More families in Minnesota struggling with their grocery bills will be able to purchase healthy foods through SNAP, a nutritional assistance program.
When the program’s total income limit is raised on September 1, an additional 1,400 households may be eligible for SNAP or continue to receive existing SNAP assistance even if their income increases.
For most households, Minnesota’s SNAP monthly gross income cap is raised from 165% to 200% of the federal poverty line. The new limit covers her family of three, whose annual pre-tax income is up to about $46,000.
“This change will help more Minnesotans feed their families,” said Human Services Commissioner Jody Harpstead. “Rising food costs could quickly wipe out income gains, but could be offset by increased support for individuals and families who continue to face food insecurity. “
This change will not increase or change the amount of monthly SNAP assistance for an individual or family. Rather, it means that more Minnesotans may qualify for, or continue to receive, nutritional assistance.
The Minnesota Legislature passed this eligibility change during its 2022 session and was signed into law by Gov. Tim Waltz. The SNAP gross income limit was previously increased when Congress raised the federal poverty line from 130% to 165% in 2010.
For more information about SNAP, visit the Minnesota Department of Social Services SNAP web page. To apply for SNAP and other public assistance programs, visit mnbenefits.mn.gov.