Come August 1, SNAP payments begin for over 3.2 million Texans, and if you’re wondering how much you’ll get or when your Lone Star Card will reload, you’ve come to the right place, cousin.
We’re diving into everything from payment dates to how to get the most out of your benefits. Whether you’re a single mom trying to feed your babies, a grandparent raising grandkids, or just someone who hit a rough patch—this guide’s for you. Let’s walk through it together, like neighbors do.
SNAP Payments Begin August 1 for 3.2 Million Texans
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| SNAP Payment Start Date | August 1, 2025 |
| Texans Eligible | Over 3.2 million |
| Max Benefit for 1 Person | $292/month |
| Max Benefit for Family of 4 | $975/month |
| Application Website | YourTexasBenefits.com |
| Deposit Dates | Staggered by EDG #, Aug 1–28 |
| Check Balance | Lone Star Card App or 2-1-1 |
| Official Resource | Texas HHSC SNAP Page |
SNAP payments in Texas kick off August 1, 2025, and they’re more than just benefits—they’re a promise that no one should go hungry. From who qualifies, to how much you’ll get, and how to apply, this guide has everything you need to feel confident and informed.
Whether you’re feeding your family, helping a neighbor apply, or navigating disaster relief—SNAP is here to help you stand tall and stay strong.
What Is SNAP and Why Does It Matter?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—once called “food stamps”—is a federal aid program that helps folks buy groceries. But more than that, it gives people breathing room. It puts food on tables, sure, but it also lets folks catch their breath when life’s been a little too rough.
In Texas alone, over 3.2 million people—about 1 in 9 residents—depend on SNAP to keep food on the table. That includes kids, working parents, veterans, and elders. And let’s be real: groceries ain’t cheap these days.
According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the average SNAP benefit in Texas hovers around $188 per person, per month—just over $6 a day. So stretching every dollar matters big time.
SNAP August 2025 Payment Dates: Know When You’ll Get Paid
Texas doesn’t dish out all SNAP payments at once. Instead, it spreads payments throughout the month—from August 1 to August 28—based on your Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number. That number is in your approval paperwork or online account.
Payment Schedule:
| EDG Ending Digits | Deposit Date |
|---|---|
| 00–03 | August 1 |
| 04–06 | August 2 |
| 07–10 | August 3 |
| 11–13 | August 4 |
| 14–17 | August 5 |
| … | Up to August 28 |
How Much Could You Get? (2025 SNAP Allotments)
The amount you get from SNAP depends on your household size, income, and certain deductions (like rent or medical costs). Here are the maximum monthly benefits for 2025:
| Household Size | Max SNAP Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $292 |
| 2 people | $536 |
| 3 people | $768 |
| 4 people | $975 |
| 5 people | $1,155 |
| 6 people | $1,386 |
| Each additional person | +$220 |
Real-life example: A single mom with two kids and a part-time job might get around $600–700 a month, depending on rent and utilities.
How to Apply for SNAP in Texas (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Check If You Qualify
To get SNAP, your income must be below a certain level. For most folks, that’s 130% of the federal poverty line. Here’s a quick test:
- You make under $1,580/month (1 person)?
- You pay rent, utilities, or childcare?
- You’re a citizen or have legal immigration status?
Chances are, you might qualify. Use this HHSC page to pre-screen.
Step 2: Apply Online or by Phone
- Online: YourTexasBenefits.com
- By Phone: Call 2-1-1 (press option 2)
- In Person: Visit your local HHSC benefits office
Step 3: Upload Documents
You’ll need:
- Proof of income (pay stubs or employer letter)
- ID (driver’s license or SSN)
- Rent or utility bills
- Medical bills (for seniors or disabled folks)
If approved, you’ll get a Lone Star Card, which works just like a debit card.
SNAP Benefits: 2024 vs. 2025 – What’s Changed?
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit (FY 2024) | Maximum Monthly Benefit (FY 2025) | Estimated Average Monthly Benefit (FY 2025) |
| 1 Person | ~$281 | $292 | $199 |
| 2 People | ~$516 | $536 | $364 |
| 3 People | ~$735 | $768 | $594 |
| 4 People | ~$939 | $975 | $726 |
| … (add more rows as needed for larger households) | … | … | … |
| Each Additional Person | ~$210 | $220 | – |
Note: The 2025 figures are based on federal fiscal year 2025 guidelines (effective October 1, 2024) and are subject to change with future COLA adjustments. Estimated average benefits can vary based on household income and deductions.
Where Can You Use SNAP?
SNAP works at grocery stores, farmers markets, and even online retailers.
You Can Use SNAP For:
- Fruits, veggies, meat, dairy, bread
- Seeds/plants to grow your own food
- Online grocery orders from Amazon, Walmart, H-E-B
You Can’t Use SNAP For:
- Alcohol, tobacco
- Hot or prepared meals (unless enrolled in a special program)
- Soap, toilet paper, pet food
Emergency SNAP Benefits (Natural Disasters, Floods, Power Outages)
If you lost food because of a storm, fire, or blackout, you can request replacement SNAP benefits.
Texas often offers Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) after major events. Keep your Lone Star Card handy and check FNS Disaster Assistance for current info.
Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of SNAP
- Use the Lone Star Card app to check balances, track spending, and upload documents
- Shop store brands and bulk items to stretch your dollars
- Visit farmers markets that offer Double Up Food Bucks—buy $10 of fruits/veggies, get $10 extra
- Report income changes fast—they can boost your monthly benefit!
Real Talk from the Community
“SNAP helped me feed my grandkids when my son lost his job. It’s not about handouts—it’s about surviving until we thrive again.”
— Lisa T., Tribal Elder, East Texas
FAQs
Q: Can I use SNAP online?
A: Yep! Use it on Amazon, Walmart, H-E-B, and more. Choose “EBT” at checkout.
Q: I lost my Lone Star Card. What now?
A: Call 1-800-777-7328 to cancel and get a new one. You won’t lose your balance.
Q: Do I need to reapply every year?
A: Yes. You’ll get a notice to renew—don’t ignore it or your benefits will stop.
Q: How long does it take to get approved?
A: Usually 30 days. For emergency cases, 7 days.
Q: Can college students get SNAP?
A: Only if working 20+ hours/week, have kids, or meet special rules.
What Makes SNAP Special for Native American Communities?
Native communities face higher food insecurity rates than the general U.S. population. SNAP and related Tribal food programs help fill that gap.
- Many tribal elders rely on SNAP for healthy food
- SNAP helps supplement food pantries and local programs like FDPIR
- Tribal citizens can use both SNAP and traditional food systems—gardens, hunting, food shares—to build food sovereignty
Policy Watch: What’s Changing?
- Governor Abbott wants to block SNAP use for soda and candy
- Congress is debating the 2025 Farm Bill, which could change income thresholds or benefit levels
- Texas has not yet opted into Summer EBT—that’s $120 per child the state is leaving on the table for now
