The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) assists low-income individuals and families in purchasing nutritious food.
What Is SNAP and How Does It Work in Texas?
In Texas, benefits are provided through the Lone Star card, equivalent to the EBT card used in other states. This card functions like a credit card at SNAP-participating stores and can also be used for online purchases or to buy seeds for gardening.
However, SNAP has specific restrictions. It does not cover:
- Tobacco or alcohol
- Non-food items
- Bills or services
- Hot meals or restaurant-prepared food
Who Qualifies for SNAP in Texas?
SNAP benefits are available to low-income households, including individuals aged 18 to 52 without children, for three-month periods within three years unless they meet work requirements (20+ hours/week or participation in a training program). Exemptions apply to pregnant women, people with disabilities, and seniors. Seniors (60+) and households entirely composed of seniors or individuals with disabilities qualify for the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP). This program offers a streamlined application process and provides three years of benefits instead of the typical six-month period. Most beneficiaries aged 16-59 must adhere to work-related rules, including actively seeking employment, participating in approved training programs, or avoiding job termination without valid reasons.
SNAP Payment Dates in Texas
SNAP payments in Texas follow a structured schedule based on the last digit of an applicant’s Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number. Deposits occur during the first 15 days of each month as follows:
- EDG ending in 0: 1st of the month
- EDG ending in 1: 3rd of the month
- EDG ending in 2: 5th of the month
- EDG ending in 3: 6th of the month
- EDG ending in 4: 7th of the month
- EDG ending in 5: 9th of the month
- EDG ending in 6: 11th of the month
- EDG ending in 7: 12th of the month
- EDG ending in 8: 13th of the month
- EDG ending in 9: 15th of the month
Beneficiaries can confirm their deposit date through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) in their award letter (TF0001), which specifies the exact date of benefits distribution.
Simplified Access for Seniors and Those with Disabilities
The TSAP initiative simplifies access for eligible seniors and individuals with disabilities, extending benefit periods and making it easier to maintain food security. By streamlining applications, Texas ensures critical support for its most vulnerable residents. SNAP benefits provide a vital safety net, helping Texans maintain access to nutritious food while adhering to eligibility and work requirements tailored to individual circumstances.
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