And have you ever heard of SNAP? Maybe you yourself are its beneficiary or someone you know gets this help. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program i.e. SNAP is a very important scheme of the US government, which helps the low-income group to buy food.
So far this assistance could be used only in physical stores, but in 2025 a very important change has been made — now SNAP can also be used online! Meaning now you will be able to buy ration from big stores like Amazon, Walmart, Target, Costco, Sam’s Club sitting at home.
Let’s know what will be the benefit of this change, how it can be used and who are eligible for it.
What is SNAP?
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is a federal program in the US that provides financial assistance to economically weaker section citizens to buy food. The EBT card (Electronic Benefit Transfer) available under this scheme can only be used to buy food items, that is, non-food products like soap, toilet paper do not come under it.
The purpose of SNAP is to fight hunger and provide relief to that section of the society which is struggling to meet the daily needs.
Now online shopping is possible with SNAP
There has been a big change in the use of SNAP in 2025. Now online shopping can also be done with EBT card. This change will be very beneficial especially for those people who:
- Are elderly and unable to walk
- Are disabled
- Or live in areas where supermarkets are far away
- The facility of online shopping has made it very easy for them to procure food items.
Eligibility conditions for SNAP in 2025
If you want to avail SNAP, you must meet some of the financial conditions given below:
Monthly gross income (before expenses):
Should not exceed 130% of the poverty line.
Example: Maximum $2,798 per month for a 3-member family.
Monthly net income (after expenses):
Should not exceed 100% of the poverty line.
Example: Maximum $2,152 per month for a 3-member family.
Resource limit (bank balance, savings, etc.):
When there is no one over 60 years and the disabled one in the family, there are $3 000.
Should there be an increase, they go up to an additional 4,500 dollars.
Special Note: If you have a family and children or pay a lot on medical expenses, you might qualify even in case you surpass these limits.
How many people are taking advantage of SNAP?
In 2025, a figure of 42 million US citizens is enjoying the SNAP plan. As of a report by The New York Times, this figure has been constant although it can vary based on the economic circumstances and the government policies.
What is the amount of money paid through SNAP? (In 2025)
The amount received from SNAP depends on the size of the family, income and certain fixed expenses. In 2025, these amounts are as follows:
| Family Members | Monthly Amount (in Dollars) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $292 |
| 2 persons | $536 |
| 3 persons | $768 |
| 4 persons | $975 |
| 5 persons | $1,158 |
| 6 persons | $1,390 |
| 7 persons | $1,536 |
| 8 persons | $1,756 |
| Each additional member | + $220 |
That means a family of 8 members can get assistance of $1,756 every month.
At which online stores can SNAP be used?
Now rations can be purchased from many major online retailers with SNAP EBT card. Below are some of the major names:
- Amazon (Fresh and Pantry) – home delivery
- Walmart – home delivery and in-store pickup
- Target – curbside pickup
- Costco – bulk shopping (membership required)
- Aldi – affordable products in some areas
- Whole Foods – organic products through Amazon
- Hy-Vee – available in the Midwest
- Jewel-Osco – many areas
- Sam’s Club – bulk products (like Costco)
- Thrive Market – organic and healthy products available in 48 states
There are a few things to know about using SNAP:
SNAP only covers food products, such as: fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, fish, grains, bread, etc.
It does not cover delivery charges, packaging fees, tips, or non-food items (such as soap, paper, shampoo).
SNAP availability depends on the zip code. You can visit the official USDA website to check if this facility is available in your area.
Conclusion
Accessing SNAP online in 2025 is not just a technological advancement, but it is a change that will make the lives of millions of Americans more convenient. Elderly people, those who are helpless and those that are not residing in cities will no longer have to travel long distances to receive their rations.
The action done by the government will not only facilitate the access of food but will even lead to a state of self-esteem and independence.
FAQs
Q1. What is SNAP?
A: SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It’s a U.S. federal aid program that provides monthly benefits to low-income individuals and families to help them buy food.
Q2. What’s new about SNAP in 2025?
A: Starting in 2025, SNAP benefits can now be used online at select major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, Costco, and others—making food access more convenient for recipients.
Q3. Can I receive the full $1,756?
A: Yes, if you have 8 people in your household and meet the eligibility requirements, you could receive up to $1,756 per month.
Q4. Are delivery fees covered by SNAP?
A: No, delivery fees, service charges, tips, and other non-food-related costs must be paid separately with your own funds.
Q5. How do I apply for SNAP benefits in 2025?
A: You can apply online through your state’s SNAP website, in person at your local SNAP office, or via mail. Visit https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap to find your state’s application portal.