SecondChanceInfosecondchanceinfo.com

Food Stamps (SNAP) in Minnesota (2026)

Minnesota's SNAP program is administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS) through county human services agencies. Minnesota has fully opted out of the federal drug felony ban and also offers the state-funded Minnesota Food Assistance Program (MFAP) for certain immigrants.

Last updated:

Quick Answer

You can apply for SNAP in Minnesota online through MNbenefits.mn.gov, by phone, or in person at your county human services agency. A single person can earn up to $2,510/month gross income. Minnesota has no drug felony ban — people with drug convictions are fully eligible for SNAP.

Minnesota SNAP Agency

Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS)

Website: mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/economic-assistance/food-nutrition

Phone: 1-800-657-3698

Apply online: mnbenefits.mn.gov

Eligibility & Income Limits

Income limit (1 person): $2,510/month gross

Income limit (4 person): $5,178/month gross

Minnesota uses broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE) with income limits at 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.

Asset limit: No asset test(broad-based categorical eligibility -- asset test effectively eliminated)

Benefit Amounts

Max benefit (1 person): $292/month

Max benefit (4 person): $994/month

Average benefit: $193/person/month

Drug Felony Ban Status

No Ban

Minnesota has fully opted out of the federal drug felony ban. People with drug-related felony convictions are eligible for SNAP benefits with no additional requirements.

ABAWD Policy (Work Requirements)

Work requirements enforced: Yes

Minnesota enforces ABAWD time limits in some counties. ABAWDs aged 18-49 without dependents must work or participate in qualifying activities at least 80 hours/month to receive SNAP beyond 3 months in a 36-month period. Many counties have waivers.

How to Apply

Online: Yes

Phone: Yes

In person: Yes

Processing time: 30 days (7 days for expedited cases)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for SNAP/food stamps in Minnesota?
You can apply online at MNbenefits.mn.gov, call your county human services agency, or visit in person. You will need proof of identity, income, and residency. An interview is required.
Can I get SNAP in Minnesota with a felony conviction?
Yes. Minnesota has fully opted out of the federal drug felony ban. All eligible individuals, regardless of criminal history including drug felonies, can receive SNAP benefits if they meet income and other eligibility requirements.
What is the income limit for SNAP in Minnesota?
Minnesota uses expanded income limits at 200% FPL. For a single person, the gross income limit is $2,510/month. For a family of four, it is $5,178/month. There is no asset test.
How much will I receive in SNAP benefits in Minnesota?
The maximum SNAP benefit for a single person is $292/month and $994/month for a family of four. Your actual benefit depends on household size, income, and deductions. The average is about $193 per person per month.
What is the Minnesota Food Assistance Program (MFAP)?
MFAP is a state-funded program that provides food benefits to legal immigrants who are not eligible for federal SNAP due to immigration status requirements. Benefits are similar to SNAP and are administered by county agencies.
Can I use my Minnesota EBT card at farmers markets?
Yes. Many Minnesota farmers markets accept EBT/SNAP benefits. The Market Bucks program provides matching funds when you use SNAP at participating farmers markets to buy fresh produce.

Take Action -- Direct Links

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Eligibility rules, income limits, and benefit amounts change periodically. Contact your local Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) for exact current requirements. For help, call 211 or visit 211.org.