SNAP Eligibility in Alaska
There are three eligibility tests for SNAP: the Gross Income, Net Income, and Asset tests. Depending on your state and whether your household includes a member who is 60 or older or has a disability, your household may be exempt from these tests.
While the Gross Income and Asset tests are straightforward, Net Income is more complex to calculate. We recommend using our SNAP Eligibility Calculator to see if you qualify for SNAP benefits.
This information was collected from USDA and state SNAP resources but is not official. This website is not affiliated with any government organization or SNAP/WIC program.
Gross Income Limits
Total monthly household income before taxes, including job, self-employment, and other income like social security, disability, child support, worker’s comp, unemployment, and pension income.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,973 |
| 2 people | $2,670 |
| 3 people | $3,367 |
| 4 people | $4,062 |
| 5 people | $4,759 |
| 6 people | $5,456 |
| 7 people | $6,152 |
| Each additional person | +$696 |
The gross income limit is 130% of the federal poverty level.
Expanded Income Limits for Households with Members 60 or Older or with a Disability
There is no gross income limit in Alaska for households with a member who is 60 or older or has a disability.
Net Income Limits
Net income is a household’s gross income minus deductions.
Calculating net income can be complex, as shelter-related expenses (utilities and rent) can only be deducted if they exceed half the household’s income after other deductions. Additionally, there is a limit on the maximum shelter deduction for some households.
SNAP benefit amounts are based on a household’s net income. Generally, $100 more in net income equals $30 less in benefits.
| Household Size | Net Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,518 |
| 2 people | $2,054 |
| 3 people | $2,590 |
| 4 people | $3,125 |
| 5 people | $3,661 |
| 6 people | $4,197 |
| 7 people | $4,733 |
| Each additional person | +$536 |
The net income limit is 100% of the federal poverty level.
Asset/Resource Limit
Countable resources include funds in bank accounts. A home is not counted as a resource.
| Household Type | Asset Limit |
|---|---|
| Households with a member 60 or older or with a disability | $4,250 |
| All other households | $2,750 |
Deductions
Child Support Payments
- Court-ordered child support payments can be deducted when calculating net income.
Standard Medical Deduction
- Monthly out-of-pocket medical expenses for household members who are 60 or older or have a disability can be deducted when calculating net income. You can deduct the full amount of expenses (minus $35) with verification.
Utility Allowances
- Households can receive only one utility allowance. If a household qualifies for multiple allowances, choose the highest allowance.
- Heating and Cooling: If a household pays utility bills for heating and cooling, or receives over $20 in heating assistance from LIHEAP, this allowance can be claimed.
- Single Utilities: If a household pays for a utility, this allowance can be claimed.
- Click here to see the utility deductions for Alaska. Deduction amounts depend on where you live.
Other Deductions
- Households can receive deductions for the following expenses. Shelter deductions (utilities, rent, and homeowners insurance) only apply for the amount that total shelter expenses exceed a percentage of household income and are limited to a maximum amount if the household does not contain a member who is 60 or older or has a disability.
- A 20% deduction from job or self-employment income (earned income).
- Dependent care costs (including daycare, babysitters, or other child care) needed for work or school.
- Monthly rent or mortgage amount.
- Monthly homeowners insurance and taxes.
Maximum Benefit Amounts
SNAP benefits are based on a household’s net income. Use our SNAP Eligibility Calculator for an estimate of your potential SNAP benefits.
Find out if you may be eligible for SNAP and an estimated amount of benefits you could receive in alaska