Maryland SNAP Income Limits 2026
Maryland has adopted the most generous screening option federal law allows. Through broad-based categorical eligibility, the gross income cutoff sits at 200% of the poverty guideline — over half again as high as the federal baseline — and there is no asset test for most households. In practice, working families with modest savings who would be rejected on paper in stricter states can qualify here, and the net income test becomes the deciding factor.
Maryland income limit chart (FY 2026)
| Household size | Gross monthly income limit | Net monthly income limit | Maximum monthly benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,610 | $1,305 | $298 |
| 2 | $3,526 | $1,763 | $546 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $2,221 | $785 |
| 4 | $5,360 | $2,680 | $994 |
| 5 | $6,276 | $3,138 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $7,192 | $3,596 | $1,421 |
| 7 | $8,110 | $4,055 | $1,571 |
| 8 | $9,026 | $4,513 | $1,789 |
How Maryland compares to neighboring states
Maryland and its neighbors all use a 200% gross income screen, so eligibility is consistent across this region's borders.
| Neighbor | Gross screen | Asset test |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 200% | None |
| West Virginia | 200% | None |
| Pennsylvania | 200% | None |
| Delaware | 200% | None |
| District of Columbia | 200% | None |
Asset and resource rules
Under BBCE, Maryland does not apply a separate SNAP asset test for most households — savings and bank balances usually do not disqualify you.
Utilities and the shelter deduction in Maryland
Like most states, Maryland publishes annual Standard Utility Allowances that caseworkers apply in place of actual bills. We haven't yet verified Maryland's FY 2026 SUA amounts from an official source, so our calculator conservatively uses the utility amount you enter — your official determination may come out higher if the state's allowance exceeds your actual bills.
How deductions change the math
Because Maryland's gross screen is so high, most applicants who get denied here fail the net test — which makes deductions the whole game. Before Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) compares your income to the 100% line, it subtracts 20% of wages, a standard deduction, dependent care, court-ordered child support, elderly/disabled medical costs over $35, and excess shelter costs. Enter those expenses in the calculator (and later in MarylandBenefits / myDHR benefits portal) — skipping them is the most common self-inflicted denial. See the deductions guide for worked examples.
Worth knowing about Maryland
Maryland residents can file a SNAP application online through MarylandBenefits, request an application from a local department of social services, or download a SNAP application. Questions about your own case go to the agency directly: Maryland DHS lists 1-800-332-6347 for customer service. Maryland DHS lists 1-800-997-2222 as the official Maryland EBT/P-EBT customer service number.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SNAP income limit for a family of 3 in Maryland?
For FY 2026, the gross monthly limit for a household of 3 in Maryland is $4,442 (200% BBCE screen). The net limit after deductions is $2,221.
Does Maryland use gross or net income?
Both. Gross income (before taxes) is checked against the 200% screen, and net income after deductions must be at or below 100% of the poverty guideline. Households with a member age 60+ or disabled skip the gross test.
What if my income is over the limit in Maryland?
Deductions can pull your net income under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) limit even when gross pay looks too high — rent and child care are the big ones. Run the Maryland calculator before writing off an application at MarylandBenefits / myDHR benefits portal.
Does Maryland have an asset test?
Under BBCE, Maryland does not apply a separate SNAP asset test for most households — savings and bank balances usually do not disqualify you.
Who runs SNAP in Maryland?
Maryland Department of Human Services, which administers the program statewide. Applications go through MarylandBenefits / myDHR benefits portal. Contact: Maryland DHS lists 1-800-332-6347 for customer service. Maryland DHS lists 1-800-997-2222 as the official Maryland EBT/P-EBT customer service number.
More Maryland SNAP resources
Maryland SNAP calculator
Estimate your exact monthly benefit with FY 2026 rules.
How to apply in Maryland
Portal, phone, documents, and timelines for MarylandBenefits / myDHR benefits portal.
National income limits guide
Federal limits, BBCE by state, and elderly/disabled rules.