Texas SNAP Eligibility Expansion — 2025

More working families in Texas can now get help paying for groceries. New rules that took effect in 2025 make an estimated 180,000 additional households eligible for SNAP food benefits. The biggest change removes asset limits for most families applying for SNAP. Before 2025, families could be turned down if they owned a car worth more than a certain amount or had savings in the bank. Those restrictions are gone for most applicants. Families with children or elderly members can now qualify with household income up to 200% of the federal poverty level. That means a family of four can earn up to about $5,500 per month and still receive food assistance. Previously, many working families earned too much to qualify but still struggled to afford healthy food. People can apply for SNAP benefits through the Texas Health and Human Services website or by visiting any Houston Food Bank partner location. The application asks about household size, income, and expenses like rent and utilities. Most families get approved within 30 days of applying. The expansion comes after federal rule changes in 2024 that gave states more flexibility in their SNAP programs. Texas adopted these changes to help more families access food assistance while they work toward financial stability. Families who were previously denied for SNAP can reapply under the new rules. Current recipients don't need to take any action - their benefits will continue as normal. The Houston Food Bank website has a pre-screening tool to help families check if they might qualify.