Many food pantries use USDA income guidelines. However, proof of income is not required. You will be asked to state that your income is below the guideline level and sign a form. If your family receives SNAP (food stamps), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) benefits, you automatically are eligible to be served by sites that use USDA income guidelines. These are just guidelines. Special circumstances, for example, medical bills or a recent job loss, can be taken into account.

2023 USDA Income Guidelines

  • Household size: 1 – Monthly income: $3,645 – Annual income: $43,740
  • Household size: 2 – Monthly income: $4,930 – Annual income: $59,160
  • Household size: 3 – Monthly income: $6,215 – Annual income: $74,580
  • Household size: 4 – Monthly income: $7,500 – Annual income: $90,000
  • Household size: 5 – Monthly income: $8,875 – Annual income: $105,420
  • Household size: 6 – Monthly income: $10,070 – Annual income: $120,840
  • Household size: 7 – Monthly income: $11,355 – Annual income: $136,260
  • Household size: 8 – Monthly income: $12,640 – Annual income: $151,680
  • Each additional person over 8 – Add $1,285 per month