The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) remains one of the most widely used federal programs in the United States, providing millions of households with financial support to purchase food. Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the program sets clear rules on income, resources, and work requirements to determine who qualifies.
In 2025, the question of whether individuals with jobs can receive SNAP benefits has gained attention. As wages fail to keep up with living costs in many regions, employed Americans are increasingly relying on programs like SNAP to bridge the gap between their earnings and their basic needs.
Income limits defined by the USDA
For households in the 48 contiguous states, Washington D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam, the USDA has established income thresholds that will remain in place until September 30, 2025. After this date, the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will be implemented.
The gross monthly income limit for a single-person household is $1,632, while the net monthly income limit is $1,255. According to the USDA, gross income is calculated at 130% of the federal poverty level, and net income is equivalent to 100% of the poverty level. These guidelines ensure that assistance is directed toward those who need it most, including employed workers with modest earnings.
Work and resource requirements for snap recipients
The USDA sets clear rules for both employment and financial resources when determining eligibility for SNAP benefits. Certain recipients, known as able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs), must work at least 80 hours per month to continue receiving benefits beyond three months within a three-year period. This requirement shows that having a job does not disqualify individuals from SNAP; in fact, in some cases, maintaining employment or participating in qualifying work activities is necessary to remain eligible.
Alongside these work obligations, the USDA also applies strict resource limits. For most households, countable resources such as cash or bank balances must not exceed $3,000. However, this limit increases to $4,500 for recipients who are 60 years or older or have a qualifying disability, providing additional financial flexibility to cover essential costs like health care, housing, and other necessary expenses while still receiving food assistance.
The role of snap for working Americans
The USDA explicitly confirms that employed individuals may continue receiving SNAP benefits as long as they comply with income and resource rules. This policy reflects the program’s intent to provide supplemental support to low-income workers who are not able to cover their basic nutritional needs despite having jobs.
As living costs continue to challenge working households across the country, this aspect of SNAP is increasingly relevant. According to the USDA, these benefits ensure that employment and assistance can coexist, preventing gaps in access to food for those who remain financially vulnerable.
