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Food Stamps (SNAP) in North Carolina (2026)

North Carolina administers SNAP through the agency listed below. Use this page for the state application route, income-table starting points and questions to resolve with the agency. A record or income figure alone does not determine your household's eligibility.

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Quick Answer

Start with North Carolina's official SNAP agency and application route below. Ask for screening of all household members, any applicable deductions or exceptions, and expedited service if you need food urgently. The record survey below is dated research, not an approval or denial.

North Carolina SNAP Agency

Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)

Website: ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/food-and-nutrition-services-food-stamps

Phone: 1-866-719-0141

Apply online: epass.nc.gov

Eligibility & Income Limits

Income limit (1 person): $2,610/month gross

Income limit (4 person): $5,360/month gross

North Carolina uses broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE) with gross income limits at 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (Oct 1, 2025 – Sep 30, 2026) and no asset test for most households.

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

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

Max benefit (1 person): $298/month

Max benefit (4 person): $994/month

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.

Drug Felony Rule — Historical Research Starting Point

2023 survey: modified ban

The December 2023 CCRC survey classified this jurisdiction as having modified the federal drug-felony ban. Its historical condition summary was: eligible after a six-month waiting period, with drug treatment if required (certain convictions excluded). This is a dated research lead, not a determination of current law or your eligibility. 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.

Statute cited in survey: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 108A-25.2 — read the statute

ABAWD Policy (Work Requirements)

Current local implementation: Check your agency notice and applicable exceptions

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.

How to Apply

Online: Yes

Phone: Yes

In person: Yes

Processing time: 30 days standard; 7 days for expedited service if eligible

More Food & Benefits Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for SNAP (Food and Nutrition Services) in North Carolina?
You can apply online through ePASS (epass.nc.gov), call 1-866-719-0141, or visit your local county Department of Social Services (DSS) office. An interview will be scheduled after you submit your application.
Can I get SNAP benefits in North Carolina 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 documents do I need to apply for SNAP in North Carolina?
You will need proof of identity, Social Security numbers for all household members, proof of income, proof of North Carolina residency, and documentation of your monthly expenses such as rent, utilities, and child care.
How long does it take to get SNAP in North Carolina?
Standard applications are processed within 30 days. If you qualify for expedited service because of very low income or resources, benefits may be issued within 7 days.
What is the income limit for SNAP in North Carolina?
North Carolina uses expanded income limits at 200% FPL through BBCE. For a single person, the gross income limit is $2,610/month. For a family of four, it is $5,360/month. There is no asset test for most households.
Can I use my EBT card at farmers markets in North Carolina?
Yes. Many farmers markets across North Carolina accept EBT cards. Some also participate in Double SNAP Dollars or similar programs that provide bonus incentives for purchasing fresh produce.

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