SNAP Benefits in Louisiana: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Louisiana. See income limits, how to apply, and manage your benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 14, 2025
Published on:
Sep 30, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Louisiana: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Louisiana. See income limits, how to apply, and manage your benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 14, 2025
Published on:
Sep 30, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Louisiana: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Louisiana. See income limits, how to apply, and manage your benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 14, 2025
Published on:
Sep 30, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Louisiana: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Louisiana. See income limits, how to apply, and manage your benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 14, 2025
Published on:
Sep 30, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Louisiana: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Louisiana. See income limits, how to apply, and manage your benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 14, 2025
Published on:
Sep 30, 2025
SHARE
ON THIS PAGE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) offers monthly food benefits to low-income Louisiana households. These funds help you put healthy food on the table for you and your family.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Louisiana
To qualify, your household's gross monthly income must be below a certain limit. These limits and the maximum benefit amounts are updated each year based on the federal poverty level and the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan.
The following list details the gross monthly income limits and maximum SNAP benefits in Louisiana for the 2025 fiscal year.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756Each Additional Person
Add $583 to the income limit
Add $220 to the maximum benefit
For the most current figures and information on Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, check the official Louisiana DCFS website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Louisiana
To determine your Louisiana SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements set by the state.
Income Limits: Your household's income must fall below set gross and net limits, though some households may qualify with a higher gross income under Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Louisiana and apply for benefits in the parish where you reside.
Citizenship Status: Every member of your household must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen with valid immigration documents.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable job offers, with specific time limits on benefits for those without dependents unless they meet work or training quotas.
Special Conditions: Seniors and individuals with disabilities have different rules, while college students must meet certain exemptions to qualify for SNAP benefits eligibility for Louisiana.
The Louisiana DCFS provides a full breakdown of all requirements, including asset limits and necessary documentation.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Louisiana
You can apply for Louisiana SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method allows you to submit your application for review.
Online Application
Applying online is a convenient way to submit your application from any device with internet access. This is often the quickest method to get your information to the state agency.
To start your application, visit the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services SNAP page. This site provides access to the official online portal where you can complete and submit your form.
In-Person Application
For face-to-face help, you can apply in person at a local office. Staff are available to guide you through the application and answer your questions directly.
You must apply in the parish where you currently live. The Louisiana DCFS website has a directory to help you find the address and hours for your nearest office.
Mail-In Application
Applying by mail is another option if you cannot get to an office or apply online. You will need to obtain a paper copy of the application form to complete and send.
You can download the application form from the Louisiana DCFS website. After filling it out, mail the completed form to the appropriate processing center for your parish.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Louisiana
Call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 for help with your application.
Agents are available Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time.
They can answer questions about eligibility, your case status, and benefit amounts.
See Louisiana EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Louisiana
After your SNAP application is approved, you'll want to know how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
An Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is where your SNAP benefits are loaded each month. Think of it like a debit card, but specifically for your food assistance funds. It allows you to access and spend your approved benefits at authorized stores.
Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process works very similarly to using a regular debit card for a purchase.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing household groceries. You can use your EBT card to buy a wide range of food items that help you prepare meals at home.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your benefits. SNAP funds are strictly for food items, so several categories of products are not eligible for purchase.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready-to-eat
Live animals (with some exceptions for seafood)
Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Knowing how to manage your SNAP benefits helps you plan your shopping trips and keep your food assistance active.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Louisiana
In Louisiana, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 23rd of each month. Your specific date depends on the last digit of your Social Security number, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can find your exact payment date in our Louisiana deposit schedule.
See Louisiana EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance in several ways. Use the online portal, the Benny app, or call the number on your card. Your balance also appears on store receipts or at an ATM.
Our guide covers each method on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others.
To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Louisiana, you must recertify your SNAP benefits periodically, often every six to twelve months. The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will mail you a notice with your specific deadline.
You will need to submit a renewal form and provide updated documents. These include proof of income, housing and utility costs, and medical expenses if you are elderly or disabled.
Completing your recertification on time is important to avoid a gap in your benefits. Missing the deadline means your assistance could stop until your renewal is processed.
Special SNAP Services in Louisiana
Louisiana offers special SNAP services for specific situations, such as emergencies or disasters. These programs provide faster or temporary food assistance to eligible households.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)
This program provides benefits within seven days if you have little money or food. You may qualify if your income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in resources. Request “emergency” service on your regular SNAP application.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (DSNAP)
DSNAP offers temporary aid after a federally declared disaster if you do not already get SNAP. You must live in an approved area, have disaster-related losses, and meet income limits. Apply online or by phone during the designated period. Learn more here.
