SNAP Income Limits in Arizona for 2025
To be eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as Nutrition Assistance in Arizona, households must meet specific income and resource limits. The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), which administers the program, follows both federal and state guidelines to determine eligibility. For most households, there is a gross monthly income limit of 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). However, special rules apply to households with elderly or disabled members, who must meet a net income limit of 100% of the FPL. The income limits are updated annually, with new figures taking effect at the beginning of the federal fiscal year in October.
Determining Household Income for SNAP
Your household for SNAP purposes includes everyone who lives with you and purchases and prepares meals together. To apply for benefits, you will need to provide information on both earned and unearned income for all household members.
Earned Income: This includes wages, salaries, and income from self-employment.
Unearned Income: This category covers sources such as Social Security, veterans' benefits, unemployment, child support, and most retirement payments.
Certain expenses are factored into the calculation to determine your net income. These deductions may include:
- A standard deduction based on household size
- A percentage deduction from your earned income
- Deductions for dependent care costs
- Excess shelter costs
- Medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members
For households with a member who is 60 or older or has a disability, the net income is the primary factor for eligibility, set at 100% of the FPL. For all other households, the gross income test (130% of FPL) is the main requirement.
Arizona SNAP Income Limits: 2025 Monthly Figures
For the 2025 federal fiscal year (October 2024 to September 2025), here are the gross monthly income limits for most Arizona households based on household size:
- 1 Person: $2,321
- 2 People: $3,152
- 3 People: $3,981
- 4 People: $4,810
- 5 People: $5,640
- 6 People: $6,469
- 7 People: $7,298
- Each additional person: Add $830
Note that these figures represent the maximum a household can earn per month before taxes and still be eligible. For households with elderly or disabled members, a separate net income test applies, typically at 100% of the FPL.
Special Eligibility Considerations and Programs
Arizona provides special considerations for certain groups to ensure broader access to nutrition assistance.
Categorical Eligibility: Households already receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are often automatically eligible for SNAP, a concept known as categorical eligibility. This means they do not need to separately meet the income and resource limits.
Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP): Adults 60 or older without earned income can use a simplified application process to apply for Nutrition Assistance.
Expedited Services: For households with very low or no income and needing immediate food assistance, expedited services can provide benefits within seven calendar days. To qualify, you must meet certain conditions, such as having monthly gross income and liquid resources below your housing and utility costs.
SNAP Eligibility: Income Test Comparison
The following table illustrates the difference between the gross income test for most households and the net income test for households with elderly or disabled members, using estimated monthly figures for the 2025 fiscal year.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit (130% FPL) | Net Monthly Income Limit (100% FPL) | Who This Applies To |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,321 | $1,255 | All Households (Gross), Elderly/Disabled (Net) |
| 2 | $3,152 | $1,704 | All Households (Gross), Elderly/Disabled (Net) |
| 3 | $3,981 | $2,152 | All Households (Gross), Elderly/Disabled (Net) |
| 4 | $4,810 | $2,600 | All Households (Gross), Elderly/Disabled (Net) |
| 5 | $5,640 | $3,049 | All Households (Gross), Elderly/Disabled (Net) |
Note: Income limits are subject to change. Always verify the most current information with the official Arizona DES website.
How to Apply for SNAP in Arizona
The application process is managed by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES). You can apply for benefits through several methods:
Online: The quickest method is to use the Health-e-Arizona PLUS website. This portal allows you to apply for multiple benefits, including SNAP, and upload necessary documents. An eligibility interview will be required after application submission, which can often be completed over the phone.
Phone: You can call the Family Assistance Administration at 1-855-432-7587 to request a paper application or get assistance with the process.
In-Person: Visit a local DES Family Assistance Administration (FAA) office to apply in person. You can use the online locator to find an office near you.
What to Expect After Applying: After submitting your application and completing your interview, the FAA will notify you in writing of its decision. The maximum time for a determination is 30 days, or 7 days for expedited services. If approved, you will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card for purchasing eligible food items.
For additional support and resources, Arizonans can visit the official DES website to determine potential eligibility and access application forms and guidance.
Conclusion
Understanding the income limits for SNAP benefits in Arizona is the first step toward accessing food assistance. With different tiers for gross and net income, plus special rules for households with elderly or disabled members, it's crucial to consult the latest figures and guidelines provided by the Arizona Department of Economic Security. By using the Health-e-Arizona PLUS online portal or contacting the Family Assistance Administration, qualified residents can navigate the application process and receive the support they need. The program is a vital resource for many low-income households, and staying informed is key to utilizing these benefits effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the gross income limit for most households in Arizona? A: For most households in Arizona, the gross monthly income limit is 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Q: Do households with elderly or disabled members have different income limits? A: Yes, households with at least one member aged 60 or older or with a disability must meet a net monthly income limit of 100% of the FPL, rather than the standard gross income test.
Q: Where can I find the current, up-to-date income limits for Arizona SNAP? A: The most current income limits can be found on the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) website and are updated at the start of the federal fiscal year in October.
Q: What is the income limit for a one-person household applying for SNAP in Arizona in 2025? A: For fiscal year 2025, the gross monthly income limit for a one-person household in Arizona is $2,321.
Q: What if my household income is over the limit but we have high medical expenses? A: For households with an elderly or disabled member, medical expenses can be deducted when calculating net income, which may help you qualify even if your gross income is higher.
Q: Can I apply for Arizona SNAP online? A: Yes, you can apply online through the Health-e-Arizona PLUS website, which is typically the fastest way to complete the application process.
Q: Are there any asset limits for Arizona SNAP? A: For most households in Arizona, there are no asset limits. However, for households with an elderly or disabled member that do not meet the gross income test, there is an asset limit of $4,250.
