New Hampshire SNAP Income Limits 2026
New Hampshire 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.
New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire compares to neighboring states
New Hampshire's 200% gross screen is the most generous in its neighborhood: Vermont all cut off eligibility at lower income levels.
| Neighbor | Gross screen | Asset test |
|---|---|---|
| Maine | 200% | None |
| Massachusetts | 200% | None |
| Vermont | 185% | None |
Asset and resource rules
Under BBCE, New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire
Like most states, New Hampshire publishes annual Standard Utility Allowances that caseworkers apply in place of actual bills. We haven't yet verified New Hampshire'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 New Hampshire'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 NH EASY) — skipping them is the most common self-inflicted denial. See the deductions guide for worked examples.
Worth knowing about New Hampshire
New Hampshire residents can apply online through NH EASY, print an application, or call DHHS to request that an application be mailed to them. Questions about your own case go to the agency directly: SNAP application help: 603-271-9700 or 1-800-852-3345 ext. 9700. DHHS Customer Service Center: 1-844-ASK-DHHS / 1-844-275-3447.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SNAP income limit for a family of 3 in New Hampshire?
For FY 2026, the gross monthly limit for a household of 3 in New Hampshire is $4,442 (200% BBCE screen). The net limit after deductions is $2,221.
Does New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire?
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 New Hampshire calculator before writing off an application at NH EASY.
Does New Hampshire have an asset test?
Under BBCE, New Hampshire does not apply a separate SNAP asset test for most households — savings and bank balances usually do not disqualify you.
Who runs SNAP in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, which administers the program statewide. Applications go through NH EASY. Contact: SNAP application help: 603-271-9700 or 1-800-852-3345 ext. 9700. DHHS Customer Service Center: 1-844-ASK-DHHS / 1-844-275-3447.
More New Hampshire SNAP resources
New Hampshire SNAP calculator
Estimate your exact monthly benefit with FY 2026 rules.
How to apply in New Hampshire
Portal, phone, documents, and timelines for NH EASY.
National income limits guide
Federal limits, BBCE by state, and elderly/disabled rules.