Louisiana Combined Application Project (LaCAP)
LaCAP simplifies SNAP for residents 60+ receiving SSI. It requires minimal paperwork for a 36-month certification. You can apply by phone or by submitting the one-page LaCAP form. Most applicants are approved without an interview.
Replacement SNAP Benefits for Food Loss
If a power outage or disaster spoils food you bought with SNAP, you can get replacement benefits. You must be a current recipient who lost food. If not automatic, submit a Replacement SNAP form online or at a parish office.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) offers monthly food benefits to low-income Louisiana households. These funds help you put healthy food on the table for you and your family.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Louisiana
To qualify, your household's gross monthly income must be below a certain limit. These limits and the maximum benefit amounts are updated each year based on the federal poverty level and the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan.
The following list details the gross monthly income limits and maximum SNAP benefits in Louisiana for the 2025 fiscal year.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756Each Additional Person
Add $583 to the income limit
Add $220 to the maximum benefit
For the most current figures and information on Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, check the official Louisiana DCFS website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Louisiana
To determine your Louisiana SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements set by the state.
Income Limits: Your household's income must fall below set gross and net limits, though some households may qualify with a higher gross income under Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Louisiana and apply for benefits in the parish where you reside.
Citizenship Status: Every member of your household must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen with valid immigration documents.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable job offers, with specific time limits on benefits for those without dependents unless they meet work or training quotas.
Special Conditions: Seniors and individuals with disabilities have different rules, while college students must meet certain exemptions to qualify for SNAP benefits eligibility for Louisiana.
The Louisiana DCFS provides a full breakdown of all requirements, including asset limits and necessary documentation.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Louisiana
You can apply for Louisiana SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method allows you to submit your application for review.
Online Application
Applying online is a convenient way to submit your application from any device with internet access. This is often the quickest method to get your information to the state agency.
To start your application, visit the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services SNAP page. This site provides access to the official online portal where you can complete and submit your form.
In-Person Application
For face-to-face help, you can apply in person at a local office. Staff are available to guide you through the application and answer your questions directly.
You must apply in the parish where you currently live. The Louisiana DCFS website has a directory to help you find the address and hours for your nearest office.
Mail-In Application
Applying by mail is another option if you cannot get to an office or apply online. You will need to obtain a paper copy of the application form to complete and send.
You can download the application form from the Louisiana DCFS website. After filling it out, mail the completed form to the appropriate processing center for your parish.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Louisiana
Call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 for help with your application.
Agents are available Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time.
They can answer questions about eligibility, your case status, and benefit amounts.
See Louisiana EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Louisiana
After your SNAP application is approved, you'll want to know how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
An Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is where your SNAP benefits are loaded each month. Think of it like a debit card, but specifically for your food assistance funds. It allows you to access and spend your approved benefits at authorized stores.
Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process works very similarly to using a regular debit card for a purchase.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing household groceries. You can use your EBT card to buy a wide range of food items that help you prepare meals at home.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your benefits. SNAP funds are strictly for food items, so several categories of products are not eligible for purchase.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready-to-eat
Live animals (with some exceptions for seafood)
Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Knowing how to manage your SNAP benefits helps you plan your shopping trips and keep your food assistance active.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Louisiana
In Louisiana, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 23rd of each month. Your specific date depends on the last digit of your Social Security number, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can find your exact payment date in our Louisiana deposit schedule.
See Louisiana EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance in several ways. Use the online portal, the Benny app, or call the number on your card. Your balance also appears on store receipts or at an ATM.
Our guide covers each method on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others.
To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Louisiana, you must recertify your SNAP benefits periodically, often every six to twelve months. The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will mail you a notice with your specific deadline.
You will need to submit a renewal form and provide updated documents. These include proof of income, housing and utility costs, and medical expenses if you are elderly or disabled.
Completing your recertification on time is important to avoid a gap in your benefits. Missing the deadline means your assistance could stop until your renewal is processed.
Special SNAP Services in Louisiana
Louisiana offers special SNAP services for specific situations, such as emergencies or disasters. These programs provide faster or temporary food assistance to eligible households.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)
This program provides benefits within seven days if you have little money or food. You may qualify if your income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in resources. Request “emergency” service on your regular SNAP application.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (DSNAP)
DSNAP offers temporary aid after a federally declared disaster if you do not already get SNAP. You must live in an approved area, have disaster-related losses, and meet income limits. Apply online or by phone during the designated period. Learn more here.
Louisiana Combined Application Project (LaCAP)
LaCAP simplifies SNAP for residents 60+ receiving SSI. It requires minimal paperwork for a 36-month certification. You can apply by phone or by submitting the one-page LaCAP form. Most applicants are approved without an interview.
