About these programs
Most of these programs are based on your household's income compared with the federal poverty guidelines. For 2026, 100% of the guideline is $15,960 a year for one person, plus $5,680 for each additional person ($33,000 for a family of four). Alaska and Hawaii have higher amounts.
SNAP (food benefits)
SNAP puts money for groceries on a card each month. The federal limit is 130% of the poverty guideline, but many states let families earn up to 200%. The amount you get depends on your income, rent, utilities and child care costs.
Medicaid and CHIP
In the 40 states and DC that expanded Medicaid, most adults qualify with income up to 138% of the poverty guideline. Children qualify at much higher incomes in every state, often over 250%.
Help paying for health insurance
If you buy insurance on HealthCare.gov or your state's marketplace, tax credits can lower your monthly cost when your income is between 100% and 400% of the poverty guideline. Open enrollment for 2027 coverage runs from November 1, 2026, to January 15, 2027, in most states.
Can't find what you need?
Call or text 211, or visit 211.org, to reach a local helper who knows about rent help, food banks and other programs near you.
Sources
Last checked October 2026. Amounts change every year.
- HHS · 2026 federal poverty guidelines
- USDA · SNAP income limits and benefit amounts starting October 1, 2026
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service · SNAP income limits by state
- KFF · Medicaid expansion by state
- KFF · Medicaid and CHIP income limits for children
- HealthCare Insider · Marketplace help for 2027 coverage
- Lifeline · Lifeline discount amount