The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recently raised its income limits and benefit amounts, effective October 1. This annual adjustment aligns SNAP with inflation to keep it accessible to more individuals and families struggling with food insecurity.
Along with low-income households, eligible students can also access these benefits under specific conditions, offering much-needed support for nutritious food.
New Income Limits for SNAP Eligibility
With the recent update, the monthly income limit for a single-person household is now $2,510. This increase is particularly beneficial to groups like students, who previously might have earned just above the former eligibility threshold of about $1,500 per month.
According to Julia Morrill, director of the Basic Needs Program at the University of Oregon, the raised limit opens eligibility to students who may work part-time but still struggle to afford nutritious meals.
To qualify as a student, applicants must be enrolled in at least six undergraduate or five graduate credits and meet additional requirements, such as participating in a work-study program or caring for a dependent.
This expanded eligibility supports students who need assistance covering essential food expenses, allowing them to focus more effectively on their studies and overall well-being.
What SNAP Benefits Can Buy
SNAP benefits are intended solely for food purchases and non-alcoholic beverages at most grocery stores and supermarkets. Here’s what SNAP benefits cover:
| Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|
| Fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, bread | Alcohol, tobacco, medications |
| Cereals, dairy products, and seeds | Hot or prepared foods |
| Non-alcoholic beverages | Supplements and vitamins |
These limitations mean that SNAP cannot cover non-food items, supplements, or ready-to-eat meals, but they offer flexibility for purchasing fresh ingredients for home-cooked meals, a healthier and often more affordable option.
Applying for SNAP as a Student
For students, the SNAP application process can initially seem complex, primarily due to required documentation and eligibility checks.
Applications are available online via the Oregon Department of Human Services website, and students are required to complete an interview with a Department of Human Services representative, either in person or over the phone.
The Basic Needs Program at the University of Oregon offers guidance through the application process, helping students understand the documentation needed and answering any questions about eligibility.
Although the team doesn’t complete applications on behalf of students, their support makes accessing these benefits smoother.
SNAP-Approved Stores
Most grocery stores and supermarkets accept SNAP benefits, and some campus locations participate as well. For example, at the University of Oregon, students can use SNAP benefits at Agate Street Market in Unthank Hall to purchase deli items like sandwiches and prepackaged meals.
On-campus stores accepting SNAP can greatly enhance convenience for students who spend most of their time at the university.
Eligibility Restrictions for Students with Meal Plans
For students living in university housing with meal plans, SNAP eligibility comes with additional restrictions. If a student’s meal plan covers more than 51% of their dietary needs, they may be disqualified from SNAP.
However, students with meal plans covering less than 50% of their food needs could still qualify for SNAP if they meet the income requirements. This rule aims to prevent overlapping assistance, as meal plans are generally designed to fulfill most nutritional needs for on-campus students.
SNAP’s Role in Promoting Healthier Eating
Beyond financial support, SNAP encourages healthy eating by making nutritious food more affordable for recipients. For students, access to a wider variety of fresh food options can significantly improve their physical and mental well-being, reducing stress related to affording balanced meals.
This access to nutrition also plays a crucial role in supporting academic success, as a healthy diet is closely tied to focus, energy levels, and overall performance in school.
As living costs continue to rise, SNAP’s increased income limits and benefit adjustments ensure that this essential program remains a critical resource for those in need, supporting healthier and more stable lifestyles for millions of Americans.
