Wisconsin's version of SNAP is called FoodShare, and it provides monthly food assistance to low- and moderate-income households across the state. If you're wondering whether you qualify and how to get started, this guide walks through the income limits, what documents you'll need, and exactly how to submit your application.
What Is FoodShare Wisconsin?
FoodShare is Wisconsin's name for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Benefits arrive on an EBT (Quest) card each month and can be used at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and qualifying retailers. The program is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and processed through local county or tribal agencies.
Wisconsin has expanded FoodShare eligibility beyond the federal baseline. Most households can qualify with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL), and there is no asset test for most applicants under the state's Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) policy.
Wisconsin FoodShare Income Limits (2025-2026)
These limits apply from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. Your household's gross monthly income must fall at or below 200% FPL to qualify. Gross income is the amount before taxes and deductions are taken out.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit (200% FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,610 |
| 2 | $3,526 |
| 3 | $4,442 |
| 4 | $5,360 |
| 5 | $6,276 |
| 6 | $7,192 |
| 7 | $8,110 |
| 8 | $9,026 |
| Each additional person | Add $918 |
Households with a member who is 60 or older or has a disability may be subject to different rules. In those cases, the 200% FPL gross limit may not apply, and eligibility is determined using only a net income test (100% FPL after allowable deductions).
Reporting Threshold After Enrollment
Once you are receiving FoodShare, you must report to your agency if your monthly gross income exceeds 130% FPL. That threshold is:
| Household Size | 130% FPL Reporting Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,696 |
| 2 | $2,292 |
| 3 | $2,888 |
| 4 | $3,483 |
| 5 | $4,079 |
| Each additional person | Add $596 |
Maximum FoodShare Benefit Amounts (October 2025)
Your actual monthly benefit is calculated by subtracting 30% of your net income from the maximum allotment for your household size. The table below shows the maximum you can receive if your net income is zero or very low.
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $298 |
| 2 | $546 |
| 3 | $785 |
| 4 | $994 |
| 5 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $1,421 |
| 7 | $1,571 |
| Each additional person | Add $218 |
These amounts increased on October 1, 2025 due to the federal cost-of-living adjustment.
Who Can Qualify for FoodShare?
To be eligible, you generally need to meet these criteria:
- Residency: You must live in Wisconsin and apply in the county where you reside.
- Income: Gross monthly income at or below 200% FPL (see table above).
- Citizenship/immigration status: U.S. citizens and certain qualifying immigrants are eligible. Non-citizens with lawful permanent residence status or specific visa categories may qualify.
- Work requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) between ages 18 and 52 may need to meet work or training requirements unless exempt.
- Social Security Number: All household members applying must provide an SSN or proof that one has been applied for.
There is no asset test for most Wisconsin households under BBCE. This means savings accounts or owned vehicles generally do not affect eligibility.
Documents You Will Need
Gather these before you apply to speed up processing:
Proof of identity (one of the following):
- Wisconsin driver's license or state ID
- Valid U.S. passport
- School or employee photo ID
- Military dependent ID card
Proof of Wisconsin residency:
- Utility bill with your address
- Lease or rental agreement
- Recent mail (bank statement, government correspondence)
Proof of income:
- Pay stubs from the last 30 days
- W-2 or recent tax return (if applicable)
- Social Security award letter
- Unemployment benefit statement
Social Security Numbers for all household members applying for benefits.
Other documents that may be requested:
- Proof of housing costs (rent, mortgage)
- Proof of utility costs
- Medical expenses (for households with elderly or disabled members)
- Immigration documents (for non-citizen applicants)
How to Apply for FoodShare in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers four ways to apply. Online is generally the fastest option.
Option 1: Apply Online Through ACCESS Wisconsin
The ACCESS Wisconsin portal at access.wi.gov is the state's online benefits system. You can apply for FoodShare, upload documents, and check your case status all in one place.
Steps:
- Go to access.wi.gov
- Select "Apply for benefits"
- Create an account or log in if you already have one
- Complete the FoodShare application with your household, income, and expense information
- Upload supporting documents directly through the portal
- Submit your application
You can also use the ACCESS portal's "See if you can get help" tool before submitting a full application to get a sense of whether you may qualify.
Option 2: Apply by Phone
Call your local county or tribal income maintenance agency. To find the right number for your county, visit the DHS FoodShare contact page or call the FoodShare Helpline at 1-877-366-3635. You can also reach the Wisconsin Customer Service Center at 1-888-794-5747.
