It’s expensive to eat. Honestly, walk into any Kroger or Meijer in Indianapolis right now and you’ll see exactly what I mean. If you’re struggling to keep the pantry full, you’ve probably thought about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. In Indiana, we still call them food stamps.
Most people think it’s just about having no money. It's actually a bit more technical than that. There are specific math hoops you have to jump through.
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) runs the show here. They look at your house, your paycheck, and even your savings. For 2026, the rules have shifted a bit, especially regarding who has to work and what you can actually buy at the register.
Indiana Food Stamp Qualifications: The Big Three
Indiana uses three main tests to see if you’re in. It's not just "do you need help?" It's "do you fit these specific boxes?"
First is the Gross Income test. This is the total amount you bring home before taxes. If you’re making $1,696 a month as a single person, you’re right on the edge. For a family of three, that limit jumps to $2,888.
Then comes the Net Income test. This is what’s left after you pay for things like rent, utilities, and child care. Basically, the state knows that if you make $2,000 but your rent is $1,500, you don't actually have $2,000 to spend on food.
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The third is the Asset test. This is where people get tripped up. Most Indiana households are limited to $5,000 in resources. That means cash in your pocket or money in a checking account.
What counts as an asset?
- Savings accounts
- Stocks or bonds
- Cash on hand
- Property that isn't your primary home
The good news? Your house doesn't count. Your car doesn't count either if you use it for basic transportation. They aren't going to take your Ford F-150 just because you need help with groceries.
The 2026 "Smart SNAP" Twist
Starting January 1, 2026, Indiana implemented something called Smart SNAP. It's a big change. You can't use your EBT card for sugary drinks or candy anymore.
It's been controversial. Some folks say it’s about health, while others think it’s a hassle at the checkout line. If you’re used to grabbing a soda with your benefits, you’ll need to pay for that with cash now.
Work Requirements are Tougher Now
The rules for "Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents" (ABAWDs) are pretty strict. If you're between 18 and 64, you're generally expected to work.
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The age limit actually increased. It used to be 54, but now it's up to 64. You basically need to work or volunteer at least 20 hours a week. If you don't, you might only get benefits for three months out of every three years.
There are ways out of this, though. If you’re pregnant, you’re exempt. If you’re caring for a child under six, you’re good. If you have a physical or mental limitation that stops you from working, you just need a doctor to sign off on it.
How the Math Actually Works
The FSSA doesn't just look at your paycheck. They subtract "deductions" to find your net income. This is the number they use to decide how much money you actually get on your Hoosier Works card.
They take 20% off your earned income right away. Then they take out a standard deduction ($198 for small households). If you pay more than half your income for housing and utilities, they subtract some of that, too.
It's a headache to calculate yourself. Most people find it easier to just apply and let the caseworker do the math.
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Common Mistakes People Make
Don't skip the interview. Seriously.
The Division of Family Resources (DFR) will schedule a phone call after you apply. If you don't answer, they’ll deny you. It happens all the time. People think it's a telemarketer and ignore the call.
Another mistake is forgetting to report everyone who lives with you. If you live with your parents and you're under 22, you have to include them on the application even if you buy your own food. That's a federal rule, not just an Indiana one.
Actionable Steps to Get Started
If you think you might qualify, don't wait.
- Gather your papers. You’ll need pay stubs from the last 30 days, your Social Security number, and proof of what you pay for rent and utilities.
- Apply online. The FSSA Benefits Portal is the fastest way. You can also walk into a local DFR office if you prefer talking to a human.
- Check your mail. Indiana still sends a lot of notices through the USPS. If they ask for more info, you usually only have 10 days to get it to them.
- Set up your EBT account. Once approved, you'll get a Hoosier Works card. You can track your balance on the ConnectEBT app.
The maximum benefit for one person is $292 a month. For a family of four, it’s $992. It might not cover everything, but it's a huge help when prices at the store keep climbing.