SNAP Eligibility in Maryland
In Maryland, SNAP eligibility is determined through three main tests: Gross Income, Net Income, and Asset tests. Depending on household circumstances, such as having a member who is 60 or older or has a disability, exemptions from certain tests may apply.
Maryland has expanded its SNAP eligibility criteria beyond federal requirements, so other sources might show stricter financial requirements than those listed here. For a precise assessment, we recommend using the SNAP Eligibility Calculator.
This information is derived 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 (200% of FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,430 |
| 2 people | $3,288 |
| 3 people | $4,144 |
| 4 people | $5,000 |
| 5 people | $5,858 |
| 6 people | $6,714 |
| 7 people | $7,570 |
| Each additional person | +$858 |
If the household has a member who is 60 or older or has a disability and exceeds the gross income limit, it can qualify by meeting the Net Income and Asset tests.
Net Income Limits
Net income is gross income minus deductions. Calculating net income can be complex, especially for shelter-related expenses (utilities and rent) that exceed half the household’s income after other deductions. There is also a cap on the maximum shelter deduction for some households.
| Household Size | Net Monthly Income Limit (100% of FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,215 |
| 2 people | $1,644 |
| 3 people | $2,072 |
| 4 people | $2,500 |
| 5 people | $2,929 |
| 6 people | $3,357 |
| 7 people | $3,785 |
| Each additional person | +$429 |
Households with a member who is 60 or older or has a disability only need to meet the Net Income test if they did not pass the Gross Income test above.
Asset/Resource Limit
Countable resources include funds in bank accounts, excluding a home.
There is no asset limit in Maryland. However, if the household has a member who is 60 or older or has a disability and did not meet the Gross Income test, there is an asset limit of $4,250.
Deductions
Child Support Payments Treatment
- 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. You can deduct the full amount of expenses (minus $35) with verification.
Utility Allowances
- Households can only receive one utility allowance. If a household qualifies for multiple allowances, choose the highest allowance.
- Heating and Cooling: $551
- Basic Utility Allowance: $337
- Single Utilities (Phone): $40
Other Deductions
- 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 to get an estimate of what you could receive.
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit Amount |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $291 |
| 2 people | $535 |
| 3 people | $766 |
| 4 people | $973 |
| 5 people | $1,155 |
| 6 people | $1,386 |
| 7 people | $1,532 |
| Each additional person | +$429 |
This guide outlines the key eligibility criteria for SNAP benefits in Maryland. For a more accurate assessment, please use the SNAP Eligibility Calculator.
Find out if you may be eligible for SNAP and an estimated amount of benefits you could receive in maryland