Replacement SNAP Benefits for Food Loss
If a power outage or disaster spoils food you bought with SNAP, you can get replacement benefits. You must be a current recipient who lost food. If not automatic, submit a Replacement SNAP form online or at a parish office.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) offers monthly food benefits to low-income Louisiana households. These funds help you put healthy food on the table for you and your family.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Louisiana
To qualify, your household's gross monthly income must be below a certain limit. These limits and the maximum benefit amounts are updated each year based on the federal poverty level and the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan.
The following list details the gross monthly income limits and maximum SNAP benefits in Louisiana for the 2025 fiscal year.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756Each Additional Person
Add $583 to the income limit
Add $220 to the maximum benefit
For the most current figures and information on Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, check the official Louisiana DCFS website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Louisiana
To determine your Louisiana SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements set by the state.
Income Limits: Your household's income must fall below set gross and net limits, though some households may qualify with a higher gross income under Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Louisiana and apply for benefits in the parish where you reside.
Citizenship Status: Every member of your household must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen with valid immigration documents.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable job offers, with specific time limits on benefits for those without dependents unless they meet work or training quotas.
Special Conditions: Seniors and individuals with disabilities have different rules, while college students must meet certain exemptions to qualify for SNAP benefits eligibility for Louisiana.
The Louisiana DCFS provides a full breakdown of all requirements, including asset limits and necessary documentation.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Louisiana
You can apply for Louisiana SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method allows you to submit your application for review.
Online Application
Applying online is a convenient way to submit your application from any device with internet access. This is often the quickest method to get your information to the state agency.
To start your application, visit the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services SNAP page. This site provides access to the official online portal where you can complete and submit your form.
In-Person Application
For face-to-face help, you can apply in person at a local office. Staff are available to guide you through the application and answer your questions directly.
You must apply in the parish where you currently live. The Louisiana DCFS website has a directory to help you find the address and hours for your nearest office.
Mail-In Application
Applying by mail is another option if you cannot get to an office or apply online. You will need to obtain a paper copy of the application form to complete and send.
You can download the application form from the Louisiana DCFS website. After filling it out, mail the completed form to the appropriate processing center for your parish.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Louisiana
Call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 for help with your application.
Agents are available Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time.
They can answer questions about eligibility, your case status, and benefit amounts.
See Louisiana EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Louisiana
After your SNAP application is approved, you'll want to know how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
An Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is where your SNAP benefits are loaded each month. Think of it like a debit card, but specifically for your food assistance funds. It allows you to access and spend your approved benefits at authorized stores.
Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process works very similarly to using a regular debit card for a purchase.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing household groceries. You can use your EBT card to buy a wide range of food items that help you prepare meals at home.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your benefits. SNAP funds are strictly for food items, so several categories of products are not eligible for purchase.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready-to-eat
Live animals (with some exceptions for seafood)
Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Knowing how to manage your SNAP benefits helps you plan your shopping trips and keep your food assistance active.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Louisiana
In Louisiana, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 23rd of each month. Your specific date depends on the last digit of your Social Security number, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can find your exact payment date in our Louisiana deposit schedule.
See Louisiana EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance in several ways. Use the online portal, the Benny app, or call the number on your card. Your balance also appears on store receipts or at an ATM.
Our guide covers each method on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others.
To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Louisiana, you must recertify your SNAP benefits periodically, often every six to twelve months. The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will mail you a notice with your specific deadline.
You will need to submit a renewal form and provide updated documents. These include proof of income, housing and utility costs, and medical expenses if you are elderly or disabled.
Completing your recertification on time is important to avoid a gap in your benefits. Missing the deadline means your assistance could stop until your renewal is processed.
Special SNAP Services in Louisiana
Louisiana offers special SNAP services for specific situations, such as emergencies or disasters. These programs provide faster or temporary food assistance to eligible households.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)
This program provides benefits within seven days if you have little money or food. You may qualify if your income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in resources. Request “emergency” service on your regular SNAP application.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (DSNAP)
DSNAP offers temporary aid after a federally declared disaster if you do not already get SNAP. You must live in an approved area, have disaster-related losses, and meet income limits. Apply online or by phone during the designated period. Learn more here.
Louisiana Combined Application Project (LaCAP)
LaCAP simplifies SNAP for residents 60+ receiving SSI. It requires minimal paperwork for a 36-month certification. You can apply by phone or by submitting the one-page LaCAP form. Most applicants are approved without an interview.