Option 3: Apply in Person
Visit your local income maintenance office. You must apply in the county where you currently live. Staff can help you complete the application and answer questions. Use the DHS agency locator to find your local office.
Option 4: Submit a Paper Application
Download Form F-16019 from the Wisconsin DHS website. Complete it and mail it to your designated county agency. This method takes longer than online or phone options.
What Happens After You Apply
Interview: After submitting your application, you must complete an interview. Your agency will typically call you by phone to conduct it. You can also request an in-person interview at your local office.
Processing time: Your application will be processed within 30 days of the date it is received. If you are in immediate need, ask about expedited processing. Households with very low income or resources may receive benefits within 7 days.
Approval and EBT card: If approved, your benefits will be loaded onto a Quest EBT card. The card works like a debit card at participating stores.
Renewals: FoodShare eligibility must be renewed periodically, usually every 6 or 12 months depending on your household situation. You will receive a notice before your renewal date.
Managing Benefits with the MyACCESS App
After approval, download the MyACCESS mobile app to check your benefit balance, report changes to your case, and manage your account from your phone.
How Benefits Are Calculated
Your monthly FoodShare benefit is based on your net income after allowable deductions. The formula is:
Monthly benefit = Maximum allotment for your household size minus 30% of net monthly income
Deductions that reduce your countable net income include:
- Standard deduction (applied to all households)
- Earned income deduction (20% of gross earned income)
- Dependent care costs
- Medical expenses over $35/month (for elderly or disabled household members)
- Excess shelter costs (rent/mortgage plus utilities above a certain threshold)
Because of these deductions, households with income somewhat above the net income threshold (100% FPL) may still qualify after deductions are applied.
Changes You Must Report
Once you are receiving FoodShare, you are required to report certain changes to your county agency:
- Your gross income goes above 130% FPL (see reporting threshold table above)
- A household member moves in or out
- You win lottery or gambling winnings over $4,250
Report changes through ACCESS Wisconsin, by calling your agency, or by visiting in person.
Other Programs You May Qualify For
FoodShare applicants often qualify for additional assistance. If you have children under 5 or are pregnant, you may also be eligible for WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), which provides nutritional support and formula. Low-income households may qualify for Medicaid (called BadgerCare Plus in Wisconsin) for health coverage. Utility assistance is available through LIHEAP if you struggle with heating or cooling costs.
Use the Benefits Navigator screener at benefitsusa.org/screener to check eligibility for multiple programs at once. It only takes a few minutes and covers FoodShare, BadgerCare Plus, LIHEAP, WIC, and more.
For Wisconsin-specific programs and resources, visit our Wisconsin benefits guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for FoodShare in Wisconsin?
For most households, the gross monthly income limit is 200% of the federal poverty level. For a single person, that is $2,610 per month as of October 2025. A family of four can earn up to $5,360 per month. Households with a senior or disabled member may have different limits.
How long does FoodShare take to get approved?
Most applications are processed within 30 days. If your household has very low income or resources and urgent need, you may qualify for expedited (emergency) benefits within 7 days. Ask your caseworker about expedited processing when you apply.
Does Wisconsin have an asset test for FoodShare?
No. Wisconsin uses Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE), which eliminates the asset test for most households. Savings, vehicles, and other resources generally do not affect eligibility.
Can I apply for FoodShare online in Wisconsin?
Yes. You can apply through the ACCESS Wisconsin portal at access.wi.gov. It is the fastest option and allows you to upload documents and check your case status online.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply for FoodShare?
U.S. citizens who meet income and residency requirements are eligible. Certain qualified non-citizens, including lawful permanent residents and some other visa holders, may also qualify. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for FoodShare, though their U.S. citizen children may be.
What can I buy with FoodShare benefits?
FoodShare benefits can be used to buy most food items including bread, cereal, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, and seeds or plants to grow food. You cannot use benefits to buy alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, non-food household supplies, or hot prepared foods meant to be eaten immediately.
How do I renew my FoodShare benefits?
You will receive a renewal notice before your benefits expire. You can renew through ACCESS Wisconsin online, by phone, or in person. Failing to renew on time will result in your benefits ending. Most households renew every 6 to 12 months.
What if I disagree with a FoodShare decision?
You have the right to request a fair hearing if your application is denied or your benefits are reduced or terminated. You must request a hearing within 90 days of the decision. Contact your county agency or call the DHS Fair Hearing unit for information on how to file.
