Do I Qualify for SNAP in Mississippi?
Income limits and benefit amounts for federal fiscal year 2026 (October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026), and how to apply
Mississippi does not use broad-based categorical eligibility. The regular SNAP rules apply: gross income at or below 130% of the federal poverty guidelines, net income at or below 100%, and an asset limit of $3,000 ($4,500 if a member is 60+ or disabled). For a family of 4, gross income must be at or below $41,795/year ($3,483/month). Maximum monthly benefit: $994 for a family of 4.
Rule source: USDA FNS, Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) state chart, June 2026 (state not listed, so the regular SNAP rules from the FY2026 COLA memo apply), as of June 29, 2026. Dollar figures: USDA FNS FY2026 income standards.
Could Your Family Get SNAP in Mississippi?
Enter your household size and gross annual income to check the gross income test. Net income (after deductions) is calculated at your interview.
The next step is applying through Mississippi MDHS. At your interview, they will calculate your net income (after deductions for shelter, childcare, etc.) to determine your benefit amount.
Elderly or disabled household member? Households with a member age 60+ or receiving disability benefits are exempt from the gross income test. Only the net income test applies.
Income just changed? SNAP uses current monthly income. A job loss, reduced hours, or other change may now put you under the limit. Apply based on your current situation.
Enter your household size and income to check.
Mississippi SNAP Gross Income Limits (130% FPL)
Gross income before any deductions. Regular SNAP gross income test: 130% of the federal poverty guidelines.
| Household size | Annual gross limit | Monthly gross limit | Max benefit/month |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $20,345 | $1,696 | $298 |
| 2 people | $27,495 | $2,292 | $546 |
| 3 people | $34,645 | $2,888 | $785 |
| 4 people (reference) | $41,795 | $3,483 | $994 |
| 5 people | $48,945 | $4,079 | $1,183 |
| 6 people | $56,095 | $4,675 | $1,421 |
| 7 people | $63,245 | $5,271 | $1,571 |
| 8 people | $70,395 | $5,867 | $1,789 |
Sources: USDA FNS, Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) state chart, June 2026 (state not listed, so the regular SNAP rules from the FY2026 COLA memo apply) (as of June 29, 2026) for the 130% limit and the asset limit; USDA SNAP FY2026 income eligibility standards and maximum allotments, effective October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026 (built on the 2025 HHS poverty guidelines), for the dollar figures. Contact Mississippi MDHS to confirm current thresholds.
Net Income Test: 100% FPL (All States)
After passing the gross test, your caseworker calculates net income by subtracting allowed deductions. Net income must be at or below 100% FPL. For a family of 4: $32,150/year ($2,680/month).
Common SNAP deductions:
- • 20% earned income deduction (automatic for all wages)
- • Standard deduction ($209 for 1-3 people, $223 for 4, more for 5+; FY2026)
- • Dependent care costs (childcare while working or training)
- • Excess shelter costs above 50% of adjusted income
- • Medical expenses over $35/month for elderly/disabled members
- • Child support payments made to non-household members
How to Apply for SNAP in Mississippi
Applications are processed by Mississippi MDHS.
Submit your application
Apply at your county MDHS office or call the statewide hotline.
Complete an interview
Within 30 days (7 days for expedited cases). Phone interviews available in most states. Bring proof of identity, income (pay stubs, tax returns), housing costs, and childcare expenses.
Receive your EBT card
Benefits are loaded monthly to an EBT card accepted at grocery stores, farmers markets, and online retailers (Amazon, Walmart) in Mississippi. Expedited households receive benefits within 7 days.
SNAP Eligibility in Other States
More Family Assistance in Mississippi
Mississippi Family Assistance Programs
Families who qualify for one program often qualify for others. Check each one.
Childcare Subsidy (CCDF)
Income limits and how to apply in Mississippi
Head Start Eligibility
Free early education for low-income families
WIC Benefits
Food assistance for children under 5
Free Pre-K Programs
State-funded preschool eligibility
Free School Meals
NSLP income limits for school-age kids
Childcare Tax Credits
Federal + Mississippi state credits
TANF Cash Assistance
Monthly cash benefits for families with children
Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
Help paying heating and cooling bills
Section 8 Housing
Housing vouchers — income limits and waitlists