minnesota: food stamp (SNAP) eligibility.
Food stamp eligibility is complicated, and the rules change often. This page is a good starting point, but the best way to find out if you’re eligible for food stamps is to apply for them.
If you have a question that we haven’t answered here, let us know.
Food stamp eligibility is complicated, and the rules change often. This page is a good starting point, but the best way to find out if you’re eligible for food stamps is to apply for them.
If you have a question that we haven’t answered here, let us know.
Do I qualify for food stamps?
To figure out if you qualify for food stamps, Minnesota needs to know your:
- Household size: How many people you live and buy/make food with.
- Income: How much money your household makes. This includes both earned income (the money you make from jobs) and unearned income (cash assistance, Social Security, unemployment insurance, and child support, etc.).
Who counts as a member of my household?
Anyone you live and buy/make food with counts a member of your household.
You may live with people who don’t count as household members, like tenants who are renting a room, or adult children (22+) who buy/make their own food.
Children (under 22) always count as household members, even if they buy/make their own food.
Elderly (60+) and disabled people count as household members if you buy/make food for them, or you buy/make food together. If they live with you but buy/make food separately, they do not count as household members.
What’s the income limit for food stamps?
The best way to determine whether you’re eligible is to start the application process.
Can I get food stamps if I’m unemployed?
Yes, as long as you aren’t leaving a job or reducing your hours specifically so that you’ll qualify.
You may be required to participate in an employment and training program if you aren’t working or work fewer than 30 hours a week. Some exceptions apply. Visit your local office or call the Minnesota SNAP hotline to learn more: 1-800-657-3698.
Can I get food stamps if I have a drug felony conviction?
Yes. If you’re eligible for food stamps, Minnesota won’t disqualify you because of a drug felony.
You might have to take drug tests. You might also face a temporary disqualification period.
Call your local office or the Minnesota SNAP hotline to learn more: 1-800-657-3698.
Can I get food stamps if I’m not a citizen?
Non-citizens who have qualified alien immigration status are eligible for food stamps.
Qualified aliens include refugees, victims of trafficking, Cuban and Haitian immigrants, Iraqi and Afghan immigrants with special status, and more.
Can I get food stamps if I’m homeless?
Yes. You do not need a mailing address or housing to apply for food stamps. If you’re currently living in a shelter that gives you free meals, you can still apply for food stamps.
Can I get more food stamps if I’m pregnant or a new parent?
Once your child is born, your household size will increase. More household members = more benefits.
While you are pregnant, you can’t get more food stamps, but you can apply for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits.
WIC provides food and resources for pregnant women, new parents, and children up to 5 years old.
Am I eligible for other benefits?
Check out this benefit finder tool and find out.
This page was written based on official government sources, and has been edited for simplicity.
We work hard to ensure this information is accurate, helpful, and up-to-date. We welcome any corrections or feedback here.