Find out if you might be eligible for SNAP/FNS:
You can also use the information below to learn more about eligibility and the application process.
Eligibility and Exemptions
College students who are enrolled at least half-time are eligible for SNAP/FNS, but must meet additional requirements. These requirements are referred to as “exemptions,” (since students are not eligible for SNAP/FNS by default). Students must meet income exemptions and one additional exemptions to receive monthly benefits to pay for food.
Income Exemption
Your household size is the number of people who buy and make food with you.
Your gross monthly income, the amount your household make before taxes, must be less than the household income guidelines below.
SNAP/FNS income limits effective October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025
| Number of People in Household | Maximum Gross Monthly Income (200%)* | Maximum Benefit Amount** |
| 1 | $2,510 | $292 |
| 2 | $3,408 | $536 |
| 3 | $4,304 | $768 |
| 4 | $5,200 | $975 |
| 5 | $6,098 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $6,994 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $7,890 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $8,788 | $1,756 |
| Each Additional Member | +$898 | +$220 |
* Some individuals must meet standard gross income limits (130%), and DSS will make this determination.
**SNAP allotment will not exceed this dollar amount, but may fall below it.
Additional Exemption
All college students must meet the SNAP eligibility criteria to receive food assistance.
If you’re enrolled half-time or more, you must also meet at least ONE of the following conditions:
- Work 20+ hours per week
- Participate in a federal or state work-study program
- Have a physical or mental disability or condition that prevents you from working
- Care for a young dependent child
- Receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Enrolled in college through certain employment & training programs, such as SNAP E&T, Workforce and Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA), and others
- Participate in an on-the-job training program
- Be under age 18 or over 49
Need more info?
Contact the North Carolina SNAP/FNS program, or find your local office.
I meet the requirements. What now?
How to Apply
You can apply online at NC ePass or through a paper application, which can be mailed or delivered to your local DSS office. You will be asked to provide documents to verify your identity.
Required Documentation
These are some of the documents you will need to include as part of your application process:
- Proof of identity — These are documents that can prove you are a U.S. citizen and state resident (such as ID, social security cards, lease documents or utility bills). You may be required to provide additional documentation.
- Proof of income — These are documents that show your earned and unearned income. These documents may include pay stubs, letters from employers, etc. You may be required to provide additional documentation.
- Proof of student status — These documents show you are at least enrolled half-time. You may provide a transcript, certificate of enrollment, or financial aid information. You may be required to provide additional documentation.
After Applying
After you apply, a caseworker will interview you in person or by telephone. Your contact might ask you additional questions to confirm your eligibility. If you are approved for SNAP/FNS benefits, you will be mailed an EBT card, which can be used online and in-person to spend your monthly benefits on food.
Benefits are administered via a card and can be used online and in-person.