NC Food Stamps Income Limit (2024)- Eligibility & Requirements

The Food Stamp Program, now called SNAP, plays a vital role in providing assistance to many families in the United States, including those in North Carolina. If you’re a resident of North Carolina, knowing whether you qualify for SNAP benefits and understanding the income limits is essential.

Requirements:

To qualify for SNAP benefits in North Carolina, certain criteria must be met:

Citizenship or Eligible Immigration Status: Applicants need to be U.S. citizens, hold a green card, or have another approved immigration status. International students are ineligible for SNAP benefits.

Residency: Meeting residency requirements in North Carolina is necessary.

Income: Household monthly income must be at or below the SNAP income limits.

Income Limits:

SNAP benefits’ income limits vary based on household size. Here are the maximum gross income limits for the period October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024:

• 1 Person: $2,430
• 2 Persons: $3,288
• 3 Persons: $4,144
• 4 Persons: $5,000
• 5 Persons: $5,858
• 6 Persons: $6,714
• 7 Persons: $7,570
• 8 Persons: $8,428

For each additional household member, add $858. Some individuals may have to meet standard gross income limits (130%), determined by the Department of Social Services.

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Student Requirements:

Students between 18 and 51 years old attending college at least half-time may qualify for SNAP benefits if they meet specific exemptions:

• Work at least 20 hours a week in paid employment.
• Participate in a state or federally-financed work-study program.
• Join a program combining learning with work.
• Care for a child under 6.
• Care for a child aged 6 to 11 and lack necessary childcare to attend school and work 20 hours a week or participate in work-study.
• Single parent enrolled full-time in college and caring for a child under 12.
• Receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) assistance.

Additional Requirements:

Aside from income criteria, asset limits must be met to qualify for SNAP benefits in North Carolina. Eligibility requires meeting one of the following:

Bank Balance: Combined savings and checking balance must be under $2,001. Bank Balance with Household Member: Combined savings and checking balance must be under $3,001 if sharing the household with:

• A person or persons aged 60 and over.
• A person with a disability (child, spouse, parent, or self). Applying for SNAP Benefits:

Applicants meeting the criteria can apply for SNAP benefits through their local county Department of Social Services.

FAQs:

How do I apply for SNAP benefits in North Carolina?

Applicants can visit the Social Services office in their county or inquire directly about the application process and required documents.

How long does it take to receive SNAP benefits after applying?

Qualifying individuals should receive SNAP benefits within 30 days of application, with special situations processed within 7 days.

Can I use SNAP benefits to buy any type of food?

SNAP benefits can be used to purchase a variety of foods at certain stores, including fruits, veggies, meat, milk, and grains, but not for items like tobacco, pet food, paper goods, soap, or alcohol.

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What happens if my income changes after I've been approved for SNAP benefits?

Any changes in income after approval should be reported to the local Department of Social Services, as they may affect benefit amounts.

Are international students eligible for SNAP benefits in North Carolina?

No, only U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents, or individuals with other eligible immigration statuses can apply for SNAP benefits.

Can I apply for SNAP benefits if I'm a student enrolled in an institution of higher education?

Students between 18 and 51 years old attending college at least half-time may qualify for SNAP benefits if they meet specific rules, such as working at least 20 hours per week or being part of a state or federally funded work-study program.