The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, is a federal initiative designed to help individuals and families buy nutritious food. In Texas, SNAP benefits are distributed through the Lone Star Card, a type of EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card that functions like a debit or credit card. Let’s break down the key details about Texas SNAP benefits, who qualifies, and the January 2025 payment schedule.
Table of Contents
Overview
SNAP is overseen by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and locally administered by Texas Health and Human Services. These monthly benefits help eligible Texans purchase essential food items like grains, proteins, fruits, and vegetables, but exclude items like alcohol, tobacco, or hot/prepared meals.
The program ensures that low-income households, unemployed individuals, pregnant women, and people with disabilities have access to nutritious meals.
Eligibility
Eligibility for SNAP benefits depends on household size, income, and specific conditions. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Income limits:
- A single-person household must earn less than $2,005 per month.
- A household with five members can earn up to $4,832.
- Families with more than five members receive an additional $707 per person.
- Age considerations:
- Adults aged 18–52 may face time restrictions and work requirements to remain eligible.
- Pregnant women and people with disabilities are exempt from these conditions.
Payments
Texas SNAP benefits are distributed monthly based on the recipient’s Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number. These numbers are found on official SNAP documents and determine when a household receives its benefits. Payments are scheduled throughout the month, from the 1st to the 28th, ensuring that every beneficiary receives funds.
Payment Schedule
If you’re wondering when you’ll receive your SNAP benefits this month, check your EDG number. Below is the payment schedule for January 20–26, 2025:
| EDG Number Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 68–71 | January 20, 2025 |
| 72–74 | January 21, 2025 |
| 75–78 | January 22, 2025 |
| 79–81 | January 23, 2025 |
| 82–85 | January 24, 2025 |
| 86–88 | January 25, 2025 |
| 89–92 | January 26, 2025 |
Payments are loaded directly onto the Lone Star Card, allowing you to shop for eligible food items at participating retailers.
If you’re new to SNAP or have questions, Texas Health and Human Services provides resources to help navigate the application process and program details.
By adhering to the schedule and knowing your benefits, you can better manage your monthly food expenses. The program aims to ensure no Texan goes hungry, making it a critical lifeline for many households.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Texas SNAP benefits?
Low-income households, unemployed individuals, pregnant women, and people with disabilities qualify based on income and other factors.
How is the Lone Star Card used?
It works like a debit card for purchasing eligible food items.
Can SNAP funds buy hot meals?
No, SNAP funds cannot be used for hot or prepared meals.
What is the maximum income for a family of five?
The income limit is $4,832 per month for a household of five.
When are benefits paid in Texas?
Payments are made monthly, based on the EDG number, from the 1st to the 28th.
