Texas SNAP Benefits Increase in April 2025: In a much-needed move to support low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has confirmed a major increase in SNAP benefits starting April 2025. The changes bring higher monthly payments, expanded eligibility criteria, and updated income and asset limits aimed at helping more Texans put food on the table amid rising living costs.
Whether you’re currently receiving benefits or applying for the first time, here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s changing and how it could impact your household.
What’s New with SNAP in Texas Starting April 2025?
The April 2025 SNAP update is among the most significant enhancements Texas has made to its nutrition assistance program in recent years. The changes focus on boosting monthly benefits, raising income eligibility limits, and expanding support for vulnerable groups like seniors, students, and veterans.
Key SNAP Changes Effective April 2025:
- Monthly benefit amounts will increase by roughly 12%.
- Example: A family of four could now receive up to $1,090, up from the previous $973.
- Income limits have been raised by nearly 10%, allowing more families who were previously ineligible to now qualify.
- Resource (asset) limits increased:
- Up to $3,250 for most households.
- Up to $4,900 for households with seniors or individuals with disabilities.
- Minimum benefit for one-person households increases from $23 to $30, offering better support to single individuals.
Do You Qualify for Texas SNAP Under the New 2025 Guidelines?
To determine your eligibility, Texas SNAP considers household size, income, assets, and certain allowable expenses. Here’s what’s changed:
Updated Income Limits (Monthly)
| Household Size | Gross Income (130% FPL) | Net Income (100% FPL) | Max Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,580 | $1,215 | $281 |
| 2 | $2,137 | $1,644 | $516 |
| 3 | $2,695 | $2,072 | $740 |
| 4 | $3,252 | $2,500 | $1,090 |
| 5 | $3,809 | $2,929 | $1,295 |
| 6 | $4,367 | $3,357 | $1,557 |
| 7 | $4,924 | $3,786 | $1,723 |
| 8 | $5,482 | $4,214 | $1,969 |
| Each Additional | +$558 | +$429 | +$246 |
Note: Households with elderly or disabled members may qualify with slightly higher income under special rules (up to 165% of the FPL).
Resource (Asset) Limits for 2025
Your household may still qualify even if you have some savings:
- $3,250 for most households
- $4,900 for households with seniors (60+) or people with disabilities
✅ Exempt items include:
- Your home
- Most vehicles
- Personal items
- Retirement accounts
- SSI/TANF resources
Deductions That Could Help You Qualify
SNAP allows certain expenses to be deducted from your gross income, potentially improving your eligibility.
Allowable Deductions:
- Standard deduction: Now $197–$282 depending on household size
- Shelter costs: Capped at $730 for most, no cap for elderly/disabled households
- Childcare expenses: 100% deductible if needed for work/school
- Medical expenses: Deduct anything over $35/month for seniors or disabled individuals
- Includes prescriptions, over-the-counter items, transportation, and medical supplies
Expanded SNAP Access for Special Groups
College Students
Under the new rules, more students may qualify if they:
- Work 20+ hours per week
- Have a dependent child under 12
- Participate in a work-study program
- Receive public aid or have a $0 EFC on their FAFSA
Seniors (60+)
- Easier application process
- Longer certification period (now 36 months)
- Option for phone interviews
- Higher asset limits and more medical deductions
🇺🇸 Veterans
Veterans and their families will receive:
- Priority application support
- Dedicated case managers
- Faster processing times
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Texas (2025)
Online:
Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com — now with a faster, mobile-friendly application process.
By Phone:
Call 1-877-541-7905 (Monday–Friday, 7 AM to 7 PM)
In Person:
Visit a local HHSC office. Locations listed on YourTexasBenefits.com or by dialing 2-1-1.
By Mail:
Download or request a paper form. Mail completed applications to:
Texas HHSC, PO Box 149024, Austin, TX 78714-9024
Documents You’ll Need to Apply
- Proof of identity (ID, birth certificate, passport)
- Proof of residence (lease, utility bill)
- Income documents (pay stubs, Social Security, child support)
- Immigration status (for non-citizens applying)
- Medical and childcare expense receipts (if applicable)
Timeline for Implementation
- April 1–15, 2025: Staff training and system upgrades
- April 16–30, 2025: Automatic updates for current recipients
- May 1, 2025: First increased payments begin
- May–July 2025: Outreach to newly eligible households
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to reapply to get the increased benefits?
No. If you’re already receiving SNAP, your new amount will be automatically applied starting in May 2025.
How long does it take to get approved?
Most applications are processed within 30 days, or within 7 days for households in urgent need.
Can non-citizens qualify?
Yes, certain categories (e.g., lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees) may qualify. U.S. citizen children in non-citizen households can also receive benefits.
How are SNAP benefits used?
Benefits are loaded onto the Lone Star Card, which can be used like a debit card at participating grocery stores and markets.
Final Thoughts
With expanded eligibility and higher monthly support, the April 2025 changes to Texas SNAP benefits are a game-changer for families facing food insecurity. If you’ve struggled to qualify in the past, now may be the perfect time to apply.
Start your application or check your eligibility today at YourTexasBenefits.com or call 2-1-1 for assistance.