North Dakota SNAP income limits 2026 (Oct 1, 2025 – Sep 30, 2026): see the updated 200% (BBCE), 130% (gross), and 100% (net) income tables, worked examples, and step-by-step application guide.
What Changed for FY-2026 SNAP?
Every year, the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) updates the SNAP Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA). For FY-2026 (Oct 1, 2025 – Sep 30, 2026):
- Income limits increased across all household sizes.
- Standard deductions and shelter caps were adjusted.
- Maximum SNAP benefits rose — a family of 4 can now receive up to $994 per month.
👉 These updates mean that more North Dakota households may qualify for food assistance in 2026.
North Dakota SNAP Income Limits FY-2026 (Effective Oct 1, 2025)
Here’s the updated North Dakota SNAP income eligibility chart.
- 200% Gross Income = North Dakota’s Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) policy.
- 130% Gross Income = Federal gross test.
- 100% Net Income = Federal net test.
| Household Size | ND 200% Gross (BBCE) | Federal 130% Gross | Federal 100% Net |
| 1 | $2,610 | $1,696 | $1,305 |
| 2 | $3,526 | $2,292 | $1,763 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $2,888 | $2,221 |
| 4 | $5,360 | $3,483 | $2,680 |
| 5 | $6,276 | $4,079 | $3,138 |
| 6 | $7,192 | $4,675 | $3,596 |
| 7 | $8,110 | $5,271 | $4,055 |
| 8 | $9,026 | $5,867 | $4,513 |
👉 Reference: These figures are based on the USDA SNAP FY-2026 COLA memo and calculated for ND’s 200% BBCE threshold.
How the 200% BBCE Threshold Works in North Dakota
North Dakota applies Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE). This allows more households to qualify.
- Without BBCE, only those under 130% of poverty could qualify.
- With BBCE, ND residents may qualify with income up to 200% of poverty.
👉 Example: A family of 4 in ND may qualify if their gross monthly income is under $5,360. Without BBCE, the cap would be $3,483.
Gross vs Net Income — How SNAP Eligibility is Calculated
To check eligibility:
- Gross Income Test (130% FPL): Add all household income before deductions.
- Net Income Test (100% FPL): Deduct allowable expenses such as:
- 20% earned income deduction
- Standard deduction
- Dependent care costs
- Medical expenses (elderly/disabled)
- Excess shelter deduction (rent/utilities)
- 200% BBCE Gross Test (ND): If your income ≤ 200% FPL, you may qualify.
👉 For an official guide, visit North Dakota Health and Human Services SNAP eligibility page.
Maximum SNAP Benefits FY-2026
Here’s how much households may receive in monthly benefits:
| Household Size | Max SNAP Allotment (48 states) |
| 1 | $298 |
| 2 | $547 |
| 3 | $766 |
| 4 | $994 |
| 5 | $1,181 |
| 6 | $1,418 |
| 7 | $1,570 |
| 8 | $1,805 |
👉 Reference: See official USDA SNAP maximum allotments for FY-2026.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for SNAP in North Dakota
Here’s the application process:
- Apply Online: Use the North Dakota Self-Service Portal.
- Apply by Paper: Download forms or pick them up at your local Human Service Zone office.
- Submit & Interview: Expect a phone or in-person interview.
- Decision: Most applications processed within 30 days; expedited service available for emergencies.
👉 Need help applying? The Great Plains Food Bank SNAP Outreach provides free assistance.
📌 Apply for SNAP in North Dakota today →
Real-Life Eligibility Examples
1. Single Adult
- Income: $2,300/month
- Limit for 1 person: $2,610
✅ Eligible under ND BBCE.
2. Family of Four
- Income: $4,800/month
- Limit for 4: $5,360
✅ Eligible — without BBCE, they’d be over.
3. Senior Couple
- Income: $2,500/month
- Limit for 2: $3,526
✅ Eligible — AARP ND offers guidance for seniors applying.
4. College Student
- Income: $1,200/month (part-time)
- Below 130% gross limit ($1,696).
✅ Eligible if student rules are met (working 20 hrs/week or exempt).
5. Self-Employed Parent (3 persons)
- Gross: $3,200
- After deductions, may fall under net income limit of $2,221.
✅ Likely eligible.
FY-2026 vs FY-2025 — What Changed?
- Net Income (100%): +$50–$120 increase.
- Gross Income (130%): +$64–$155 increase.
- 200% BBCE (ND): Family of 4 limit rose from $5,200 → $5,360.
- Max Benefits: Family of 4 benefit rose from $973 → $994.
👉 For a side-by-side comparison, check the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP SNAP data).
Frequently Asked Questions
Oct 1, 2025 – Sep 30, 2026.
Yes, ND applies 200% BBCE, higher than federal 130%.
Yes — medical expense deductions often help seniors qualify.
Apply anyway — deductions may reduce net income.
Most households: no asset test under BBCE. For elderly/disabled: $4,500.
Most cases: 30 days. Expedited: 7 days.
Yes, if they meet student eligibility rules. See USDA SNAP student eligibility guide.
Yes, lawful permanent residents may qualify — check USCIS public benefits guidance.
Through an EBT card — works like a debit card.
Final Thoughts
The North Dakota SNAP Income Limits 2026 are higher than last year thanks to COLA adjustments and the state’s 200% BBCE rule. This makes SNAP accessible to more working families, seniors, and students.
👉 Take Action Today: Apply for SNAP in North Dakota and use the income tables above to check eligibility. Don’t miss out on benefits that can support your household budget.
