Maryland's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income households buy food. The state uses expanded eligibility rules that allow more households to qualify compared to the standard federal program. If you live in Maryland and want to know whether you can get food assistance in 2026, this guide covers current income limits, benefit amounts, allowable deductions, and exactly how to apply.
What Is SNAP in Maryland?
SNAP is a federal nutrition program administered in Maryland by the Department of Human Services (DHS). In Maryland, SNAP is sometimes still called the Food Supplement Program (FSP). Benefits are loaded onto an EBT card each month and can be used at grocery stores, farmers markets, and some online retailers.
Maryland has adopted broad-based categorical eligibility, which means the gross income limit is set at 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) rather than the standard 130% used in many other states. This allows working families with modest incomes to qualify even if they earn more than the national standard.
Maryland SNAP Income Limits 2026
The income limits below are effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. There are two tests: a gross income test and a net income test. Most households must pass both. Households with an elderly (age 60+) or disabled member only need to meet the net income test.
Gross Income Limits (200% FPL)
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit | Gross Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 | $2,608 | $31,296 |
| 2 | $3,526 | $42,312 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $53,304 |
| 4 | $5,358 | $64,296 |
| 5 | $6,276 | $75,312 |
| 6 | $7,192 | $86,304 |
| 7 | $8,108 | $97,296 |
| Each additional | +$916 | +$10,992 |
Net Income Limits (100% FPL)
Net income is your gross income minus allowable deductions. After deductions, your income must fall at or below 100% FPL.
| Household Size | Net Monthly Income Limit | Net Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 | $1,304 | $15,648 |
| 2 | $1,763 | $21,156 |
| 3 | $2,221 | $26,652 |
| 4 | $2,679 | $32,148 |
| 5 | $3,138 | $37,656 |
| 6 | $3,596 | $43,152 |
| 7 | $4,054 | $48,648 |
| Each additional | +$458 | +$5,496 |
Asset Limits
Maryland does not have a general asset limit for most SNAP households. If a household includes a member who is 60 or older or has a disability and does not meet the gross income test, they may still qualify under federal rules, which allow up to $4,500 in countable assets.
Maximum SNAP Benefits in Maryland 2026
Your actual benefit depends on your net income. The table below shows the maximum monthly benefit if your net income is zero or very close to zero.
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|
| 1 | $298 |
| 2 | $546 |
| 3 | $785 |
| 4 | $994 |
| 5 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $1,421 |
| 7 | $1,571 |
| Each additional | +$218 |
The minimum benefit for a 1 to 2 person household is $24 per month. Households with a member who is 60 or older get a minimum of $50 per month.
Deductions That Lower Your Countable Income
Because the net income test uses your income after deductions, knowing what you can deduct matters. A higher deduction means lower net income, which can help you qualify or increase your benefit.
Standard Deduction
Every household gets a standard deduction regardless of expenses. The amount ranges from $209 to $299 depending on household size.
Earned Income Deduction
If anyone in your household has earned income from a job, 20% of that income is automatically deducted before calculating net income.
Shelter Deduction
You can deduct housing costs (rent, mortgage, property taxes, homeowner insurance) and utility costs that exceed 50% of your net income after other deductions. The maximum excess shelter deduction is $744 per month for the 2025-2026 benefit year.
Utility Allowances
Maryland lets you choose one of three standard utility allowances instead of calculating actual utility costs:
- Heating and cooling standard: $572 per month
- Basic utility standard (two or more utilities other than heating or cooling): $350 per month
- Phone standard: $40 per month
Dependent Care Deduction
Childcare or adult dependent care costs paid so a household member can work, look for work, or attend school are fully deductible.
Medical Expense Deduction
Households with a member who is 60 or older or has a disability can deduct medical expenses that exceed $35 per month.
Child Support Deduction
Legally obligated child support payments made to a non-household member are deductible.
Homeless Shelter Allowance
Households without a fixed address can take a $190 per month shelter deduction even if they have no actual housing costs.
Who Qualifies for Maryland SNAP?
To receive SNAP in Maryland, your household must meet these general criteria:
- Residency: You must live in Maryland.
- Citizenship or immigration status: U.S. citizens qualify. Certain qualified non-citizens may also qualify, including lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and others. Recent immigrants may face a 5-year waiting period.
- Work requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) ages 18 to 52 must work, participate in job training, or volunteer at least 20 hours per week. Maryland received a statewide waiver through at least September 2025; check with your local office about current waiver status for 2026.
- Social Security numbers: All household members applying for benefits must have or have applied for a Social Security number.
- Student rules: College students enrolled at least half-time are generally not eligible unless they meet specific exceptions (working 20+ hours per week, participating in a work-study program, caring for a dependent child, etc.).
Categorical Eligibility
Households that receive Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) or certain other means-tested benefits may be categorically eligible. Categorically eligible households automatically meet the resource test and may not need to pass the gross income test in some circumstances. Contact your local DHS office for details on how this applies to your situation.
