Food Stamps (SNAP) in Mississippi (2026)

Mississippi SNAP Agency

Eligibility & Income Limits

Income limits shown are this state's USDA FY 2026 limit (Oct 1, 2025 – Sep 30, 2026) — the federal 130% standard, or a higher percentage of the poverty guideline where the state uses broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE). Limits change every October.

Benefit Amounts

Maximum allotments are the USDA federal FY 2026 tables, effective Oct 1, 2025 – Sep 30, 2026 — they change every October. The base formula subtracts 30% of SNAP net income from the maximum; rounding, minimum benefits, proration and household-member exclusions can affect the agency’s actual award.

ABAWD Policy (Work Requirements)

How to Apply

More Food & Benefits Guides

• SNAP / Food Stamps guide (general)
• Food banks & pantries near you
• WIC (Women, Infants & Children)
• EBT card guide -- how it works
• Free meals & community kitchens

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for SNAP/food stamps in Mississippi?

You can apply online through the MDHS website, call 1-800-948-3050, or visit your local county MDHS office. You will need proof of identity, income, and residency. An interview is required.

Can I get SNAP in Mississippi with a drug felony?

A criminal-record answer alone does not determine SNAP eligibility. Ask the state agency to identify the rule, offense and relevant dates, whether any state exception applies, and how each household member is treated. The federal drug-felony provision in 21 U.S.C. 862a does not apply to convictions for conduct on or before August 22, 1996; other restrictions can have different rules. One excluded member does not automatically make everyone ineligible, and the agency must determine the treatment of that person's income. Do not assume a pardon or expungement automatically removes a restriction. Request the written decision and its review deadline.

What is the income limit for SNAP in Mississippi?

Mississippi uses the standard federal SNAP income limits — 130% of the Federal Poverty Level for gross income, 100% for net income. For a single person, the gross income limit is $1,696/month. For a family of four, it is $3,483/month. The asset limit is $3,000 ($4,500 if a household member is 60 or older or disabled).

How much will I receive in SNAP benefits in Mississippi?

The maximum SNAP benefit for a single person is $298/month and $994/month for a family of four. Your actual benefit depends on household size, income, and deductions. The average is about $182 per person per month.

How long does it take to get approved for SNAP in Mississippi?

Mississippi must process your application within 30 days. If you have very low income and resources, you may qualify for expedited processing within 7 days.

Do I have to work to get SNAP in Mississippi?

The federal ABAWD time limit can apply to adults ages 18–64 who do not meet an exception: generally no more than three countable months in a 36-month period without qualifying work or program activity. The 2025 law changed the child-related exception to a child under 14 and removed the separate exceptions based only on homelessness, veteran status or aging out of foster care. Other exceptions can apply, including pregnancy, inability to work and specified Indigenous status. Ask your SNAP office to screen for all applicable exceptions, explain qualifying activities and hours, and identify any currently approved geographic waiver. A statewide Yes/No label cannot determine your case or countable months. Follow your agency notice and report changes; the income calculator does not evaluate these rules.