Missouri SNAP (Food Stamp Program (SNAP)): Eligibility & How to Apply
Last updated: October 15, 2026
SNAP in Missouri is administered by the Missouri Department of Social Services. It provides monthly food benefits on an EBT card to help low-income individuals and families afford groceries.
What is SNAP in Missouri?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program run locally by the Missouri Department of Social Services. Benefits are loaded monthly onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that works like a debit card at most grocery stores and many farmers markets.
Who is eligible?
Eligibility is based on household size, income, and resources. Most households must have a gross monthly income at or below 130% of the federal poverty level. Many working families, seniors, and people with disabilities qualify.
Missouri SNAP income limits and maximum benefits (Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2027)
These are the SNAP figures in effect from Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2027, from USDA’s fiscal year 2027 cost-of-living adjustments and SNAP eligibility page. Missouri is not on USDA’s June 2026 list of states with broad-based categorical eligibility, so the federal gross limit of 130% of poverty applies. You may qualify even if your income is close to these amounts; the state agency decides when you apply.
| Household size | Gross monthly income limit (130% of poverty) | Net monthly income limit (100% of poverty) | Maximum monthly benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,729 | $1,330 | $306 |
| 2 | $2,345 | $1,804 | $562 |
| 3 | $2,960 | $2,277 | $808 |
| 4 | $3,575 | $2,750 | $1,023 |
| 5 | $4,191 | $3,224 | $1,217 |
| 6 | $4,806 | $3,697 | $1,463 |
| 7 | $5,421 | $4,170 | $1,616 |
| 8 | $6,037 | $4,644 | $1,841 |
| Each additional person (households of 9 to 17) | +$616 | +$474 | +$225 |
| 18 or more people | +$616 for each person over 8 | +$474 for each person over 8 | $3,887 |
Households with a member who is 60 or older or has a disability do not have to meet the gross limit, but must meet the net limit (USDA). Net income is income after allowed deductions, such as 20% of earnings and a standard deduction ($217 for households of 1 to 3 in the 48 states and D.C.). The maximum benefit is for a household with no countable income; most households get less.
Soda, candy and other restricted items
Starting February 15, 2027 (the date USDA lists), a USDA-approved waiver restricts buying candy, prepared desserts, and certain unhealthy beverages with SNAP benefits in Missouri. The exact list of items: Missouri Healthy SNAP.
These waivers change which items the EBT card can buy, not who may qualify or the benefit amount. See every state's restriction and start date. Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Administration: SNAP Food Restriction Waivers (page updated October 13, 2026).
How to apply
You can apply online, by phone at 1-855-373-4636, or by mail/in person at a local office. The Missouri Department of Social Services processes applications and will schedule an eligibility interview.
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Check the official program page →Official source
For official details, visit the Missouri Department of Social Services and the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.