Getting food help: SNAP, WIC and food pantries

What to know

1. Find a pantry for this week. Feeding America's finder takes your ZIP code and lists the nearest food bank; contact them for local pantries and hours. Anyone who needs extra help affording food can visit a pantry or meal program, though some have rules like living in a certain area. Source: Feeding America⁵
2. Know what a first visit is like. Volunteers may ask a few questions or have you fill out a form about your household's needs. Source: Feeding America⁵
3. Apply for SNAP in your state. Each state has its own form; you can apply at your local SNAP office, on your state's website or through its SNAP hotline. Source: USDA¹
4. Check the income line. For October 1, 2026, through September 2027, USDA's table lists gross monthly income limits of $1,729 for one person and $2,345 for two, and resources of $3,000 for most households. Source: USDA¹ The rules are changing under a 2025 law, so let your state decide; don't rule yourself out.
5. Get through the 30 days. Your state usually decides within 30 days, after an interview and proof of what you reported. If you're approved, benefits go back to the day you applied. With very little money, you may get benefits within 7 days. Source: USDA¹
6. Students: check the exceptions. More-than-half-time college students generally need an exemption, like working 20 hours a week, having work-study, or caring for a young child. Less than half-time? The student rules don't apply. Source: USDA²
7. Check WIC if you have a baby or young kids. WIC serves people who are pregnant, up to 6 months after a pregnancy ends, or breastfeeding up to the baby's first birthday, plus infants and children up to age 5. Source: USDA⁴ It provides healthy foods, nutrition advice, breastfeeding support and referrals. Source: USDA³ If you get Medicaid, SNAP or TANF, you may already meet WIC's income rule. Source: USDA⁴

Which help fits

From Feeding America. Source: Feeding America⁵ and USDA Source: USDA¹

Calling a food pantry

Hi, I'd like to get food from your pantry. What are your hours, do I need to bring anything like ID or proof of address, and is there a limit on how often I can come?

If it doesn't work

• Denied SNAP or got less than expected? Ask your state agency why, and how to appeal. Contact your state agency directly for questions about your case. Source: USDA¹
• Need food tonight? Use the pantry finder for the nearest food bank and call them about meal programs. Source: Feeding America⁵
• Not sure where to start? See Can't pay rent on time: what to say for how 211 can point you to local help.