Sources we use
We use only primary sources: the Code of Federal Regulations and the U.S. Code, USDA Food and Nutrition Service memos and tables, HHS poverty guidelines, Medicaid.gov and CMS publications, and state agencies’ own manuals, policy transmittals and income charts. We do not use benefits apps, private calculators, news sites or forums as sources of fact.
How calculators are checked
Every calculator uses published, standard formulas. The code is covered by automated tests that check known answers (for example, from October 1, 2026 the maximum monthly SNAP benefit for a household of four in the 48 contiguous states and DC is $1,023, and a household’s benefit is that maximum minus 30% of its net income). We show the formula next to each tool so anyone can verify the result by hand.
What we will not publish
- “Apply here” buttons or forms of our own: applications go only to official state portals.
- Affiliate links, paid placements, or ads for cash advances, loans or paid application help.
- Advice about a specific case or predictions of what a caseworker will decide.
- Claims we cannot support with a source.
Updates and corrections
Each page shows the date it was last updated. USDA publishes new SNAP figures every August for the year starting October 1, HHS publishes poverty guidelines each January, and states update utility allowances every October. We update the calculator, the tests and the page dates when they do. If you find an error, tell us through the contact page and we will review it and correct it.