As the new year begins, thousands of low-income families across Texas are preparing for their SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, designed to help provide food security for those in need. These payments, distributed through Texas’s Lone Star Card, are essential for millions of Texans who rely on them for access to nutritious meals.
For the week of January 19–25, 2026, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will issue SNAP benefits to qualifying households based on their Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number.
SNAP benefits in Texas follow a rolling payment schedule that ensures that payments are evenly distributed across the month. The timing of each household’s deposit depends on their unique case number, making it important for recipients to know when they will receive their funds. This system helps prevent confusion and ensures that recipients can plan ahead.
SNAP Texas Payment Schedule January 19–25, 2026: Payment Dates and Eligible Households
For the period from January 19 to January 25, 2026, Texas SNAP recipients will receive their benefits according to the last digit of their EDG number. For example:
- January 19, 2026: Recipients with EDG numbers ending in 1-2
- January 20, 2026: Recipients with EDG numbers ending in 3-4
- January 21, 2026: Recipients with EDG numbers ending in 5-6
- January 22, 2026: Recipients with EDG numbers ending in 7-8
- January 23, 2026: Recipients with EDG numbers ending in 9-0
This staggered distribution system ensures that payment processing is manageable, reducing the burden on retail systems and making sure that beneficiaries can access their funds efficiently. For those who qualify, payments are deposited on their Lone Star EBT card by 8:00 a.m. local time on the scheduled date.
Recipients can check their benefits status via the ACCESS Texas online portal or mobile app, ensuring that they are aware of any changes to their payment schedule or benefit amount.
Factors Affecting SNAP Eligibility in Texas
The amount of SNAP benefits a household receives depends on several factors, including household income, size, allowable deductions, and household resources. Texas uses the federal Thrifty Food Plan (TFP) to calculate benefit amounts, ensuring that each recipient receives the necessary assistance based on their financial situation.
Eligibility for SNAP benefits is primarily determined by:
- Gross Household Income: Texas households must meet certain income limits based on the number of people in the household. These limits are updated periodically and depend on the federal poverty level (FPL).
- Resource Limits: Texas households must also meet resource limits, which include checking and savings accounts, as well as other assets like vehicles.
- Deductions: Texas allows certain deductions from gross income, such as rent, utility bills, and childcare costs, which help determine eligibility for higher benefit amounts.
SNAP is particularly important for vulnerable populations such as low-income families with children, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities. These groups often rely on food assistance to maintain adequate nutrition and avoid food insecurity.
Recent Changes to SNAP in Texas for 2026
As of 2026, there are no major changes to the general eligibility or benefit calculation process for SNAP in Texas. However, recipients should be aware of adjustments to income limits and the maximum allowable benefit for each household size.
Additionally, Texas continues to follow the federal guidelines for the phased end of emergency COVID-19 food benefits that had been temporarily issued during the pandemic. These temporary increases in benefits are no longer applicable in 2026 unless other emergency declarations are issued by the state.
Emergency SNAP Benefits in Texas: What You Need to Know
In response to natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, or other unexpected events, Texas may issue Emergency SNAP benefits. These benefits help individuals and families who have been impacted by disasters and are temporarily in need of assistance.
Emergency benefits can be issued quickly, providing immediate relief for those affected by the crisis. In these cases, the state may relax some of the usual eligibility rules and expedite the process.
If you live in an area that has recently experienced a disaster, it’s important to check with Texas HHS for any announcements regarding emergency SNAP distributions.
Using SNAP Benefits in Texas
Recipients can use their Lone Star Card to purchase a wide variety of food items from participating retailers, including:
- Grocery Stores: Major supermarkets, farmers markets, and convenience stores
- Online Purchases: Many retailers now allow customers to use their EBT card for online grocery shopping.
- Specialty Stores: Farmers markets and direct farmer-to-consumer programs may also accept EBT cards.
However, it’s important to note that SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase non-food items, alcohol, or household goods.
How SNAP Supports Public Health in Texas
Beyond providing food assistance, SNAP also plays a role in public health. Food insecurity is linked to a wide range of negative health outcomes, including malnutrition, chronic diseases, and developmental challenges in children.
By ensuring that families have access to sufficient, nutritious food, SNAP helps reduce these health risks. SNAP also supports local economies by increasing food sales at grocery stores and farmers markets, creating a ripple effect that benefits local communities and businesses.
Research from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) shows that for every $5 spent on SNAP benefits, the economy sees an increase of about $9 in economic activity.
Apply for SNAP Benefits in Texas
Texas residents who are new to the program or are applying for the first time can apply for SNAP through the ACCESS Texas portal. The process involves providing information about household income, size, and expenses, and submitting documentation for verification.
Once approved, eligible households will receive an EBT card that can be used to make food purchases. If you need help with the application or have questions about eligibility, you can contact Texas Health and Human Services or visit your local Texas HHS office for further assistance.
SNAP and Other Support Programs in Texas
In addition to SNAP, Texas also offers several other support programs designed to help low-income individuals and families, including:
- TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families): Provides financial assistance to families with children.
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): Provides food and nutrition assistance to low-income pregnant women, infants, and children up to age five.
These programs can often be used in conjunction with SNAP to provide comprehensive support for families in need.
Related Links
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States Ordered to ‘Undo’ SNAP Benefits Already Paid Out: What Does This Mean for You?
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for SNAP in Texas?
The Texas SNAP program is expected to continue evolving as the state addresses challenges related to food insecurity, federal funding changes, and growing demand. The state’s focus remains on ensuring that those in need have access to the resources they require to thrive.
In the coming years, Texas will likely see additional changes aimed at improving access to food assistance and ensuring that SNAP reaches those who need it most.
Keeping up with updates from Texas Health and Human Services and other relevant agencies will ensure that SNAP recipients are always aware of their rights and benefits.