How to Apply for SNAP in Maryland
Maryland offers several ways to submit a SNAP application. Online is the fastest method for most people.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before applying, collect the following:
- Photo ID for the applicant (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- Proof of Maryland residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your address)
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying
- Proof of income for everyone in the household (recent pay stubs, employer letter, or benefit award letters)
- Proof of housing costs (rent receipt, mortgage statement, or utility bills)
- Proof of dependent care costs if applicable
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Online (recommended): Go to MarylandBenefits.gov or the myDHR portal at mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us. Create an account, complete the application, and upload your documents.
In person: Visit your local Department of Social Services office. You can find your local office at dhs.maryland.gov. Walk-in applications are accepted.
By phone: Call 1-800-332-6347 to request an application or get help starting the process.
By mail or fax: Download the application form from the DHS website, complete it, and mail or fax it to your local office.
The office must accept your signed application on the day you submit it, even before your interview takes place.
Step 3: Complete Your Interview
After submitting your application, you will be scheduled for a phone or in-person interview with a case worker. During the interview, the caseworker will review your application, explain program rules, and ask for any missing documentation.
Step 4: Receive a Decision
Maryland is required to process SNAP applications within 30 days of receiving them. If you have very low income and few resources, you may qualify for expedited benefits within 7 days. You will receive a written notice explaining whether you are approved and the benefit amount.
Step 5: Receive Your EBT Card
If approved, your benefits are loaded onto an EBT card, similar to a debit card. Benefits are added to the card on a monthly schedule based on the last digit of your case number.
Expedited SNAP Benefits
You may qualify for expedited processing (benefits within 7 days) if:
- Your household's gross monthly income is less than $150 and your liquid resources are $100 or less, or
- Your combined monthly gross income and liquid resources are less than your monthly rent or mortgage plus utilities, or
- Your household includes a migrant or seasonal farm worker with limited resources.
Call 1-800-332-6347 or visit your local DHS office immediately if you believe you qualify for expedited benefits.
Renewing Your SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits are not permanent. Most Maryland households receive a 12-month certification period, after which they must complete a renewal. You will receive a notice before your certification ends. Complete the renewal form and any required interview before your deadline to avoid a gap in benefits.
Other Programs You May Qualify For
Many Maryland households that qualify for SNAP also qualify for other assistance programs, including:
- Medicaid and Maryland Children's Health Program (MCHP): Health coverage for low-income individuals and families.
- WIC: Nutrition benefits for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under age 5.
- LIHEAP: Help paying heating and cooling bills through the Maryland Energy Assistance Program.
- School Meals: Children in SNAP households automatically qualify for free school meals.
Use the free eligibility screener at benefitsusa.org/screener to check which programs your household may qualify for based on your income and household size.
Contact and Resources
For a full overview of benefits available to Maryland residents, visit benefitsusa.org/states/maryland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for SNAP in Maryland in 2026?
Maryland uses a gross income limit of 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. For a single person, that is $2,608 per month. For a family of four, the gross income limit is $5,358 per month. After deductions, your net income must be at or below 100% FPL, which is $1,304 per month for one person and $2,679 per month for four people.
Does Maryland have an asset limit for SNAP?
No. Maryland does not have a general asset limit for most SNAP households. This is different from many other states. Households with a member who is 60 or older or has a disability may be subject to a $4,500 asset limit if they do not pass the gross income test.
How long does it take to get SNAP benefits in Maryland?
Maryland must process applications within 30 days. If you meet the criteria for expedited benefits (very low income or resources), you can receive benefits within 7 days of applying.
Can undocumented immigrants get SNAP in Maryland?
No. SNAP requires applicants to be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens. Undocumented immigrants do not qualify for SNAP benefits. However, mixed-status households can still apply for eligible members, including U.S. citizen children.
What can I buy with SNAP benefits in Maryland?
You can use your EBT card to buy most foods at authorized retailers, including grocery stores, supermarkets, and some farmers markets. You cannot use SNAP to buy alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, hot prepared foods, or non-food household items.
Can college students get SNAP in Maryland?
Most college students enrolled at least half-time do not qualify for SNAP. Exceptions include students who work at least 20 hours per week, participate in a state or federally funded work-study program, or care for a dependent child under age 6. If you are a student, check with your local DHS office to see if you meet an exception.
How do I check my SNAP balance in Maryland?
You can check your EBT balance by calling the number on the back of your EBT card, logging into the ConnectEBT website, or checking your receipt after a purchase.
What happens if my income changes after I am approved?
You must report income changes to your local DHS office. In Maryland, you are generally required to report if your household's gross monthly income exceeds the income limit for your household size. Your caseworker will advise you on specific reporting requirements when you are approved.
Can I apply for SNAP online in Maryland?
Yes. You can apply online at MarylandBenefits.gov or through the myDHR portal. Online applications are accepted 24 hours a day and are the fastest way to apply.
How do I renew my SNAP benefits in Maryland?
Maryland will send you a renewal notice before your certification period ends, usually about 30 to 45 days in advance. You can complete your renewal online through myDHR, by phone, in person, or by mail. Complete your renewal before the deadline to avoid losing benefits.