Replacement SNAP Benefits for Food Loss
If a power outage or disaster spoils food you bought with SNAP, you can get replacement benefits. You must be a current recipient who lost food. If not automatic, submit a Replacement SNAP form online or at a parish office.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) offers monthly food benefits to low-income Louisiana households. These funds help you put healthy food on the table for you and your family.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Louisiana
To qualify, your household's gross monthly income must be below a certain limit. These limits and the maximum benefit amounts are updated each year based on the federal poverty level and the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan.
The following list details the gross monthly income limits and maximum SNAP benefits in Louisiana for the 2025 fiscal year.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756Each Additional Person
Add $583 to the income limit
Add $220 to the maximum benefit
For the most current figures and information on Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, check the official Louisiana DCFS website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Louisiana
To determine your Louisiana SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements set by the state.
Income Limits: Your household's income must fall below set gross and net limits, though some households may qualify with a higher gross income under Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Louisiana and apply for benefits in the parish where you reside.
Citizenship Status: Every member of your household must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen with valid immigration documents.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable job offers, with specific time limits on benefits for those without dependents unless they meet work or training quotas.
Special Conditions: Seniors and individuals with disabilities have different rules, while college students must meet certain exemptions to qualify for SNAP benefits eligibility for Louisiana.
The Louisiana DCFS provides a full breakdown of all requirements, including asset limits and necessary documentation.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Louisiana
You can apply for Louisiana SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method allows you to submit your application for review.
Online Application
Applying online is a convenient way to submit your application from any device with internet access. This is often the quickest method to get your information to the state agency.
To start your application, visit the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services SNAP page. This site provides access to the official online portal where you can complete and submit your form.
In-Person Application
For face-to-face help, you can apply in person at a local office. Staff are available to guide you through the application and answer your questions directly.
You must apply in the parish where you currently live. The Louisiana DCFS website has a directory to help you find the address and hours for your nearest office.
Mail-In Application
Applying by mail is another option if you cannot get to an office or apply online. You will need to obtain a paper copy of the application form to complete and send.
You can download the application form from the Louisiana DCFS website. After filling it out, mail the completed form to the appropriate processing center for your parish.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Louisiana
Call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 for help with your application.
Agents are available Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time.
They can answer questions about eligibility, your case status, and benefit amounts.
See Louisiana EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Louisiana
After your SNAP application is approved, you'll want to know how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
An Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is where your SNAP benefits are loaded each month. Think of it like a debit card, but specifically for your food assistance funds. It allows you to access and spend your approved benefits at authorized stores.
Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process works very similarly to using a regular debit card for a purchase.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing household groceries. You can use your EBT card to buy a wide range of food items that help you prepare meals at home.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your benefits. SNAP funds are strictly for food items, so several categories of products are not eligible for purchase.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready-to-eat
Live animals (with some exceptions for seafood)
Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Knowing how to manage your SNAP benefits helps you plan your shopping trips and keep your food assistance active.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Louisiana
In Louisiana, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 23rd of each month. Your specific date depends on the last digit of your Social Security number, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can find your exact payment date in our Louisiana deposit schedule.
See Louisiana EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance in several ways. Use the online portal, the Benny app, or call the number on your card. Your balance also appears on store receipts or at an ATM.
Our guide covers each method on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others.
To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Louisiana, you must recertify your SNAP benefits periodically, often every six to twelve months. The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will mail you a notice with your specific deadline.
You will need to submit a renewal form and provide updated documents. These include proof of income, housing and utility costs, and medical expenses if you are elderly or disabled.
Completing your recertification on time is important to avoid a gap in your benefits. Missing the deadline means your assistance could stop until your renewal is processed.
Special SNAP Services in Louisiana
Louisiana offers special SNAP services for specific situations, such as emergencies or disasters. These programs provide faster or temporary food assistance to eligible households.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)
This program provides benefits within seven days if you have little money or food. You may qualify if your income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in resources. Request “emergency” service on your regular SNAP application.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (DSNAP)
DSNAP offers temporary aid after a federally declared disaster if you do not already get SNAP. You must live in an approved area, have disaster-related losses, and meet income limits. Apply online or by phone during the designated period. Learn more here.
Louisiana Combined Application Project (LaCAP)
LaCAP simplifies SNAP for residents 60+ receiving SSI. It requires minimal paperwork for a 36-month certification. You can apply by phone or by submitting the one-page LaCAP form. Most applicants are approved without an interview.
Replacement SNAP Benefits for Food Loss
If a power outage or disaster spoils food you bought with SNAP, you can get replacement benefits. You must be a current recipient who lost food. If not automatic, submit a Replacement SNAP form online or at a parish office.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) offers monthly food benefits to low-income Louisiana households. These funds help you put healthy food on the table for you and your family.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Louisiana
To qualify, your household's gross monthly income must be below a certain limit. These limits and the maximum benefit amounts are updated each year based on the federal poverty level and the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan.
