The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has recently adjusted its income limits and benefit amounts to align with rising costs of living, effective as of October 1.
This change is intended to help more people, including low-income individuals, families, and even eligible students, access essential food benefits during a time when inflation and food prices continue to rise.
SNAP serves as a crucial support system in the U.S., helping millions maintain access to nutritious foods.
With increased income eligibility limits, SNAP benefits are becoming accessible to a larger group of people who previously may not have qualified. Here’s a look at these updates, including what’s changed, who’s eligible, and how students can benefit.
New Income Limits for SNAP Eligibility
The recent updates to SNAP income limits make it possible for single individuals earning up to $2,510 monthly to qualify for food benefits, a significant increase from previous years. This adjustment benefits low-income families and individuals, but it also positively impacts students.
As Julia Morrill, Director of the Basic Needs Program at the University of Oregon, highlights, many students who previously fell just above the income limit—formerly around $1,500 per month—are now eligible for assistance.
This higher income threshold is particularly beneficial for students, a group often balancing academic responsibilities with limited work hours, resulting in lower incomes.
Students enrolled in six or more undergraduate credits or five graduate credits who meet an additional qualifying criterion are now eligible for SNAP benefits. This expanded accessibility can make a substantial difference for students facing food insecurity.
Eligible Purchases with SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits are primarily intended for the purchase of food and essential beverages. Here’s a breakdown of what beneficiaries can and cannot buy using SNAP benefits:
| Allowed Items | Prohibited Items |
|---|---|
| Fruits, vegetables, meat, fish | Tobacco and alcohol |
| Bread, cereals, dairy products | Medications and supplements |
| Non-alcoholic beverages | Non-food items (e.g., cleaning supplies) |
| Packaged foods, seeds, and plants | Hot or prepared foods |
For students and low-income families, these eligible food items provide access to a range of nutritious options, supporting healthier eating habits. However, items like alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, and hot foods remain off-limits under SNAP regulations.
Steps for Students to Apply for SNAP
Applying for SNAP benefits can feel overwhelming, especially with documentation requirements. Here’s a simplified process that students can follow:
- Submit an Application: Applications can be started on the Oregon Department of Human Services website or by visiting a local office.
- Complete an Interview: After applying, an interview with a social worker from the Department of Human Services will be scheduled, either in person or over the phone.
- Seek Campus Support: Programs like the University of Oregon’s Basic Needs Program assist students in navigating the application process. Although the support team can’t complete applications for students, they provide guidance on necessary documentation and answer questions.
These steps help make applying for SNAP more accessible for students who need financial support for food expenses.
Where to Use SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits can be used at most grocery stores, supermarkets, and some on-campus markets that accept SNAP payments. Students at the University of Oregon, for example, can use their benefits at Agate Street Market, located in Unthank Hall.
This on-campus location provides packaged foods and deli items, allowing students to shop close to their university residence and purchase nutritious food without leaving campus.
This local accessibility to food through SNAP makes it much easier for students who spend the majority of their time on campus.
SNAP’s Role in Promoting Healthy Eating
Beyond offering financial relief, SNAP encourages healthy eating by providing access to fresh and nutritious foods. For students, this support can improve health, boost energy, and even enhance academic performance.
By reducing food-related stress, SNAP benefits help students focus on their studies, promoting a better quality of life both inside and outside the classroom.
Student Eligibility Restrictions with Meal Plans
While SNAP offers essential food assistance, students with university meal plans may face specific eligibility restrictions. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Eligible for SNAP: Students with meal plans covering less than 50% of their food needs.
- Ineligible for SNAP: Students with meal plans that cover more than 51% of their food needs.
These guidelines prevent overlapping benefits, as meal plans are typically structured to fulfill the majority of a student’s dietary needs. SNAP aims to serve those without sufficient food coverage, ensuring resources are directed toward individuals experiencing food insecurity.
As SNAP expands its income limits and benefit amounts, more individuals and students are eligible for this critical support. These changes make a positive impact on the lives of those who need it most, offering a pathway to a healthier lifestyle and financial relief in a time of rising living costs.
