SNAP for Seniors

SNAP is available to seniors age 60 and older, and many older adults qualify but do not apply. Seniors often qualify for higher SNAP benefits because the program allows deductions for medical expenses above $35/month — a significant advantage for older adults with healthcare costs.

Seniors also benefit from:

- **Simplified reporting:** Many states have reduced reporting requirements for senior households - **Longer certification periods:** Seniors may be certified for 24 months or longer - **No work requirements:** Seniors are exempt from SNAP work requirements - **Online and phone applications:** Many states make it easy to apply without visiting an office

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

CSFP provides monthly food packages to low-income seniors age 60 and older. The packages contain nutritious USDA commodity foods — canned fruits and vegetables, canned meat and fish, pasta, rice, cereal, and more.

CSFP is available in most states but not all counties. Income limits are 130% of the federal poverty level. Contact your local food bank or community action agency to find out if CSFP is available in your area.

Home-Delivered Meals (Meals on Wheels)

The Older Americans Act funds home-delivered meal programs — commonly known as Meals on Wheels — for seniors who are homebound or have difficulty preparing their own food. These programs deliver hot or frozen meals directly to seniors' homes, often with a wellness check from the volunteer driver.

Meals on Wheels programs are operated by local Area Agencies on Aging and nonprofit organizations. There is typically no income requirement, though donations are encouraged. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or visit mealsonwheelsamerica.org to find a program near you.

Congregate Meal Programs

Congregate meal programs provide nutritious meals at senior centers, community centers, and other group settings. These programs serve two purposes: providing nutrition and reducing social isolation.

Congregated meals are funded through the Older Americans Act and administered by local Area Agencies on Aging. There is typically no income requirement. Contact your local senior center or Area Agency on Aging for information.

Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program

The Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides low-income seniors with coupons or EBT benefits to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey at farmers' markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.

SFMNP is available in most states during the growing season. Income limits are 185% of the federal poverty level. Contact your state's agriculture department or Area Agency on Aging for information.

Finding Food Help Near You

Resources for finding food assistance for seniors:

• Dial 2-1-1 — for local food assistance referrals
• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging — eldercare.acl.gov or 1-800-677-1116
• Visit your local senior center — they often know about local food programs
• Contact your local food bank — feedingamerica.org
• Apply for SNAP — even a small monthly benefit can make a real difference