The following list details the gross monthly income limits and maximum SNAP benefits in Louisiana for the 2025 fiscal year.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,632
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,215
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,798
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,380
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,963
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,546
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,129
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,712
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756Each Additional Person
Add $583 to the income limit
Add $220 to the maximum benefit
For the most current figures and information on Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, check the official Louisiana DCFS website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Louisiana
To determine your Louisiana SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements set by the state.
Income Limits: Your household's income must fall below set gross and net limits, though some households may qualify with a higher gross income under Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Louisiana and apply for benefits in the parish where you reside.
Citizenship Status: Every member of your household must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen with valid immigration documents.
Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable job offers, with specific time limits on benefits for those without dependents unless they meet work or training quotas.
Special Conditions: Seniors and individuals with disabilities have different rules, while college students must meet certain exemptions to qualify for SNAP benefits eligibility for Louisiana.
The Louisiana DCFS provides a full breakdown of all requirements, including asset limits and necessary documentation.
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Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
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How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Louisiana
You can apply for Louisiana SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail. Each method allows you to submit your application for review.
Online Application
Applying online is a convenient way to submit your application from any device with internet access. This is often the quickest method to get your information to the state agency.
To start your application, visit the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services SNAP page. This site provides access to the official online portal where you can complete and submit your form.
In-Person Application
For face-to-face help, you can apply in person at a local office. Staff are available to guide you through the application and answer your questions directly.
You must apply in the parish where you currently live. The Louisiana DCFS website has a directory to help you find the address and hours for your nearest office.
Mail-In Application
Applying by mail is another option if you cannot get to an office or apply online. You will need to obtain a paper copy of the application form to complete and send.
You can download the application form from the Louisiana DCFS website. After filling it out, mail the completed form to the appropriate processing center for your parish.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Louisiana
Call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 for help with your application.
Agents are available Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time.
They can answer questions about eligibility, your case status, and benefit amounts.
See Louisiana EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Louisiana
After your SNAP application is approved, you'll want to know how to use your benefits, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
An Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is where your SNAP benefits are loaded each month. Think of it like a debit card, but specifically for your food assistance funds. It allows you to access and spend your approved benefits at authorized stores.
Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout, you just swipe or insert your card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process works very similarly to using a regular debit card for a purchase.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing household groceries. You can use your EBT card to buy a wide range of food items that help you prepare meals at home.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your benefits. SNAP funds are strictly for food items, so several categories of products are not eligible for purchase.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready-to-eat
Live animals (with some exceptions for seafood)
Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Knowing how to manage your SNAP benefits helps you plan your shopping trips and keep your food assistance active.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Louisiana
In Louisiana, SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 23rd of each month. Your specific date depends on the last digit of your Social Security number, helping you plan your grocery budget.
You can find your exact payment date in our Louisiana deposit schedule.
See Louisiana EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance in several ways. Use the online portal, the Benny app, or call the number on your card. Your balance also appears on store receipts or at an ATM.
Our guide covers each method on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others.
To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Louisiana, you must recertify your SNAP benefits periodically, often every six to twelve months. The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will mail you a notice with your specific deadline.
You will need to submit a renewal form and provide updated documents. These include proof of income, housing and utility costs, and medical expenses if you are elderly or disabled.
Completing your recertification on time is important to avoid a gap in your benefits. Missing the deadline means your assistance could stop until your renewal is processed.
Special SNAP Services in Louisiana
Louisiana offers special SNAP services for specific situations, such as emergencies or disasters. These programs provide faster or temporary food assistance to eligible households.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)
This program provides benefits within seven days if you have little money or food. You may qualify if your income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in resources. Request “emergency” service on your regular SNAP application.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (DSNAP)
DSNAP offers temporary aid after a federally declared disaster if you do not already get SNAP. You must live in an approved area, have disaster-related losses, and meet income limits. Apply online or by phone during the designated period. Learn more here.
Louisiana Combined Application Project (LaCAP)
LaCAP simplifies SNAP for residents 60+ receiving SSI. It requires minimal paperwork for a 36-month certification. You can apply by phone or by submitting the one-page LaCAP form. Most applicants are approved without an interview.
Replacement SNAP Benefits for Food Loss
If a power outage or disaster spoils food you bought with SNAP, you can get replacement benefits. You must be a current recipient who lost food. If not automatic, submit a Replacement SNAP form online or at a parish office.
